Thank you for visiting the Keweenaw Paddling Club's website. In this section we have provided some information concerned with rolling a kayak. The movement required to roll a kayak is quite complex, and there are many different types of rolls. Every instructor has their own approach, and each book or dvd will contain different information. The goal of this page is not to teach you how to roll. It's purpose is to help you become a better learner. No website, book, or DVD can replace one-on-one time with a good instructor and lots of practice. There is no magic phrase that will enable you to roll in all conditions. You have to put some butt-time in a boat and practice, practice, practice.
Below you will find descriptions, tips, illustrations, and videos designed to help further your understanding of rolling a kayak. By understanding what is going on, and what needs to happen we hope to limit the amount of time spent explaining the process when participating in an instructional session. Freeing up this time should allow more time for the student to practice, and more time for the instructor to observe and offer suggestions. We are hoping that going into an instructional session with a basic understanding of the process will allow the student to achieve success a little more quickly.
Now, with all of that out of the way, lets dive in.
If you are participating in the user test of this website, please make sure that you filled out the background survey before continuing on with this set of instructions. This survey has been emailed to the address you put down when you registered for the Kayak Safety Clinic.
Well, a kayak roll is the act of righting a capsized kayak through the use of body motion and or a paddle.
- Self-Rescue -
The kayak roll is the most efficient rescue technique. It doesn’t require any outside help and you remain inside your boat. Less time in the water means less chance of hypothermia. Staying in the kayak means you recover your mobility faster, and are less likely to be pushed by wind or currents into rocks or other hazards. Lastly, not requiring any outside help means that you aren’t putting your paddling partners at risk. Everyone likes someone that can take care of themselves.
- Advancing other skills -
Bracing refers to the family of recovery strokes used to keep yourself from tipping over. Some people would suggest learning to brace before learning to roll, as the skills are similar and bracing skills are used much more regularly. On the other hand, knowing how to roll allows you to fully commit to tipping over while practicing your bracing. In the end, whether you learn bracing or rolling first, knowing how to roll will take your bracing to the next level.
- Maybe it's just hot -
To tell you the truth, this is why I usually roll. Remember, rolling is supposed to be your last resort. You should really think twice about going out into conditions where it is likely you will have to roll. Being able to roll a kayak is not, and does not replace good judgment.
Step 1 - Capsize
Get into the ready position before you capsize. This entails leaning forward and twisting your torso to the left so that your paddle runs parallel to the kayak and your right hand is forward.
Now... tip over.
Note: For south-paws you will rotate to the right so your left hand is forward.
Step 2 - Setup
As you capsize maintain the ready position. Once the kayak is completely over push both hands out of the water and towards the center of the kayak.
Tip: Once you tip over it is sometimes helpful to count to three. This helps you slow things down and re-orient yourself.
Tip: When you reach for the air remember to use your abs.
Step 3 - Sweep
The hip snap is begun as you begin the sweep and continues until the roll is completed. You will be leaning slightly backward at the end of the roll with your head leaning toward your right shoulder.
Tip: Attach a paddle float to your blade to help it find the surface. As you start to feel more comfortable remove some air. Work towards needing no air in the paddle float.
Note: This is the most difficult step. Try watching someone else, or watch the videos below to help visualize the motion.
Step 4 - Recovery / Recenter
Here the paddle is providing support while being drawn toward the boat. Lean back slightly, and remember that your head should come out of the water last.
Tip: To practice recovery, paddle over to a wall, or use the bow of another paddlers kayak to provide support while you tip your kayak over. Attempt to right the kayak using only your hip rotation.
Remember: Lean Back
If you have already filled out the backgroud survey and competed an instructional session please fill out this exit survey. We are always looking for any information that will help us make your experience better.
Thank you for your time.