1. Kayak, Meet Surf
Surf kayaking is the fusion between two fairly different water sports. Kayak surfers paddle out into the ocean and catch a wave, just like traditional surfers. The only difference is they are seated with a paddle instead of standing on a board. The ocean's surf provides more extreme conditions than a river's rapids, challenging those who've mastered whitewater kayaking. Similarly, surfers who have peaked in their sport are turning to surf kayaking.
2. The Reason
Surf kayaks lying on sandy shores often draw curious looks. Modern, state-of-the-art surf kayaks truly are a hybrid between a surfboard and kayak. Some might wonder why these athletes can't just make up their minds and pick a sport. The answer is surf kayaks are taking wave riders farther than they could ever go on a surfboard. The paddle allows kayak surfers to maneuver through the water much more easily than they could paddling with their hands. The paddle is also a time saver, getting kayak surfers back into the waves quickly. Kayaks handle diverse conditions better than a surfboard. Bottom line, kayak surfers can catch more waves, much quicker.
3. Unidentified Floating Object
Surf kayaks are made from fiberglass, the same composition of surfboards. Most kayak surfers prefer their kayak to be around 8 feet long, but surf kayaks can be as long as 10 or 11 feet. Like river kayaks, surf kayaks use a spray skirt to keep water out of the cockpit. Surf kayaks flatten out under the seat, allowing for fast speeds through breaking waves. Kayak surfers benefit from shorter paddles because they start without the aid of a river current. Short paddles allow kayak surfers to increase their speed quickly.
4. Tricks of the Trade
Learning to time the waves is a valuable skill for kayak surfers. Surfers can dive under incoming waves as they're paddling out, but kayak surfers don't have that luxury, so they need to wait for a period long enough to paddle out. Kayak surfers also need to be aware of the conditions under the water near the shore. Rocks can damage a surf kayak's fins, so walking the boat out to deeper waters might be necessary. Courtesy is key while surf kayaking. Don't cut off other surfers and kayak surfers, and get out of the way if someone is already in a wave. Avoid crowds, but don't try to surf kayak alone.
5. Get Your Gear On
The body loses heat quickly in the ocean, so wear a wet suit while surf kayaking. If the temperature is on the cooler side, add a layer over your wet suit, preferably a quick-dry t-shirt and shorts. A splash top will protect you from rain and wind. The ocean's bottom can be as rough as concrete, so wear protective gloves and shoes.
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