Kayaking is one of the most popular water sports in recent times. Not only does it improve your overall health, but it can also take you to places you can’t reach on land. There are many places to explore around the world, including kayaking on the Colorado River.
The first kayaks were rudimentary structures built about 5000 years ago by the Inuit and Aleut people to move quickly on water. Located in Arctic North America, these tribes built kayaks from any material they could find, including animal skins, bones, and wood.
MAIN TYPES OF KAYAKS
There were usually two main types of kayaks. The first was made of driftwood. The second was built from whalebone. Both types were covered with animal skins and coated with whale oil to make them waterproof. Seal bladders were often filled with air and attached to certain parts of the boat to make it more buoyant. Although these kayaks were extremely lightweight and easy to transport, they were not very durable.
SIZE COMPARISON
Similar to the kayaks you are familiar with today, ancient models were made in different lengths. For example, large open boats called umiaqs measured 60 feet or more. These long vessels could carry entire families along with their belongings. Hunters used small canoes to sneak up on animals in the water. These boats were maneuverable, lightweight, and easy to operate, similar to modern ships.
FIRST USED FOR SPORTS
In the mid-1800s, kayaks were introduced in Europe as a padded vessel for sailing on cold waters. The Germans and French were the first to use boats for recreation, while tribes at the North and South Poles still used boats for exploration.
OLYMPIC GAMES
In 1936, kayak racing was added as an event to the Berlin Games. Subsequently, kayakers developed a much lighter and more resilient boat, and in the 50s kayaks were made of fiberglass.
KAYAKING TODAY
Modern kayaks are made of durable polyethylene, which can last from 10 to 15 years if properly maintained. They are available in a variety of colors, styles, and lengths to choose from. Tandem kayaks are ideal for sharing with friends and are also harder to tip over and easier to control.
Kayaking on the Colorado River is a good place to test the water. By booking a trip, you can experience the excitement of the sport in a safe environment and make great memories.