First time kayaking...?

Question

My friends and I are going to go kayaking tomorow, and the weather is going to be on the cooler side, with a high about 67 degrees. Any tips for kayaking in that cool weather? And any other tips for me as first timer? Thanks so much!

Answer 1

To the answers already given I will add a cap, sunglasses, a water bottle, lip balm, shoes that can get wet and change of dry / warm  clothes in the car (just in case). May you come to love the sport.

Answer 2

if your going to be going with a guide or instructor then you'll obviously have all the safety gear.

in terms of clothing. if you can get thermals then they would be great. make sure they're polyester as cotton ones become useless when they get wet.

old runners are great incase you take a swim and hae to walk along the river.

you'll be wearing a helmet but if you want to bring a swim cap with you it can be handy to create an extra layer in case your head gets cold. remember the water is much colder than the air.

if you want any tips for paddling, i'm sure it'll be easy enough for you to figure out. key parts:

-for travelling straight use vertical stokes

-turning, hold your paddles more horixontal

-moving straight is one of the hardest challenges for beginners but using positive forward strokes to correct your direction are much better than negative backward strokes which slow you down.

i could write a book on the basics but you'll figure them out as you go. in fact i've a couple of books on the basics :)

Answer 3

Well I kayak myself.  I would reccomend to wear a sweatshirt, Life Preserver, (always wear it)  and sunblock (if it's sunny).  As for paddling, don't paddle fast.  Go at your own pace.  Try not to rock the boat too much, as for it could end up in capsizing.  Good luck and have fun!