Canoekayak

Canoe-kayak is an umbrella term for paddling sports that use two principal types of boat: canoes and kayaks. The term covers both competitive disciplines and recreational activities, and is governed internationally by the International Canoe Federation (ICF) along with national federations.

Canoe and kayak differ in hull design, seating, and paddling technique. In a canoe, the hull is open or only lightly decked; paddling is done with a single-bladed paddle, and paddlers typically kneel or sit on a raised seat. In a kayak, the boat has a closed deck and a cockpit; paddling is with a double-bladed paddle, and paddlers sit with legs extended forward. Skills such as edging, bracing, and steering are used in both forms but with different stroke mechanics.

Competitive canoe-kayak is organized in sprint and slalom disciplines and is featured in world championships and the Olympic program. Sprint events include various distances, such as 200, 500, and 1000 meters, with separate events for canoes (C) and kayaks (K) and for different boat sizes (e.g., K1, K2, C1, C2). Slalom tests steering through a course of gates on whitewater. Both disciplines require strength, balance, endurance, and technique; equipment and boats are designed for speed and precision.

Equipment and safety: Boats are constructed from materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, Kevlar, or durable composites, with kayaks and canoes sized for weight and height of the paddler. Paddles, personal flotation devices, helmets in whitewater, and proper training are essential.

Beyond competition, canoe-kayak also encompasses recreational paddling, training, river running, and expedition paddling, with routes ranging from calm lakes to fast rivers and coastal waters.