Sarah Holland
Northern News Services

NNSL (Jun 21/99) - Kayaking is one of summer's pleasures and the North offers an abundance of beautiful spots for paddling.

But kayaking gets a little technical when you are trying to prepare for a trip, whether it be for a few hours or a few days.

When choosing a kayak, consider the weight of the kayak, where you will be going with it, the weather conditions of your area, your own size, strength and paddling ability as well as the fit of the kayak. If you are in a kayak that doesn't fit you properly, it can be an uncomfortable and inefficient paddling experience.

Kayaks are manufactured in one of three materials -- fibreglass, polymer (a durable plastic) and composite, which can be a combination of fibreglass, Kevlar and graphite.

There are sea or river kayaks, with either single or double seating. Folding kayaks are usually more expensive, but they can be put into a duffel bag for easy transportation.

Overlander Sports in Yellowknife sells a new folding kayak called the K1 Expedition made by Feathercraft. It is approximately five metres long and comes in a backpack.

"The folding kayaks are great for people who travel a lot. You can take them on planes with you instead of having to charter an aircraft, and they easily fit into any home or apartment," says Sandra Stirling, one of the owners at Overlander Sports.

Sea kayaks are generally long and narrow and great for distance travelling. They usually have a rudder to enhance their manoeuvrability. They are the choice if you plan to kayak on a lake or waters where you will usually be paddling in a straight line.

River kayaks are shorter and wider and able to change direction quickly. They are manoeuvred through body motions and paddling. They would be the one to choose for shooting rapids or whitewater kayaking.

There are also kayaks built for children. There is a new kayak available -- the Umiak. It is small and short and therefore lightweight and easier to paddle. It is useful for children up to 12 or 13 years old, depending on their size.

Randy Miller, a kayaking enthusiast living in Rankin Inlet, describes his kayak as "a Feathercraft sea kayak with an aluminum frame, a rubber bottom and a synthetic canvas deck."

Miller also recommends some accessories to go along with your kayak. Some are for safety, others a matter of comfort.

Dry bags are waterproof and the top folds down and clips shut. They are great for storing gear in your kayak, because if you capsize or the boat leaks, your equipment stays dry.

A touring seat can be a great source of comfort when on long tours.

A paddle float is put onto your paddle so that if you overturn, you can use it for stability when getting back into your boat.

Although it may seem obvious, a spare paddle can be an important addition to your gear.

A lifejacket is, an obvious necessity. A drysuit can be useful in Northern waters. If conditions are rough, a drysuit is wise, since the waters are cold and a person's survival time is limited.

Choosing a kayak and accessories is a big decision and it is worth your while to do some investigating so you can make the most informed decision possible.

One important note: Transport Canada recently released a new rule stating that any small watercraft -- kayaks included -- must have at least a 15-metre throw rope.