Sports & Leisure
Recreation & Leisure
Kayaking
Kayaking is a recreational activity in which individuals can experience the outdoors and get an excellent cardiovascular workout. Kayaking can be done almost anywhere and it is easily adapted to various ability levels. The American Canoe Association (ACA) promotes the benefits of canoeing and kayaking while offering courses on the basics of paddling, safety and rescue courses, and instructor certification.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
- Proper clothing is essential when paddling.
- Personal flotation devices should be worn at all times regardless of experience.
- Temperature regulation is important when paddling due to the exposure to wind and water. Wet suits can provide insulation, additional cushioning, and protection from skin abrasions.
- Always paddle with a partner and be aware of weather conditions.
- Never get into a situation that exceeds your paddling ability.
ADAPTATIONS AND MODIFICATIONS
Standard paddles can be easily adapted for paddlers with single arm amputation or for the individual with hemiplegia due to a stroke or cerebral palsy. My-Grip® (pictured right) can assist paddlers with visual impairments with learning the proper grip and hand placement on the paddle.
For individuals with impaired grip, four pieces of bike tubing (pictured left) can be assembled with pull-ties and electrical tape to create an adapted hand grip.
Proper fit and comfort is essential because water increases the breakdown of skin and can lead to an increased risk of pressure sores. For a snug fit into the kayak, closed-cell foam and adaptive seating systems may be used for 
increased contact to the boat.
Versa FormT pillows may be used to create a backrest or seat cushion for increased contact with the kayak and comfort for the participant. The pillow conforms to an individual's body when the air is pumped out.
Types of Kayaks
Tandem kayaks allow beginners, individuals with visual impairments, and individuals who have little paddling power to participate. The paddling partner or instructor in the stern seat provides assistance with paddling, steering and safety issues.
There are several types of kayaks available. Each one has different qualities to aid individuals with different needs.
Sit-on-top
Sit-on-top or "open decked" kayaks (pictured above right) work well in hot climates and for individuals that need little seating adaptation. The negative aspects of a sit-on- top include a higher center of gravity and an individual must have enough upper body strength or use of their feet to do an in-water rescue.
White-water
White-water boats are versatile and easy to maneuver. Some people may tend to have problems tracking and these boats can often be very easy to tip.
Inflatable
Inflatables work well for people with higher injury levels or that have some balance issues. However, inflatables can catch wind easily and make them difficult to maneuver.
Sea Kayak
Sea kayaks are well suited for most people. They track well and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. For some individuals with balance problems a sea kayak will not work with out additional support.
Specialty Kayaks
The Tribalance by Tribal (pictured right) is one example of some of the specialty kayaks available that can provide more stability to individuals with balance issues. It is built with outriggers, which adds a tremendous amount of stability.
EQUIPMENT SUPPLIERS
Aire (inflatable kayaks), (208)344-7506
Folbot (folding kayaks), (800)533-5099
Necky Kayaks (tandems, sit-on-tops, etc.), (604)850-1206
Prijon Kayaks (sea, white water kayaks etc.), (303)444-2336
Sammons Preston (Versa FormT, My-Gripr), (800)323-5547
Tribal Kayaks (Tribalance), (800)587-4225
Walden Kayaks (kayaks, accessories, etc.), (888)371-3033
BOOKS
Canoeing and Kayaking for Persons with Physical Disabilities American Canoe Association, (703)451-0141
American Canoe Association (ACA), (703)451-0141 or contact: Scott LeBlanc, ACA Chair of adaptive paddling committee at (210)592-5358
British Canoe Union, 0115 9821100
Professional Paddlesports Association (PPA), (606)472-2205
More information on this and related topics may be available in the NCPAD Citation Database. Try searching with keywords: kayaking, kayak, etc.
(Additional information on kayaking and related equipment may be available in the NCPAD database. Try searching using keywords: kayaking, kayak equipment, kayak videos, and kayak programs.)
NOTE
The information provided here is offered as a service only. The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability, University of Illinois at Chicago, the National Center on Accessibility, and the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago do not formally recommend or endorse the equipment listed. As with any products or services, consumers should investigate and determine on their own which equipment best fits their needs and budget.
Source: NCPAD