Ocean kayaking has its roots in Polynesia and was used for travel and fishing between the islands. Actual notes in Captain Cook's log describe the natives kayak surfing. The sport of ocean kayak surfing has evolved from using koa wood to high tech plastics, fiberglass and carbon fiber. Kayak surfing technology is constantly evolving and surfers are just starting to push the limits of their skills and equipment.
Equipment
There are two major types of ocean kayaks, open and closed decks. Open deck kayaks, mostly referred to as sit on top kayaks, are used most frequently in ocean kayaking, have an easier learning curve and are more forgiving. Closed deck, often called sit inside kayaks, are kayak in which you sit in completely, with the deck covering your legs and the opening covered with a spray skirt. Closed deck kayaks are more technically challenging and require the surfer to understand how to right the kayak after being flipped over. Outriggers are either open or closed deck with a stabilizer arm on the left or right side of the kayak. These kayaks are extremely tough to control and require many years of practice to perfect. Paddles are used for steering and to generate speed and come in many shapes and forms. Most common is the double paddle for open and closed deck kayaks and single paddles for the outriggers.
Safety
As in all water sports this one has its inherent dangers. Being separated from your kayak while surfing is almost guaranteed. It is recommend that a helmet and life vest is worn at all times, no matter the conditions. Always check the weather, surf report and water temperature before heading out. Conditions during swells can change quickly and without warning and a wetsuit may be required for colder water temperatures.
Hazards
Typical hazards are similar to surfing and other ocean water sports. To avoid injury always watch for rip tides, being caught inside by big set waves, long swims after losing your kayak and being struck by your equipment.
The Surf
Depending on your skill level there are several types of waves to surf. The two most common waves for kayak surfing are point breaks and beach breaks. A point break is a land mass underwater pushing out from the coast, mostly rock or reef. Point breaks are a great place to learn due to the fact that waves are predictable and usually have an area, or channel to launch from. Beach breaks have shallow sand bottoms with peaky waves breaking up and down the beach. Beach break waves are unpredictable, hollow and fast, making it difficult to get out as well as controlling your speed once on the wave.
The Line-Up
While surfing a crowded break, there are a few rules you must follow. Do not drop in on another surfer. The surfer closest to the peak has the right of way. While paddling out to avoid the surfer that is already riding the wave. Always maintain control of your equipment, this includes holding onto your kayak if the wave dumps you out of your kayak. If it seems too big to get out, it probably is--use common sense before paddling out and know your skill level.
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