The Complete Book Of Sea Kayaking

A complete course in sea kayaking for paddlers of all levels of expertise.

This book is a modern guide to sea kayaking by one of the leading exponents of the sport who is also a highly respected coach in this field. Gordon Brown is a BCU Level 5 sea coach based on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. He shares his knowledge with you in his own succinct humorous style and very visual approach. In this book Gordon covers topics of kayaking history, physiology, boat and paddle dynamics, seamanship and navigation, safety and rescue, weather forecasting, caves, rockhopping and tidal races, expeditions and overnighting, as well as a wealth of tips and resources for the sea paddler. This is a visually stunning book printed on 170gsm silk paper filled with top quality photographs. Over seventy photographs and illustrations help to make this an essential modern manual for the sea kayaker.

"...Her writing is clear and concise, sprinkled with bits of humor and many tips gleamed from her years working as a kayak instructor, guide and outfitter." --Sea Kayaker Magazine The first edition of The Complete Sea Kayaker's Handbook received immediate acclaim with its selection as the Best Outdoor Instructional Book by the National Outdoor Book Award group. Now this book boasts 352 pages with changes throughout to reflect the growth of kayaking as a sport. This book is your first step to adventure on the water, with everything you need to know, from buying a kayak to dressing for the water. Updates include: New photos throughout showing new boats, equipment, stretching, and repair techniques A new section on used boats and how to shop for them Expanded sections on: boat materials section to include the newer laminates; buying a new kayak; use of GPS for navigation; family paddling; Planning Your Dream Trip; Taking Care of Your Stuff to include more retrofit and repair information on a wider range of boat and paddle material Improvements in materials and more data on hypothermia; Changes in safety technique descriptions reflecting the new equipment on the market information on stretching, proper posture in a kayak, and easy modifications to kayak seats for more comfortable paddling Topics include: Getting Ready; Kayaks; Accessories and Clothing; Getting to Know Your Kayak; Controlling Your Kayak; Getting Into and Out of the Water; Real Life Paddling; Finding Your Way: Kayak Navigation; Trip Logistics; Group safety; Kayak Camping; Planning Your Dream Trip; Taking Care of Your Stuff

Guides the reader to the most exciting kayaking to be found on the Western Great Lakes. Full descriptions and maps for 49 trips, each carefully rated so that any kayaker can safely and confidently paddle on these inland seas.

The most comprehensive manual on how to kayak safely in a wide variety of sea environments--from inland waterways to ocean rock gardens, tide rips, surf zones, and the open ocean. Aimed at beginners through experienced kayakers, this book describes how to deal with hazards, not just avoid them, using real-life, extensively tested techniques proven to work. You'll learn fundamental skills for recovery and rescue, and master safe paddling techniques in ocean conditions. Numerous photos accompany step-by-step descriptions of the Eskimo roll, towing methods, self- and partner-rescues, backup strategies, and group dynamics. The second edition has a fresh chapter on fine-tuning your strokes, which will significantly increase kayaking fun and safety.

CLICK HERE to download the section on sea kayaking "Safety: Self & Assisted Rescue" from Sea Kayaking * Features 130 demonstrative photographs and 30 charts and illustrations * Written by a veteran paddling coach and expert in kayak stroke efficiency * Advice from expert contributors throughout adds full range of experience The latest addition to the award-winning Mountaineers Outdoor Expert series, Sea Kayaking: Basic Skills to Advanced Paddling Techniques, offers authoritative advice for paddlers of all levels, from beginners considering their first gear purchase to competitive kayakers looking to perfect their forward stroke. As a longtime paddling professional and National Team coach, author Dan Henderson draws from a lifetime of personal experience, teaching, and his academic research in exercise science to instruct readers on everything they need to know to get out on the water, including: * Gear -- how to pick the right kayak for your body size, skill level, and lifestyle * Foundations of safety, how to plan and prepare, and must-know advice for assisted and self-rescue * Basic paddling styles to advanced techniques (side slipping, edging, bracing) * Techniques for a range of conditions caused by wind, waves, currents, swells, and more * Expedition planning and camping * Getting the most out of kayaking for fitness “Dan’s participation in paddlesports is celebrated by a lifetime of contribution to the sport, friendships that span the globe and professional success across all disciplines of paddling. The opportunity to learn from Dan’s experience will only add to your enjoyment and success in the sport.” -- Joe Jacobi, Chief Executive Officer USA Canoe/Kayak