Good Conditions to Kayak

From paddling on the treacherous waves of the ocean to coasting down the slow stream in the Rockies, kayaking takes place in a variety of conditions. The ideal conditions for kayaking depends on the person who is kayaking and what he or she desires. However, in general, there are some conditions that are conducive to safe and fun kayaking for everyone.

  1. Types of Kayaks and Conditions

    • Finding the right conditions for a kayaking experience depends on the kind of kayak that you want to use. There are three types of kayaks: single, tandem and tri-yak. Single kayaks have the most versatility and can be used in a broad range of conditions. Tandem kayaks and tri-yaks hold more than one person and are better for kayaking in calm seas. They are more prone to tipping over, and so the calmer the surface of the water and lesser the current, the better.

    Kayaking in the Ocean

    • Kayaking in the ocean is one of the easiest ways to kayak, and the best time to do ocean kayaking is during calm periods. Do not kayak before or after a storm, because the currents will be high and waves could present dangerous situations. You should also kayak during the daytime, so that you can see what you are doing. Also, you want to kayak when the water is clear. When the water is littered with seaweed or debris, then materials could prevent proper paddling or steering.

    Kayaking in Rivers and Lakes

    • The best conditions for kayaking in rivers and lakes depends on your experience. Some experienced kayakers may want a challenge, and so fast-flowing rivers and streams may be ideal. However, beginning kayakers should begin kayaking on a lake, with sunny and non-windy conditions. Generally, clear skies and calm winds provide the ideal and easiest kayaking conditions. Areas in which rainfall has just occurred may have more treacherous conditions because the currents will be significantly faster.

    Dangerous Conditions

    • Sometimes the best way to know the good conditions for kayaking involves knowing the warning signs of potentially dangerous conditions. Rain or storms pose problems for kayakers, because they can rapidly elevate the water level and speed of the current. Always check the weather before you go kayaking. Extremely windy conditions also make paddling and steering extremely difficult, and so you should try to avoid high winds if possible. Snow and sleet can go either way. They may slow the current and make kayaking easier, but they can also make your kayak slip and slide in a dangerous way.