Every expert kayaker will agree that learning to sit in a kayak is essential. It is one of the first skills you need to begin your journey as a kayaker. Thankfully, there are different types of kayaks on the market, so you can choose the most suitable model and start your journey to becoming an expert kayaker. But first, what are the factors to consider when you are about learning how to sit in a kayak?
Factors that Influence How you Sit in a Kayak
Several factors can influence how quickly you understand how the sit-inside kayaks work. The most important thing to know is that two types of kayaks are commonly used. These models are the sit-inside kayak and the sit-on-top kayaks.
There is also the stand-up pedal kayak. The type of kayak design matters. For example, using a 10-foot or 12-foot kayak will be a different experience if you choose the inflatable or carbon fiberglass model.
The sit-in kayak is the type that has a covered hull, which means your legs and upper thighs are covered. Many people like these sit in kayaks because they can use them without becoming too wet from water splashes. Also, you can use the thigh braces with these sit-in kayaks when you go kayak fishing in rough waters.
The hull size is another factor to consider. You can quickly learn how to sit in a kayak when the hull size is wide enough to accommodate you. A larger hull size will be best for nervous paddlers, who can feel more comfortable in the kayak sitting in space. Also, it would help if you watched the weather conditions because sitting in the kayak for a long time in hot weather can be pretty uncomfortable for a newbie.
Benefits of Learning How to Sit in a Kayak
You should learn how to sit in these kayaks to ensure you progress in your kayak training. This process influences your paddling style and initial stability while using a day touring kayak.
Here are the top benefits of learning how to sit in a kayak correctly:
Faster Learning Progress
You can learn how to paddle the kayak better when you know how to use the sit-inside designs. The main thing is feeling comfortable. When you feel comfortable in the kayak, sitting in it for a kayaking practice session becomes easy, and you can focus on the instructor’s lessons.
Paddling Efficiency
Kayak makers have provided comfortable seats in these kayaks. The adjustable seats will usually help you find the best positions to enjoy your kayaking sessions. You will realize your paddling efficiency improves when using the kayak in the correct sitting position.
Better Navigation
If you want to go kayak surfing, the correct sitting position in the kayak will help you enjoy the experience better. You will also be able to navigate the kayak seamlessly because the correct sitting position gives you better control over the pedal drive and the hull movement.
User Safety
Sitting in a kayak correctly also keeps you safe. Kayak makers try to emphasize the importance of sitting in the kayak correctly.
Surfing Stability
You will also observe that your kayak is more stable when sitting correctly. This lowers the risks of flipping over.
How to Sit in a Kayak
The tandem kayak has a rear seat and a front seat. These seats are comfortable too. But the back seat provides secondary stability, so you must consider it when learning to sit in a kayak.
Also, the product features have a role to play. Here are the tips to follow:
Enter the Kayak from a Shallow Side in the Water
First, ensure the kayak is in a shallow part of the river or lake. When you have climbed the kayak from the side, sit on the kayak keeping your back straight. The touring models can be used for this practice.
You should avoid leaning forward or to one side to keep your balance. It would help if you sat upright. However, to find a balance point, you should try to be in the lowest position in the kayak seat. Most times, the product features will support you to do this.
The stable platform will help you feel the balance, giving you confidence. Sitting in the recreational models is about the same experience. However, many expert kayakers think the touring models are a super choice.
Generally, the kayak is made from lightweight materials, so maintaining balance by sitting upright is essential.To maintain balance and paddling efficiency during expedition paddling, you should sit in the middle, except you are in a 2-person inflatable boat with a fellow paddler.
What Happens if You Fall out?
You should be wearing a life jacket before kayaking. So, there is no need to be alarmed. Swim to the side of your kayak and climb back in.
Kayak Fitting
You can read more about kayak fitting if you are skeptical. This knowledge will allow you to find the best kayak like the experienced paddlers. The best-fitting will also enable you to discover the need for an air or bilge pump, comfortable seats, and storage space. Also, you can determine whether you prefer the kayaks with a deeper hull or the models with shorter hulls.
Safety Tips
When using a kayak with minors, you should check the young users and ensure you don’t exceed the kayak’s weight capacity.
Also, thigh straps can help you maintain the best position and stability.
Enroll in a Class
You need practical experience learning how to use sit-inside recreational kayaks. Therefore, enrolling in classes that use day touring kayaks is a great idea.
Overall, the sit-inside design is a bestseller in the kayak subcategories. And they are affordable.
Buy in Bulk
If you are wondering about the kayak cost, send us a customer contact form to order our range of traditional kayaks and other models. These types of kayaks are bestsellers and an excellent investment at any time.