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Intro: |
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| Wear shoes at all times in case you fall out. Old canvas shoes that lace, or non-leather sandals that fasten securely work best. Don't kneel or sit on your life jacket, because this will damage it and reduce its buoyancy. |
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Take a look at your canoe. You can tell which end is which by looking at the seats: the bow, or front, seat is near the middle, while the other seat, called the stern or rear seat, is closer to the back. This arrangement gives the paddlers ample leg room and helps keep the boat more stable.
Paddles. Each paddler uses a single paddle. Each paddle has a handle, which is gripped by one hand during the stroke, a long round shaft, which is grasped by the other hand, and a wide, flat blade, which is used to propel the boat through the water. If you like, you can carry coolers, fishing poles, or your pet rock in your canoe, but there are a few things you really need in addition to the boat and the paddles, so make these your next priority: Life jackets. The U.S. Coast Guard requires one class-3 personal flotation device (life jacket) for each person on board a canoe. According to the regulations, children, teenagers, and adults must wear life jackets specifically designed for them, so check the labels. Each country has its own standards--be sure to call the coastal authority in your country before you set off. Cushions. Knee pads and seat cushions are invaluable for comfort--just ask anyone who has spent a day in a canoe without them. If you don’t expect to paddle from the kneeling position, you may not need the knee pads, but it's a good idea to take some anyway for a change of pace when your body gets tired of sitting. The seat cushions should be waterproof and securely fastened to the seats. Rope. For tying up the boat, you'll need at least two 15-foot (4.5-meter) ropes. Bring more to lash down your other gear--canoes tend to tip.
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Understand the equipment
