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…
Browsing: kayak
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…
Kayaking in open water can be a lot of fun but you do need to be aware of weather conditions before going out. Not only do you need to know information such as wind speed and direction, wave heights and tidal currents, before you go out on the water, but you should also pay attention to changes in cloud patterns that might affect you while you’re on the water. Knowing what the weather is doing and being prepared for it is the best way to have a safe, enjoyable trip. Instructions Step 1 Determine what direction the wind is blowing.…
Whether by kayak, canoe or whitewater raft, when it comes to aquatic sports, you often trust your life to your life jacket. Keep a life jacket in working condition involves a bit of regular maintenance to ensure continued cleanliness and usefulness. A number of bad things can befall a poorly treated life jacket, from mildew to fraying. Thankfully, maintaining a life jacket doesn’t have to be onerous or burdensome. All it takes is the right treatment and the proper cleaning methods. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Hose Wash bucket Mild detergent Scrub brush Sponge High-pressure nozzle Clothes hangerHoseWash bucketMild…
From whitewater rafters to fishermen, one of the fundamental pieces of safety equipment for most water sports is the life jacket. They are invaluable flotation aids for those who are unable to keep afloat on their own. Like boats, they are designed using the science of buoyancy. Buoyancy An object is buoyant when it has an average density lower than that of the liquid around it, enabling it to float on the surface of that liquid. For example, oil floats on water because it is less dense. Likewise, a person becomes more buoyant when his lungs are full of air,…
Possibly the best thing about sea kayaking is, it doesn’t cost much. Both the kayak and paddle can be built by hand at a fraction of the price of store-bought selections. Instructions Difficulty: Moderately Easy Things You’ll Need: Jigsaw Small block plane Cabinet sander Sandpaper Wood oil VarnishJigsawSmall block planeCabinet sanderSandpaperWood oilVarnish Step 1 Find a good piece of hardwood. Ash, basswood or spruce are three types of wood that are especially good for creating a blank for a paddle, because they’re all fairly light and yet strong. The best place to find the lumber you need is at a hardware…
Neoprene shorts are stretchable, water and oil resistant. They are a “must have” for any kayaker or surfer looking for extra protection and insulation. But without proper cleaning, the synthetic rubber becomes foul smelling and attracts scores of potentially harmful bacteria. A thorough soaking with a soft scrub brush and warm water is an effective way to keep your neoprene clean and protect its longevity. Don’t forget to stay away from metals or wire hangers when drying your shorts to prevent unsightly rust stains. Things You’ll Need: Woolite Dishwashing soap Soft scrub brush Listerine Warm water Plastic hangerWooliteDishwashing soapSoft scrub…
Your first time getting in and out of a kayak may feel a little rocky, but it is really quite simple. A few easy techniques can help you keep your kayak stable as you safely climb in and out, ensuring that your smooth paddle on the water won’t be marred by a flop at the shoreline. Instructions Step 1 Place the kayak at a 45-degree angle to the shoreline so that it is easier for one leg to be on the beach while the other is getting into the kayak. Also make sure the kayak is a little more than…
Running waterfalls is kayaking for adrenaline junkies. It is an unforgettable and quite addictive experience, especially if extreme sports run in your blood. To be sure, running a waterfall is a dangerous undertaking; it requires preparation, a thorough understanding of the terrain and a dedication to personal safety precautions. Read on and find some must-know tips for running waterfalls that are sure to help you enjoy some amazing drops while at the same time staying safe in the process. Learn about preparation, research and execution, even in adverse conditions. Prepare your Body by Stretching Begin with a number of stretching…