Kayaking Mistakes That Can Kill You!

[@PaddleTV]

Check out my new KZbin channel! www.youtube.com/@KenWhitingAdventures is now the place to find all my paddling adventure videos, while PaddleTV will focus on Instruction and Gear Reviews.

[@johnelshaw3549]

Thanks Ken. When I rode a motorcycle on street and track the mantra was “Don’t dress for the ride, dress for the slide.” With kayaking, dress for the dip.

[@DraggonCanoe]

When I was young I thought the slide was the only purpose for the ride,,, lol.

[@97lynds21]

When I started kayaking about 12 years ago I came from a waterski background which included taking off my pfd when I was in the boat and not skiing. So, I did not wear my pfd when paddling in my kayak and resisted doing so - plus I am a strong swimmer. Had a few unexpected incidents in my kayak over the years including getting flipped into cold water (disorienting) and I quickly became a firm advocate for wearing a pfd at all times. Where I live locally, most deadly kayak and SUP accidents in freshwater lakes result from not wearing a pfd.

[@Rottingboards]

I like wearing a long sleeve shirt for UV protection and splash water on it to cool off. A bandanna folded up wet around the neck also protects against UV and really cools down the body. GREAT VIDEOS!!

[@nunzioification]

I do the same and now only my legs are permaburned lol might have to wear some tights under my shorts lol Arizonas rough for a genetic red head. But the hoodies are great even in 100+, keeping it wet like you said it’s quite refreshing

[@Rottingboards]

@@nunzioification I also take a very light towel with me. When I feel my legs getting burned I just wet the towel and lay it over my legs. My wife is English so she has taught me all of these fair skin ideas. LOL

[@nunzioification]

@@Rottingboards yeah I figured that one out after my legs turned medium rare lol

[@WillN2Go1]

Same here. Southern California always long sleeves, big hat, lots of sunblock. You can really cool off just getting your forearms wet. (When I travel or sail I always wear long pants and usually long sleeves.) I also wore a Farmer John wet suit 95% of the time. Dress for the water not the air. I also have terrible circulation in my hands and feet, so hypothermia sets in quick. And the reason to always be wearing your PFD is while USCG regs are that it only has to be within reach, drowning deaths are associated with not wearing a life jacket (even though they were on board) and alcohol. And for UV protection all that stuff about 'this shirt is SPF 50' is just hype. Unless a shirt is mesh or too think it's going to protect you. If you're not sure? Just put a bandaid on your arm under the shirt and see if you notice any color change at the end of the day. Sunblock is greasy and collects dust... so I always have wipes, diaper wipes, butt wipes, alcohol wipes for the end of the day. Buys you some time before you need to shower.

[@WillN2Go1]

@@nunzioification I'm in my 60s and dating. So many women have red rough wrinkled skin from too much time in the sun. It's just not worth it. Sun block cover up. Flash the bod in the bikini, but don't slowly barbecue. My skin? Northern European. Still mostly smooth. Sunblock and lotion. Bill Barr has a funny bit about this.

[@Rottingboards]

Thanks for talking about safety. ALSO: Alcohol and Rivers don't mix.

[@JonPaddles]

beer on the pier...river, lake or ocean. Leave the booze behind. Not just alcohol either, drugs impare you also.

[@Mike_B_724]

@@JonPaddles 💯

[@JasonMurdoch-uo7om]

Can’t tell you how many idiots my friends and I have saved who were drunk af.

[@The_Tradie_Trainer]

*Alcohol & water

[@jeroenschram3896]

Are we children ? Pfffff

[@Heywood.Jablome]

Yep. I almost drowned in Mexico on a placid little piece of lake. Got separated from my kayak and thought my swimming was strong. I was mistaken. Over the years, my endurance has hit dirt. I began to panic, feeling my strength fading. (They say "don't panic" lol. You are definitely gonna panic! I tried floating, rolling on my back to float... just kept getting pulled lower. I remember specifically thinking before I went under "this is why people drown! Exhaustion!". I yelled "help" to some girls sunning themselves on the shore but they didn't understand English and in my panic I forgot to speak spanish. Just as my head went under my toes touched the bottom and i was able to claw my way into shallow water. Lesson learned. PFD ALL THE TIME!

[@PaddleTV]

Yikes! Glad there was a happy ending, but that's scary!

[@ric2840]

Everyone understands "help". The girls just didnt want to rescue you.

[@Heywood.Jablome]

@@bradfjord 💯🤣

[@charlie-j4o7u]

Typical women ​@@ric2840

[@haggaisimon7748]

Weird. Who in Mexico and in this world being sufficiently young don’t understand help???

[@donalddumas6987]

Be mindful of soft bottoms (I don't mean the kayak, I mean lake, creek or river bottom), especially near shore when stepping or getting out of a boat, canoe or kayak. It can suck you down like quicksand. Cause you to lose your balance and be a victim of shallow water drowning. I've also learned to get in and out of a kayak when the whole length is parallel to the shore.

[@scheisstag]

Neither quicksand nor mud sucks you down. Its just a myth. Also quicksand, in the way its portrayed in the movies, does not really exist at all. Since the sand/mud is denser than water you float even better than in water. You should only avoid panicking and instead immerse yourself into the stuff: its the same like with water: if you try to swim with your mouth far out of the water and the head high, you will loose a lot of energy and eventually drown. If you keep your cool and roll onto your back with only your lips sticking out, the water starts carrying you. If you do not try to stand and fight the mud and instead you lay down with the upper body onto/into the mud it will carry you and finally give your limbs free. That said: there is one kind of quicksand that actually exists and is really dangerous: you will only find it in the far north and very, very seldom: in some parts of Scandinavia and Kamtschatka for example. And this are shallow, fast streaming and cold river with a sandy bottom with very tiny grains of sand. The sand is kind of floating in the strong current without being carried away. Once you step in to wade through, the current get interrupted by your feet, finds itself another path, and stops keeping the sand afloat. The sand sinks down in half a second and settles around your food. Even if the foot is in a rubber boot: you cant get your foot out of the boot any more. Like in dry concrete. Even so the same stuff felt like pure water without any resistance a second before. But of course you can dig yourself out. Still some people die because in water around zero degrees you dont have forever to do so because of the temperature. And if you are immersed to the hips you have to b daring enough to get your head wet to do so....

[@loiqueur]

most of times getting parallel is a waste of time, i often just pop my skirt, stick out my legs to the sides, cowboy style and get up when my feet can touch the ground

[@tranquility9325]

I understand what you are saying. I test the ground with my paddle before I get out. Once, I went to explore a small island. However, when I was close to the shoreline, I put my paddle in the sand, and it was thick like liquid concrete and me paddled got pulled into it. Super thick. I almost couldn't get my paddle out of it. Needless to say, that island wasn't going to get explored by me, lol.

[@cuttlefishpie3731]

Thanks Ken, I knew most of these but had not heard about shallow water drowning due to current. That was well worth the time viewing!

[@stphns1737]

The scariest day I ever had paddling was way up a canyon lake. I have done dozens of times. But one day the high winds were turbocharging through the canyon, and no matter how hard I was digging in, I was not making any forward progress. After that I always take a bag with an emergency shelter in case I need to just spend the night. Thank you for these awesome tips!

[@jocelynsertich2686]

This is so important. Between last Monday and Tuesday in my region 4 people drowned. None were paddlers, but the first rule here was not followed, none were wearing PFDs. Some tried to swim in rivers. One tried to use a jetski on a lake when he couldn't swim, without a PFD. (the other two, yes there were three non swimmers on a jetski without PFDs, were saved by some women on SUPs.) I am a strong swimmer but still always wear a PFD because an accident is an accident.

[@matematikniels]

Incredible that people who can't swim go on open water instead of taking swimming lessons in a pool

[@tranquility9325]

Mother nature is always stronger.

[@LetsGoPaddling]

A small add-on to #4 - when you don't have right paddling skills and techniques, don't be a show-off in bad weather for the sake of recording it and looking for attention. Thank you Ken for pointing out these dangers clearly and briefly. 👍

[@billh2294]

Great video! I would also add be aware of tides when boating in tidal waters, especially around inlets.

[@B-RollBooks]

Getting back into paddling after 15 years away from the hobby. Thank you for this perfect refresher course!

[@PaddleTV]

Very welcome!

[@Richard-bs8xe]

Thank you for the refresher on the dangers of paddling! Great video and great presentation!!!

[@johnnewman431]

Hi Ken As a fellow fresh water paddler something I wouldn't have thought until recently of and you missed. Is the danger of tidal currents. A peaceful body of water can end up with very high currents potentially out to sea as the tide changes. If going in the ocean make sure you get local knowledge about tidal currents.

[@PappaMike-vc1qv]

I capsized in water over my head with just a mild 1 foot swell. It was terrifying even though I had my PFD on and had practiced assisted rescue. Luckily it was a training session and after many attempts I was able to get back in the boat, however, it was a terrifying lesson that I will never forget. Please, Please, wear your PFD and never just strap it to the deck, you will never get it back on after a capsize.

[@PaddleTV]

What a valuable lesson! It's so true that doing rescues in rough conditions is VERY different than flat, calm water.

[@matematikniels]

​@@PaddleTVand that's why you should practice rescues in the conditions where you might need them

[@timothypawlaczyk8422]

Thanks!

[@PaddleTV]

You're very welcome! And thank you very much Timothy!

[@freepilot7732]

4:21 a fun way to re-enter. Capside your kayak, hold your breath go under water, position yourself upside down into the cockpit, then roll right side up. Fun.

[@NigelFoster1969]

Thanks very much. We've just started kayaking and really appreciate your advice. Hi from the UK

[@Rottingboards]

I would like to see a video on how to get a kayak and canoe off a log with high current. I have come across several people with this problem who needed assistance. They didn't understand the weight of water.

[@freepilot7732]

Amazing to find this video of you. I bought my first video of you teaching better kayaking. This was back in 2001. I've progressed. I'm interested in creating a kayaking class myself in my area (WA state.) Thanks for your help...

[@PaddleTV]

Ha! That's great! I'm guessing it's a VHS tape? Good luck with the class!

[@slighwentwalking2025]

I have learned so much from watching Paddle TV videos. How to paddle...Where to paddle... Where Not to paddle....learning how to choose the proper gear...and things to consider including weather....In Florida we must consider stormy weather that moves in quickly....and how to deal with wildlife...like alligators. We paddle all year long... During summer months boat traffic is a real issue. Kayaks and paddle boards are slow so make sure you can be seen.

[@outdoorsmom2000]

Been paddling recreationally for a while and never heard some of these tips, thanks for sharing, will check out that website too!

[@kaptainfriday]

Took my first swim and self rescue(sea kayak) in open water on Wednesday. My PFD was so valuable. It actually took me a few minutes of treading water while trying to configure my paddle float and pump out the cockpit to remember that I could just float. All your videos are great, Ken, this one is fantastic.

[@PaddleTV]

Great learning experience you just had having to do a self rescue! Thanks for the kind words!

[@RamanShift]

I too forget that I can just float. I think I float just slightly lower in the water than I do when treading water without a PFD, so my brain just tells me to kick a bit. Not a panic thing, just a learned habit I guess.

[@emilleum48]

Thank you, I am a beginner in fishing from my KAYAK, so these rules, that could lead to dangerous situations will be incredibly helpful, I have apatite Watercraft KAYAK, so, I am starting outwit the right KAYAK. I will definitely check-out your KAYAK safety links, thank you, MSG Leum

[@TomAmanda-c5v]

UGH, i walk across my river in 2-4 ft of swift moving current quite often... Never really considered catching my foot. Is there techniques for self rescue if the foot is only trapped by the angle and not due to a rock or log moving? My river is small rocks, mud, and sand. I don't typically go across until flooding has settled and water is clear enough to see all "new" obstacles. I did start wearing my PFD while just walking across but never considered that might not be enough. SPOOOOKY. thank you for the video.

[@AirOnTheWater]

Good video as always and very important information! These reminders save lives. Thanks for putting the information out there. Best wishes from Swedish paddle waters.

[@PaddleTV]

Cheers!

[@robertbloch1063]

Probably most important video on this channel. Thank you!

[@ThePoacher1969]

log jammed rivers in Scotland isnt a problem it:s usually shopping carts

[@FEVERDREAM889]

In the southern US, it's chickens. 🤣

[@Rottingboards]

In the midwest USA it's cows. 😄

[@johnnyonthespot6693]

😂

[@gingerglamerlas]

All very true, excellent video!!!

[@indietonne]

Awesome Video. Was paddling yesterday and happy to report that I really were thinking about most of your tips in advance :). I learned it a harder way than watch your video but still happy.

[@PaddleTV]

Glad it helped!

[@southeasternpaddlesports]

Great job! Thanks for taking the time to cover safety on the water!

[@kustar845]

Great video, bro! More videos like this! Every beginner should watch it. In the PFD section, I'd also suggest adding "wear a helmet." Take care!

[@russwild1953]

Foot entrapments/shallow water drownings are very dangerous, and very difficult to rescue. When floating on your back in current, keep your toes at the waters surface downstream from your body. You want to be able to see what's coming. When on your belly swimming normal, it's best to just cross your legs, or bend at the knees so your feet are completely out of the water. Swimming with legs in the river zaps your energy instantly, and river currents can suck your legs down. Let the PFD do it's job, and swim with the arms.

[@dg1019]

My fav cold water hot day piece of gear is a short sleeve paddle jacket. I have done several cold water swims in mine and it works great.

[@uwegebert4746]

Thank you, this was well explained and very helpful!

[@PaddleTV]

You're very welcome!

[@Quick-Silver206]

Newbie here. I have a fear of deep water so I'm still confused as to why I love paddling so much. But my local lake where I learned how to paddle, there's some sort or drainage thing in one corner. Don't know what it is but you can hear it a good ways out. I avoid that at all costs. I don't know what it is but the sound spooks me off and I don't plan on investigating.

[@christinestraczek6388]

This is the best safety video I've seen. I almost drowned in shallow water when I was a kid It was very scary. Thank you

[@PaddleTV]

Cheers!

[@tranquility9325]

Ken I've been watching you for years, you are amazing thank you!

[@PaddleTV]

That's for kind. Thanks for watching!

[@THE-RIVER-RAT]

More great information Ken. While I was watching I was ready to say a cotton shirt is great on super hot days if you wet it first. But then right at the end, you mentioned that. I had one arrow in my quiver and you pulled it out Haha

[@nunzioification]

I’ve got a 600 pound weight limit and always bring some gear and sometimes too much for an unexpected night out, strong wind is my concern, but at minimum I bring water filtration and purification because I’m just not drinking lake water, I bring emergency blankets and bivies, extra snacks and water, fire kit, and a hand gun because mt lions, and skunks are no joke of course dry clothes are a must in cold weather and even a wool blanket. I should have a garmin but I don’t. I honestly have a foolish fantasy of having to finally use my emergency kit lol

[@Dr_Footbrake]

Great that someone with such a big platform is putting out videos like this. Anyway my 2c; 1) It boggles my mind how many people I see on the water (paddle craft or otherwise) that aren’t wearing their PFD. Not going to do you much good if it’s floating down a river or with the waves 20m away from you. Also make sure it fits properly as an ill fitting one will end up around your eyes if you go in the water. 2) I’ve got a bit of a mental chart of water temp to layers. Normally “upgrade” if it’s windy to compensate for the Coolgardie effect. If I start to overhead a little bit I can always slow down, consume more water or even splash/wet myself. I’m also pretty lucky that the water temperature doesn’t fluctuate *heaps* throughout the year where I am compared to other places. 3) I’d add not having several forms of calling for aid (PLB, phone in case, VHF, flare/s etc etc) if you can’t swim or re-enter (as sometimes shit does just go sideways). 4) Nothing really to add! I’m just ultra conservative about when/where I paddle if there’s even any chance of a major storm as I’m a bit of a chicken 😂. 5) Typically paddle on lakes/oceans so not really relevant to me but sound advice regardless! Spotting blind corners would also be a good recommendation. 6) I feel the heat more than cold so this is a big one for me. Will always wear a long sleeve top/shirt and a legionnaire style cap even if the air temp is 40*C (run a spray skirt so legs are always covered anyway).

[@PaddleTV]

All great stuff! Thanks for sharing.

[@tonyoleary236]

I wear a dry suit kayak fishing for Cod here in Eastern Canada. I agree you should wear it when water temperatures are extremely cold. I was wondering what other kayakers do to stay cool in their dry suit. In my dry suit it’s unbearably hot in summer time while the water is unbearably cold. Both are very dangerous heat stroke or hypothermia. Any suggestions please I am geared up to go cod fishing.

[@PaddleTV]

You're describing the toughest scenario to dress for... You have to dress in a way that you can survive an unexpected, extended swim... but you don't want to overheat the rest of the time. I don't use a drysuit in the summer, unless the water is glacial fed (freezing), because I overheat in them. I use neoprene instead - like the NRS Hydroskin. in4adventure.com/uby7

[@stevesutherland6232]

Absolutely great information..thanks for posting

[@carolemartin6892]

Great tips! Thanks I tried to do the online safety info, ON my phone but it wouldn't work. Logged out in frustration. 😮

[@normascott3613]

Great video and had never heard about log jam dangers on rivers, even slwer rivers. We hit them last and this year on lake that is actually damed steep canyon stream. It was difficult last year to push logs and stumps out of way, this year blocked us until rec kayak shived a way thru for us ..but still caught some sideways and started going over. High country stream was cold, but we dressed for hot day.

[@georgewilliamssr5230]

Having been involved in numerous rescues. It’s so frustrating that what you’re talking about is even an issue. But there it is. Along with the resistance of many people to accept advice. Unfortunately, you can’t fix stupid.

[@anninwhack1998]

Such important information. Thanks for the video!

[@samljer]

100% the first thing someone should do, is. take the "Transport Canada Certified" Paddle course or take the "ACA/Coast Guard American" Paddle craft course Theyre both free, and either will probably save your life at some time in the future. Pick one.

[@BigDaddy-je2nq]

The standing in current part is a really important point, some places have a current that just looks flat stationary water but it’s actually moving with a lot of momentum over a smooth ridge with 0 interference like water coming from a hose

[@joemaniscalco780]

Fantastic video. Thanks Ken!

[@mikeemmons4062]

Great video Ken. I see so many paddlers out there with no PFD and not wearing a dry suit, or even a wet suit in cold water.

[@rooftopcat1785]

Thank-you for this informative video, ok, now trying to avoid water ways that have lots of wind, is a tough one, most water ways are avenues.for winds to follow easy, that wind pivots off the mountains, and changes fast, especially with these static freak storms we all have been experiencing. This was a good class, ill know what to look for and avoid danger. TU

[@shanewhite2518]

I live on the BC coast and watch a few outdoorsy KZbin channels from this area. It amazes me the amount of people who post videos of their outdoor water-based trips showing them not wearing a PFD. 99% of the time comments on those videos are regarding the beauty of this area and not questioning the lack of a PFD. It drives me nuts. Wearing one is so easy.

[@tranquility9325]

I agree

[@henrygerwien186]

Good advice. I paddle white water in the Alps. In summer outside it.s up to 35° and amore, the glacial water about 10°. To have a swim without pdf means to sink like a stone, the icecold water avoids one to breath and you'r done in a few minutes - I experienced it (even WITH pdf in class V ww... I saw pictures of my 2 yo daughter under water, until Maradonas "gods hand" saved me!!! Never ever go out without a PDF!!! I always have a second one in my car!

[@smini9812]

I agree 100%. I live close to you in the PNW and I am blown away at how many people don’t wear PFD’s and don’t dress appropriately. The water here is 40F or lower year round.

[@kevinshackleton5295]

EXCELLENT advise. Well done.

[@nvskorpio]

I'm new to kayaking .. if you're in current rough windy water why not just put a rod tether or sumthin around the leg so if you go swimming your kayak is always within reach ?

[@prophecy66]

Entanglement hazard. If you're tethered and flip over you could get entangled, especially if disoriented. Definitely a good idea to keep hold of your paddle and kayak if you get dunked, but I'd advise against tethers.

[@big1dog23]

I'm 6'5" so I stayed with IK's and rafts. All the manufacturers say they have kayaks that "fit" people my size, but I never found one that I could comfortably get into, let alone get out of in a dangerous/emergency situation. For every world class whitewater kayaker who is over 5"8" or so, and I'll show you an NBA all star who is less than 6." It's fine with me, and I love watching Dane Jackson videos, but he and his best mates,, Bren Orton. one of whom drowned recently, I would guess average around 5'5" . Big people and extreme kayaking do not mix.

[@earthjustice01]

I'm 6'8" and the seafarer by nimbus fits me well and is a fantastic kayak for ocean kayaking. Now that I am over seventy I too am having trouble getting in and out of the kayak. The best advice is to learn how to roll, so if you do capsize you can roll up without having to get out of the kayak. Also before you learn to roll, learn how to do a wet exit, which is slipping out of the kayak while it is turned upside down. And do your learning with a qualified instructor, or at the least, another experienced paddler.

[@davejohn5876]

What concerns me a lot is some of these folks who post there kayak river camping trips here on KZbin. They are usually in overloaded sit on top kayaks and it seems like they are never wearing a PFD. Just sets a bad example for someone just getting into kayaking.

[@tranquility9325]

I agree. I don't watch channels in which they won't wear a pfd.

[@BostonHarborLight]

I paddle kayaks in coastal tidal rivers which have fast-moving waters twice a day with the tide changes. A couple of years ago I invested in a "Spare Air" compressed air cylinder that I keep clipped to the side of my kayaking PFD (which is always on from before I get in to after I get out). This is the same family of products that are used to provide emergency air to divers. The model I carry provides up to 100 breaths which could come handy if I got hung-up during a wet exit if my kayak got rolled unexpectedly. I decided it was better to pay for this part of my "insurance" policy up-front.

[@dianadom4742]

Excellent Reminders So Thank You❗️👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@phyllisdinsmore6704]

We recently had a drowning in a local river because the experienced kayaker had a different kayak (Hobie with the pedal drive) he had issues with it and fell out, getting sucked into the paddlewheel of a ferry. Could you please do one of these about kayaking in lakes, especially with motor boats? Thank you for all these videos, I learn at least 1 new thing every time

[@chrismcduffie4888]

Another great video, Ken!

[@andrewvautour1795]

I have been canoeing for years and only recently picked up kayaking. I am an older paddler so my knees don't allow me to sit in a canoe comfortable anymore so kayaking is the way to go for me now. I am still very much a beginner in a kayak but I thought I knew my way around a river having been in a canoe since I was a kid. While I have been lucky and have not taken that many dumps in a river, it would seem that I have also been ignorant of what a strong current can do. Maybe I did it naturally without thinking but I have never just stood up in a strong current even though I could have but it's not because I thought of getting my foot suck and going under. It was just because, for me, it seemed like the right way to get to the shore, swim with my canoe in tow. But honestly, I don't think I ever thought of drowning in shallow water but now that I know about the risks, I feel more prepared. Just goes to show that you can teach an old dog new tricks! Thanks Ken, love your reviews and other videos!

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks Andrew! Glad this was helpful. I agree too... this old dog continues to learn all the time. That's one of the things I'm loving about trying so many different types of boats.

[@PilatesWithPaula]

I am a total novice and I have a question about PFD use. On Pawleys Island in South Carolina the tidal creek is a popular place to paddle or float on inner tubes. It is not over your head even at high tide. I have floated it on a cheesy inner tube at mid tide. Please help me make a case for my family for wearing a PFD when kayaking or Sup use on the creek. I'm a horse trainer and I always wear a helmet when riding so I agree with being prepared for the unlikely need for these types of protection. People on the creek seldom if ever wear a PFD. Thanks in advance for any insight or advice.

[@bludclone]

is the PFD for people who can't swim or?

[@PaddleTV]

Nope. It's for anyone.

[@surrelljr]

Covered the most important one right off, the PFD! I won’t go out with anyone who doesn’t. I want to have fun, not watch people drown or get involved in a body recovery.

[@scheisstag]

2:10 Swimming becomes easier, if you squat down ahead of the swim on land and lift your dry suit a little bit off the neck to release the air from the suit.

[@magnushultqvist]

in sea kayaking a lot of people don't understand the weight of a wave and that the fore of a wave increase vastly when it gets bigger.

[@sn00pgreen]

the only problem I have with a pfd is I find it much easier to right my viking kayak and get back on without the pfd on as it get's in the way..practice I guess

[@goodgrief888]

Good points. Just one question - when did life jacket become PFDand why? They have the same amount of syllables, but one is way more descriptive and easier to remember. I have to try to figure out what people are talking about whenever they say PFD and that it’s a life jacket and not a way to turn a document into a photo file. Are people in general just more prone to jargon, therefore we can’t just say life jacket anymore?

[@PaddleTV]

Ha! Good question! Life jackets refer to flotation devices that are designed to keep people alive by floating them, whether they're conscious or not. To do this, they have a big hunk of flotation behind the head (a big collar), and the majority of the other flotation is in the front of the body. This has the effect of floating people in a backward leaning position, facing skyward. These are great when you don't need to swim, because you're too far from shore to swim or because you can't swim. On the flipside, they're terrible for actually swimming or... paddling. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are designed to be swimming aids, that allow the user to be active. Because of the different distribution of the flotation, they don't float people face up and out of the water, and so unconscious swimmers will still drown.

[@goodgrief888]

@@PaddleTV oh cool, glad I asked, because I thought they were the same thing. Now I know there’s an actual reason for the “change” in verbiage. Also glad to know that the PFD I bought for kayaking will allow me to swim, since I’m mostly kayaking in still lakes and not rivers, so if my boat tips me over I’ll be able to swim kind of a long way. I really appreciate your reply! Also good to know if I decide to bring someone who’s not a good swimmer, they will probably want to wear a life jacket.

[@hoangvu220]

Ken, thanks for this vid. As always, great tips. I especially enjoy your humor! I want to get into kayaking but don't swim. Is wearing a PFD enough to let me do it in calm waters, i.e. not flowing?

[@PaddleTV]

I would say yes, although you'll always want to paddle with someone who can tow you to shore if you end up swimming.

[@BoomVang]

PFDs are recognized by law as problematic and not required in big surf (paddle)board activities, where you need to duck under oncoming van sized dumping or curling waves without being buoyed out of your craft. There is a compromise by using a co2 inflatable vest that doesn't automatically inflate when wet. I will use this in future on my sitdown-paddleboard-kayak or sit-on-top one but I have little patience with repacking it to dry or replacing cartridges by expiration dates. Ducking surface wave carnage lets you avoid being dragged to shore; I hold my paddle fore and aft like a jouster to prevent wrenching away underwater.

[@SyncViews]

As I understand it in that situation the craft should have a tether, so the board itself is there to grab on to as a buoyancy aid (while a canoe/kayak will easily have floated out of reach)?

[@teresaponziani161]

The US Coast Guard also offers boater safety booklets, courses, etc.

[@mcake1234]

Good advice mate.

[@RogerHammond]

PFDs for if you expect to float even when you don't have something to float on. But if you want to paddle to where you want to dive...

[@djordjeeric9262]

Thank you sir!

[@MadMuskyGirl]

Awesome tips! As an outfitter I totally agree and will share this safety video on my site. Stay safe everyone! Stacy MAD MUSKY WATER SPORTS McMinnville TN

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks Stacy!

[@markweatherall7437]

What do you think of inflatable PDFs mate? Ive seen a good hi viz one on eBay with inflation tube on the chest?

[@PaddleTV]

Not a bad option at all! It depends on the type of paddling. If you're doing whitewater paddling or rough water paddling, they're not a good option, because when you need it, you typically have enough to deal with already. For flatwater paddling, if you're a good swimmer, they're great because they're much cooler than a typical PFD.

[@markweatherall7437]

@PaddleTV Thanks for your reply. Yes just a casual flat water paddler with the occasional calm wear to contend with so nothing to serious. Yes your correct, I always get very warm when paddling so want something cooler but still have bit of protection, yes I'm a good swimmer.

[@PhillipMikeHunt]

I don't trust anything on ebay. It's probably not a genuine product. Especially not safety gear. I'll spend the extra money and support local business.

[@markweatherall7437]

@PhillipMikeHunt Reliable local businesses sell a lot of items on eBay. I do trust eBay because we are covered by their money back guarantee. I've been buying off eBay since 2005 without any issues whatsoever. My question wasn't about eBay but about an inflatable PDF. Happy Kayaking 😊

[@markweatherall7437]

@PhillipMikeHunt My question was about 3/4 weeks ago and the inflation pdf arrived, tried and tested and great value.

[@1st-of-time67]

Thx for SHARE ❤

[@jcdynamics2241]

It's been close to 25 years since my first week of lessons at liquid skill. Was that Chad making an appearance in the boat re-entry segment.?

[@PaddleTV]

Ha! That's awesome! No, it wasn't Chad, but it does look like him, doesn't it?

[@PappaMike-vc1qv]

Self rescue and assisted rescue are very hard to do and should only be the last choice. Paddling within reach of shore and always wearing your PFD is a far better plan.

[@garysapper8716]

Strongly disagree! If you learn and practice self-rescue, it is foolish to abandon your kayak. If the paddler is not physically able to learn or practice self-rescue, they should NEVER paddle alone. Of course, I'm speaking about flat water (lakes and ocean), not rivers.

[@matematikniels]

​@@garysapper8716Agree. And yes, it may be hard, especially in waves. That's why you should practice. Several times a year. First in calm water, moving on to more tough conditions. Always with a buddy or two.

[@SyncViews]

​@@garysapper8716 I would generally recommend against paddling alone anyway, so much can cause a self rescue or swimming to shore to fail even if they would usually be capable of it.

[@tydengr]

PFD even more important than the seatbelt+ Wet suite+ attach self to kayak (with dog leash) when need

[@iviewthetube]

Temperature management on the water can be challenging. What are your thoughts about the 120 rule? If the water temperature plus the air temperature is less than 120°F, then wear an immersion suit. For Centigrade use 32°C.

[@prophecy66]

Bad rule. If it's 22c here and the water temp is 10c, which is basically every spring here. You're going to get hypothermia real quick. I've seen someone on the verge of hypothermia mid August here, water is around 20-22c, they took an unexpected swim in cotton and were fine at first but as the sun went down they were starting to get real cold even though the air temp was still above 20c. I'd be worried about cold water gear up to about 20c. Air temps don't really matter very much, water affects your body temperature about 4 times more quickly.

[@iviewthetube]

@@prophecy66 Can you think of a formula which would work? If the Sun is out, that does give a lot of wiggle room. You can always bask in the Sun if you get wet, even if the water is cold. No Sun does mean less options.

[@prophecy66]

@@iviewthetube water temp < 20c = wear immersion gear. It can make those really hot days a challenge when the water is still cold of course. In that case Id suggest rolling to keep your body temp regulated while wearing immersion gear. Otherwise wait it out until the water temp doesn't require immersion gear. You can probably get away with a degree or so below 20, but it highly depends on your own body. So I think a safer rule is immersion gear below 20C water temp.

[@iviewthetube]

@@prophecy66 Everyone is different. I frequently see people swimming in the Puget Sound when the temperature of the water is 9°C. Hypothermia is just as much of a threat as hyperthermia. My performance in a drysuit at 32°C and above is almost zilch and I am not going to keep doing rolls to keep cool because I am carrying equipment like GPS and Marine VHF. Although they claim to be waterproof, salt water will get to just about everything. When it is sunny at 32°C, I will consider how close I am to shore and how smooth the water is. No matter what, there is always some risk.

[@prophecy66]

@@iviewthetube like I said it's highly dependent on your body. I personally wouldn't wear a dry suit at 32c myself either. Luckily by the time it gets to those temps here the water is generally around 20c so I'm in shorts and a UV shirt.

[@donalddumas6987]

Is there a Canadian version of the American paddling course?

[@johnnewman431]

Paddle Canada has courses for all levels canoeing kayaking and paddleboards.

[@donalddumas6987]

@@johnnewman431 Awesome, thanks!

[@kdogg7882]

Most of these are extremely obvious but you wouldn’t believe how many people I see without life jackets on big lakes, especially paddle boarders.

[@bryancline8893]

I often don't wear my pfd on lakes, but always keep it on hand. Mostly because I have an inflatable and like to swim off of it.

[@davidlisowski4179]

Other hazards that I learned the hard way. I do not go in the ocean, but Barnegat Bay I do. My first trip I was out at the inlet at low tide on a paddle kayak (Wilderness Ride 135), where it becomes a magical place with sand bars and new islands. Then you notice the channel markers are being pressed down and almost submerged by the flow of water to the ocean (in this case Loveladies channel). I should have just waited a few hours for the tide turning. Instead I fought it at a standstill, but I had sand anchors so when I got tired I dropped it and caught a few fluke, but it was brutal. I now have a Hobie so I can use my leg power but still the current is tough. I also fish the Hudson. Striper season in cold water with drysuit. All is calm as you leave the tributary after catching river herring as bait. You arrive at the Hudson and the wind is blowing straight down and its almost gale. Droping anchor in deep water with a kayak I knew the parameters but being blown around I lost my last anchor and had to cut it loose. I continued fishing and had people cursing me for getting blow close to land where they were fishing. Could not stay in position.

[@TM-dk7vs]

sounds like it could have been a lot worse than getting cursed at. How did you do getting back?

[@qaannat]

Great talk!

[@isaacashley164]

Also tying ropes in between kayaks (killed a young boy in WV). Sad.

[@Thomas-h4n5h]

Thanks Ken!

[@TimBee100]

How about not tying your kayak up when you go to get a drone shot of the surrounding area?

[@PaddleTV]

Ha! Good point...

[@tranquility9325]

Lol

[@vickyking3408]

PFD also has pockets which is great too

[@benbradley5923]

THANKS!!!

[@tranquility9325]

I also want to add, not paddling correctly. When paddling, you need to engage your torso when you go from side to side. It doesn't have to be dramatic, but the torso gives you the strength and stamina to forge ahead and helps reserve energy for an emergency. Using just the arms, will use up more energy that you might need in case of a situation on the water.

[@pauljoslyn154]

Wise words indeed

[@EmpireOfNerds]

Which NRS PFD model is that ?

[@Kayaking_to_escape_family]

Looks like an old ninja or vector

[@gondwanalon]

Thanks. You didn’t mention wearing a leash. If you flip in a river or a body of water where there’s a moderate amount of wind your kayak or canoe quickly get away from you. And you will not be able to swim fast enough to catch your boat. Especially while holding your paddle and wearing a bulky PFD. I know of a local world class canoe paddling who died of hypothermia because he flipped and his canoe got away from him (he never wore a leash). I never paddle without a PFD and a leash and a cell phone. Safety first!

[@TM-dk7vs]

Unfortunately a leash may also contribute to drowning by pulling you under if it catches on something. Sounds like a good idea, but maybe not, especially in fast moving water

[@gondwanalon]

@@TM-dk7vs That’s a very unlikely possibility especially since the leash can easily be removed (Velcro or a spring clip). A fun paddle can quickly turn into a struggle for life if separated from your canoe or kayak. I know of 2 paddlers how died because they didn’t wear a leash. A leash is a lifesaving device and don’t you forget it.

[@huntermaxwell6406]

You forgot to mention tucking the spray skirt handle underneath so you can't reach it. That shit gives me the heeby jeeby and I like to obsessively check and recheck the handle is sticking out.

[@PaddleTV]

Ha! You only make that mistake once!

[@woodstocknun]

what about sharks, ive heard big fish thinks those boats are like giants squids or something.

[@ichbinwiederda100]

I worked in Sea rescue, and this personal flotation aid is not really helpful when you fall down somewhere. Because they can slip up and hinder you from breathing. I would wear one for padeling in water < 15°C but above this thing is more of a hindering object to movement than it helps. I would recommend a helmet. For sailing sportive always necessary to have a proper lifewest with a string between your legs.

[@TomG1555]

It's amazing the number of people you'll run into on social media who are adamant that they don't need a PFD - they're 'always in safe conditions and never had a problem, so why do people overreact' and say they need one? They're immune to persuasion...which is why there'll always be people drowning, b/c there's always going to be people out there who are convinced they know better than all of the best advice. As I said to one, I'm not the one to argue with - its the water you need to convince that you don't need a PFD.