Kayaking is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get around on the water. If you enjoy hanging out away from land, fishing or exploring the coastline, then you will love kayaking. For newbies, however, knowing how to move about properly can be a bit of a challenge.
It is important to be aware of all of the kayaking basics before heading into the water. You need to be able to kayak efficiently and safely before practising your skills on the open water. To make this process easier, some initial guidance and instruction are important.
So, put on your aqua shoes and get ready to learn everything you need to know about how to start kayaking.
Know The Different Types Of Kayak
It is important to be aware of some of the differences between the two different types of kayaks out there. Some kayaks of the sit-on-top variety are usually short and stable. This configuration makes this variant a bit more difficult to paddle and also slower. However, they are great for beginners because they are easy to flip over in case you find yourself capsized. Due to their enhanced stability, some are built specifically for fishing.
Sit-inside kayaks are the most well-known variant of the kayak. These are longer models that allow you to sit below the waterline. This difference in design allows for an easier paddling cadence and a greater top speed. Depending on the precise make and model of your kayak, you may have additional room for gear in the base of the hull or if you are into racing you may have a streamlined kayak that has little room for anything but you and a paddle.
For some contemporary twists to the classic kayaking design, you can also check out some of these compact kayaks.
Choose A Paddle
Most kayakers use a traditional European-style paddle that features a thin shaft that you grip which has two larger flaps on either end. These paddles are designed to provide more resistance in the water and allow for more control over the speed and stopping the power of the kayak.
Other paddles are available, however, which have thinner paddle blades. While you are not likely to see such paddles often, they are based on indigenous designs of traditional kayakers in Greenland and Alaska.
Get Suited Up
Being properly dressed for kayaking is critical. Since you are so close to the water in a kayak, there is a good chance that you are going to get a bit wet. Fast-drying and thin fabrics are the way to go. Think nylon, fleece, and synthetic quick-drying materials.
Be Safe And Practice The Technique
At a minimum, you always need to wear a lifejacket in a kayak. The risk of drowning in any body of water exists and you want to prevent this possibility. Even if you are an excellent swimmer, you may find yourself far from shore and unable to swim back. It is also a good idea to have a paddle float or a leash to make sure that, if you drop your paddle, it does not sink to the bottom.
It is easier done than said to actually paddle a kayak. Before you get going, make sure that you know how to propel the kayak forwards, backwards, and how to stop on a dime.
Get Out On The Water
Now that you are comfortable with the essentials of kayaking, it is time to take your skills to the water. Make sure to get into the kayak carefully, it is usually easier to see someone demonstrate this for you in person.
Once you are in, all that is left is to start paddling. Choose a destination and set sail.