Kayaking, as a sport and a recreational activity, has grown in popularity over the years. With the rise of social media, it might seem like every kayaker is a professional adventurer, gear expert, or sponsored athlete. However, the reality is that most kayakers are everyday people who simply enjoy the sport for various reasons. If you’ve ever wondered what kind of kayaker you are or what your paddling personality is, this article will help you discover your unique kayaking style. The Nature Lover If you’re drawn to kayaking because of the serenity and beauty of nature, you’re a nature lover.…
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.
As a coach, being aware of social anxiety & social anxiety disorders and being prepared to work with them, will make you a better coach for every one of your students. Kayak classes can involve some horribly uncomfortable moments for the non-social-butterflies among us. Even just being asked to partner off can bring back childhood nightmares of school dances and picking teams. Not to mention the classic way-too-close “posterior in the face” positions we get into with strangers while wiggling our ways through shakey rescues! Then there are all those things coaches make you do to “break the ice” such as; introductions, stretches,…
Struggling with storage space for your cherished kayak, or simply looking for a more efficient way to store it? Fret not! We’ve got your back. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the ins and outs of storing your kayak vertically, which can save you space while keeping your kayak dry and secure. So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and let’s explore the world of vertical kayak storage! Why Go Vertical with Your Kayak Storage? Opting for vertical storage for your kayak comes down to three significant reasons: Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Vertical Kayak Storage…
Imagine paddling through a vast body of water, with dark, menacing thunderclouds gathering overhead. The salty air fills your nostrils, and streaks of lightning flash in the distance. As the rain pelts down with the force of a Midwest hailstorm, obscuring your visibility, you might expect fear to take hold. Instead, you find yourself grinning from ear to ear, reveling in the experience. Thunderstorms can be an integral part of the kayaking journey and a source of personal growth. The Evolution of Our Relationship with Thunderstorms In the beginning, kayakers may approach thunderstorms with fear and trepidation, seeking shelter under…
Kayaking is a popular recreational activity, offering the opportunity to explore nature, stay active, and enjoy some solitude on the water. However, there are inherent risks involved in this sport, including potential encounters with wildlife, such as snakes. While it is a relatively rare occurrence, encountering a snake while kayaking can be both startling and potentially dangerous. To ensure you’re prepared for such an encounter and know how to handle it safely, it’s crucial to be well-informed about snake behavior and how to identify venomous species. In this article, we will discuss the types of snakes commonly found near water,…
More than half of our country will experience above normal temperatures through the end of this summer according to NOAA’s National Weather Service. While most of the population will likely seek indoor activities to beat the heat, some of us will embrace the opportunity to enjoy the Great Outdoors, and camping is no exception. Here are some quick tips that will help you plan a fun, relaxing and safe end of summer camping adventure: 1. Reach For The Skies & Head North (If You’re South Like Us) While nature’s heater is on its highest setting this year, certain areas of the…
Selecting the perfect kayak paddle is probably the most important decision you will make as a boater. That’s because the paddle is your engine, your tool to transfer energy to the water. Choosing the proper blade shape will allow you to perform at the highest level for your style of boating, and understanding how to get the perfect fit will allow you to be more comfortable, use less energy and spend more time on the water. Although it is such an important decision, it does not have to be hard. First of all, for either whitewater or touring paddles there are some…
When it comes to kayaking, knowing how to bail out your cockpit is the best way to stay afloat – literally and figuratively! Even if you’re an experienced paddler, water can sneak its way in from a downpour or after a wild ride on choppy waves. A kayak bilge pump should always be part of your arsenal. If you find yourself up a creek without a paddle after taking on some water, having one nearby can help keep you from being weighed down during your journey. Plus, being familiar with how to use it is key since you never know…
September is finally here bringing along with it the start to the fall kayak fishing season. It’s an anglers perfect season with temperate temperatures, quiet lakes, rivers and oceans, and most of all- great fishing. Fall is also the last chance to enjoy the sport for many who will soon have to put their kayaks away until Spring. Layer, Layer, Layer As we roll into the fall season paddlers will need to be prepared for the steady drop in temperature. The best way to do this is to layer your usual summer angling outfit. I recommend starting with two base…
Although we hate to admit it, it’s officially time to start thinking about kayak storage. With temperatures dropping and in many places, snowfall becoming more and more frequent, kayaks take a back seat to cozying up indoors and spending a little quality time next to the fireplace. With that said, we have a few storage tips and product recommendations to make your transition from fall to winter a breeze. Step 1: Prepping Your Boat for Storage Cleaning your boat and ensuring everything is secure and ready for Spring is an important step to take before storing your kayak for the winter. It will…