Kayaking Articles

Buying Your First Kayak

A couple of decades ago there were two to three models of Kayaks available. Don't be surprised if today you go in the market to find 50 different ultra specialized Kayaks.

The obvious first question is what type of kayaking will you do? Basically there is river, lake, and sea kayaking. River kayaks are very short and tough boats meant for maneuverability and the abuse of whitewater rapids. Sea kayaks are sleek and light and are designed for cruising. Then there are general kayaks that can be used on sea lakes.

There are three basic types of kayaks as far as structure and materials are concerned.

Rigid kayaks are made of plastic, wood or carbon fiber. These are usually the most affordable and are they are the most popular too. Plastic boats are tough and reliable but once damaged can be very difficult to repair. Fiberglass boats are more expensive than plastic but damage is easily repaired, they are also quite light.

For kayak enthusiasts who appreciate aesthetics and beauty, you might want to look at some wooden boats; they are carefully crafted and very beautiful kayaks. There are kits available for folks who are prepared to build their own.

A folding kayak is usually made of wood or aluminum. Their prices are usually high, but they tend to last longer, and are also quite easy to store.

Inflatable boats provide good portability and storage space. They are generally the least expensive kayaks you can buy. Kayak enthusiasts for whom storage and transportation is a major issue will find a good option in these boats.

Another choice to ponder is whether to choose a single-passenger or double-passenger kayak. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages. For a fun family adventure, the double kayak is perfect. It is fast and stable but lacks the maneuverability of a single Kayak.

After deciding on the style of kayak you want to purchase, price becomes a big factor in determining exactly which model to buy. A basic entry-level plastic kayak can be found for as low as $250. Fiberglass boats can cost from anywhere around $900 to $2500. Other plastic models can run as high as $1700. If you want to go for the more exotic kayaks they would cost you a little more. Inflatable boats start at about $125 and go up to about $2000. Folding boats have a huge Price variation, in them and they can cost anywhere between $1500 to $5000.

By: Jack Blackman

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Jack Blackman at www.kayaks.info gives you the inside scoop on kayaking. You'll learn what makes a good kayak and how to prepare for a kayaking trip, and much more.

Kayaking Facts

Kayaking is the process by which a kayak will be used to move through rivers or lakes. The kayak is a small boat that must be powered by a human. It will have a deck which is covered, and it will also feature a cockpit that is covered as well. A special paddle is used to push it forward, and this boat was first invented by the Inuit and Aleut hunters in the colder regions of North America. A contemporary kayak can come in a wide variety of different styles, and kayaking is a sport which is enjoyed by many people. Research has indicated that the kayak has existed for at least 4,000 years.

Some kayaks can hold a maximum of three people, but they will commonly only seat one or two people. The person will sit in the cockpit facing forward, and the spray skirt will stop water from getting into the craft. While the Aleut or Inuit males would design kayaks to be used for hunting, some kayaks were specifically designed for women. Generally, a kayak will be about 17 fee long, and could be 22 inches wide and 7 inches deep. In the early models, the kayak could almost be compared to an additional layer of clothing. Kayaks are commonly used today by people who practice kayaking.

Kayaking is the process of paddling a kayak on water that is moving. While some people consider it to be a sport, others do it for mere recreation. There are multiple forms of kayaking, and the two most common are Sea kayaking and Whitewater kayaking. While traditional kayaks were made from wood and animal skins, most kayaks today are made from materials such as kevlar or fiberglass. Some people will challenge fast moving rivers by using a kayak to move through certain sections of a river. These trips may last a single day, or could last multiple days. Whitewater Racing is a professional competition in which racers will attempt to use kayaks to outrace each other.

The term creeking is used to describe kayaking in difficult rivers. People who practice creeking can expect to run into slides, waterfalls, and ledges. Slalom is another form of kayaking in which racers will try to get to the bottom of the specific part of a river. Not only must they move quickly, they must also move around gates, and these are poles that have been set up at certain points in the river. Most Slalom races will have over 20 gates on a single course, and they must be properly navigated. Playboating is another variation which places an emphasis on the artistic side of kayaking instead of the speed.

With this style, the participants will generally remain in one portion of the river, and will seek to move from one point to another. However, they will need to work against the power of the river in order to achieve this. Kayaking is a sport that is popular in places that have strong river. However, it can be dangerous, and some participants have died in the most difficult rivers.

By: Michael Colucci

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Micheal Colucci is a writer for Kayaking which is part of the Knowledgesearch network.

Ocean Kayaking Tips

More people are beginning to experience what ocean water kayaking has to offer. If you have already ridden the whitewater rapids and are looking for a new adventure, this could be for you. It is very simple to learn how to paddle an ocean kayak, but you must learn other things as well. Keep in mind that ocean water kayaking is different and you do must have experience on the ocean before going out on any long adventures. This type of kayaking has a lot to offer and is a very exciting way to go kayaking. Being safe when you are ocean water kayaking is one of the most important factors.

Anyone that has ever been kayaking knows that it is a very physical activity. It takes a strong healthy person to keep up with this hobby. There will be times when you have very mild activity and other times when it will require a strenuous workout. You must be prepared for both to go kayaking. Ocean kayaking is just as physical as any other type, maybe more so in some ways. So if you plan on spending some time ocean water kayaking, you must make sure you are physically fit regardless if you are a man or a woman. Also keep in mind that when you are ocean water kayaking safety should always come first.

Ocean kayaking can be a great adventure provided that you stay safe. One of the first things that you should do would be to completely understand how to be safe while on the ocean. Know how the tides, current and waves will affect you. Find out what type of weather you should expect. If they are calling for high winds or bad weather postpone your trip. Give someone the details of your plans that include the route you plan on taking plus the departure time and when you plan on returning. Last but not least, always check your gear to make sure you have everything and that it is in good condition.

You should remember that when you are ocean water kayaking there will be many other boats and ships to watch out for. Know where to travel and what areas to stay away from. Always take precaution and use bright colors and reflectors to make your kayak more visible to others while on the ocean. You should also have a form of communication and have designated times when you will be checking in with someone at home. Have a plan as to what that person should do in the event that you do not check in by a certain time. As long as you have took the time to learn how to be good at this exciting hobby it can be both a safe and rewarding experience that you can enjoy for years.

By: James Kronefield

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Learn more about the wonderful sport of Sea and Ocean Kayaking plus information of finding high quality Touring Kayaks/ at www.allkayaking.com/.

Salt Water Kayaking Safety Tips

Kayaking is a great hobby that many people love to spend their time doing. Being out on the open water on one of these crafts has a feeling all its own. There are many different types of ways to go kayaking. Salt Water Kayaking is one of the most popular forms of this exciting adventure. This is when you take the kayak out to the ocean for some real fun. Salt Water Kayaking can consist of short trips that only last for a short period of time or for long trips where you may stay out for hours or even days.

Salt Water Kayaking first originated in Greenland, Canada and Alaska. The first sea kayaks were built here. These are small boats but very durable ones that are designed to be able to handle what the sea has to offer. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about the sea kayaks holding up while out exploring the oceans waters. They are designed with a covered deck for protection and include a spraydeck to keep water out of the boat if you encounter rough seas. This is a really nice accessory that is flexible enough too folded up and put in storage when not in use.

Different kayaks are designed differently. They have special features that make them better for the type of kayaking that you are doing. The sea kayaks are designed to be comfortable. This is because when you go out Salt Water Kayaking you may spend two or three days out on the water. They also have a lot of storage space to make sure you have enough room to all of your gear and safety equipment. Sea kayaks are also designed to allow you to paddle easily when going in a straight line. This is an important factor when kayaking in the sea.

When you go out Salt Water Kayaking safety is a big factor. You want to stay as safe as possible. Always check to make sure that you have all of your safety equipment and that it is in good shape. You also need to let someone else know of your plans to go Salt Water Kayaking. They should know when you plan on leaving and when you plan to return. It would also be good if they had an idea of the route you plan on taking just in case something did go wrong. make sure that you have the experience needed to go kayaking on the sea. This is even more important if you go alone, after all you are the number one safety feature of the kayak.

By: James Kronefield

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Want to know what Sea Kayaking is? Find out even more at www.allkayaking.com/.

The History of Kayaks

Canoeing and Kayaking go back to the dawn of human culture. The word "kayak" literally means "hunter's boat." The kayak was useful for transport, but it was a miraculous hunting tool, facilitating a quiet approach towards one's desired prey. The covered deck of the kayak made it more sea-worthy and better able to shed waves than the traditional canoe. Kayaks are mostly used during summer months, primarily for hunting and fishing.

Similar to the kayak, the umiak is a larger boat which can carry up to 20 people. The umiak and the kayak existed side by side, both finding useful niches for transporting and hunting throughout history.

Kayak design varied according to the specific needs of inhabitants of particular regions. For instance, early kayaks designed by inhabitants surrounding the Bering Straight were wider and shorter. Whereas the kayaks from Greenland were sleek and low. Kayaks from Baffin Island were wider and longer.

The kayak was first created by the Inuit, an artic people. Interestingly, despite being the birth place of the kayak, very little archaeological evidence of the covered kayak can be found on the Siberian Coast.

Early Eskimos made kayak frames using driftwood, and early kayaks were wrapped in sealskins.

In fact, most early kayaks were fabricated using wood for the frame and then tied together using sinew, or tendons, with a seal skin cover. Kayaks were virtually unsinkable with air-filled seal bladders. Today, very few traditional skin kayaks are still in use and the knowledge of their construction is quickly fading. Other early kayaks were made from whalebone or driftwood.

The materials that have been used to make a kayak have changed significantly with the years. Europeans eventually discovered the versatility of the kayak, and kayaks once designed with sealskins were designed by Europeans with fabric covers. This method continued until the 1950's when a company known as Valley Products began producing the first fiberglass kayak. Then in 1984, the first plastic kayak was introduced. Kayaks continue to become lighter, sturdier, and more versatile.

Now there are several types of kayaks designed with various materials suitable for a variety of sporting events. Today, kayaking is accessible to all skill levels, providing a quiet and gas-free form of breathtaking travel, exploration and exercise.

By: James Kronefield

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Rob Daniels is an avid kayaker and outdoor enthusiast more at Snorkeling Shop http://www.snorkeling-shop.com and Kayak Escape http://www.kayak-escape.com

A Basic Overview of Kayaks and Kayaking

At its core, kayaking is simply a method of propelling oneself through a body of water by using ones own power. A paddle is used to do this with the paddle usually having two curved portions on each side to allow for a back and forth action unlike canoeing. This definition, however, fails in many ways since there are extremely different types of kayaking. Let’s take a look.

Kayak roughly means hunting boat. It has been used throughout history by people living on shores to pursue food in the ocean. The indigenous people in the Arctic are believed to have been the first kayakers using wood frames covered by animal skins. In modern times, kayaking refers to a much broader scope of activities. That being said, the basic boat remains the same.

Kayaks are long, thin and usually one person boats. They come in different forms and styles, which are primarily adapted to a particular style of kayaking. Sea kayaks are very long and thin, which helps them glide easily through the water. Kayaks designed for running challenging river rapids, on the other hand, are short to facilitate maneuverability and the opportunity to roll to upright oneself after being flipped upside down.

While almost all kayaks are designed to have the person sit down in them, a certain class allows the person to site on a flat indention on the top of the kayak. Obviously, this type of kayaking is typically done on smooth surfaces such as lakes.

As these designs seem to suggest, kayaking comes in a lot of forms. Some people love to take them out on a cruise around a bay in Alaska or any ocean areas. Other kayaking enthusiasts prefer to shoot the rapids of extreme rivers and will travel all over the world to do so.

Kayaking is a huge adrenaline rush or a relaxing way to see sites up close and personal. You just have to make your choice, get out there and go.

By: Nomad Rick

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of journals. Visit us to read more kayak articles.

Why Choose Inflatable Kayaks?

I don’t consider myself an expert paddler, by far. I have enjoyed kayaking and canoeing for over 30 years. My experiences have taken me down the Snake River, Idaho, Broken Bow, Oklahoma, and few ventures that add up to about 20-30 paddling adventures. I have seasoned over the years and I look for ease, reliability, comfort, and convenience.

With the ease of spending a few minutes of unloading and inflating that inflatable kayak, I know I will spend more time doing what I like, enjoying the outdoors! Being experienced, I know the reliability and control you need when hitting those rough areas and being light makes it easy to cruise the flats. These are not toys! Comparing the patented designs and construction, they are similar to molded or rigid kayaks. I do take my pump and repair kit with me, but I only had to pump it up a little. Like a balloon, the temperature will, hot/cold, affect the pressure of the kayak. Just a couple of pumps, I am back in action.

Well, I am in my 50’s now and I enjoy a few more comforts in life. When you carry, drag, cart, etc. that hard-shell kayak, it sure becomes a little more cumbersome and tougher to launch in those hard to reach areas. The typical inflatable kayak weighs 30 lbs. or less. You can carry it on a backpack, paddle and PFD Vest, too, with little effort.

To bad we can’t go back in time. I know how much more fun it would have been with the family. When you live in apartments, condos, and even a home, it is so inconvenient to move the hard-shell kayaks. I remember working with the Boy Scouts, loading up the trailer, dedicating the extra time necessary to pull out of the storage area, having a truck and trailer, and finding a place to launch. Now, I drive an SUV and I carry a canoe, 2 kayaks, and camping gear for 4 in the back. My storage in the garage is minimal, but there is plenty of room to handle my weekend or anytime adventures.

Of course, there are disadvantages to the inflatable kayaks.

1. They are not as robust as rigid plastic ones.

2. Inflatables are affected by wind a lot more, exercise caution if using on the sea.

3. A Buoyancy Aid should be worn at all times or a lifejacket if a non-swimmer.

4. Inflatable Kayaks and Canoes do not give you the same performance as Plastic Kayaks or Canoes, but you can find products that have quality and design as close as you can get!

By: Steve Fulwider

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

If you have an interest in finding out more, paddling.net is a great resource. When I started my research, this was my first contact. Steve Fulwider, CEO, River Valley Inflatables. www.rvinflatables.com