How to Choose a Kayak Helmet Paddle PFD

There are a variety of different types of kayaks to choose from with different designs doing totally different things. I will break them up into roughly five different categories, namely: creek boats, river running creek boats, river running play boats, play boats and surf kayaks. I’ve decided to use these terms to simplify the explanation. Many manufacturers class their boats in the same way. Before I start with the specific boats, let me go through some of the different parts of a kayak. I use the term kayak and boat loosely in this article but it means the same thing to a kayaker...

When deciding on your whitewater paddle you must first remember that always go with what feels best to you. You are going to hear many opinions but remember you have to paddle with it.

One of the most important decisions in choosing a paddle comes from your height and size.. You need to consider all variables of the paddle. Smaller paddlers should look for a paddle with slightly smaller blades and with a narrower shaft that makes it easier to grip. The stronger you are, the bigger the blades you can handle in the water. Using a paddle too long can really but strain on the body. Always take into account your size when choosing a paddle.

Next, you will need to consider the feather of your blades. The feather/offset is the angle difference in the two opposing blades. Traditional kayak paddles have blades that are offset at ninety degrees so that while you have one paddle blade in the water , the other blade has no resistance in the air. For whitewater kayaking, a thirty degree twist is most popular. For whitewater paddling, I would personally recommend trying a paddle with blades offset at 30-degrees.

Paddles come in a variety of materials, ranging from aluminum and plastic to fiberglass and carbon fiber and also H20-Paddles new Texalium blend. The choice of materials brings a few new variables to the table such as price and durability. Your carbon fiber paddle is going to be your strongest paddle and also the lightest from the bunch, followed by your fiberglass and then aluminum.

Kayaking is an exciting, fast-paced sport, but make sure you protect yourself before you go off the deep end. An often-neglected piece of equipment, such as the kayak helmet., can mean the difference between arriving on shore after an invigorating outing or being injured, lost or even worse for hours in open water. The following essay will discuss some safety precautions beginning kayakers should be aware of; talk about the importance of a kayak helmet; and examine some of the features you should take note of when selecting a helmet.

You should seek professional training and procure all safety equipment before heading off to your favorite river, lake or ocean with your new kayak. Be sure to select a kayak that suits you and the enviroment you intend to kayak in, and take your time when selecting gear, including paddles, clothes, pumps, a survival knife or utility tool, at least one whistle and a high-visibility personal flotation device. Leave your float plan with someone you know and trust, and be sure to check on the weather conditions in your area.

Be sure to understand the rules of the water and know the Universal River Signals. (To signal a stop, extend your arms or hold your paddle horizontally; to signal help, give three long blasts with your whistle or wave your arm or paddle vertically; and to signal an “all clear” hold your paddle or your arm vertically.) Always carry a compass and a map, and wear reflective or high-visibility clothes.

It’s obvious that you should wear a helmet if you’re whitewater kayaking. It’s easy to be struck by hard water, forced into stones, or even pulled under by a strong current. Assume that for every danger you see above the water there are a dozen just below the surface. Even experienced kayakers can find themselves in a losing battle against an undercurrent.

Don’t assume that you don’t need a safety helmet just because the water is smooth. A still lake can present many opportunities for injuries to your head. You will be thankful that you’ve remembered to wear your helmet if you capsize and strike a stone or partially submerged log or get struck by a hanging limb. It is even possible for you to strike your own head using a paddle if you’re not careful!

Unlike motorcycle helmets, kayak helmets do not have government certification. This means that consumers have to be educated, ask good questions, and avoid choosing a helmet based on its graphics or other superficial details. This is your life and it is up to you to take necessary precautions when selecting a helmet.

Wearing your helmet should be automatic. Create good safety habits and never go out without the proper gear. Making exceptions is a mistake, as unexpected storms or unforeseen dangers are par to the course. If you never leave the shore without your helmet you’ll never be in the position of wishing you’d taken it when you are in peril.

Like any piece of safety equipment, take your time to ensure that your helmet fits you correctly. The last thing you want is for your helmet to ride up at a crisis moment. Do not settle for a helmet that fits too loose or too tight, and be sure to select one that has an effective chinstrap system. A quick release chinstrap is a good idea, too, and some helmets come with a “pump fit” system to help with fitting.

Most helmets absorb shock by using a shell to sustain impacts and a liner to cushion your head. Shells can be made of both plastic and composite. Plastic tends to be less expensive, but composite – usually made of interwoven fibers – spreads the force of the impact throughout the shell. The smooth aerodynamic outer casing allows waves to flow over your head in some cases rather than crashing down on top of it. It’s important to find a helmet with ventilation holes that won’t impair your hearing too much, but remember: The more holes your helmet has, the less it will protect you during a traumatic event.

A helmet’s liner can be made of Expanded Poly-Propylene (EPP), Expanded Poly-Styrene (EPS); and closed-cell or mini-cell foams. All three types of liners are effective, but what you need to know about their characteristics is that EPP is the stiffest material, EPS is largely recognized as the best at absorbing impact, and closed-cell foam is the softest. Expanded Poly-Propylene and Expanded Poly-Styrene are both water resistant, but closed cell liners may, in fact, absorb water.

The liner sometimes also wicks moister from your head, and you should be comfortable in your helmet, so find one that doesn’t irritate or chaff your skin. Remember to keep your helmet in a case or bag to prevent damaging it when packing an unpacking. If you crack or damage the outer shell of your helmet in transit it will not be effective on the open water.

Keep in mind that you can lose your paddle and still get to the shore, but if you lose your head you’re in real trouble.