TrainingFAQ

Q. I have some [ocean kayak, canoe, whitewater canoe, etc.] experience. Is the Beginner course for me?

A. Yes. There are similarities, but you'll find the boat tracks very differently in the water, the roll feels different, and 'edges' on the kayak are difficult to master. There are also paddle strokes that are very specific to whitewater kayaking.

Q. When will the next beginner course start?

A. Beginner pool courses normally start late in the fall, and run through the winter. If you don't see one posted on the Training Page, or anything announced on the VKC forum, please be patient. We're all volunteers, and we have to arrange a pool rental.

Q. How do I sign up for the course?

A. Once a course has been announced, email training@vankayak.org with your details and the start date of the course you want to take. Include your height and waist size to be sure we have gear that fits. You'll have to pay by paypal to register and we'll send you those details.

Q. Who else teaches whitewater kayaking?

A. Check the VKC links page under 'Schools'. We have no commercial interest in these schools.

Q. What gear is required for the Beginner course?

A. We provide everything you need (Paddle, spraydeck, boat). Just bring what you would normally wear in the pool. Noseplugs are optional, but useful and available at all local outfitters listed on the VKC links page. If you have access to a boat or some gear, please do bring it.

Q. What gear is required for on-river training?

A. You are responsible for all your own gear. This includes boat (with floatbags), paddle, spraydeck, helmet, pdf, thermal clothing (wool/fleece recommended), wetsuit/drysuit/drytop, footwear, gloves/pogies.

Q. Can I borrow/rent some gear to get on the river training sessions?

A. The best thing to do is post up on the VKC forum, under the activity you want to go to. If someone has extra gear and can bring it, they will post here. Otherwise check our VKC links page for local outfitters.

Q. Are sea kayaks, touring kayaks or open canoes allowed in the pool?

A. No. Sorry. This is for closed deck whitewater boats. There are other clubs for other sports, and we get busy as it is. But please do come and try out our sport, we'd love you to give it a try!

Q. Are there boats and/or other gear available to borrow at the pool?

A. If you're in a class we'll make the effort to find a boat and gear for you. Otherwise you can show up and you might get lucky, or you can post on the VKC forum to request that someone bring an extra (the Training board is a good spot to do so).