Kayakers

A kayaker is a person who paddles a kayak, a narrow, low-profile watercraft propelled by a double-bladed paddle. Kayaks are used in a variety of settings and come in sit-inside and sit-on-top designs, with styles including recreational, touring, whitewater, and sea kayaks.

Kayakers participate in activities ranging from casual paddling on lakes and calm rivers to remote-sea expeditions and competition. Whitewater kayakers navigate fast-moving rapids, sea kayakers travel along coastlines and across open water, and recreational paddlers enjoy fitness and sightseeing. Competitive disciplines include slalom, sprint, and marathon events.

Equipment commonly includes a kayak, a double-bladed paddle, a personal flotation device, and a sprayskirt for sit-inside models. Protective gear such as a helmet is used in whitewater contexts. Additional items may include a throw bag, bilge pump, repair kit, and weather-appropriate clothing. Basic techniques cover forward and backward paddling, draws and sweeps, and braces to prevent capsizing, along with basic self-rescue and assisted-rescue skills.

Safety and training emphasize water temperature, weather, tides, and river hazards, as well as skill progression and risk management. Paddlers are advised to wear life jackets, carry communication devices, and follow local regulations. Kayaking communities promote environmental stewardship and skills sharing through clubs, schools, and guide services.

Historically, kayaking originated with Greenlandic and Inuit peoples, and the modern sport developed in the 19th and 20th centuries in Europe and North America. National and international organizations, such as the International Canoe Federation (ICF) and national associations, oversee competitions, safety standards, and training programs. The kayaking community includes amateur enthusiasts, professional guides, and competitive athletes.