Two basic types of kayak spray skirts come in a myriad of designs. The white water, “water proof” neoprene skirts are made for heavy-duty kayaking. Lighter duty nylon spray skirts keep you fairly warm and dry, but aren’t meant for the white water, surfing or an “Eskimo roll.” The first is more complex and should probably be purchased ready made. The touring type may be made at home. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Step 1 Measure the circumference of your cockpit rim. Measure your chest. Add 4 inches to each number. Roll out your nylon on a flat surface…
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Riding kayak waves is an unexpected adventure for some. For others, the thrill turns into a love for kayak surfing and crashing waves. But it doesn’t come without its challenges. Your kayak is prone to tipping on a wave or tossing you around like a washing machine. Learn to use your weight to steady yourself and master a thrilling ride. Instructions Step 1 Position your kayak perpendicular to the waves and use them as moment to propel yourself forward. It will conserve energy and keep you working with the waves instead of against them. Step 2 Continue paddling until you…
Your kayak paddle separates into two pieces at a joint. It’s not uncommon for these pieces to stick together. Learning what causes this, and how to prevent it, will save you time during your next kayaking trip. Significance If you cannot separate your kayak paddle, you will not be able to adjust its angle to feather it according to the wind on your next trip. Storage also becomes an issue when you can’t separate your paddle into two pieces. Cause Salt deposits build up during ocean outings. If you leave your paddle together after your trip, the salt welds your…
Stretching your muscles both before and after kayaking helps to increase flexibility and prevent injuries. In addition to stretching the upper body muscles that you will use kayaking, don’t forget to also stretch the assisting muscles in the lower body as well. Shoulder Warm-Up A shoulder warm-up stretches the rotator cuffs, which are used in all kayaking maneuvers, and the shoulder girdles. Stand up straight, and slowly rotate arms in a large circle, moving in opposite directions. Try for two sets of 10 repetitions. Bicep Stretch Bicep muscles are crucial in forward strokes. To strengthen and stretch these muscles, stand…
There’s more to planning a paddling route than grabbing your gear and jumping in the boat and heading down the river. There are quite a few things you’ll want to take into consideration before your feet even touch the water. Mother Nature can throw quite a few variables your way that you’ll have to contend with. Planning a route efficiently will mean your trip will be safe, which means having a better time. Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Local guide books Local maps and charts Local tide and current tablesLocal guide booksLocal maps and chartsLocal tide and current tables Step…
There are several different varieties of kayak paddles, each differing slightly depending on if it is used in the ocean, whitewater or river. All kayak paddles however, have the same three basic parts (shaft and two blades) and serve the same main purpose; propelling and steering a kayak. Shaft and Drip Rings The shaft of a kayak paddle is the main stick that you hold onto and connects the two blades. Some shafts are one piece but many are two pieces which connect at the center of the shaft. Nearly all whitewater kayak paddles have a shaft that have a…
Kayaking is an excellent form of exercise and is particularly notable for helping to build upper-body strength. Muscles found in the arm, shoulders and back are all used during a typical day of paddling. Additionally, you don’t have to be participating in a long multiday kayaking trip or kayaking race to feel the benefit of kayaking. You should be able to burn plenty of calories even on a leisurely kayak as you exercise muscles that you may not normally exercise. Rotator Cuff The rotator cuff controls a group of muscles that work together in the shoulder joint to control the…
The real challenge in keeping your core temperature up when kayaking is exercising self-discipline. It’s easy to skimp on neoprene socks, a change of clothes and knit hats. But a day on the water will turn disastrous without staying as warm and dry as possible. You’ll also find new comfort and pleasure in kayaking if you can do it comfortably and without compromising your health. Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Wetsuit Paddling jacket Gloves Knit hat Non-cotton layer Fleece Water and wind resistant layer Chemical hand warmers Neoprene socks Waders Change of clothesWetsuitPaddling jacketGlovesKnit hatNon-cotton layerFleeceWater and wind resistant layerChemical…
The way your outdoor gear and equipment fits is a determining factor in how much you will enjoy a sport and kayaking is no different. Kayaking for a long period of time can be hard on your back if your seat is rigid and doesn’t fit quite right. Adjusting a kayaking seat can be done easily with dense foam. Things You’ll Need: High density closed-cell foam Sharp knife Scissors Duct tapeHigh density closed-cell foamSharp knifeScissorsDuct tape Instructions Step 1 Sit in your kayak and lean all your weight into the seat. Take note of where your back hurts or where…
If you own a kayak and keep it outside without a shelter, you’ll want to cover it up. Though kayaks are made to be tough, eventually the sun, rain and other weather elements will eat away at its durability and life span. You can purchase your own kayak cover, though it might be a bit pricey. It’s quite possible, though, to make your own. It might not be the prettiest kayak cover in the world, but it will suit the purpose of protecting your kayak from the elements. Read on for some tips to making your own kayak cover. Things…