Whitewater kayaking involves navigating river rapids of varying difficulty. This adventure sport draws outdoor enthusiasts, water sport lovers and thrill seekers. The sport requires advanced techniques and gear, and can be dangerous for unprepared or inexperienced kayakers.
History
Native Americans made the first kayaks between 1000 and 1900 using driftwood and animal skins. They used the boats for hunting seals in the water. In the early 1900s, Europeans learned about the Native American kayak, and began to make their own versions for recreational use. In 1931, Adolf Anderle successfully kayaked the Salzachofen Gorge, a dangerous whitewater pass. Kayaking organizations established the International Scale of River Difficulty soon after Anderle's trip. Whitewater kayaking competitions became popular by 1936.
River Difficulty Scale
Whitewater kayakers still rely on the International Scale of River Difficulty developed by kayaking organizations in the 1930s. The scale divides river rapids into grades, with 1 as the easiest grade and 6 as the most difficult grade. Grade 1 indicates minimal rapids, while grade 6 indicates impassable water.
Gear
Whitewater kayaking requires certain gear in addition to the kayak itself. You'll need a kayak helmet to protect your head, as well as a life jacket or personal flotation device, PFD, for safety purposes. A wetsuit will protect you body from cold water, and gloves and river shoes protect your hand and feet and give you more traction. The paddle also represents a key piece of equipment. Though many kayakers rent kayaks for individual trips, you might prefer to own your own paddle that you feel comfortable with rather than renting unfamiliar ones. A dry bag will keep your wallet and cell phone dry on kayaking excursions.
Paddling Strokes
Whitewater kayaking requires a variety of strokes and techniques beyond those required for basic leisure kayaking. The kayaker moves his boat forward with a propelling stroke or forward stroke drawn parallel to the boat, and turns the boat with a sweep stroke made away from the boat with a flat paddle. The "low brace" stroke helps kayakers navigate around a hole or rock. This stroke also helps you maintain balance.
Safety
The American Whitewater association adopted a code of whitewater safety in 1959, which it revised in 2005. The code outlines detailed safety rules that all whitewater kayakers should follow. All kayakers should have competent swimming skills, and should wear a life jacket and helmet at all times. The code warns kayakers to be aware of the dangers posed by whitewater rivers, including high water, cold water and rocks, fallen trees, dams and other obstacles. The code discourages kayakers from taking trips alone. Kayakers should know their own abilities and should not attempt to navigate rapids that they are not prepared to handle. Kayakers should maintain their gear to make sure it remains functional and safe.
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