Kayaking Basics

Kayaking is a great recreational opportunity in part because of its flexibility. Regardless of where you live, kayaking is possible because any body of water will do. If you live in an area that has lake nearby, you can kayak. If you live near a river or large stream, you too can kayak. Live near the ocean? You get the point, kayaking is an opportunity waiting to happen.

There are many types of Kayaks on the market today and there is a new one added every month is seems. The challenge of picking the right one can be daunting. Pedal Kayaks are gaining in popularity by leaps and bounds. Learn about the two most popular makers in this article - Pedal Kayaks

What Equipment Do You Need? Kayaking is a rather simple pastime to take up because you don't need a ton of equipment. The basic supplies include a life jacket, helmet, spray skirt, and of course the kayak itself and a paddle. Most beginners start out with a traditional kayak designed for river and lake exploration, but there are some specialized types of kayaks. For instance, those interested in doing tricks in their kayak or surfing would go for what is sometimes called a "play boat." Those who will be kayaking on a river with swift water would go for a "creek boat." The good news is beginners can start out with a basic kayak until they better understand the sport.

Kayaks are not things you can walk into a store and grab off the shelf. You should find a good dealer offering test kayaks to get a feel for how different kayaks feel and operate. The kayak you ultimately pick will depend on your height and weight as well as the type of waterway you intend to explore with the kayak. It is always best to test before you buy so you get the right fit.

You can save hundreds of dollars by purchasing a used kayak through local classified ads or online. Just make sure you look over the kayak and make sure it is in great condition before you hand over your money. You will have less to worry about with a new kayak, but they can be rather expensive. You need to select a kayak paddle that fits your paddling style as well as your height. If you will be kayaking at a fast pace you will need a shorter paddle, while longer paddles are great for more leisurely kayak adventures. If you are tall with a long torso, you will feel more comfortable with longer kayak paddles. You should also consider the material the paddle is made from, its shape, and how heavy it feels in your hand. It is important to remember that lighter kayak paddles will be easier to work with on longer adventures. It's amazing what a difference just a couple ounces can make, so carefully consider this aspect. You can find paddles made from many different materials, including fiberglass, wood, and carbon fiber. There are also paddles made with aluminum shafts and plastic blades, which are excellent picks for beginners. The plastic blades are perfect for river kayaking since plastic is flexible and makes it easier to push off the rocks at the bottom of the river without breaking.

Law requires you to wear a life jacket when out on the water. You will also need a good helmet, unless you are kayaking on a lake where it is deemed unnecessary. Life jackets should be picked out according to type, with a type III typically being the most comfortable for kayakers. You have a little more freedom when selecting helmets, since they have become fashion essentials in the kayak world today. While protecting the head from injury, kayak helmets now come in a wide array of colors, patterns, and styles. You can find one that reflects who you are and have a bit of fun when slipping them on for an adventure! Your waist size will determine the size of spray skirt needed, but be aware there are different types of skirts for different types of kayaking. The job of the skirt is to seal the inside of your kayak so your body stays dry, so it is very important to get the right fit and the right style. For whitewater adventures you will need a neoprene skirt. For recreational and touring adventures you will need a nylon skirt. For kayaking out at sea you will need a neoprene/nylon skirt. You will find different styles of skirts as well, but they should all have a grab loop that allows the seal to be broken fast if needed. Skirts will also feature pickets, adjustable suspenders, and cords to attach to the boat. Of course a sit-on-top kayaks or kayaking on a calm lake does not usually require a skirt.

That is all you really need for kayaking, though there are a few things most kayakers take along on some trips. For instance, if you are carrying food with you a dry bag is a good idea to keep it dry. You may also want to keep the top of your body warm and dry with a dry top and/or a dry jacket. You can find jackets with short and long sleeves, so they can be suitable for different weather circumstances.

Kayaking is an exciting sport to get involved with! Since you don't have to purchase a lot of equipment to start and the sport is so enjoyable, most people quickly go from beginners to enthusiasts. You can do a variety of things out on the water in a lightweight kayak. This includes fishing, exploring, remote camping and many other outdoor enjoyments. Remember, kayaks can be pricey but you don't have to make this an expensive sport..

For a beginner, kayaking in a lake is a good place to get familiar with your equipment and start learning the basic skills needed for more advanced excursions. It is a good idea to take your kayak out 2 or 3 times with the purpose of testing out your new craft before considering an actual outing. Whether your heading to the lake or the ocean, these tips will help you be more prepared. Kayak ABCs