sooo.

many people only see the advantage of feathering on windy days but do not realize the benefits of feathering in technical and big whitewater. first of all you get more power in your stroke when you can twist it as you stroke. next you can easily twist your blade if a rock or hole grabs it and wont let go. fixed blades are an easy way to break your blade on a rocky river.

all it takes is a few practice trips to get the hang of it. i was once a proponent of oarright training wheels but i was sadly mistaken. i actually do see some benefits from pins such as your oar doesn't pop out so easily, which is why i recommend the nrs superstrong oarlocks that don't bend like a cheap hooker.