Some Essentials of Kayaking

Intrigued with the idea of spending more time on the water but speedboats and sailboats are not quite what fits your aquatic spirit.  Is kayaking a possibility?  REI shares some introductory tips for beginners that might whet your appetite for sunrise, sunny day or sunset kayaking explorations of the waters around you.  Here are some ways to sample kayak adventures:

• Rent a kayak
• Borrow a kayak from a friend
• Visit a on-the-water outfitter that provides gear and instruction.
• Sign up for a kayak tour from your local parks department or look for a kayak adventure-touring company.
• Look around for a kayaking class.

Here are some things that you will need if you are in a classic kayak:  one with a cockpit and a hatch or two for stowing gear.

Essential kayaking gear:

• Coastguard-approved PFD (Personal Flotation Device) that fits properly
• Paddle (make sure they check that it’s the right size for you)
• Bilge pump
• Spray skirt (optional on warm, calm days)
• Neoprene footwear
• Sun-shielding hat
• Proper attire to meet  temperature of the day
• Lightweight fleece jacket or vest (weather-dependent)
• Spray jacket or rain jacket and pants (weather-dependent)
• If conditions are colder than 60 F (especially the water), a wetsuit is also required

Personal items:

• Plenty of water
• Snacks for energy, plus a lunch for longer tours
• Sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses
• First-aid kit
• Signaling whistle
• Water proof timepiece
• Headlamp
• Dry bags (for things you don’t want to get wet)

Now that you know some of the essentials that you will need, the waters are beckoning you for a kayaking adventure.

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For full article:  Getting Started Kayaking

For more information about the Adventure program at Purchase, or to enroll, visit our Adventure page, today.

Image Credit:  Future Stars Camps