Sea kayaking is one of the most popular, fun filled and exciting outdoor activities in the world today. It requires a lot of skill and experience especially if you are caught amidst changing weather patterns. As a new comer to this sport, you can quickly get the hang of it under an expert trainer or proper guidance in the more calm waters of a lake or canal. There are many factors that affect kayaking like the type of kayak, weather, current, tides, water level etc. These factors have to be monitored before you actually jump into the river or the sea with your kayak. As a first timer, your trainer will take the responsibility for keeping a watch but you will also need to observe and learn what he does.
You will require a good kayak and for that, you can look up some exciting models at Coleman Kayaks. Their quest kayak is amongst the best with a length of 9’6”/290 cm, the beam is 31”/79cm, the weight is 34 lbs/15 kg, and it can carry a maximum weight of 250 lbs/114 kg. This has a unique bow design that allows for quicker turns and optimum paddling efficiency. It also has a comfortable and adjustable backrest, a bow spray deflector, large, graduated foot braces, and a recessed deck. Now that you have got yourself a kayak, you can commence your training.
The first rule is to choose a reputable and experienced trainer who knows his job, is skilled, knows how to read the flow of the water, currents, and eddies. The trainers, the equipment, and the policies of the training agency will determine how successful, knowledgeable, and adventurous your learning trip will be. Always do background check on the company. If possible, ask for references and then contact them.
The second important thing to remember as a beginner is that you should know your limits but never underestimate yourself. Like any other outdoor activity, learning the basics of paddling an inflatable kayak can look like a daunting task but with some warm up exercises and training, you will be ready to roll. These days the equipments required for kayaking have improved tremendously thanks to innovative technology. The equipments have been designed to keep the inflatable kayaks stable and easy to maneuver.
The next step is to choose your paddling destination carefully. Don’t go into an unchartered territory as kayaking can be as dangerous as any extreme sport. Different areas of kayaking have different weather and landscape conditions. There are some areas where the winds blow at 70mph and there are other areas where the coldness may bite through your skin. Each area has its own unique condition and you need to first adapt your self to that condition before you can proceed. Hence, proper clothing that will protect you from bad weather or extreme conditions is necessary. Always start your training or first test run in an area where you will be comfortable, relaxed, and more focused.
