You may have seen them gliding across the ocean or bouncing across the river rapids. They seem barely large enough for their occupants yet may be loaded with enough supplies to last for days. What are kayaks and where do they come from?
A Brief History of Kayaks. Kayaks were used by the native Inuit and Aleut to hunt along shorelines in Southwest Greenland, Alaska and northern Canada. There is evidence that kayaks may have been used as long as 4,000 years ago. Traditional kayaks were made of driftwood and sewn animal skins. They were built to conform to the body of the paddler, so that they were actually "worn". To accomplish this, kayaks were made according to the physical measurements of the rider. For example, the length of the kayak was three times the arm span of the boater. In addition to having a kayak that conformed to the paddler's body, the rider was sewn into the boat. A skirt of skin was worn by the paddler and sewn to the boat to prevent the frigid water of the region from entering the canoe. Because a wet exit wasn't possible once sewn into the boat, the Eskimo roll maneuver became a critical means of righting the kayak without leaving the cockpit.
Kayak Types. Kayaks come in a variety of sizes and styles based on the type of paddling being done. They typically seat 1-2 people although there are kayaks that seat up to four. Kayaks are made from a variety of materials. Rigid kayaks have been made from wood, fiberglass and, in the early 1980's rotomolded plastic kayaks became available. Some traditionalists still prefer wood or "skin on frame" kayaks which are the lightest. Kayaks are propelled by a double-bladed paddle. A spray skirt (a waterproof garment worn by the kayaker) attaches to the edges of the cockpit to prevent water from getting in or the paddler from being ejected. They are also important for keeping the boat from filling with water once it has rolled and righted again.
Paddling Styles. Kayaking has evolved into several types: sea kayaking, whitewater, racing and slalom are some examples. Each type of kayaking can have subdivisions. There are even freestyle paddlers who manage jumping and aerial-like maneuvers.
How to get started. If you are interested in kayaking there are outfitters and instructors available worldwide. The American Canoe Association is a helpful informational resource within the US. They provide basic information as well as a calendar of events and courses available throughout the US and Canada.
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