How to Get Started Series: Kayaking

Have you wanted to go kayaking, but thought it was too grueling or required a certain expertise? Actually, it is none of the above! You can work as little or as hard as you like when kayaking, you decide. On a trip of leisure in your kayak, you can burn up to 350 calories per hour. Plus, you’ll also be toning your arms, back, upper body, and core muscles. It’s a win, win all around and we’ve put together a basic guide to help get you started!

Lakes and Calm Rivers

If you’re a beginner you’re going to want to start on calm waters, whether it be a lake or a river until you master the skills you’ll need. Kayaking skills can range from the basics of paddling to the more advanced skill of recovering from when your kayak flips over. Always paddle with a partner and when first starting, seek out an experienced guide for lessons.

Gear Essentials

No matter what your skill level, the right gear is essential for every trip you take! The list below outlines the gear needed to have you rolling down the river in no time!

1. Kayak: You have options when starting out as far as types of kayaks go. Recreational kayaks are like the Honda Accords of kayaks. They are affordable, sturdy and are easy to maneuver. The Old Town Loon 106 is a great recreational kayak that comes with extra bells and whistles, such as a removable workdeck providing customizable space for cameras, gear and water. The workdeck also features dry storage and a USB charge port to keep your gadgets charged even after hours on the water. If you’re the kind of person who likes to jump in the water for an occasional swim, then consider a sit-on-top kayak. A sit-on-top is a typical variant of the recreational kayak, but allows the paddler to sit in a shallow impression instead of a cockpit. It is also much easier to jump back onto once you are in the water than a recreational kayak. The Pelican STRIKE 120X is a simple and easy to use sit-on-top that is built on a multi-chine flat bottom hull, this 12-foot long kayak provides a high level of stability, great maneuverability and tracking, with plenty of storage space.
2. Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Your life is important, so no matter what type of kayak you choose, you are going to need a PFD! Now you’re probably thinking of those bulky, bright orange ones from when you were a kid, but kayaking PFDs are actually a lot less bulky and available in a variety of styles.
3. Paddle: You’re not going anywhere without a paddle. Choosing a paddle can seem overwhelming, but here’s a few tips to help you choose the perfect one for you! Measured tip to tip, a typical man of average height will use a paddle that is 210 to 220cm. If you are looking for an aggressive workout or just to go faster, then a shorter paddle is the way to go. Worried about the strain on your wrist? Pick a paddle with bent shafts since they are more ergonomic and reduce stress.
4. Bilge Pump: This is a must for any kayak with a cockpit! A bilge pump is a simple handheld pump that allows you to remove water from your kayak after you’ve flipped over.

Open Ocean

Once you’ve graduated from the lakes and rivers, you’ll find there’s nothing like kayaking in the open ocean. If you’re in the right spot at the right time, you may be lucky enough to come face to face with a whale!

Gear Essentials

The kayaks required to traverse the ocean are less stable then recreational kayaks and do take more skill to maneuver. Don’t forget your PFD and bilge pump along with the list below!

1. Touring Kayak: These are the kayaks of serious paddlers and are often used for overnight trips thanks to their ample storage.
2. Paddle: Touring paddles are a little bit longer than recreational kayak paddles. A typical man of average height will use a paddle 230 to 240cm.
3. Spray Skirt: A spray skirt is a water-resistant neoprene seal that fits snuggly around your waist and spreads out just enough to seal off the edge of the cockpit.

Now that you know the basics, stop by one of our locations and our knowledgeable staff will help you get the kayaking gear you need to get started and then join us for one of our Free Paddle Days! Gear up for adventure with Ramsey Outdoor!