3 Points to Consider When Choosing a Recreational Kayak

By Leo Eigenberg


Choosing the right recreational kayak isn't always a straightforward process. Modern kayaks can be quite expensive and choosing the wrong type can make the paddling experience less enjoyable. A preferred kayak will depend on several different factors.
Here are three issues to carefully consider in the process of sourcing the perfect kayak:
Style
The major styles of kayak include the sit-on-top and sit-inside models. A preferred style relates to factors like the climate paddled in, whether you prefer having the legs inside or on-top, and if you mind being completely exposed.
A sit-inside kayak is usually preferred by those likely to be paddling in relatively cold waters. This type of kayak gives more protection and keeps the legs dry and warm. A paddler in warm weather has more flexibility and can choose from either style to match the personal preference. Plus, the sit on top kayaks make it easier to get in and out should the kayak tip over or you go for a swim.
Both of the kayak styles are just as safe as each other, but having the legs exposed or under the deck relates to the preferred level of comfort.
Hull
Kayak design, length, and width can vary significantly with the various different classes of paddling machines. A kayak with a hull design that is long and skinny is perfect for tracking and speed, but provides less performance in relation to maneuverability and stability. A kayak with a wider and shorter hull is more efficient at providing great handling performance, but will move slower in the water.
Plus, the bottom of the hull structure can vary from flat to V-shaped. A flat-bottomed kayak is the preferred choice for those that favor a high level of stability. A V-shaped kayak is less stable, but is certain to make it easier to paddle faster across the open water. A great blend of the flat and the V-shaped model is the partial v-hull, which gives a great combination of the two types with average stability and speed.
Use
The intended use of the kayak will influence the chosen kayak. For instance, a long and narrow kayak is more practical for open waterways and large lakes. However, if planning to use the kayak on slow-moving ponds or rivers, a paddling machine with a short and wide hull is more efficient. Also, a short and wide kayak is more efficient at getting past obstacles and handling currents.
Get more information on the availability of UK sit on top kayaks by visiting http://www.quroc.co.uk/
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Kayaking With Crocodiles and Killer Whales

By Naomi S Wilson

One of the most popular types of water based holidays is kayaking. Many people love to take part in kayaking as something fun to do on holiday and even as the focus on their holiday. Kayaking holidays come in various ways whether it's paddling down a secluded river or traveling to different destinations along the coast. It is activity that will never bore you as there is always something new and exciting to do with a kayak. It can often be a peaceful and relaxing activity as you can enjoy the tranquil waters, although there are some extreme and exciting kayaking holidays now available that are an experience in a life time.

Sea kayaking has been around for a long time but now you can kayak beside killer whales. Johnstone Strait in British Columbia, Canada is one of the many destinations that offer killer whale kayaking. It is great if you love sea kayaking but want an added extra or if you want to witness the whales in the wild. It is an incredible experience to view the whales playing, they maybe killer whales but they are friendly. The whales live in the waters to sleep, eat and play and share their home with dolphins, sea lions, seals, eagles, black bears and many other wild animals. You might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of some of them. There really is nothing like paddling through the currents along side these great whales. Kayaking holidays within this environment is truly an amazing experience.

Another kayaking holiday with animals is in the jungle were you can find a rainforest adventure. Instead of whales and bears you may see crocodiles and monkeys. Travel to South America and stay in a private reserve where you can enjoy being among thousands of species you have never seen before. Staying on a private reserve means the area is well looked after, flowers and trees will be flourishing, animals will be nearby and the overall safety is very good. Kayaking holidays like these are not just about kayaking with crocodiles, there is much more on offer. Meet with the locals and get involved with harvesting or learning about the local wildlife. Fully immerse yourself in this holiday for a fulfilled experience. In both holidays there will be trained professionals to help and guide you every step of the way, take a step outside your comfort zone and enjoy the experience of your life.

Naomi Wilson is the Product Development Manager for ActivityBreaks, who offer exciting weekend breaks & Kayaking Holidays.

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An Overview of Standup Paddle Boarding

Welcome to another GREAT season!

CNY Kayakers Opening Banquet 2017 Sunday, April 23, 2017

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By Karina Popa

SUP is the abbreviated form of the water sport called standup paddle boarding, which is gaining popularity by the day. For a long time, it has been believed that the popularity of kayaking as a water sport steadily increased from the 1990s and beginning of 2000s. It will be equally good to say that paddling kayaks has come down to the most favorite from the fastest growing. Well, it seems this sport will soon have to get rid of either of these titles.

Standup paddle boarding may not yet be the most favorite water sport, but it is gaining popularity very fast.

Understanding Standup Paddle boarding

The origin of standup paddle boarding is the same as that of other board sports, and that is Hawaii. SUP, also known as "Hoe he'e nalu", has very old roots. However, it has become popular now with many photographers and surf instructors.

SUP basically employs a type of surf board along with a lengthy paddle. In this regard, it's a mix of surfing and canoeing. The credit for making it popular goes to Laird Hamilton, who made use of the paddle grabbing towing waves originating in Hawaii. But now, SUP isn't just for surfing. SUP may be enjoyed in many other forms. like flat water lakes to facilitate beach paddling, to open water paddling and right up to surfing waves.

Getting Started with SUP

Though you can visit a store and procure the very first or the most economical board, it may not be the best option for getting initiated into this sport.

The design, and hence the value of SUP paddles and SUP boards, varies a lot. It's not difficult to guess that better quality boards will be more expensive. At the same time, better boards are more appropriate for use by intermediate and experienced paddlers.

Here are some tips that beginners will find helpful. Having decided to get skilled at standup paddle board, you should call upon one of the SUP stores in your area and get one board on rent for the initial few lessons. It may be a good idea to rent boards made by different manufacturers to find which one suits you the most. It is not unusual for many stores to adjust the expense of rental in the final price of the new board that you would buy. So, do check on this. There is absolutely no harm in getting started with used equipment. You can locate many sellers of used equipment through the classified ads of local papers. Some shops also offer boards that were used for demos or used boards at considerably lower prices.

Are you interested in inflatable paddle board reviews? Come and visit our website today, we have useful information!

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Simple Tips to Care for Your Inflatable Kayak

By Mary Brey

It took you a while to take the idea of an inflatable kayak seriously, but after that first trip out on open water, you are hooked! Now you're worried about keeping your kayak around for years to come. Taking proper car of your inflatable kayak will ensure that it stays durable and reliable for years of adventures.

Simple care guidelines:

Give it some sunscreen!

To keep the PVC material of your kayak strong and long lasting, it is highly recommended to protect it from damaging UV rays and the elements. The most reliable and easiest way to do this is to spray it with 303 Protectant. (Google it)

Also, try to wait until you are at water's edge before inflating your kayak, and once inflated, keep it out of direct sunlight when on dry land. Besides damaging the outer layers and shortening your kayak's life, the hot sun can cause the air in your kayak to expand.

Inflate it properly!

The safest way to inflate your kayak is with a manual foot or hand pump. This gives you much more control and prevents overinflating which will damage your kayak. If you do use an electric pump, stop it before it gets near full and finish filling manually. It is hard to overinflate a kayak, but to err on the side of safety, you may also want to use a gauge.

Also, as mentioned above, extreme heat will cause the air chambers to expand. If you will be in such situations, you may want to release some air after several hours.

Give it a bath!

Before storing your kayak, make sure that it is squeaky clean. First, make sure that all air valves are closed securely. You can purchase special cleaning solutions for your inflatable kayak, or simply use a MILD solution from your home. Simple dish detergent and hot water work well. Thoroughly wash all surface area of your kayak, removing all dirt and grime. Make sure to rinse well and allow time to completely dry.

Tuck it away!

The majority of damages to inflatable kayaks are the result of improper storage. As stated above, make sure your kayak is clean and completely dry before folding and storing. Even a small amount of moisture is enough to favor the growth of mold and mildew and greatly shorten the life of your kayak. Once folded up, find a place out of direct sunlight with rather constant temperature and low humidity and tuck your kayak away until the next adventure calls.

Remember, 70% of the earth is covered with water. That's a lot of kayaking waiting for you! If you follow these simple steps to care for your inflatable kayak, you will have years of adventure and enjoyment.

Mary is happily residing in paradise and kayaking almost daily in the clear, turquoise waters of Cozumel. Accompanying her is her first love, Angel and her second love, her Sevylor Pointer 1 kayak [http://www.sevylorkayak.net/sevylor-pointer-1-kayak/]. She shares here her knowledge of her Sevylor Kayak and other models at [http://www.sevylorkayak.net].

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Kayaking Tips and Basics - Gain Some Knowledge on River Kayaking

By Ken Fink

To go out kayaking for the whole day on a river is an extensive way for a team of kayakers to learn the skills needed to survive on long rivers. There are a lot of beginners who will want such opportunities in which extensive paddling exercises will be practiced. To look for and get such a venue in which a range of practices can be done is not an easy thing.

One thing about the manufacture of kayaks is that they are done with a lot of intensions in mind. They can either be produced to be used on seas or on rivers. You should take note about this because these are completely two distinct avenues. If you think of getting a kayak for personal keeping, go in for kayaks with small cockpits that have convenient sitting positions. But remember that you will have to be taught on how to use these kayaks. Also take note about the type of equipment you have. Remember that having equipments in the best of shapes will determine they way you become skilled at or enjoy kayaking.

Getting Knowledge on the Proper Kayaking Methods

If you intend to paddle on a river, you must know that this will be quite different from paddling on bigger avenues such as seas and lakes. For this reason, you should think of methods different from what you already know. This will involve some learning on paddling on rivers and tips to be able to come to the aid of others while kayaking. You will also have to learn how to paddle when the river is overflowing and how to ensure your own safety.

You should also choose the best kayak that you can find. This is in order that you should have the chance to experience all sorts of movements. Sometimes, a small kayak will offer you a memorable experience. Remember that with this, you will be able to go to places and experience what will be impossible with bigger kayaks. You will also be able to learn by coming into contact with every type of water movements. Always make sure that you have an expert kayaker to lead you through. Keep in mind that you are out there to enjoy as well as to remain safe.

What Tools Do You Need And When Lessons Should You Engage In?

If you want to enjoy every kayaking lesson and ultimately every kayaking experience, you should be able to know and accept what you can do from what you are unable to do. This will be in relation to knowing the starting point of your experiences. For example, you should be able to read river signs created by the 'International Scale of River Difficulty'. You will have to learn how to interpret these signs and how to recognize them where you are kayaking. Some of these signs are best known by river tour guides.

At this stage, you should not think much on the type of tools you have. Remember that this will only come in when your skills are perfect. But make sure you carry out a lot of investigation ahead of paying for any equipment. You can get recommendations from experts or you can try out some of these tools ahead of paying for them. Trying out these equipments will of course lead you to used equipments. Most of such equipments are even preferable to be bought because you must have tested them and you can further sell them again to others.

How Should You Begin Kayaking?

Start by looking for a guide to take you through. Make sure that whatever you plan for includes good equipments, some provisions as well as some guidelines for usage. Make sure you take every lesson of safety procedure serious. Focus on these basics. You can go in for anything stylish when you become an expert.

Before you pay for any kayaking equipment, make sure you have genuinely considered your choice. Remember that if you are passionate about this sport, spending anything on it will be a great investment to you. However, whatever you pay for should be based of safety and ease of use.

About the Author

Discover more about the history of kayaking as well as expert tips on buying used kayak when you visit the most popular kayaking for beginnner portal at http://www.kayakingbeginner.com

Greenland Kayaking

By Marc Fredmen

Any reference to kayaking gives rise to images of gushing rivers or calm lakes amidst warm tropical forests. However, many would be surprised to know that kayaking was invented in the freezing lands of the Arctic. It was in the snowbound nation of Greenland that kayaking was first practiced before it came to be accepted by other countries.

Greenland Kayaking - A Few Facts

The contemporary form of kayaking has greatly been inspired from the kayaking style practiced by the Inuits in Greenland. The kayak was first designed by the Inuits and is known as 'qajag' in Greenland. In fact in 1600 and 1700AD, most Greenlanders were experts at kayaking. This was mainly because the Greenlanders used the kayaks to hunt seals and fish.

However, by the 20th century, kayaking almost disappeared from Greenland to be revived only in 1983. However, due to the persistent efforts of kayaking organizations and dedicated kayakers, Greenland kayaking has again become very popular.

While kayaking in Greenland, paddlers get an opportunity to paddle past massive icebergs and huge mountains rising from the sea. Another exciting location for kayaking is the inner fjord systems near Kulusuk Islands. However, not everyone can kayak in the freezing waters and requires the paddlers to have some concrete kayaking experience.

This is mainly because paddlers must negotiate tough weather conditions, ice-cold water, navigate tides (for sea kayaking) and good at rescue tactics. Yet another pre-requisite for kayaking in Greenland is the right choice of apparel. It is recommended that paddlers use a dry suit or a combination of a wet suit and anorak dry suit. East Greenland has a host of kayaking locations that challenge the skill of the paddlers.

Qaannat Kattuffiat

An organization that began in 1984, Qaannat Kattuffiat (literally means kayaks' club) works mainly to preserve the traditional kayaking techniques of Greenland. Within a year of its inception, the Qaannat Kattuffiat had 1000 club members. The organization is based in Greenland but has now spread to various countries.

The US chapter of the organization is called Qajaq USA while the Copenhagen chapter is called Qajaq Copenhagen. The Qaannat Kattuffiat holds training camps and workshops to propagate the traditional kayaking skills.

The biggest contribution of this organization is that they have identified and brought together the few handful kayakers who knew the traditional form of kayaking. These experts then taught the keen enthusiasts the several techniques and nuances of Greenland kayaking.

This organization works in every sphere to encourage traditional methods of kayaking, which includes organizing training camps, kayaking contests and events, lectures by experts and providing forums for paddlers to discuss various issues on kayaking.

There Qajag USA annual calendar is full of exciting kayaking events and competitions. It includes Traditional Arctic Symposiums, Annual Gatherings of Paddlers and training camps. It also involves week long celebration of Greenland kayaking which consist of live demonstrations, slide shows and practical lessons.

These events have greatly led to the increase in awareness about Greenland kayaking and allowed enthusiasts to learn the traditional techniques of this sport.

About the Author

Marc Fredmen, an experienced paddler and author shares information on various aspects of kayaking. Check out the history and origins of kayaking here.

Relieve Stress With a Paddle

By John Parks

Stress is prevalent in our society today. We live in a rushed and complex society. There are many problems which work themselves into our daily lives, and cause us to become stressed. There must be a vent for this stress, and we all need a hobby or some sort of release to help us to keep fit, both physically and mentally. There are many sports, hobbies, and games from which we can choose, to give us a safe and healthy outlet from our busy routine.

Kayaking is an interesting sport. There is nothing that will give a person more relaxation and comfort than sitting in a kayak, or a canoe, watching a beautiful sunset. This, within itself, is a calming and relaxing activity. The beauty of nature, if you allow it to, will speak a calming and peaceful language to your soul.

Kayaking is a sport that will give you a workout physically, keep your mind occupied and off your problems, and help you to relieve stress. Whether you have ever kayaked, or not, you can learn the basics and get started. As you pursue the sport, you will learn more about it and get better at it.

When you begin the sport, you must be sure to obtain the necessary equipment. As with any hobby, it can be expensive, but to start, only obtain the things that are necessary. The items that are necessary are, of course, the kayak. There are different kinds of kayaks, so be sure to know the kind of kayaking you plan to do before you buy, so that you don't spend unnecessary money. You will also, with the kayak, need a paddle. The place where you buy your equipment can help you decide which paddle you need to go with the kayak that you purchase. You will also need some kind of life jacket or life preserver. These can be purchased wherever you purchase your supplies. A skirt on your kayak, will help to keep the water from getting into your boat. If you are only kayaking in a recreational fashion, you can do without the skirt, but if you are kayaking down the rapids, it will be necessary. You will also need a helmet, to protect your head. There are other items that can be purchased, to make the sport more enjoyable, but you can decide whether these are important as you get more into the sport.

Many people kayak just for the sport of it. Kayaking includes many different kinds of activities. You can paddle a kayak or canoe, and just simply take in the calming effects of a quiet sunset, you can kayak or canoe in calm waters of different areas and take a picnic lunch, or simply enjoy the beauty of the world around you. You can take your time and enjoy your surroundings and let nature speak to you, or you can travel swiftly down a river with strong rapids, to give you the feeling of conqueror. Each person has different feelings, pleasures, and love of adventure, so each one needs to find his own little niche. Kayaking may just be your cup of tea, and the greatest stress reliever ever.

For more information on kayaking, visit http://www.kayak.net

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