Kayak Squirt Boats

In the world of kayaking, squirt boats refer to kayaks that are low in volume so that they can maneuver through water by utilizing underwater and surface currents. Based on a form of canoeing or whitewater kayaking, squirt boating is rather like a "hybrid" of kayaking and submarining in that the boat utilizes both surface and underwater currents. Squirt boats are made to be low in volume so that the paddler can still float, and so that the maneuvering capabilities of the boat can be used to perform certain tricks. This also enables the boat maintain effective navigational control.

Suffice it to say that, in terms of kayaking, squirt boats are the overall "stunt artists". Similar to play boats, squirt boats have rounded edges and ends which enable them for play underwater. They have super small cockpits, so small that riders will have to grease themselves just to shimmy in! They are rather cumbersome to handle for amateurs, but seasoned paddlers will find it easier to manage a squirt boat and perform all sorts of twists and turns with it.

Since these vessels belong to a distinct branch of kayaking, squirt boats are like a niche in river paddling. Paddlers use these boats to perform a variety of tricks such as cartwheels, vertical pins, bow squirts and other "mystery moves" such as spinning the boat underwater. Their unique shape makes them capable of doing stunts that conventional kayaks are not able to achieve.

The novice or beginner paddler who is still getting the hang of kayaking will find squirt boats a bit difficult to master. It is best for novices to try them out on easy waters since it takes practice to handle the boat properly. In fact, up to 90 percent of the boat is submerged underwater during use. It is for this reason that paddlers need to fit in the boat rather tightly. Squirt boats are typically customized for the paddler's body, which makes them extremely low in volume. While the boat itself is light, its being underwater requires its paddler to have good upper body strength for maneuvering through strong currents.

Being that they belong to a much more difficult style of kayaking, squirt boats are specially constructed. Since they "play" through the underwater currents of rapids, they must be made of light yet sturdy material. For this reason, squirt boats are typically made out of fiberglass. Aside from the boat, not much else is needed for this type of kayaking. For example, you needn't travel to remote or exotic locations to squirt – a pond or a swimming pool can be used. As for accessories, all that are needed aside from the boat are a helmet and paddle.

It's best to "squirt" with people you are comfortable with such as your local kayak club. If you are going for your first try, it's recommended you squirt on calm water first. Once you have enough practice, you can level up and try some moderate rapids. Since it is heavy on the upper body, it would be wise to strengthen your core and obliques. Once you get the hang of the type of kayaking that squirt boats require, you'll be able to find your balance, learn the moves, and do the stunts.