I need some tips on white water kayaking.?

Question

I've always been interested in whitewater kayaking and now I've finally decided to take it seriously and get into big time. I don't really know much about the equipment and things needed, so I figured I would just post this and see what some you people have to say. I was planning on treating myself to a new kayak for my birthday that's coming up soon (March 12 YAY!!) so I was just wondering what brands and what materials should I be searching for with the new kayak. Basically, I just need any info that can be given to a beginner. Thanks in advance guys :]

Answer 1

Take a class taught by an American Canoe Association or British Canoe Union certified instructor before you buy anything.

Answer 2

First, find a club in your area or a whitewater discussion group online and join it.  Also, go to a retailer that specializes in kayaking and whitewater boating and get to know the people that work there and ask a LOT of questions (usually they don't work in that kind of place by chance).  Advice from a forum like this is OK sometimes, but if you really want to get started the right way (knowledge + good equipment + experience = SAFETY), then surround yourself with people that boat safely all the time.  Good luck....you're gonna have a blast!!

Answer 3

ask this same question on boatertalk.com or playak.com this is what I think you should buy I am EXTREMELY biased on these companies though.

Boat: Jackson Fun www.jacksonkayak.com

paddle: Werner Player   www.wernerpaddles.com

Lifejacket: Kokatat    www.kokatat.com

Helmet: Sweet Rocker  (dont know the url)

Skirt:  White Water EXP Reinforced (www.snapdragondesigned.com)

Those are all you absolutly have to have here is what you should have but dont absolutly need

Drysuit: Kokatat Dry Suit

Throwrope: Salamander

Pogies: NRS mambas  (www.nrsweb.com)

Booties: Teva P2s   (www.teva.com

Knife: Gerber River Shorty

Rack: Yakima Rack (www.yakima.com)

Now that you have your gear join the local paddling club and americanwhitewater.com and that will set you up for a long paddling life.