No matter how good your balance is, sometimes you will lose it. A brace is a stroke used to recover when you’ve been thrown off balance, or used in anticipation of potentially losing balance. Because the low brace is so quick and efficient, and keeps your shoulders really well protected from injury, it should become your primary and instinctive reaction to instability. The low brace is so named because the paddle is kept very low throughout the stroke. To set up for a low brace, sit upright and roll your paddle under your elbows so that your forearms are virtually…
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The low brace lean turn is the most basic and fundamental of moving turns. And it’s a skill that will come in handy in all types of water conditions. The low brace lean turn combines the motions of a reverse sweep with the support of a low brace to make a smooth and effective turn. It should be noted that while this stroke does generate a tight turning radius, it will seriously slow your forward speed, often stopping you altogether. The low brace lean turn starts with forward speed and is initiated with a forward sweep stroke on the opposite…
The high brace is definitely the most powerful of the recovery strokes. In fact, a good paddler can even use the high brace to recover when their boat is almost completely upside down! The problem with the high brace is that it’s easy to rely on it too much, which can put your shoulders at risk. So the first thing to keep in mind is that despite its name, you need to keep your paddle and your hands low and in front of your body. For the high brace you’ll use your paddle in a ‘chin-up’ position and use the…
Transporting kayaks can be stressful, and it’s the task of securely tying boats to the roof of a vehicle that can be particularly intimidating. And with good reason, because most serious damage to kayaks is incurred during transportation, not while paddling. With the right setup however, car-topping a kayak is safe and easy. Most important, and often dismissed, is the need for strong, solidly attached roof racks. Unfortunately, factory-installed racks are seldom ideal. After-market racks from specialty manufacturers like Yakima or Thule are the ultimate solution for hauling kayaks. Racks to fit virtually any vehicle are available, as well as…
Before you can go kayaking, you have to get your boat to the water and sadly this usually means carrying it. “Many hands make light work” so it’s always a great idea to get your paddling partners to help haul your boat, but if your kayak is light enough, or if you’re strong enough, you may sometimes want to try a solo carry. As with most endeavors, good technique can make this a lot easier. Kayaking is not only about paddling through the waters, but it’s also about how you handle your vessel on land. Proper handling and carrying of…
Having been in the water more times than I’d like to admit during my kayaking adventures, I’ve come to appreciate the value of self-rescue techniques. The ‘scramble’ is one of those techniques that is as straightforward as its name suggests. For any kayaker, mastering this maneuver can mean the difference between a minor hiccup and an extended swim. When you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, the first order of business is to get your boat back to its upright position. Using a bit of finesse, try to lift the bow while turning it. This technique ensures minimal water floods…
Navigating the waterways on a kayak is as much about mastering technique as it is about embracing the flow. And among the nuanced strokes that every seasoned kayaker should have in their repertoire, the high brace lean turn stands out. Let me break it down for you from the eyes of someone who’s felt the water’s resistance and the exhilaration of a sharp, smooth turn. The high brace lean turn is like merging a graceful dance and a biker’s precise cornering. The crux? Melding the high brace with a deliberate boat tilt for that impeccable turn. The high brace plays…
When you paddle out into the river, you’re not just engaging in a recreational activity. You’re entering a zone where knowledge, preparation, and quick thinking can spell the difference between a fun adventure and a dire situation. Understanding the various facets of river rescue—ranging from self-rescue techniques to specialized equipment like throw bags—is not merely advisable, it’s imperative. Whether you’re a beginner testing the waters or a seasoned pro, here’s your guide to ensuring that you and your paddling buddies can handle whatever the river throws your way. Self Rescue As soon as you find yourself in the water, assume…
Ready to turn your kayak into a water glider with personality? Gather your supplies, get comfortable, and don’t even think about rushing through this. Every step is crucial, so let’s dive into the details! 01. Preparing the Ultimate Painting Arena The stage for your kayak’s transformation should be nothing short of perfect. Here’s how to set it up: 02. Time to Strip Down – The Kayak, Of Course! A masterpiece begins with a clean canvas, and your kayak is no exception. Here’s what you need to do: 03. Scrub, Clean, and Sand That Beauty This step is all about the…
Richmond, Virginia, perched upon the fall line where the Piedmont region meets the coastal plain, is not simply a city with an illustrious history. It’s where the James River, with its spirited rapids and serene stretches, breathes life into the region and beckons kayakers from far and wide. The churning waters that once powered Richmond’s mills now power the adrenaline rush for paddlers exploring one of America’s most enticing urban waterways. From the seasoned expert seeking a challenge to the recreational paddler looking for leisure, Richmond’s river offers something for everyone. Best 3 Places to Kayak in Richmond, Virginia 01.…