Inflatable Kayaks

Inflatable kayaks are practically unsinkable, even when they are full of water. You will learn quickly the key do’s and don’ts when you are using an inflatable kayak, but for the beginner, here are a few outlines that will make your first adventure safe and enjoyable.

It is important to make sure your inflatable kayak is inflated to capacity. If there is not enough air, your kayak will feel sluggish and not be as rigid as it should be. Remember to bring your pump and repair kit in a dry bag should you start to loose air. Stay close to shore. If the wind picks up in the ocean or a lake, you may have a hard time making back to shore. Keeping the shoreline within sight is a very smart thing to do.

It is important to bring fresh drinking water with you when you venture out on inflatable kayaks. This will help you stay hydrated and focused to have the energy to go all day. IT is also just as important to avoid alcohol. Drinking alcohol in your kayak can make paddling a chore and make you lose your focus and has been on many occasions, the cause of accidents. Should you forget drinking water, do not be tempted to drink the water in a lake or river, nearly all water in waterways is not drinkable and could make you very sick.

Don’t drag inflatable kayaks over rocks unless it is unavoidable. This could rip a tear in your kayak. When possible, carry your kayak to and from the water. Don’t get knocked over by waves. Waves are easy to overcome if you know how. When you see a large wave coming your way, turn the kayak so that is facing the wave head on and ride it out. If you face a wave sideways, you run the risk of being flipped over.

The last tip is to avoid falling asleep in your inflatable kayak. Although the feeling of falling asleep on the water on a hot summers day is relaxing, you may wake up far away from the shore, disorientated and have a difficult time making it back to dry land.