How to get out of your kayak

As you finish your trip, you have the sometimes hazardous task of getting out of your kayak. You might be tired, aching and not fully concentrating as you make the switch from water to land.

It can be a time when you are most at risk of falling in.

A combination of wobbly balance, kayak position and water levels can conspire against you.

Dave getting out of his kayak - a high side exit

There are things to think about too.

Is it safe?
Is it going to damage my kayak?
Am I trespassing?
Can I do it without tipping in?

And let's face it, we've all been there when someone, perhaps us, has fallen in straight from the side. Never a nice feeling.

Let me help you by showing you three ways that work for me when getting out of my kayak.

And … read to the end for my 4 top tips!

At number 1 is my favourite way to get out. The 'abandon ship'.

At full speed, you head for the bank or sloped ramp. Build up enough speed so your kayak goes at least half way out of the water.

Once the kayak stops, climb out and pull your kayak fully on to land.

Warning - this will scratch the bottom of your kayak - especially on rocks, sand or concrete.

And - be careful of damaging the bank especially when it is grass or mud. Leave everything as you found it.

At number 2 is the low side exit on grass/mud. The uneven and muddy ground can make this difficult so find the most stable place and hold on to the side to keep steady.

Lean towards the side so if you do tip, hopefully you just tip onto the side and not into the water.

Keep hold of your paddle and kayak as you move on to the side.

At number 3 is the high side exit. This is the most difficult as there is a long disconnect from our bodies to the kayak.

The transfer of your weight from the kayak to the side is critical here. Keep your bodyweight as low as you can and slide across to the side. Sit on the side and keep your feet in the kayak to steady it.

Once you are ready, reach down and pull the kayak onto the side.

Four top tips - so you stay dry every time!

And now for my top tips…

Firstly, keep hold of your paddle and kayak at all times. I have seen many landings where the person ends up on the bank and the kayak is seen drifting off down river.

Ed doing a low side exit onto grass

And second, keep your bodyweight as close to the kayak as possible when you get out. This will make it far less tippy.

And thirdly, seek out sloped exits on to grass as these are often the easiest and safest to do. Minimise damage to the bank as much as you can.

And finally, be confident and commit to it. Being hesitant often means the kayak moves, the paddle slips and you fall in. Fast and smooth wins every time.

There you go, four top tips. Hopefully these will make it easier for you to exit your kayak without falling in!

Have fun and happy paddling.

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