Kayaking Simplified

Whether riverfront, lakeside or sea side; we have all see them. People out on kayaks. Kayaking is such a versatile activity. It can be relaxing. Dipping your paddle into the calm water. Gliding along, wildlife all around you. Kayaking can also be more of an intense sport. The exhilaration of whitewater or long distance kayaking and don't forget speed . The spray hitting your face, adrenalin pumping. Okay so you're not ready for whitewater yet, but everyone starts somewhere. Are you ready to begin your journey? I have complied, what I believe, to be some key information that all new comers to the world of kayaking should know.

Getting Started

Great kayaking starts with the right boat. Chances are you may not be ready to jump in and spend the cash for a kayak if you haven't tried it yet. While I personally love kayaking, it may not be for everybody, and that okay. But how will you know if you don't try.

A good alternative to purchasing your own craft right away is to borrow a friend or family member's. Even better if that friend or family member is willing to join you and show you the basics.

Another choice to consider is renting a kayak. Try to find a kayak rental location that is on-the -water. That way you don't have to find a way to transport the kayak to where ever you may be casting off. Most reputable kayak rental location will also offer a minimal amount of instructions and gear. This is a great, low cost way of tipping your toes into kayaking for the first time.

Like trying new activities with a group of other people trying it for the first time too? Consider signing up for a tour or a class. A tour or class will offer the boat, gear and fundamental skills you will need to get started. Tour locations can range from local parks departments to more exotic location hosted by water sport companies. Want to hone your skills a little more than a tour? Introductory kayaking classes will offer more in-depth instructions that will have you feeling confident and ready to put paddle to water.

If you still have the itch to own your own kayak first, here are types of kayaks that are beginner friendly.

Recreational Kayaks are a wonderful chose for beginners. Featuring a wide hull and generally less than 12 feet long, these kayaks are designed for stability and easy to steer. Best used on lakes, flat water streams or other calm bodies of water that are protected from wind and heavy waves. Recreational kayaks come with a large cockpit for easy access or the wider hipped adventurer, like myself. They also include a small area to stash essentials. They are available in sit-in (where the paddler's lower body is inside the hull of the kayak) or sit-on (with a sealed hull). Kayaks are a wonderful chose for beginners.

I​f space is a premium, consider an inflatable kayak instead. Most Inflatable kayaks come recreational style. Some are for whitewater rafting so make sure you read the description fully first. These kayaks can be folded down to a more manageable size, some can even be as backpacks. They can be inflated in minutes using a foot or electric pump. Inflatable kayaks offer stability on the water and are easy to maneuver making them a great chose for children and beginners alike. This style is not without its faults. Any holes in an inflatable kayak will make the vessel useless if unable to be patched and patching an inflatable is to be difficult. Some models are available tandem style and sit-in or sit-on.

S​peaking of tandem kayaks, if you are looking to share this new experience with another person, a tandem kayak might be the right fit. These kayaks are also ideal for younger 's or the less experienced looking to gain experience. They offer more storage space than their single person counter part.

Gear & Clothing

Whatever you chose, to take a tour, go with a buddy or signing up for a class, you will need essentials. Remember, anyone who provides a boat for a class or tour should also essentials. A ​Personal Flotation Device (PFD) that is Coastguard-approved. Most people know these as life jackets. And a paddle, make sure in good condition free from cracks in the blade. They may also offer a bilge pump and spray skirt.

You will need to bring some items of your own.

Plenty of Water.

Signaling Whistle. Three short bursts from the emergency whistle is the international signal for distress.

First-aid kit

Watch & Sunglasses. Make sure to always give yourself plenty of time for the trip back.

Sunscreen & Lip balm. No not lip gloss.

Snacks. Have items that are biodegradable and not harmful to the environment or bring a bag for any food waste

Dry bags. This could be as simple as a zip-lock bag to store your phone and wallet or you can opt to buy a more official dry bag. But buyer beware, these can get pricey.

Kayak, check. Bag of essentials, check. PFD, check. But what to wear! Well, that can be dependent on the weather, time of year and water temperature but here some good examples of some clothing options.

Like other outdoor activities, the clothing you chose for kayaking should be versatile, durable and comfortable. Dress in non-cotton layers that allow you to move with ease and comfort. Why not cotton? Cotton fabrics absorb water and stays wet longer than nylons, polyester or other synthetic fabrics. Whether the day you chose to go kayaking is sunny or cloudy, you should expect sun exposure. Make sure to wear sun protecting headgear. It doesn't have to be fancy, a ball cap or wind brimmed hat will do. If you can, try to pick clothing with UPF-rated fabrics. Another kind of clothing to consider as you layer up are rashgaurds. These shirt tops are well-suited (pun intended) for water sports such as boarding and paddling. Because they are of synthetic fabric blends, they dry , stretch for comfort and have a high UPF rating to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.

Ever step on a Lego in the middle of the night? If you have then you know that feeling of pain, mixed with surprise. That is the same feeling you get when you step out of a kayak right onto a small, sharp rock. , some form of water shoe is highly recommended. Some great options are a pair of sandals that have a back strap, traditional water shoes or even an old pair of sneakers you don't mind getting wet with river water. Neoprene paddling boots are ideal but can get expensive. Bottom line is you don't want to take the chance of catching an old fishing hook in the foot.

Safety Measures

I​f you have decided to forgo the crowds of a class or tour, important to always go kayaking with at least one other person. If something goes wrong; you lose a paddle, spring an unexpected leak or need more water; another paddler can give help. Yet, a paddling companion who is out of site will be of no help to you, should you need it. Make sure to talk about staying together before you hit the water together.

Once you have picked out a location you are interested in kayaking at, make sure you do your research on that location. If a local or state park, visit their website or contact a park ranger. Ask about such as currents, tides, Motorized boat traffic and if any places to avoid. You should also check the weather forecast for that day and the current estimated water temp. This will help you to decide whether you will need a wet/dry suit or not. Remember, if the water temperature is 60 F or below, you will a wet suit.

N​ever let another paddler pressure you into going out farther or longer than you are comfortable. If you have never had rescue training, you should never paddle farther from the shore than you are able to swim comfortably in case of an emergency. I personally find it more interesting in shallower, near shore areas, more to see.

Quick Tips for Planning Your First Outing

First thing first, plan on an outing, not an expedition. Even if you are pumped to try kayaking for the first time you want to plan for fun. Don't forget, most trips you will be paddling back to wear you started. If you go to far, for too long because you are having fun, the return journey is going to be more fatigue than fun.

Calm, small bodies of water are ideal for first time . Ponds, Lakes and even some man-made damns will work best. Make sure before you go that whatever area you choose has little to no powerboat traffic. look for someplace to launch the kayak off that is sandy and has a gentle sloop, not a hard drop off.

Windless days may be warmer during those hotter months, but they make for great paddling days. Less wind means you are fighting fewer waves. If a bit breezy, make sure to always start your outing paddling into the headwind. This way, if you are a bit sore or tired, you will be paddling into the tailwind with the wind pushing you along.

You are now well on your way to your first kayaking adventure. Get out there, have fun and be safe.