canoes

A canoe is a light, narrow watercraft propelled by a paddler using a single-bladed paddle. They are typically open-topped, though some designs include decks or spray covers. Paddlers may sit or kneel, and effectiveness depends on hull shape, weight distribution, and technique.

Historically, canoes were dug from hollowed logs or constructed with a bark-covered frame. Modern canoes use materials such as fiberglass, Kevlar, and polyethylene, reducing weight and increasing durability. Hulls range from shallow to more curved rocker profiles, and some models employ outriggers for stability.

Types include recreational, touring, expedition, whitewater, and racing canoes. They can be solo or tandem; paddlers kneel or sit and use various strokes to steer and propel. Some designs are optimized for calm lakes, others for rivers and rapids, and others still emphasize speed for competition.

Canoeing has deep roots in many regions. Indigenous peoples of North America used bark or birchbark canoes for transport, trade, and subsistence, while similar hull forms appeared around the world. The modern sport and industry developed notably in the 19th and 20th centuries, with ongoing innovations in materials and lightweight construction.

Safety considerations include wearing a personal flotation device, dressing for water conditions, and training in handling, turning, and recovery techniques.