When opting to participate in any activity, it is critical to properly plan and prepare. Leaping into anything without thinking about the potential ramifications, hazards, or long-term outcomes is a formula for disaster. This is especially true for any activity that involves adverse weather such as snow, ice, great height, or deep water. As a result, kayaking, which frequently entails folks being in extremely small groups and in very remote regions, should not be taken lightly.
What Equipment Do I Need to Begin Kayaking?
When opting to participate in any activity, it is critical to properly plan and prepare. Leaping into anything without thinking about the potential ramifications, hazards, or long-term outcomes is a formula for disaster. This is especially true for any activity that involves adverse weather such as snow, ice, great height, or deep water. As a result, kayaking, which frequently entails folks being in extremely small groups and in very remote regions, should not be taken lightly.
Though kayaking is a terrific sport for both beginners and experts, demonstrating any level of arrogance serves no purpose. So, what should you do before you get in the water?
Obtaining the Correct Supplies
This should be the first priority when engaging in any extreme sport, not only kayaking. You are setting yourself up for disaster if you do not have the proper equipment and supplies.
When it comes to kayaking, the equipment you’ll need is straightforward, so make sure you have:
a second set of clothes
Wetsuit
Helmet (optional)
A buoyancy aid/life jacket
Gloves for wetsuits
Boots for Wetsuits
Of course, having a kayak that you feel comfortable sitting in and a paddle that fits well in your hands is essential, but if this is your first time kayaking, you are unlikely to purchase these items yourself.
Locate a Reputable Instructor
It is impossible to overestimate the value of taking some lessons from a qualified instructor. Working with an instructor will allow you to learn about the associated dangers, how to prevent them, and what you should do to ensure your safety if something goes wrong.
Because kayaking is rather straightforward once you know the rules, you won’t need many lessons; nonetheless, never go out on a kayak until you are completely confident in your ability to handle both good and bad situations.
Appropriate Dress
It can be very tempting to dress for the weather, but this is not a good idea. You should dress appropriately for being in the water because this is where you need the most protection. If you fall in the water – which, let’s be honest, is likely on your first couple of expeditions – it’s better to wear a wetsuit and waterproof gloves, even if the weather is scorching.
Kayak apparel and kayak accessories are essential for people of all ages and skill levels.
Use the Proper Boat
While the fundamental design of kayaks is quite consistent, there are a few modifications to pick from. If this is your first time on the water, try a sit-on-top kayak, which is incredibly easy to manoeuvre. If you’re going to a lake or a large pond, you might want to try flatwater boats, sit-on-top kayaks, or inflatable kayaks. It is generally a good idea to discuss your options with your instructor.
Kayak Safely and Together
Even expert kayakers can get into trouble; submerged logs, sudden waves, and human mistake can all result in individuals ending up in the water, so it’s best to avoid heading out on the river alone.
If you do end up in the water, the last thing you want to do is be on your own.
To that end, it is equally critical that you understand how to look after yourself in the water and how to help others if they are in distress. You’re unlikely to capsize on your first trip, but being prepared if you do wind up in the water – whether you stay in the boat or not – is crucial. Having this understanding will also prevent you from panicking when it is critical to remain cool.