If you prefer to kayak during the colder months, follow some of Kayaking Nation’s winter kayaking tips and techniques to ensure you stay safe and comfortable!
When you think of kayaking, you probably imagine it being done in the warm summer months, but actually, it's a sport that's just as much fun in the winter as it is in the summer. With that being said, some extra considerations have to be made when winter kayaking, and thankfully, Kayaking Nation has outlined them all in their new guide!
The guide is intended to help you safely and comfortably navigate the unique challenges that winter kayaking presents. It examines everything from equipment and paddling techniques to locations and weather.
Go to https://kayakingnation.com/best-winter-kayaking-techniques-and-tips to find out more.
Though most kayakers paddle during the warmer months, many prefer to paddle during the winter because of the peace and seclusion it provides. However, if they aren’t prepared for the cold water, temperature drops, reduced daylight, and unpredictable weather, these winter kayaking trips can quickly become perilous. In its guide, Kayaking Nation shares the most important things to consider before embarking on a winter kayaking trip.
First, you need to have the proper equipment for a winter kayaking trip, the expert says. This means having a kayak that is winter-proof and allows for multiple layers of clothing to be worn, as well as lightweight paddles with large blade surfaces for more power and control. In terms of clothing, base layers of drysuits, wetsuits, insulated gloves, and booties are crucial when it comes to combatting frigid temperatures, according to the guide.
In addition to equipment, you need to use the correct paddling techniques, Kayaking Nation advises. Icy waters contain many obstacles, so you must maintain a slow and steady pace to prevent capsizing. When waters are calm, low-angle paddle strokes are recommended so that water doesn't splash onto your kayak; for choppy waters, high-angle paddle strokes should be used to help power through waves.
To help you determine what kind of conditions you will be encountering on your winter kayaking trip, you should do as much research and scouting as possible beforehand. This can include checking things like average water temperatures and weather forecasts in the area as well as portage accessibility and local amenities.
If you're looking for suggestions as far as places to go winter kayaking, Kayaking Nation recommends Alaska because of its cold, clear waters, which offer an experience unlike anything anywhere else. Norway is also a popular winter kayaking location thanks to its many snow-capped fjords that serve as the ultimate kayaking backdrop.
Lastly, safety is paramount when kayaking in the winter. Hypothermia and cold-water immersion are serious risks during the colder months, so you should always be wearing personal flotation devices and you should have a first-aid kit and a spare set of dry clothes on hand. Kayaking Nation also recommends you take a kayaking course to learn more about safety techniques and emergency preparedness.
“Winter kayaking can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it also comes with challenges,” said a spokesperson for Kayaking Nation. “Kayakers can safely and comfortably enjoy the winter wonderland from the water with proper preparation and technique. Our guide provides some of the best winter kayaking tips to help paddlers navigate the colder months.”
About Kayaking Nation
Kayaking Nation is a one-stop resource for kayakers who want to improve their technique and make their experiences out on the water more enjoyable. The site provides everything from equipment and apparel reviews to coaching tips and video tutorials.
Learn more about how you can stay safe out on the cold waters by visiting https://kayakingnation.com/best-winter-kayaking-techniques-and-tips
