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Whitewater Kayaking Gear for Beginners
from: Maxx Adventure TravelWhitewater kayaking is the exciting sport of paddling a kayak on a moving body of water, usually rivers. This is an experience for those who really love adventure, and be simply a fun float trip all the way to an adrenalin charged challenge. Though whitewater kayaking requires the same basic gear as any kayaker, specifics gear is a bit differ due to the conditions and variables required for whitewater kayaking.
Kayaks built for whitewater kayaking, also called playboats, are usually made of durable and flexible plastic. The length can vary from about 6 feet up to 12 feet or longer. Newer designs tend to be about 6 - 7 feet in length. The size and shape of the kayak is determined by a user's height, weight, the type of water the kayak will be used on and primary kayak use.
Whitewater kayaks used for float trips don't need the option that kayaks for dangerous river rapids require. If you're looking to purchase a new kayaks, they'll cost you from about $600 minimum to thousands of dollars if you're looking for the best.
Paddles for whitewater kayaking come in at about 6 feet long. You'll want to use longer paddles for fun whitewater trips on creeks or rivers, but shorter paddles do best if quick movement is required.
Playboaters can also get maximum power from bigger blades while medium blades are fine for creeks and general rivers. Spoon shaped paddles provide power for playboating. Wing blades were designed to get the most power and require a special paddling technique.
You can purchase whitewater kayaking paddles in several types of materials including fiber composites, fiberglass, carbon, plastic, wood and laminated wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Boater size and paddling style will affect choice of paddle.
Resistant Neoprene is the best whitewater kayaking spray skirt material. UV rays, abrasions and stretching affects the wear and lifespan of the spray skirt. Spray skirts must be easy to remove quickly in case of emergency.
Type III Personal floatation devices (PFDs) or life jackets, include models specifically designed for kayaking. The best PFDs are adjustable to fit snugly regardless of whether the user is wearing a tee shirt or a wet suit. Experienced whitewater kayakers usually recommend geting the very best whitewater kayaking helmet you can afford. Always keep in mind when purchasing a helmet that function and protection are the important considerations before fashion and style. For serious whitewater kayaking, helmets that look similar to football helmets are available that feature face guards that provide more coverage and protection than standard kayaking helmets.
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