An introduction to Kayaking

In contrast to canoes, you sit in a kayak and paddle with a double-bladed paddle while stretching your legs out in front of you. Originally designed for hunting, kayaks are now more frequently utilized for racing and recreational activities due to their shape and stealth. A variety of kayak designs have emerged over time to accommodate various types of water. There is a kayak for everyone, whether you prefer calm canals, coastal seas, or rivers with rapids.

Does kayaking suit me?

Kayaking is suitable for people of all ages and skill levels

Yes! Kayaking is suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. Start off by paddling as many different kinds of kayaks as you can to see which one suits you the best. In this situation, practice makes perfect! Choose a small, tranquil lake or pond where you can see the other shoreline. An advantage is finding bodies of water without a lot of powerboat activity because it will reduce the amount of unnatural waves you encounter. Many beginners looking to enjoy their first paddling experience find stable sit-on-top kayaks to be the ideal choice. Read below about the different types of Kayaks to learn about your options.

Different types of Kayaks

tandem kayak seats two paddlers

- Sit-on-top kayaks: This style of recreational kayak is well-known to many individuals. Compared to other versions, it is simpler to enter and exit because it lacks an enclosed seat. They are more stable, wider, and in general better for novice kayakers.

- Touring kayaks: These long kayaks have compact cockpits. They are a good option for a more involved kayaking experience, such as making longer voyages across lakes, because of their length and narrowness.

- Recreational kayaks: Compared to touring kayaks, these kayaks have a somewhat bigger cockpit opening. Recreational kayaks are perfect for calmer kayaking adventures because they are also shorter in length.

- Whitewater kayaks: Compared to leisurely paddling through lakes and ponds, whitewater kayaking is a more difficult activity. Playboats, river runners, creek boats, and longboats are the four various varieties of whitewater kayaks, and each has benefits based on where you intend to use it.

- Inflatable kayaks: Inflatable kayaks are similar to sit-on-top kayaks in that they are simple to travel and use. Although there are inflatable whitewater kayaks available, they are better suited for a more leisurely kayaking experience in calmer waters.

- Child-sized kayaks: Kayakers of all ages can use kayaks that are available in smaller sizes.

- Tandem kayaks - A tandem kayak seats two paddlers. Tandem kayaks are larger, wider, heavier, and more stable than solo kayaks.

Getting started

Any new sport requires necessary equipment to get started, whether you're learning to freedive, snowboard, or hike. However, novice kayakers don't necessarily need to, and generally shouldn't, invest in the best, priciest boats, paddles, and gear. Set a spending limit and start small with less expensive equipment. There are many entry-level and mid-range brands that are excellent for novices, just like with all of the sports mentioned above. Even if you plan to make your purchase online in the end, it is best to consult a professional first.

How to Dress for Kayaking

A PFD, or personal flotation device, is an essential piece of gear for kayaker

We'll presume that you're (wisely) scheduling your initial paddles for days with calm seas and pleasant weather. It's not difficult to look the part for your first kayak trip. In reality, it doesn't differ all that much from getting ready for a day at the beach.

- Swimsuits or shorts (noncotton)

- Top with short or long sleeves (noncotton)

- Sun-shielding hat

- Neoprene footwear

- Lightweight fleece vest or jacket (weather-dependent)

- Rain jacket and pants (weather-dependent)

- A wetsuit is also required if the temperature is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (especially in the water).

Essential kayaking gear

- PFD (Personal Flotation Device) approved by the Coast Guard that fits properly

- Paddle (make sure it is the correct size for you)

- Bilge pump

Other personal items

- Water

- Snacks

- Sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses

- First-aid kit

- Signaling whistle

- Watch

- GPS

- Headlamp

- Dry bags

How to handle your kayak

Ensure that the paddle blades are parallel to one another

- Firmly press your butt on the seatback.

- Put your feet on the footpegs with the balls of your feet, and then check to see if your knees are slightly bent.

- Ensure that both of your bent knees are firmly planted against the cockpit's sides.

How to handle your paddle properly

As with any sport, using the right methods can keep you secure and aid in injury avoidance. The correct way to paddle a kayak is no different. There are right and improper ways to do something. 

- Ensure that the paddle blades are parallel to one another.

- Take a close look at each paddle blade to confirm that the longer edge is on top of each blade.

- Make sure your paddle blades' scooped sides are towards you.

- Align your huge knuckles with the tops of your paddle blades by placing them on top of the paddle shaft.

Kayak safety tips

Always check your gears and equipment first

- Take a beginner’s kayaking course first

- Check the water level, wind speed, and weather forecast.

- Don't go solo

- Always wear a floatation device

- Always check your gears and equipment first

- Avoid kayaking in extreme weather conditions

Even though your initial launch could seem difficult, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure success. Start in an area free of rocks or other hard material along a beach that is slightly sloping. Place the boat parallel to the coastline in a shallow area of water that is deep enough for it to be mostly "in" the water but shallow enough that you can step in without risking it drifting away. One of the paddle's blades should be placed beneath the deck line in front of the cockpit to secure it. With a foot on either side of the kayak in the water, straddle it directly over the cockpit. As you drop your butt onto the seat, place your hands firmly on either side of the cockpit aperture. Last but not least, lower your feet toward the footpegs and slide your legs into the kayak.

Don't worry that you're performing this graciously incorrectly because it's nearly difficult to do so. To move your kayak away from the shore, use your paddle. If you plan to use a spray skirt, fasten it. A variety of kayak designs have emerged over time to accommodate various types of water. There is a kayak for everyone, whether they prefer calm canals, coastal seas, or rivers with rapids.

How to find the perfect location?

Finding that perfect location can vary greatly in difficulty, depending on the waterways and popularity of paddling in your area.

Each county has a separate parks and recreation division. Every one of them has its own local, county, and regional parks. There are incredible kayaking adventures in the United States that are ideal for thrill-seekers and include everything from serene coastal coves to whitewater rivers. Any traveller can choose a kayaking vacation in the USA that suits them, including the desert lake in Arizona, Glacier Bay in Alaska, and many more, regardless of expertise level. Happy Kayaking!