A kayak is an iconic North American image. Kayaks and versions of kayaks have been used century after century to traverse rivers and streams and to explore the outdoors. If this is your first time with a kayak, here are a few things you will want to know.
What to Bring With You In A Kayak
You don’t want to bring too much with you when you go kayaking. Wear a Personal Flotation Device as well as water-friendly clothing, i.e. swimwear, a sun-shielding hat, and the like. With a kayak that has additional space, you can also toss in a snack or two but nothing too weighty.
How to Get Into A Kayak
Take your kayak into shallow water. Put one of your paddle blades under the deck line. Stand over the kayak, grab the cockpit, and sit your butt in, lifting your legs and sliding them into the natural position.
How to Sit In A Kayak
How to use a kayak starts with learning proper form in sitting. You are going to be in this position indefinitely and so comfort is key. Ensure you’re sitting upright with your butt firmly against the seatback.
Your knees should have a slight bend to them as your feet sit on the foot-pegs. Controlling the side-to-side motion of the boat, have your bent knees in firm contact with the sides.
How to Hold A Kayak Paddle
To hold a kayak paddle, your elbows should be bent at 90 degrees. Knuckles always go over the paddle shaft and never under. Grasp it with both hands, ensuring there is equal length on both sides of your paddle.
The longer-edge blade should sit on top. If there is a scoop to your paddle blades, the scoop should be facing you as well. Once you’re in position, loosen your grip to avoid tiring out your hands.
How Do You Paddle With A Kayak Oar?
- To go forward, take your inflatable kayak aluminum oar and immerse it fully on one side next to your feet. Rotate your torso and move the blade behind you. Once the movement’s completed, slice the blade out of the water and repeat.
- To go backward or brake, do the opposite of a forward stroke. Immerse the blade next to your hip and move it towards your feet, slicing it out of the water and repeating once the movement’s complete.
- To turn in a kayak, complete a forward stroke but exaggerate the shape and distance. Complete a forward stroke in a half-circle as opposed to a more straight line.
This summer, you don’t need to worry about anything that’s going on in your world when you’re out in a kayak and on the water. It’s a serene place to be. Shop cheap high-quality inflatable kayaks in Canada at Living.ca.
