School of river Paddling

What You Will Need

Bring camping equipment and meals for morning and evening in camp.

Midday meals are usually on the river. Bring water, food and snacks in durable, waterproof containers to carry in your boat. It is best to use small, lightweight lunch containers that store easily.

Locking carabiners to attach your belongings to your water craft.

Helmets

Helmets are required if your kayak has a skirt that holds you in the boat or your kayak or canoe has thigh straps.

Appropriate Clothing for the River

The weather in Arkansas is unpredictable, however, this time of year is very hot. UPF protective clothing is recommended. Kayak classes begin with wet exits; swims are common in all boat types and all classes. Your choice of clothing for the weekend is very important and should be appropriate to protect you from the weather and from sudden immersion.

"Layering" clothing is a concept that applies to all outdoor sports, and many paddlers use extra layers to increase their warmth and comfort. The layering system involves use of:

  1. A wicking layer: Used closest to the skin, materials like polypropylene, merino wool or silk transfer moisture from the skin to outer layers. Do not wear cotton fabrics, as cotton holds water and will chill and chafe you.

  2. An absorbing layer: This middle layers soaks up moisture near the skin and continues to move it away from the body to the outermost layer. Synthetic materials are most common.

  3. A protective layer. The outer layer protects against wind and water. This outer layer shell is laminated material like breathable-coated nylon or neoprene. Wetsuits and paddling jackets are recommended.

  4. Footwear is important also. Participants are required to wear closed-toe shoes. Neoprene booties or paddling shoes are recommended. Old sneakers might work, but open-toe sandals present several hazards and will not be allowed.

This also includes but not limited to: hydrate/electrolytes before, during and after, hat, sunscreen, lip sunscreen, sunglasses w/straps, insect repellent. Stay Shady, it will be HOT.

Many outdoor retailers have a good selection of appropriate river clothing and knowledgeable staff that personally use what they sell. Arkansas Canoe Club Business Members are fair, reliable and can be very helpful when selecting your attire for the river. Many also offer discounts to ACC members!