The Basics of Kayaking , Thursday, July 30, 2009 at 1:20 AM, in

If you have ever taken a journey by Kayak you will fully appreciate just how awesome it is. Kayaking is a great sport whether you do for competition, for adventure, of just as a hobby. But even though some Kayakers only do it as a fun way of seeing Mother Nature at her most elemental, they take their sport very seriously. Kayaking provides you with a different view of your surroundings and offers you the opportunity to pit yourself against the forces of nature. White water kayaking will put you up against some of the most exciting and fastest rapids in the world.
Kayak Terminology
* The bow: This is the term used for the front of a kayak.
* The Bilge Pump: A Bilge Pump is the hand powered pump that is used to pump any large excesses of water out of the kayak
* The Bulkhead: This is a vertical separator made from foam and is positioned inside the kayak. As well as providing strengthening to the hull, it also provides flotation.




* The Chine: This term refers to the edges of the kayak and in particular to any alterations in angles
* A Demo Boat: This is the name given to a kayak that is used to allow kayakers a test drive of the various models
* The Dry Bag. Not at all technical this one. It's simply the name given to the waterproof bag used for stowing and keeping various items dry.
* The Stern: As you probably already may know, this refers to the back of a kayak.
Fundamental Kayak Gear
The Kayak: Kayaks come in different models for different applications, such as kayaking for fun, kayaking on the sea, and rocky river kayaking, sometimes called creek kayaking. You chose the kayak type according to which form of kayaking you plan to do. The other thing to take into consideration is your height and weight which determines the right kayak size for you.
The Kayak Paddle: There are various types of paddle and you select the one you need based on the type of kayaking you will be doing, and also the size of the kayak you will be using.
Personal Flotation Devices: This is potentially your life saver if you capsize and you are required to wear one by law. Wearing the correct size in the appropriate manner is essential. A Type 3 PFD is the approved device for kayaking.
Kayak Helmet: There are many different types, styles, and colors of kayak helmet, so you can pick one that you feel most comfortable with. Some models include a face protection bar, a little bit like an American footballer's helmet. This type would be good for white water kayaking for extra protection.
The Spray Skirt: This fits around the aperture to the kayak, and you too, with the intention of keeping water out of the kayak. They are most commonly made from Neoprene or Nylon or sometimes a combination of both, like the ones typically used in sea kayaking.
In terms of actually going kayaking, there are a couple of helpful guides advising where you can go for good sport or great experiences.
Kayak Trails: These are routes that have been mapped out against various rivers and waterways. You get the option of short trips, extended trips, calm water, or more challenging water. Some trails are within the National Forests.
Kayak Tours: You can take kayak tours across America or many other places in the world. You get a unique perspective. Imagine kayaking through the scenery used for Jurassic Park, or doing a bit of killer whale spotting in Alaska, or taming the rapids all around the globe.



Kayaking is a great sport for anyone and everyone regardless of gender or age.
The only prerequisite is a basic level of fitness and of course the ability to swim. Due to its nature, kayaking can take you to many places that would otherwise be inaccessible. You'll catch some great sights and see Mother Nature as never before; or it you want to push yourself to the limit, testing your strength and stamina; just you, your kayak, and your paddle. Enjoy!

Be sure to stop by our blog at Kayaking Journey for some additional resources, kayaking tips, tour information, and more!