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The First Paddle Strokes
How can I meet other paddlers?
The simplest way to meet other paddlers,
if there are none in your circle of friends, is to contact
your nearest canoe or kayak club. This could be a section
of a local sports society, a club at work, at a university
or a club in the town you live in. Your national canoeing
body will also have leaflets available for beginners
and lists of all the clubs in your area. If clubs are
not your scene, then you can also try an outdoor pursuits
center, or an advert, for example in a local paddling
shop.
Where can I give it a go?
Either with friends, on an introductory
course at a canoe school or club, or on your own with
a hired boat. Or you can take an ESKIMO
test boat of your choice for a day from one of our dealers.
Where can I learn?
Again, in a club or at a canoe school.
Your national canoeing body will have details of courses
running from a day's introduction, to longer, residential
courses.
What do I need for white water paddling?
At first sight, paddling does not
appear to be a particularly cheap hobby: you will need
a decent, robust kayak, a sturdy paddle, and a watertight
spray deck. On top of that you should have the appropriate
safety equipment, which includes a buoyancy aid, a helmet
and a throwbag. The equipment is completed by a paddle
cag, and a wetsuit. On the other hand, however, paddling
is an outdoor sport with no ongoing costs. Paddlers
don't need a lift pass, or to rent a hall, or mooring
space, and good equipment will last for several years
- without going out of fashion...
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Werner Bauer
