There isn’t a lot of equipment required for kayaking. A kayak and paddle, life jacket, helmet and spray skirt are the recommend basics.

Kayaks for surfing and doing tricks are called playboats. Kayaks for rocky rivers are called creek boats. Traditional river kayaks offer a quick ride and stability. Most kayaking beginners start with the traditional river kayak.
One kayak does not fit all. The size and shape of the kayak is based on the user’s height, weight, and the type of water the kayak will be used in. Kayak dealers usually stock demo or demonstration kayaks available for test boating. This allows kayakers to try before they buy.

Used kayaks cost considerably less than new. Good used kayaks can often be found in the classifieds, online auctions and similar venues.

Finding the right paddle involves getting the length, weight, material and blade shape into consideration, along with the user’s height, torso size and paddling style. Tall people, those with long torsos and paddlers who like a slow ride will require longer paddles. Shorter people or those with short torsos and paddlers who like to paddle fast and get the job done will benefit from shorter paddles.

Kayaking paddle materials include wood, fiberglass, carbon fiber and aluminum shafts with plastic blades. The aluminum shaft paddles are a good choice for beginners.
Many kayakers are already into other water sports and own a life jacket (also known as personal flotation device). These can be purchased at many discount stores, sporting goods stores and boating equipment stores in addition to online stores and auctions.

Life jackets, also known as personal flotation devices (PFD) are required by law. Choose a PFD rated for the type of kayaking involved. Type III PFD’s tend to be the most comfortable for paddling.
Kayaking helmets should be good quality and fit well. Like other sporting gear, helmets have evolved and now are as much about fashion as function. Users can shop for functional, protective head gear or for functional and fashionable helmets in a wide variety of designs, colors and styles.

Spray skirts are used to seal the cockpit during kayaking and keep water out of the inside of the kayak and keep the kayaker dry. Different types of kayaking require different skirt styles. Whitewater spray skirts are usually made of neoprene. Touring and recreational spray skirts are often made of nylon. Sea kayaking skirt styles may include both neoprene and nylon.

All kayaking spray skirts feature a grab loop. This loop allows the boater to break the seal quickly if necessary. Skirt
designs include cords for boat attachment, pockets, and adjustable suspenders and waistbands.
Since the spray skirt fits around the wearer’s waist, waist circumference is the general standard of sizing. Kayak cockpit size may also apply.

Optional kayaking gear includes a dry bag, a dry top and a spray jacket. The small dry bag is good for protecting and storing snacks and other small items. A dry top is a water proof jacket good for cold water paddling. Spray jackets are waterproof and available in long or short sleeve styles.
Kayaking gives boaters an opportunity to explore waterways for fun and for relaxation. The size and light weight of kayaks make maneuvering them easy for individuals. Kayaking doesn’t require a lot of equipment and doesn’t have to be expensive. Most beginners can quickly master the basics but kayaking is a continual learning experience.

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Braving the waters “au naturel” is something we would normally think of doing when taking a shower or soaking in a bath. But have you ever gotten the feeling to do something crazy and unforgettable? Do you love the outdoors and the water? If you answered yes to both of these questions, then you may just be the right person to experience nude kayaking. After all, it’s an excursion that isn’t likely to be forgotten in your lifetime!

Even if you have no experience with kayaking but still want to try this bold approach to fun and good times, you have absolutely nothing holding you back – except maybe your clothes. Kayaking is an activity that is considered safe for people of all ages and ability levels. It requires little physical exertion (provided the weather cooperates) and some would even consider it to be a relaxing experience. With that concern out of the way, if you’re willing to paddle your way through the water wearing your birthday suit, then all you need to know now is where to go to experience this thrill.

The Paddling Bares Canoe Club in New Jersey is an excellent resource for those looking to try out nude kayaking. The club refers to themselves as “kayakers and canoeists who are also naturists.” The club strongly emphasizes safety first, therefore, no alcohol is permitted on any trip and sexual behavior is strictly prohibited. Some of their trips include hiking and overnight camping, but these additions usually mean spending time somewhere secluded and legal for nude activity – therefore, you won’t have the luxury of showers or toilets and may be amidst some intimidating wildlife. To participate in the club’s nude outdoor adventures, you will first need to complete an application and send a check; they will then provide you with information regarding upcoming trips.

If you’re able to travel abroad for your nude kayaking trip, then Crete, Greece is an ideal location. Located along the Mediterranean Sea in Europe, Crete provides a safe haven and relaxing atmosphere for those wishing to kayak in the nude. You’ll experience a journey through some of Greece’s most fascinating history by paddling through the waters of Crete’s narrow passageways. In addition to nude kayaking, Crete also offers nude visitors the chance to scuba dive, water ski, and enjoy many other outdoor water sports at their many nudist resorts. You can find some great package deals on nude kayaking trips to Greece, some starting as low as $2000 for a week long adventure!

If you head south of the border, the Baja Peninsula in Mexico is another great spot to experience kayaking while feeling the “cool breezes.” This is a popular destination for all kayaking lovers, but you can find resorts and trips aimed specifically at nude adventures. Not only does the Baja Peninsula offer some great kayaking, but you can also enjoy nude snorkeling, scuba diving (although this particular activity can’t be done in the nude), hiking, fishing, and whale watching.

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As summer approaches, we often look for activities to do out on the water. Two of the most popular summertime activities are canoeing and kayaking, mainly because they are safe and easily done by anyone of any age, skill level, or ability. These water sports are very relaxing and provide excellent opportunities for fun in the sun. But if you’ve never set sail for the waters before, you may not know where to begin to plan your canoeing and kayaking adventure. Here’s some helpful advice to help you sort out the details and get out on the water!

There is essentially little or no difference between canoeing and kayaking. Both offer a calming ride on the lake or streams and both are physically undemanding. The best approach to experiencing the excitement of canoeing and kayaking is to scout out guided tours. Unless you plan to visit the lake several times, there is no need to purchase your own canoeing and kayaking equipment. This can rack up quite a large bill, as canoes generally run $800 or higher, and that’s not including other equipment needed such as paddles and clothing. You can look for canoeing and kayaking tours locally or in other parts of the country, depending on your desire to travel. Below is a list of popular locations in the United States for canoeing and kayaking.

1. Medford, Oregon – This is home to Crater Lake National Park and the Rogue River, which is known to be home to some of the best outdoor activities in the United States. The river is Class II-IV rapids, which require little or no experience to enjoy canoeing and kayaking.

2. Haines, Alaska – This is an ideal location for ocean kayaking surrounding Glacier Bay National Park. Here, you have the opportunity to spot bears, manatee, and other arctic wildlife along Alaska’s banks. No experience is required to participate in the guided tours.

3. Miami – Dade County, Florida – An excellent location to experience fun in the sun through canoeing and kayaking, while having the opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive. Coral Gables provides a chance to explore magical sea caves and view underwater aquatic life. Several tour companies are in the area with packages starting as low as $40 per person, $30 per child.

4. San Diego, California – Explore the La Jolla Sea Caves for a glimpse of a true marine paradise. Catch views of sea lions, whales, and occasionally dolphins. No experience is necessary and typical guided tours are two hours long.

Now that you have a few suggestions of where to go, you may be wondering what to bring for your canoeing and kayaking adventure. Be sure to pack quick-drying clothes, such as synthetic shorts, tops, and jackets. Even kayaking in the summertime can lead to unexpected emergencies, and you need to have water-resistant clothes available. Make sure to bring sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen, as the sun is much stronger when reflecting off the water. Pack a couple water bottles and small snacks in case you or a member of your family need a quick energy boost, and always bring along a first aid kit containing instant cold packs, band-aids, gauze, and other small items just in case an emergency arises.

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