Recreational kayaking is a fun and safe way for the whole family to enjoy the outdoors. Many people are a little apprehensive when they hear the word "kayaking." They imagine people dropping off of 20 foot waterfalls and paddling through big wavy rapids. But that isn’t the only way to kayak. In fact, the largest segment of kayaking is within the recreational sector. What is recreational kayaking? Recreational kayaking refers to paddling on flat water lakes, bays, slow-moving calm river ways, and calm oceans. No rapids involved! Flat-water paddling is a safe way to enjoy the water.
Another misconception about kayaking is the Eskimo roll, which is another aspect of kayaking that only applies to whitewater or sea kayaking. Recreational kayaks are not meant to roll and they are not designed to keep you inside if you should flip your kayak over. A recreational kayak will allow the paddler to easily float out of the kayak and up to the surface if you should fall out. The best part is that most recreational kayaks are designed to be extremely stable, so falling out is not a common occurrence. If you happen to find yourself in the water, just laugh it off and swim the kayak back to shore. These make great kayak stories, and if you are wearing your lifejacket (as you always should be) you will float anyway.
There are many design elements that go into making recreational kayaks safe while allowing for good performance. So let your fears roll away, grab a paddle and give recreational kayaking a try!
*As with all sports, there is risk involved, but just getting in your car everyday is risky! If you wear the proper attire and a lifejacket, kayaking is a great way to get outside comfortably and safely.