Deck netting, known as elastics, are generally affixed to both the front and back deck of sea kayaks and recreational kayaks. The foredeck elastics, usually three in number, are mostly to hold your compass and chart, though many people also stow things such as sunscreen, hats and water bottles; stowing such larger objects, however, can inhibit use of your paddle at a low angle. The rear deck elastics can hold useful objects such as spare paddles, flare containers and bilge pumps. You can add deck netting to your kayak if it doesn’t have any or if you would like to…
Author: Arthur
Arthur
Arthur G. Moore is a veteran paddler. He has over 10 years of whitewater kayaking experience in his kitty. When he was young, he used to love kayaking in rapid III and rapid IV but as time went on, he decided to concentrate mainly on covering long distances on a standard touring kayak. He is currently working as a senior editor for Kayak Manual.
Illinois is known more for the city of Chicago, long flat areas of wheat and corn fields and chilly winters as opposed to whitewater kayaking. But there is whitewater in the state for rafting or kayaking. Depending on the time of year and the water flow, paddling class II through IV rapids is possible. Before heading into the water, make sure to wear a life jacket, helmet and have a river paddling partner with you. Bear Creek, Class II Kayak the Bear Creek outside of Quincy, from the CR 900E to Highway 96 for a total of 4.5 miles of…
Touring kayaks are longer and more stable than white-water kayaks and are designed to stay upright even in rough ocean surf. They have long waterlines and low centers of gravity that make them track well and eat up minor jolts and waves. Nonetheless, even the most stable touring kayak is not capsize-proof. Learning to prepare and paddle your kayak proficiently can make the difference between staying high and dry and getting cold and wet. Step 1 Center and strap in all of your gear to keep your kayak balanced. Make sure that weight is distributed evenly from side to side.…
One of the essentials of beginner kayaking is learning how to efficiently and effectively rotate your craft, giving you complete control while you’re out on the water. Turning your boat, a seemingly simple maneuver, can take some time to master. Start practicing on calm, open water, such as a lake, before taking on rivers and oceans. Step 1 Determine which direction you want your bow, or the front of your boat, to end up facing (for this example, you’ll try to turn your boat to the left). Step 2 Hold the paddle firmly in front of you with your palms…
Kayaking with a sail provides more speed with less fatigue. You still have to paddle when using a kayak sail, but you have the ability to take advantage of the wind, and your paddling will be used more to steer the kayak rather than to provide all of the power. Kayak sails are available at sporting goods stores, but you can make your own to match your kayak and save money. Don’t be afraid to dress up your sail with a custom look once you have the initial pattern laid out. Things You’ll Need: Step 1 Lay two yards of…
Roadtrek RVs have raised roofs that can make carrying a canoe seem difficult. However, the vehicles are compatible with several roof racks and canoes can also be mounted to the rear of the RV. Roof racks are the most stable and the safest carrying option. The canoe you choose should be measured first to ensure it fits your vehicle model and to see if your RV can transport the canoe safely at high speeds. Foam Blocks Roadtrek rooftop designs make it difficult to install standard racks. Foam blocks are a simple solution that allow you to safely mount a canoe…
Rocks, sand and other debris can scratch your kayak while you are enjoying the water. This doesn’t mean that you have to replace your kayak but to make it more aesthetically pleasing and also help maintain speed due to friction, you should repair those scratches. Cosmetic scratches can be left alone but deeper and darker scratches can be repaired at home with the right tools. However when in doubt, head to your local shop to get the tools and advice you need to repair your kayak. Instructions Difficulty: Moderate Things You’ll Need: Step 1 Inspect your kayak scratches. Truly superficial thin…
Whitewater rafting has become increasingly accessible to people who aren’t necessarily daredevil adventurers. Manufacturers are making rafts of all sizes and sending people out on their way. If you are keen to learn how to whitewater raft, but you don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on multi-day guided trips, follow these suggestions for a safer experience. Things You’ll Need: Instructions Step 1 Before you try whitewater rafting on your own, either go on a trip with an experienced guide, instructor or experienced rafter, or take a certified whitewater course. As a beginner, you should never be on a boat…
Shade sails are unique products, designed to provide respite from the hot sun; they come in various cuts and sizes. Shade sails are single pieces of specialized fabric that can be spread over driveways, sports courts, yards or between trailers and buildings. Shade sails are reminiscent of the work of artist Christo, as they blanket and cover unique spaces. Hanging shade sails requires a bit of hardware and technique. Measure and Find a Suitable Location Things You’ll Need: Step 1 Determine where you want the shade sail to go. Take into account the fact that the shade sail will only…
What you decide to wear whitewater rafting will depend on several things. First of all, you’ll need to consider the weather and the outside temperature. Whatever it is on the outside, it’s generally cooler in the water. You’ll also need to consider the rapids themselves. Whitewater rapids come in a variety of sizes and require different skill levels. Therefore, each will require something different, including your attire. Your clothing doesn’t have to be fancy or specialized, but it does need to suit the conditions of the rapids you plan on doing. Tips for Choosing Whitewater Rafting Attire Step 1 Plan…