Introduction to Kayak Touring
Description: This course is designed for those who want to learn more about kayak touring. Students will learn about proper kayak and gear selection and the essential paddle strokes needed to control your kayak on longer trips and on larger bodies of water, bracing to help prevent capsizes and build your confidence. Lastly, you'll learn how to safely exit a capsized kayak and re-enter it on the water using a paddle float, and how to T-rescue another capsized kayaker. These skills will become the foundation of your kayaking career, and will enable you to begin to explore new venues safely and responsibly. Kayaking is a wet sport. Instruction includes wet exits and in-water rescues.
Skills you'll learn:
- Learn to maneuver your kayak in moderate conditions
- Learn to complete a wet exit while wearing a sprayskirt
- Learn assisted and self-rescue techniques
Duration: 8.0 hours
Required Legal Form:
This course requires the participant to read and sign a liability release form before participating. Please see "Required Legal Form" for the session you are registering for. You will need to print, sign and bring the form to your class.
More Partner Information:
Introduction to Kayak Touring Information
- Activity Level (2) Easy Active
- Skill Level (1) Beginner
- Minimum Age: 14
INTRODUCTION TO KAYAK TOURING
- Class Details
- Gear List
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Introduction to Kayak Touring Gear List
Gear to bring to class:
(Required)
- Water Shoes/Sandals - Foot attire that will protect your feet and is okay to get wet.
- Lunch & Snacks
- Synthetic / wool layers - Clothing that will stay warm when wet.
- Sun Protection - Lip balm, sunscreen, wide-brim hats, etc.
- Water Bottle
(Optional)
- Hat/ Sun protection - An item to help protect your face and neck from sunburn.
- Paddle Jacket
- Lip Balm/Protection
- Rain Gear - Waterproof/resistant jacket, pants and hat.
- Eyewear Retainer - A strap to help keep your glasses or sunglasses from falling off in the event of big splash or a capsize.
Gear provided by REI:
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Paddle
- Dry Bag
- Touring/Recreational Kayak
- First Aid Kits
- Spray Skirt

Seattle Sports
Necky Kayaks
Wilderness Systems
Old Town Canoe
Aqua-Bound Paddles
Kokatat Clothing
SealSkinz
NRS
Extrasport
Stohlquist
Warmers