How to Walk With a Kayak

Carrying your kayak while walking is often necessary to tread a trail that leads to a boating destination. Lifting a kayak while walking is an easy task if you know the proper technique, which also aids in avoiding strains on your back and knees. The kayak lift can be a lot easier with the help of a friend, but can be executed alone. Practice single-person kayak lifts in a comfortable setting before venturing out.

Things You'll Need

  • Small towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the kayak on the ground with its hull side down.

    • 2

      Stand next to your kayak, facing the cockpit. With both hands, grab the cockpit coaming and roll the kayak up on its side away from you so that the hull bottom is leaning against your legs.

    • 3

      Grasp the cockpit coaming with both hands and carry the kayak up in a gradual manner until it's leaning against your thighs. Keep both legs slightly bent with your back straight as you do this.

    • 4

      Hold the kayak steady using your front hand, then slightly lean forward and grab the far side cockpit coaming with your stern-side hand. Lift slowly with your rear hand and rotate the boat toward you by pulling the far cockpit coaming in an upward direction. Use your bow-side hand to aid in holding the weight the boat as you do this arc rotation. This move will rotate the boat so that the open cockpit is facing you.

    • 5

      Turn your body and face toward the bow of the boat. Gradually lower the upper cockpit coaming on your shoulder. Place a towel on your shoulder to cushion it from the coaming edge.

    • 6

      Use one hand to support the kayak while it's resting on your shoulder. Use the other hand to steady and shift the boat so that its bow is angled slightly upward. Walk toward your destination.