How can I get my kayak to go faster?

Question

Would rubbing ski wax or crisco on the hull improve my speed? Is there a wax or other lubricant that will help me slide faster? Also I have a low-end bending branches paddle... can I get one that makes the boat go faster for under $100?

Answer 1

just paddle harder and faster

Answer 2

Maybe your ores have something to do with it.

Answer 3

Throw out that Anchor and the cooler full of beer!

Answer 4

There is a kayak wax called s*x Wax  you can get it at www.coloradokayak.com it would really help if you specified the kind of kayak eg, whitewater, sea, rec.

Answer 5

What kind of boat are you in (sea kayak, sit on top, whitewater play boat, surf kayak, recreational)?  

What kind of water are you in (flat / lake, open ocean, slow river, whitewater)?  

How long have you been paddling?

Do you have this DVD? http://www.paddling.net/store/showProduc...

Proper forward stroke, with proper posture, torso rotation, and blade position will help you accelerate.  

Wax?? Forget it.  

P.S. the paddle isn't what's making the boat move.  YOU are.  Lock your arms in the "paddlers box" and twist from the hips.  No biceps, just core muscles.  

Good luck!

Answer 6

Three main things bro:

1. keep your boat as light as possible.  Don't haul around a bunch of excess gear, or you'll be paddling against all of that excess displaced water.  Keep your boat dry, carry a sponge to get any extra water out of your cockpit.  A light boat is a fast boat.

2. Paddle using your torso, and not your arms.  Keep your arms locked, and rotate your torso while paddling.  Your torso muscles are stronger than your arm muscles.

3. Work out/practice.  Stay in good shape, and your boat will be a fast boat.

Hope that helps.  Happy (and speedy) boating!