Types of Paddlesports: Kayaking, canoeing and SUP
Paddlesports are a terrific way to get exercise and get into the outdoors, and there are many different ways to explore and experience rivers, oceans, and lakes. In this article, we’re going to focus on the many types of paddlesports.
Canoeing
The canoe is emblematic of rugged outdoor adventure. A canoe is a small boat with an open-top (typically) that is paddled with an oar. It is steered with a paddle. Canoes are popular for rowing and paddling on flat water, such as small lakes and ponds, calm rivers, and urban areas where the waters aren’t too wild.
A canoe can also be used to navigate waterfalls or rapids in order to get up close to wildlife without disturbing it. This is a great way to see the area and the animals that live there without having to worry about getting too close.
Kayaking
Kayaks are generally lower to the water and thinner than canoes and are fully enclosed with the help of a skirt that seals the gap between the boater’s waist and the rim of the cockpit. They are typically propelled with a kayak paddle.
Whitewater kayaking
Whitewater kayaking takes place on rivers with rapids. This is a skilled sport because the rapids can change from one moment to the next, and navigating rapids takes a great deal of boat control. Whitewater kayakers learn to roll their kayaks so that they can right their boats after flipping over.
Sea kayaking
As the name suggests, sea kayaking takes place on oceans and bays. Sea kayaking is popular for its ability to offer solitude and adventure in wild areas, oftentimes places where other boats cannot easily navigate. Sea kayaks tend to be longer than whitewater kayaks as they are more efficient for crossing long stretches of water.
Flatwater kayaking
Flatwater kayaking takes place on large bodies of still water, such as slow rivers or calm lakes. They are typically shorter than sea kayaks and wider than whitewater kayaks. Flatwater kayaks are often sit-on-tops, though there are models with skirts like whitewater and ocean kayaks.
In recent years, fishing from kayaks has become quite popular, and there is an entire community and industry around the activity.
To learn more, check out our overview of the different types of kayaks, including subcategories of whitewater and flatwater kayaks.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Stand-up paddleboarding is essentially paddling with a surfboard instead of sitting inside a boat. SUPs are generally longer, wider, and thicker than typical surfboards, as they need to support your weight when the board is standing still as well as when it’s moving. They are paddling using a long, single-bladed paddle.
Rafting
Rafting takes place on rivers or streams, and the most common type is whitewater rafting, done in specialized river rafts (usually inflatable). Rafting is popular around the world, and it’s easy to find outfitters that will help you get started no matter where you are. You can also fish or go white-water paddling while rafting down a river, which makes this sport even
Paddlesports FAQs
Is it easier to kayak or canoe?
It depends on the type of boat and the conditions. In general, it is easier to make a canoe go straight than a kayak because canoes are wider and take more people.
Are paddlesports good exercise?
Yes! Paddling is a full-body sport that uses the muscles in your arms, legs, and core to propel a boat forward.
Can you go kayaking or canoeing after eating?
Technically, yes. But it’s not a great idea because you would be sitting still for long periods of time and should digest first.
What is the difference between paddles and oars?
A paddle, which you hold with both hands and use to push water behind the boat. These are most often used with kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. An oar is mounted to the gunnel of a boat. Oars are typically used in pairs, with the rower seated in the middle of the boat facing backward and moving the oars in a circular motion, one in each hand. Some larger rafts, such as the kind used for Grand Canyon Trips, use oars.