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…
Browsing: kayak
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…
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…
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…
The throw rope is a fundamental tool for rescue in water sports and is carried by all responsible river guides. It provides a lifeline for white water rafters and kayakers who have unintentionally become swimmers. Throw ropes usually have a clip or carabiner on one end and are stuffed into small bags, which are more easily thrown than loops of rope. Throwing a bag seems a bit unnatural at first and should be practiced by anyone who might need to rely on the skill in an emergency. Things You’ll Need: Instructions Step 1 Attach one end of the throw rope…
Rivers differ in such categories as gradient, shape, rockiness, hazards, thrills, temperature, seasonal changes and scenery. Outfitters vary somewhat less, but are not completely equal in emphasis on safety, experience and overall excursion quality. Most responsible river guides belong to at least one professional organization in order to keep up with current safety procedures and equipment. The U.S. Forest and Park Services and the Bureau of Land Management, which are the usual source of permits for rivers, can be contacted for information about outfitters. Company websites may answer a number of your questions. Safety How’s your safety record? What kind…
A sun shade sail made from used boat sails provides a versatile alternative to an expensive, fixed patio cover. This shade sail serves to protect and shade outdoor areas while also adding style and coziness to a backyard, patio or other outdoor spaces. Also versatile, you can attach it anywhere and it can be just as easily taken down when the season changes. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Step 1 Clean your used sail with water and mild soap. Ensure that the fabric is still usable and no holes or any tears are present. Wipe with a towel and…