JJ - I think I know what you mean by "trophy paddlers" but I've been going to the same place for years so ... maybe not.

On the accident learning curve I totally agree and I love to see that concept thrown out for consideration. I'm sure we've all thanked out lucky stars on occasion but tempting fate isn't always healthy. It's a judgement call. Local, personal experience is why guides can charge strangers money for something they'd probably do for free if they could afford to.

The words "oh crap" being uttered for a second time probably surpass the embarrassment factor and may have also passed the sell by date.

Helmets are something, not unlike PFD's, to be avoided unless they are as comfortable and germane as seat belts IMO.