Whitewater Kayak Guide
Running The Rapids
Whitewater Kayaks: If you're into running the whitewater and getting your adrenelin pumping, then whitewater kayaks are just the ticket. Whitewater is a term that is loosely applied to turbulent flows of river water. Whitewater kayaks are short, usually running from six to nine feet and have a lot of rocker (banana shaped hull). Both of these design features make them highly maneuverable. They're perfect for running a river with standing waves and rapids, but they're useless for touring purposes.
It's imperative that you get instruction in whitewater kayaking technique before you venture out on the river. And remember: never paddle alone.
Whitewater kayaking is a popular water sport. There are many whitewater kayaks to choose from. The whitewater kayak differs from the other recreational and sea touring kayaks, as it is specially built to maneuver in rapidly moving and unstable currents.
Whitewater Kayaks | Composition
Whitewater kayaks are mostly made of high impact plastics, these days, but many are made of fiberglass composites as well. They are built to be fairly stable in turbulent waters. The paddler sits in the kayak with his feet facing forward. The cockpit of the kayak, in which the paddler sits, is covered with a spray skirt that prevents water from entering into the craft. It also prevents water from filling the kayak, in the event of a capsize. Usually, the size of a whitewater kayak ranges from 6 feet to 10 feet, but now the size of around 7 to 8 feet is preferred. Although one of the most maneuverable of all types of kayak, the whitewater variety is much slow. Its speed comes from its inherent ability to ride the crest of raging whitewater.
Choosing Whitewater Kayaks
Kayaking in whitewaters is an activity for those looking for the ultimate rush. A whitewater kayak is a craft specifically designed to perform in fast moving waters. There are different categories and styles of whitewater kayaks to choose from.
- All Around Kayak: The SUV of kayaks, it functions as a downriver and a playboat kayak. It ideally suits a paddler who likes to paddle downriver and spend some time testing his or her skills. It has a faster hull and for better buoyancy has softer edges. It's a great kayak for beginners as it is more stable than some of the other types, and is easy to roll.
- Playboat Kayak: Also known as a freestyle kayak, it is designed to spin and go vertical. It is flat on the ends with more volume in the middle to facilitate vertical moves. It's the most aggressive of all the whitewater kayaks.
- Creek Kayak: It is designed to turn fast in technical waters and usually has a larger cockpit for easy entry and exit.
If a whitewater kayak capsizes in water and turns turtle, a skillful paddler can turn the kayak right side up. This technique or maneuver is known as the Eskimo roll. It involves uprighting the capsized kayak by using the paddle and body movement. There are several types of Eskimo rolls, such as "C-to-C", Screw, Sweep, and Extended Paddle. The C-to-C maneuver is taught in the eastern United States, whereas the Screw and the Sweep roll is more popular in western United States.
Learning the roll improves one's sense of safety while in a whitewater kayak and requires a lot of practice.
Safety Gear | Whitewater Kayaks | Playboats
- PFD
- Helmet
- A throw-rope (For rescue of other kayakers)
- Gloves (To prevent blisters)
- Whistle (To communicate with other boaters)
- Bilge Pump
- Repair Kit
- River Knife (Just in case you get entangled in lines or ropes)
- First Aid Kit
