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As summer slowly gives way to autumn and winter temperatures start to drop and weather becomes less favourable to float missions with your sit on kayak. Perhaps you’re contemplating sitting out the off season and waiting for spring next year. Alternatively you may be looking to carry on with your paddling but not sure how to go about it.

In most cases there are ways to keep the kayak juices flowing and getting out there amongst it. Here are a few tips to help you achieve successful and fulfilling kayaking over the following months.

Pick your days

This one may seem obvious but when it’s bucketing down outside, mercury levels are in single digits and storm force 36 million winds are buffeting your local put in it’s probably not the best time to head out for a scoop.

As is the norm I winter we can get prolonged periods of uninspiring weather yet we can also get days of idyllic bliss, perfect for paddling. Keep an eye on those forecasts and at some point yoru window of opportunity will open.

Wear correct clothing

An obvious point but being cold isn’t exactly the best for off season sit on kayak sojourns. Added to which cooling body temperatures can also be a hazard and lead to complications resulting in the call out of emergency services.

You’ll find some suggestions of winter paddling apparel in this article – Winter paddling accessories – cold weather apparel

Wetsuits are better than ever and perfect for immiscible paddling scenarios – such as surfing. Drysuits meanwhile are probably a better bet if you don’t plan on taking a dunking. Getting correct base layering sorted is also a must otherwise you may still end up chill.

Step up your performance

Winter offers a whole host of more challenging conditions and as such is the perfect time to up your performance and test your mettle – within reason. Surfing is the obvious choice for proving grounds as there’s no greater skill meter than improving your skills in waves. It’s also the time of year when you’re more likely to get consistent conditions at a variety of beaches. We’re not suggesting you should chuck yourself head long into the meatiest juice you can find – small swells can actually be good fun in a kayak. Know your limitations and build up confidence gradually.

You’ll find some good tips and info about kayak surfing here – Sit on top surfing – the evolution of paddling in waves

Another possible area for increasing performance is in the downwind paddling department. This is a little explored part of sit on kayaking, yet could be the perfect solution for windy periods. Essentially paddlers chase down rolling swell, with breeze on their backs, and aim to ride the lumps as you would a conventional wave. Ultimately you’re drift surfing along the coast so need logistics in place to make sure your put in point can be navigated back to easily – usually in the form of transport at the take out.

Have a look at this article for more info on DW paddling – Puffing along – downwinding for sit on top kayakers

Try something new

If you’ve spent the summer piloting your standard ride, and find sameyness setting in then don’t be afraid of using the darker months to try some new equipment. Retailers and brands still have demo gear available and chances are you won’t be waiting around for your turn.

It doesn’t just have to be boats either. All forms of sit on kayaking kit is good for testing so why not find yourself a new paddle or boat in readiness for 2018? Our other watercraft section has some suggestion you may find appealing – Category: Other watercraft

Don’t despair

The biggest tip we can give for winter kayaking, even when the dreariest weather sets in, is don’t despair. You may be holed up for periods, sitting out adverse weather, but when stars align and it comes good Mother Nature will be forgiven.

If you really can’t bear it then consider a winter getaway to somewhere warm and tropical. Sitons has a few suggestions of places to travel for paddling adventures but as a start check out –

Grenada, Caribbean, West Indies & Maui, Hawaii

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For many the start of April 2017 has been a goody weather wise. There’s been sun aplenty and oodles of opportunity to get out for a scoop. As Easter Bank Holiday weekend approaches if you haven’t yet dusted down your gear, following winter hibernation, then now’s the time to do.

But before heading onto the water it’d be worth giving everything a once over and making sure yoru kit is in good working order. Here’s the Sitons new season check list.

Boat

Check for any cracks or holes in the boat’s hull. You may have to get up close and personal as they’re not always immediately obvious. If spot fractures then get it repaired ASAP.

Bungs can fail over time, or at least the seal. Best to replace if they’re showing age and avoid your SOT sinking – or at the least filling with unnecessary amounts of water.

Give your hatches a once over. Lids may not be as secure as they once were so good make sure these are nice and tight – especially if you’re considering carting essentials along during soirees.

Replace frayed and tattered bungee cord in fore and aft tank wells. Same with paddle keepers. You’ll kick yourself if your ‘engine’ decides to go walkies following bungee malfunction.

Note any wear and tear with D-rings and other fixture/fitting points. It’s unusual but replace if looking likely to fail. Also remove any grub/salt corrosion.

If your kayak seat is looking less than up to the job it may be time for a replacement. Don’t scrimp on this as comfort isn’t overated.

Paddle

Scrutinise your paddle’s shaft and blade closely – especially the shaft. Hairline fractures may be hard to spot but if you do then great. Better that than having a paddle snap while out for float.

For those owning paddles with moving parts (adjustable feather/length) ensure all grime and muck is removed.

If you’re still paddling with a cheap alloy type then consider 2017 the year to upgrade. We’ve banged on about paddles and how they’re the most important part of your set up for ages –  it’s still true!

Wetsuit/drysuit

Give your wetty and/or drysuit a thorough inspection. Check for holes, nicks and seal/stitching failure. If your wearables are looking sorry then it could be time to replace.

The same for booties/gloves and all other garments – base layers for instance.

Buoyancy aid/PFD

Your floatation aid is extremely important so pay it due attention. Many paddlers keep hold of the same BA/PFD for years, when in actual fact they could’ve used an upgrade.

If you’re considering hitting spots designed with upping your level in mind then make sure you’re wearing the right float coat for the job in hand. All BA’s/PFD’s have ratings and describe what environments they’re good for.

Other bits

If you use a VHF then it’d be worth checking it’s in good working order and your license is current and up to date.

Anyone carrying additional safety equipment, such as flares, should inspect to ensure good working order.

Helmets need integrity to be fit for purpose. Checking and swapping for something new if cracked is best practice.

Drybags, that have had tons of use, need to be given attention. There’s nothing worse than having your dry gear sopping upon arrival at your destination. Maybe replace if showing wear and tear.

The above are just a few points of what you should be looking at before embarking on another season of paddling. It may take a bit of effort to sort out but trust us when we say it’ll be worth it in the long run. Feel free to let us know what checks you undertake prior to going afloat.

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It doesn’t matter if you kayak inland on rivers, lakes or at the coast in open water, weather affects what you do. This may sound obvious but Mother Nature’s moods will impact each session – for better or worse.

There’s never been as much weather data available as there is today. All you need to do is hit up the interwebs, search for weather forecasts (and associated content) and you’ll be presented with a myriad of info. Some of this is super in depth and not needed while in other instances data gives indications of general conditions and a few extra facts for good measure. Knowing how to apply this knowledge to your local put in is a good idea…

Local effects

Each put in has its own specific set of weather influenced effects. The surrounding topography, how shorelines are aligned, proximity of other land mases and elevation all play their part.

Here at Sitons HQ we’re nestled at the foot of the South Downs (more or less) with the Solent and Isle of Wight to the west. Just a short hop across the Channel you’ll hit French soil while to the east the land drops away as you pass Selsey Bill.

Hayling’s proximity to the Isle of Wight does ensure we get a degree of shelter from certain weather phenomenon. Atlantic driven fronts, for instance, can unload before reaching us. Clouds then tend to bunch up as they hit the Downs. This means we’re gifted a small window – it’s not unusual to have rain sluicing down around us while Hayling basks in brighter glows.

That said the Isle of Wight can also slingshot other weather types full power at us. Think swell. In terms of waves we do better than you’d think for solid groundswell – especially during autumn, winter and spring. With the right wave angle, and combo of tide/wind, it’s possible to find much bigger (rideable) waves at Sitons HQ than you’ll get at surrounding spots. Likewise you may end up getting skunked time and again slowly adopting the belief there’s nothing happening.

Another common local factor is wind, or more precisely an abundance of it during summer. The south coast is breezy at the best of times, but when warmer temperatures hit this can increase due to theramal effects. Not familiar? See explanation below.

Rain, rain, rain

If you’re heading somewhere elevated cloud formations will hug protruding land masses and can become dense. They can shed their watery cargo, even when forecasts suggest skies will be clear – which may be the case where terra firma is lower lying.

A good example of this is the Lake District. Hillsides, fells and mountains can cause all kinds of weird weather patterns to occur. Gulley’s, valley’s and scars carved out of slopes create funnels for wind, rain, snow and all manner of phenomenon to be squeezed through. It’s not uncommon to have fairly benign conditions in one area only to be confronted with significant change when heading into a new space.

Micro-climates can also play there part. To use Sitons’ local as an example again, it’s not uncommon to have soggy conditions passing to the north while at the seafront we’re bathed in sunshine. For a variety of factors our weather is generally drier than other spots in the area.

Venturi effect

Winds play a big part in our local put in’s make up. The Solent (and to a lesser extent the close proximity of France) can funnel SW to NW winds. This ‘squeeze’ is commonly referred to as the Venturi Effect. It can often catch paddlers out…

Spotting a seemingly light wind day kayakers hit the beach only to find a moderate to stiff breeze puffing causing all sorts froth and flotsam to form in open water. (Tidal flows also get squeezed between land masses – another natural occurrence any open water paddler should be aware of).

Sea breeze

Open water kayakers should also be wary of summer sea breezes. This is a regular occurrence at Sitons’ put in. During early summer (May-June ish) day time thermometer readings rise significantly compared to cooler overnight levels. As a result the land warms up quickly.

Hot air, as we’re taught in school, rises and to fill the void cooler air rushes in from the sea causing a breeze to set up. If there’s a gradient wind in the mix then sea breezes can add to this. A once glassy calm morning can suddenly switch to a strong wind around early afternoon – only dissipating as the sun sets.

Tides

Tides, as with all these headings, commands its own article. And while not necessarily a weather anomaly they can certainly influence things. For instance with a stiff breeze blowing in the same direction current is flowing you’ll be surprised how quickly you move. In some case this can be a good thing. Time it right and your journey from A to B will be as efficient as possible. Get it wrong, however, and things may go awry (think trying to get back to your launch as you steadily get dragged further away).

Thermometer readings

And let’s not forget those all-important warmth levels. While air temperatures may be well into double digits at sea level, scaling heights to paddle at your favourite stretch of high rise water can see readings rapidly dropping.

You may have been roasting during the journey but come time to paddle and things have cooled off considerably. One of the main reasons it’s a good idea to carry extra warm layers in a secure dry bag.

Knowledge

There’s no accounting for experience and banking important info in the grey matter. We appreciate paddlers won’t have first-hand experience regarding every put in but there’s plenty of information that will at least give ideas of what to expect. It’s then a case of checking weather forecasts and interpreting them accordingly.

There’s no accounting for experience and banking important info in the grey matter. We appreciate paddlers won’t have first-hand experience regarding every put in but there’s plenty of information that will at least give ideas of what to expect. It’s then a case of checking weather forecasts and interpreting them accordingly.

If you paddle somewhere regularly there’s no excuse to miss the basic nuances that make up that spot’s weather make up. Take note each time you head out and every session will become more fulfilling. Likewise, you’ll end up with less aborted sessions due to adverse conditions.

This was first published March 2, 2017 and updated July 29, 2017.

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What’s downwinding we hear you all say? A perfectly acceptable question as the art is still very niche in the UK, whichever craft you choose ride. So, downwinding: utilising wind and associated wind driven rolling swell to enjoy super long glides by riding said swell. Blowy weather will propel you forwards and give additional momentum for ‘bump’ catching. Once on a piece of rolling swell it’s then a case of trying to glide or ride it as long as you can before connecting with another, connecting the dots so to speak.

History lesson

Downwind paddling is believed to have come from the outrigger canoe paddling community – arguably a form of sit on top paddling in its own right. The outrigger is an efficient hull design with secondary ‘stabiliser’ hanging to one side. Efficient to pilot (once you’ve learned the fundamentals) these craft paddle breezier conditions supremely well and make downwinding super fun.
From OC came surfskis which are even more efficient, technical, one hull designs. Surfskis are quicker still when gliding on a few runners and, again, are also part of the sit on kayak family. (See this previous Sitons article on surfskis here – www.sitons.com/articles/no-pain-no-gain-surfski-trials-and-tribulations/).

Sit on tops, while not being quite as optimised for this type of paddling as OCs and surfskis, still make good vehicles for bump catching. In fact, they’re much better for novice downwinders as we all know SOTs are way more plug and play. No need to spend time learning how to paddle complicated craft…

Required conditions and areas

If the above pricks your interest then you should be looking for the next blowy bout of weather in your ‘hood (either inland or coastal). For downwind paddling you don’t actually need that much breeze. Even a moderate 15 knots or so will generate enough wind swell and give you oomph to allow bump catching. What’s worth keeping in mind is wind directions according to where you launch.

Optimum direction is cross shore. Or a direction puffing you towards terra firma – such as in a harbour. Avoiding bang offshore breeze is a good idea – especially if you’re likely to end up in open water miles from land with a monumental into wind paddle back.

Cross shore wind, from either left or right, allow paddlers a relatively easy put in and get out. You’ll then be blown along the coast, scoring long glides (hopefully) in the process. You could choose to head into wind, if the breeze is puffing directly onto land. It’ll be a gruelling process getting far enough out before you can turn and ride but could be a good option if you’re paddling solo.

It’s worth considering, however, that open tidal water areas might not always be the best. Sheltered spots, such as estuaries and harbours, while delivering small swell, may offer a less confused water state. Plus you’ll have landing points easier to reach. At Sitons HQ there are lots of downwind routes with land mass providing a confidence boosting safety net on many side within the shelter if tidal inlets.

Kit needed

The longer your boat the easier it’ll be to pick up runners. That said it’s still possible to downwind with regular SOT size boats, you just might not get the length of glide you will with something gunnier.

Paddle can be your normal type. The only thing we may be inclined to add is ballast to the rear tank well of your kayak (if you have one). This may sound counter initiative but actually will stop the back of your boat drifting when gliding. We’d then suggest keeping the rest of your sled free of kit. With DW you may end up taking a few dunkings so keeping your cockpit gear free is a good idea.

Safety and logistics

You may have worked out by now that downwind paddling means riders are heading away from their put in. While wind on backs is perfectly fine there’s no way you’re going to want to paddle back into it – especially if you’ve gone some distance. Plus, this takes the fun away – slogging into a headwind isn’t that pleasant. With this in mind consider transport at your take out. Paddling with a buddy or in a group ensures a vehicle can be left at each end of the route. This may sound like a faff to initially sort out but is definitely worth it.

In terms of safety all the standard rules apply: have an understanding of weather, tides and current, make sure you know what the weather forecast is for that day, wear floatation, wear a helmet, tether yourself to your boat and use a paddle leash (there’s nothing worse than capsizing and losing your paddle or worse, your boat!). Make sure you can get back onto your kayak if you do turn over – practice this plenty of times BEFORE heading off on a downwind run.

Carry a VHF or mobile phone – especially applicable if heading into open water. Attempting downwind runs alone isn’t wise and always let people know your plans. Plus, and most importantly, don’t bite off more than you can chew! As mentioned downwidning can be done in moderate wind strengths, you don’t need a hurricane! Leave that until you’re more experienced.

With autumn upon us, and winter just over the horizon, the next few months will undoubtedly see some classic downwind conditions pop up. If you’re paddling through winter then why not have a look at this type of kayaking – it could revolutionise your sit on experience.
Thanks to Fatyak Kayaks who helped withthis article – fatyak-kayaks.co.uk

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Although at the time of publishing this article air and water temperatures are still warm – and will remain for a few weeks yet – it’s definitely on the downward trend. For many this signals the end of their kayaking season with paddles and boats hung and stored away until spring next year. And yet, with a little prior planning and preparation this doesn’t have to be the case.

Off season paddling can provide some of the best sessions you’ll experience. Quieter waters, better conditions (e.g. more swell for those into surfing) and in some instances an increase in picturesque paddling vistas (glassy sunrise and sunsets can be amazing during down time months).

Here at Sitons we live by our advice and keep on scooping throughout the whole year. These  few tips should keep you afloat and making the most of what’s on offer at this awesome time of year.

Choose your time wisely

When we say ‘choose your time’ we’re talking about the time of day specifically. During autumn, winter and spring the number of daylight hours is reduced significantly. Gone are those late evening paddles which does, unfortunately, reduce the amount of paddling options kayakers will have. With ‘school nights’ usually out it’s most likely weekends where you’ll get your paddling fix.

It’s imperative kayakers are aware what time sunrise, but most importantly, sunsets are likely to occur. From there a better put in window can be decided upon. If you’re planning on covering some ground then make sure you’ve enough light left to actually make it back to your take out. While there’s nothing wrong with paddling in the dark per se it will make things harder. Navigation, especially in open water, can be tricky and if things should go awry then rescue services will have a harder time locating your whereabouts.

Another point to consider is the actual weather. If you’ve waited all week for a session, arranged your scheduled accordingly and sorted out the necessary gear you’ll need there’s nothing worse than having Mother nature conspire against you. During off season months weather can be savage. If you’re chosen put in is looking off limits then there’s nothing wrong with canning it. Have a plan B in place (see point further down page) and all won’t be lost.

Pick your location

Having perused all available weather information – something that should be par for the course whatever the time of year – paddlers will need to pick the location for their session accordingly. It’s unwise to opt for open stretches of water, such as coastal venues or exposed lakes/loughs, when a whirling mass of low pressure is heading your way. A much safer option is to pick a spot that offers shelter from the storm but allows riders to still get a paddle in.

OK, this might not necessarily be what you had in mind, in terms of conditions you’ll be wanting, but far better to have some fun and not end up in a ‘situation’. Rivers, canals and sheltered lakes could provide much needed respite during storms and actually deliver far more fun paddling than you’d initially imagine.

Understand and know how to interpret forecast data

We previously published an article about this very subject which you can see here – www.sitons.com/articles/weather-game-interpreting-forecasts-your-local-spot/. As much as it’s wise to know what’s happening with weather conditions it’s also just as important to have a picture of how this will affect your chosen put in.

Not all spots are the same, which is an obvious point. In some cases certain weather phenomenon can be detrimental to your kayaking enjoyment even when initial weather data appears to be benign. As an example a moderate Nly wind, in the force 4-5 range (16-22 knots) will be offshore at Sitons’ HQ. While on paper this might not seem adverse it’s actually the complete opposite.

Paddlers creeping any distance away from the shoreline will find it increasingly difficult getting back to land. A head wind – even a light to moderate one – will create more resistance (windage) than you’d imagine. Throw an outgoing tide in the mix and the scenario is a recipe for disaster.
Wind and tidal current flowing in the same direction may appear benign – as in the water state looks smooth. In reality, however, the ‘flow’ speed is likely to be double or more – all moving in the wrong direction out to sea. Add the surface headwind to proceedings and you can see why this picture has potential to make a perceived easy paddle session hard work.

Be aware of and know tide times

The worst thing any paddler kayaking in a tidal areas can do is not know tide times. Tidal flows are some of the strongest forces in our world – being ignorant to their power is dangerous. For any kayaker heading out on tidal waters the times of high and low water should be the least amount of info you possess. Being able to identify how these in and out, side to side movements of water will affect you is the next step.

If you want to learn more about basic tidal info then check out the SItons article related to the subject here – www.sitons.com/articles/understanding-tides-basic-guide-open-water-sit-kayakers/

Maintain your equipment

Kit maintenance should be a few checks you undertake BEFORE each outing. Even in high summer it’s worth giving your gear the once over before heading for a float. Check all tie down points, bungee and hatches for leaks. If you’re embarking on touring missions then losing your essentials or getting them wet can spell disaster.

Seat fixtures should also be given inspection and most importantly check over your paddle. Wear and tear on the ‘engine’ will take its toll. Having a paddle fail while miles away from civilisation isn’t ideal. Another reason to maybe carry a VHF, know how to use it and perhaps a spare set of blades if they fit.

Wear correct paddling attire

Cold temperatures will zap any paddler’s strength and energy levels in a short space of time. In winter wearing inappropriate paddling attire could be life threatening. Hypothermia sets in quickly, and in many cases without the knowledge of the person it’s affecting.

In some instances it may be a drysuit (surface immersion suit) with full under layer being needed whereas at other times a wetsuit may be more applicable. Whatever your chosen type of paddling make sure you’re dressed for the job in hand.

Communicate plans with others

Effective communication with people on land is key during winter. In fact, at any time of year. Letting someone know where you’re heading, an approximate length of time you’ll be afloat and when you expect to be back is definitely a good idea.
For those undertaking particularly challenging routes it could also be worth informing the Coast Guard and other water authorities. But also have a plan B in place. Again, that you’ll communicate to others. If your initial paddling ideas fall by the wayside then all won’t be lost with a secondary option in the mix.

Know your limits

Finally, know your limits. Having turned up at your chosen put in, only to be confronted by more extreme conditions than you anticipated, it’s better to can it and live to fight another day – in some cases this final statement can be taken literally!

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