Passage IV

Kayaks and Kayaking

Kayaks are lightweight canoes originally used for hunting and fishing by the Inuit peoples of the northern coasts of North America. Today, many people use kayaks recreationally for white-water sports and for touring wilderness areas that are extremely wild.

Most kayaks are made of rubberized cloth, molded plastic, or fiberglass. It is covered except for the opening in which the paddler or paddlers sit. (48) The two principal types of kayaks are; the easily maneuverable white-water kayak and the largest sea kayak.[1]Kayaking in white water the tumultuous rapids of swift-moving rivers appeals to people seeking adventure and excitement. [2]Designed to maneuver through rapids and around treacherous rocks, many white-water kayaks are only six to nine feet long. [3] Because the center of gravity of the paddler rides low in the water, kayaks are stable boats not easily capsized. [4] White-water kayakers are, at last, advised to wear helmets and flotation vests to prevent injury. [5] The longer sea kayaks are designed for distance and speed rather than maneuverability. [6] Some models have two or three seats. [7] Sea or coastal kayaking offers easy access to wetlands, marshes, and wildlife habitats along shores. [8] Kayaks can float in less than a foot of water, so a nature watcher can quietly paddle through shallows frequented by shorebirds and other wildlife. (55)

Equipment for both types of kayaks are similar, and fairly simple. Kayakers use a short, double-bladed paddle, an elasticized sprayskirt fits snugly around the waist of the seated paddler to keep water out of the boat. In fact, a kayak can roll over and be brought back upright without taking on water.

Propelling a kayak works the upper-body muscles. The paddler pulls one end through the water of the paddle on alternating sides of the boat. Skilled kayakers sense the nuances of water movement by means of the kayak hull and adjust their stroke force and pace to keep the kayak on course. But all kayakers can appreciate the nuances of nature as they travel on water in this simple, but versatile boat. (60)