Learn to Paddle and Enjoy Canoes and Kayaks
By George Sayour, About.com Guide
About Paddling
The sport of paddling has a long and varied history and encompasses many different genres. For as long as there has been civilizations, people have paddled canoes and kayaks. Each time we paddle we tap into this heritage. This section will examine the different aspects of the sport of paddling.
- An Explanation of Paddling
- The History of Paddling in Pictures
- The Top 10 Reasons to Paddle
- All About Olympic Canoe/Kayak
- The Whitewater Classification System
- Discover Paddling Festivals
- Getting Started in Paddling
- Top 5 Paddling Tips
- 5 Goals Paddling Goals
- The Anatomy of a Paddle Stroke
- 10 Reasons Kayaks are Better
- 10 Reasons Canoes are Better
- Gifts for Paddlers
- About Paddling Festivals
- Paddling Festival Calendar
- Launching Boats
About Canoe and Kayak Gear
It really is amazing how much canoe and kayak gear has certainly improved over the last ten years. Boats are smaller, faster, and stronger and most of the equipment is more durable while at the same time weighing less. Here you will find a guide to the equipment and gear requirements of each sport.
- The Essential Kayak Equipment
- The Basic Canoe Equipment
- Whitewater Safety Gear
- Sea Kayaking Safety Gear
- 10 Safety Items for Paddling
- Overnight Trip Gear Checklist
- How To Buy a Kayak Paddle
- How to Buy a Whitewater Helmet
- How to Buy a Whitewater Helmet
- Top 5 Tips for Storing Your Canoe or Kayak Gear
- How to Put on a PFD
- Olympic Canoe/Kayak Gear and Competition
- How to Use a Rudder
- How to Put On Kayaking Gear
- Dry Suits, Dry Tops, Wet Suits, & Paddling Jackets
Canoe and Kayak Safety
While it is true that paddling canoes and kayaks is loads of fun, it is also a reality that the sports of paddling can be dangerous. It is therefore each paddler's job to ensure that they are being as safe as they can out on the water. Here are some articles regarding paddling safety.
- Kayaking and Canoeing Safety
- Dress for Water Safety
- The Rules of the Road
- Avoiding Collisions
- See and Be Seen
- How To Use a Throw Bag
- Know How to Swim in Whitewater
- Know How to Stay with Your Boat While Out of It
- When Not to Stay with Your Boat
- 5 Tips on Wearing a PFD
- USCG PFD Specifications
- Sea Kayaking Safety Rescues
- Whitewater Safety Rescues
Paddling Destinations
While it is true that you will find people paddling canoes and kayaks anywhere there is water, there are some areas that are more conducive to these types of activities. Here you will find some paddling "hot spots" as well as some great places to take lessons and learn how to canoe, kayak, and raft.