What is kayaking?

So you are wondering - what is kayaking?

Let's take a look.

Kayaking is a physical activity that takes place in a usually closed top boat called a kayak. The kayak can be made of wood, fibreglass, carbon kevlar or plastic

The different materials are shaped to produce the kayak and give varying weights - with carbon kevlar being the lightest and plastic the heaviest - at 20 kilos plus!

The kayak is propelled using a double paddle blade. A kayak can be operated by more than one person (called a K2 or K4), but is more commonly operated with one person. They sit in the middle of the kayak so it is balanced.

The person provides the 'thrust' - paddling - and provides the 'direction' - steering - too. A variety of paddle strokes are used to propel and control the kayak.

Kayaks are very versatile and can be paddled on flat or white water - with suitable safety equipment. They are light enough to be paddled through large rapids or portaged (carried) around them.

Kayaks come in lots of different types including special kayaks for river running, play boating, racing, sea and slalom.

Dave in a plastic play boat with a double paddle.

Kayaks can be launched easily into rivers, lakes and even the sea - in sheltered coves or across large bays.

They are a brilliant way of seeing the great outdoors in relative safety.

A kayaks usefulness on white water has opened first descents on many rivers including those on Everest, K2 and down the Grand Canyon.

Even waterfalls have been paddled and world records set for the highest. Not for the faint hearted though.

With careful planning, a kayak can be loaded with camping equipment and a multi-day expedition can be undertaken.

These are amazing fun and can bring together the whole family.

In general, most kayaks are very stable and it takes a large wave or off balance weight movement to capsize them.

With the paddler in the water, a kayak could be emptied, righted and re-entered. This is called a 'self rescue' and is essential to learn when kayaking on large expanses of water such as lakes or the sea.

Kayaking has been an Olympic sport since 1936. Kayaking used for Olympic disciplines are referred to as K1 - single seat, K2 - double seat and even a K4 with four seats.

The most exciting event is the kayak slalom. This involves the paddlers proceeding down a white water river whilst negotiating upstream and downstream slalom poles.

A paddler competing in a slalom by going between the hanging poles.

Kayaks give the opportunity to explore the wilderness and see life from the river. Trips in a kayak can be longer with more equipment carried making the trips comfortable and motivating.

They can provide stable platforms from which to sight see, fish or take photos.

Give kayaking a try - you'll enjoy it.

PS. Paddlesports can be dangerous.
Read our safety disclaimer - here

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