|
Ten tips for safer and better kayaking
Feel free to contribute with your own tips and advice. What tips have you got?
Please send them to roope@rooperoine.com so I can add your contributions to the list.
The paddle
You will be using this particular piece of equipment a lot. Unfortunately, a good paddle will also set you back financially. Of all the equipment you will purchase it will most certainly be the soundest investment, however. The lighter models are the preferred ones. There are shafts of thinner diameter for those with small hands, which is important for achieving the right grip without having to squeeze the shaft too hard. Try out several models and find the one that suits you best!
The cockpit
Most cockpits require modification in order to provide adequate contact with the kayak and a comfortable sitting position. Cut out suitable bits of soft material and glue or affix them with rubber bands to both sides of the seat at hip height. You should be able to feel both sides of the kayak when sitting without having to squeeze into the kayak. This way you can steer the kayak with your hips.
Forward stroke
Ninety-nine per cent of kayakers have room for improvement with regard to this area of paddling technique. Remember to rotate your upper body and place the blade of the paddle into the water with an almost completely outstretched arm. Start the movement of the stroke by rotating your upper body backwards so that you can include more muscles in the stroke than just your arms. Use your legs for support during the execution of this stroke. Stay relaxed and don’t drag the paddle more backwards than roughly your hips.
Grip
Open the grip of your leading hand while it is extended. Stretch out your fingers. You should only squeeze your paddle in really windy conditions.
Sidewind
A kayak can develop a will of its own in a sidewind. It will usually steer with or against the wind and rarely go where you want it to go. You can employ a skeg *or a rudder to steer the kayak. However, you can also improve course stability by moving heavier objects towards the stern or the bow. Even minor adjustments in the centre of gravity can have a great impact.
|
Kayak leash
Fasten a 2-3 metre long thin string (2-3 mm) to a karabiner. Always carry this in the pockets of your life jacket. When you step ashore in a difficult location such as for instance a slippery stone, you can fasten a karabiner on the kayak and concentrate on climbing to the top of the stone. Thread the string around your fingers or fasten it to your life jacket. Once you’re safely on top of the stone you can haul in the kayak.
Communications
Always carry two of these on your trips: VHF, distress rockets or mobile phone. By itself, a cell phone is not sufficient.
Weather conditions
Never set out on a longer trip without checking the weather forecast in advance and remember that they are never entirely reliable. Warnings should be taken seriously and taken into account when choosing your route, for instance by ensuring that there is a possibility of steering towards more sheltered parts of the archipelago, if the weather is as bad as the forecast predicts.
Planning
Choose your tour destination according to experience, fitness, weather and equipment. You can have an exciting and challenging tour without incurring unnecessary risks.
Motivation
If it doesn’t feel like you’re having fun, then it probably isn’t fun. Paddling should be primarily a pleasurable experience. If something feels off, then maybe you should come back on another day. |
