River Angels Official Website

What goes under the SPRAY SKIRT? What about my legs?  

I am sure you recognize the scenario: There ia a rapid you are not sure if you want to run, you are also not sure about which line to potentially run. So you ask one of the guys on the trip: ”Can I do this?” And then he will give you thumbs up or tell you to go and pick up your kayak and walk around…. So then you listen to him and do as he says.  

-As long as you don’t swim, it will be ok….- How many times have I not heard that line, and how many times have I not said it myself. Well, a year and a half ago I stood above a class five canyon on the Rio Pascua, in the deep south of Patagonia, Chile, and said those words out aloud.

Throughout my travels, I have met many people who are interested in trying the sport of kayaking. I am delighted to help others get started in a sport that I love so much. As with any new sport, there are many questions about kayaking that you want answered before jumping into a boat. I'd like to address some of these concerns so that you'll be more relaxed and confident when first learning to paddle.

It is amazing to look back just a few years and to see how far the sport of whitewater kayaking has come. Back then boats were designed for the overall public. One size fits all. This was extremely frustrating for me. I would try over and over again to master a basic maneuver and watch someone heavier try it once and crack it.

One of my least favorite things is to outfit my boat.   However, it is an important part of kayaking.  Here’s the analogy to get a better understanding….imagine running without tying your shoelaces, you wouldn’t make it but a couple of feet before falling over.  Same thing with outfitting and your boat and, you want to be snug as a bug in your boat.  A boat that is outfit correctly will make everything easier from rolling to more advanced skills like blunting.