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A full-face isn't necessary until you need it. Who know when that will be???? Here's a case study:
I was running a rapid (solid class V), got off line, went to "Plan B," which didn't work, and took a very sudden and violent flip. Before I had a chance to realize I was going over, I hit bottom HARD, laid out on my back deck. The "learn to tuck" line didn't apply- there was no chance, and no where for my body to go in the shallow water. They guys with me said they though I'd be knocked out. Fortunately, I had on my full-face, which took the big shot to the chin flawlessly, and came away with only a few skinned knuckles- oh yeah, the rocks were sharp too. Without the full-face, I'm SURE I'd have been going to the hospital- possibly in the back of an ambulance. After that, I've come not to believe anyone who says they're not necessary.
Beyond that, there were other times when I was just glad to not have to worry about my face and deal with other things that were going on. On the other hand, there are plenty of times I don't where it. there are some runs I'll wear it some days and not on others- the Upper Yough comes to mind
So, do you need one for class III-IV? It's a personal decision. You have to weigh "how likely" vs. "how much is is going to hurt." There really aren't too many disadvantages to having a full face, and socially, it's becoming more and more "okay."
Jeremy |
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It's not necessary... until you need it. New 
BoaterTalk 
