Playboating
In Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking, big holes, stoppers, artificial weirs, and strong Eddy lines are potential hazards so kayakers and rafters are cautious about them. However, there is an increasingly popular sport which takes place in these River Features. This is called Playboating.
Also called Freestyle Kayaking, Hole Riding, Play Paddling or Rodeo Kayaking, Playboating is ‘playing’ in a playspot. This is an area of the river where the water flows back on itself, creating a section of upstream current. A playspot can be a big hole, stopper, artificial weir, breaking wave, or Eddy line.
Spins, cartwheels, blunts, loops, kick flips, squirts, carving, and stalls are some of the basic moves done in Playboating.
Playboating makes use of a playboat, a short and lightweight variation of a Kayak. Instead of having a round hull, a playboat has a flat hull which enables the kayaker to perform tricks on playspots. It is designed specifically to withstand the rigors of the sport. You will also need a shorter Kayak Paddle with feathered blades at 45 degrees.
As you perform different acrobatic moves in playspots, you will be immersed in the water most of the time. Therefore, make sure to wear appropriate pieces of Kayaking Clothing to keep you warm and protected. Use the best Spraydeck that you can get and a helmet to prevent head injuries as you roll, stand on end, and perform tricks in various River Features.
Playboating requires advanced skills in paddling and boat control. Those who engage in this activity should have enough experience in tackling different kinds of River Features. That is why Playboating is for advanced paddlers and kayakers only. They are aware of the risks involved and they know how to deal with different situations.
Playboating is all about fun and exhilaration. It gives you the freedom to “play” and do different kinds of maneuvers and tricks. Before trying this discipline, make sure that you have what it takes to go Playboating. Like in other water activities, take the necessary precautions so you can stay safe while doing tricks in the water.
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