1. Work or Pleasure
Kayaking is a popular form of boating because it's so versatile. Kayaking along a serene coast can provide a form of relaxation for one enthusiast, while another gets an adrenaline rush by paddling through raging white water rapids. Fishermen and divers use kayaks to reach locations that aren't accessible by foot. Kayaking enthusiasts range from the occasional weekend paddler to serious competitors who participate in kayak races. As the sport has gained popularity, the various uses of kayaks has also increased.
2. The Classification of a Kayak
Kayaks are categorized by their intended use. General recreation kayaks are great for an afternoon of paddling around a lake. Expedition kayaks are used during kayaking trips that can span several days and are designed to handle a wide range of environmental elements. Light touring kayaks are similar to expedition kayaks, but are intended for day trips. Whitewater kayaks are durable and designed to handle rough rivers. Surf kayaks are used for catching ocean waves back to shore and performing tricks and maneuvers along the way.
3. Kayaking Versus Canoeing
Kayaking and canoeing are similar in that they both involve sitting in a small boat and using oars to propel it. However, canoers either sit on a small bench within the canoe or kneel on the bottom of the boat. Kayakers sit with their legs extended straight out in front of them. Depending on the type of kayak, paddlers either sit on top of the boat with their legs extended or inside a cockpit, which is sealed by a spray skirt. Canoers typically use two separate oars while kayakers use one double-bladed paddle. The motions to paddle a kayak differ from the motions required to propel a canoe.
4. Safety First
Regardless of the type of kayaking, all paddlers need basic safety equipment. Kayakers should always wear a life jacket while paddling in open water. Helmets are recommended for novice, whitewater and surf kayakers. Expedition kayakers should also carry a helmet with them and wear it when paddling near rapids or rocks. A wet suit should be the base layer of clothing in warm weather and a dry suit is a requirement in cold temperatures. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essentials for any aquatic activity.
5. Pick Your Kayak
You have the option of a rigid, folding or inflatable kayak. Rigid, or hardshell, kayaks are made of plastic, wood, fiberglass or composites like graphite and carbon fiber. Rigid kayaks are durable, and depending on the composition, can be incredibly light. Folding boats consist of fabric stretched over a wood or metal frame. They collapse for easy transport and storage. Inflatable kayaks, as the name suggests, need to be inflated, but are the least expensive option, the easiest to transport and require little space to store.
Member Comments