Canoes and Kayak Gear
During your adventure race, you will more than likely have to get in the water and paddle a boat to find checkpoints. If you are on a team, then you will be in a canoe and if you are a soloist, you will have a kayak. In most races, the boats are supplied, but some allow you to bring your own.Racing canoes- Racing canoes will give you the edge when it comes to speed. They are normally longe rand narrow, built to have a shallow draft. However, they aren’t as maneuverable as a shorter canoe. If your race is going to be paddling across lakes, then a racing canoe is a great choice. Racing canoes can be expensive, but could easily be worth it for that extra mph on the water. Kayaks follow the same principle.Fishing canoes- Fishing canoes are a great option for any adventure race that allows you to bring your own. They are maneuverable, fairly quick across the water, you sit low, which allows less experienced paddlers to feel and perform more comfortably, and many offer options such as: cup holders, storage compartments, etc.Canoes with back rests- It is easy to be paddling for hours and completing many miles during your race. Many develop back pain and soreness. Bringing a portable back rest to install into the canoe before you enter the water may make all the difference. If the race allows you to bring your own canoe, having one will backrests built in, is a win. There are options for canoe backrests online, just make sure you try it out before taking it into the race. Longer canoes will go faster, but shorter canoes are more maneuverable and easier to portage Paddles- Adventure races allow you the option to bring your own paddles. We recommend using kayak style paddles whether you are a soloist or part of a team. They offer a balance of propulsion from the left and right, just as much steering control. You can put the power down just as effectively as a canoe paddle and arguable paddle faster. Canoe and Kayak paddles come in all different materials and prices.The cheapest being plastic, the heaviest being wood and the lightest most expensive paddles being carbon fiber. Paddles are starting to be available with different angles and designs of the shaft. Most are usually straight, but many companies have bent shaft designs. They offer less pressure on your wrists, so take that into consideration. Take a test and/or try a few paddles out to determine what fits you and what length of paddle is best.
PFD’s- A good personal floatation device can make all the difference. Comfort is key and in the worst-case scenario, can save your life.
Type V (inflatable) life preservers aren’t allowed in adventure races, soyou’ll have to get a more traditional jacket.
Coolers- During a hot day, a cooler can be a terrifically good option. Storing some beverages and havingthem cold when you need them can really be a moral booster. A cooler can also act as a seat if you have a third person joining you in the canoe.
Waterproof back pack bags- Expect your back pack and gear to get wet while out on the water. Save yourself some trouble and get a waterproof bag that you can cover your gear with.
Gloves to resist blisters- If you haven’t been out to paddle for a while and don’t have brick layingcalluses on your hands, consider wearing gloves. They will prevent blisters from developing and keepany pain to a minimum.