Whitewater kayak

Top tips on ruling the surf

It is no secret that Britain sees its fair share of rainy days, to which the normal remedy seems to be a cup of tea and the telly on. Thankfully though, the wet weather allows us to have some of the world’s best river conditions, perfectly suited for some seriously wet outdoor fun. A leisurely paddle across a lake can be a good way to spend a summer’s afternoon, but hurtling down a river, cutting through frothy white waves is certainly a rush that you will find hard to beat. “It is an amazing sport and will take you to some pretty far-flung places that you wouldn’t be in for any other reason,” says Tom McLay, the senior raft guide at the National Rafting Centre. He ensures WideWorld that all it takes to cut through the rapids is a few lessons and a can do attitude. You'll be praying for the next bit of rain.

Pick your date

Summer is traditionally the busy season for whitewater kayaking in the UK. The days are longer, the light is better and the weather is warmer, but don’t let that stop you. Britain is blessed not only with vast numbers of kayak-worthy rivers, but some of them such as the river Tryweryn in Wales, are dam-released which allow all-year-round kayaking, even when there is little water elsewhere.

Respect the water

When doing a new activity it is paramount to respect the dangers that it brings. When onboard any craft the main danger is the water. If you do not respect the water then things could end up rather badly. This is particularly true on a kayak. In multi-person rafts you are normally under the guidance of a guide or an instructor, whereas on a kayak you are dependent on yourself and therefore are in control of your own destiny or not as is sometimes the case.

Baby steps

Paddling out on a placid lake can be easy enough, but when attempting to tackle some whitewater it is important that you at first seek some professional coaching and guidance. There is no minimum amount of....

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