We are reader-supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

Paddle into the wild currents of kayaking with jargon that’ll make the water bend to your will!

Whether you’re navigating rapids or coasting on calm waters, mastering these 30 key kayaking terms is your secret weapon to ride waves like a seasoned paddler.

Ready to talk the talk as you kayak the kayak?

Let’s make a splash!

Must-Know Kayaking Terms, Phrases and Slang:

  1. Bilge pump
  2. Bow
  3. Bulkhead
  4. Eddy
  5. Ferry
  6. Float bag
  7. Hatch
  8. Keel
  9. Paddle
  10. Portage
  11. Rapid
  12. Skeg
  13. Spray skirt
  14. Stern
  15. Thwart
  16. Whitewater
  17. Yoke
  18. Bracing
  19. Broach
  20. Capsize
  21. Dry bag
  22. Eskimo roll
  23. Grab loop
  24. Helm
  25. Hypothermia
  26. Kayak
  27. PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
  28. Sponson
  29. Tracking
  30. Wet exit

#1 Bilge Pump

A hand-operated device used to remove water from the inside of the kayak, enhancing safety and comfort during paddling. It’s essential for maintaining buoyancy and preventing capsizing in the event of a leak or heavy water entry.

#2 Bow

The front end of a kayak, which is typically pointed to aid in slicing through water efficiently. Recognizing the bow is crucial for understanding kayaking instructions and for correct boat handling and orientation.

#3 Bulkhead

A vertical partition inside the kayak that creates separate compartments and adds structural integrity. Bulkheads also provide flotation by trapping air, which can be vital during capsize recovery.

#4 Eddy

A river feature where the current circulates backward, typically on the downstream side of an obstacle. Kayakers use eddies to rest, scout rapids, or enter and exit the main current with less effort.

#5 Ferry

A technique used by kayakers to move laterally across a river’s current. By angling the kayak and paddling, one can efficiently cross the flow to reach a desired location without being swept downstream.

#6 Float Bag

An inflatable bag that is inserted into the kayak’s hull to displace water and enhance buoyancy. Float bags are a key safety feature that prevent the kayak from sinking if it fills with water.

#7 Hatch

A covered opening on the deck of a kayak used for internal access to storage compartments. Hatches are essential for stowing gear safely and keeping it dry, especially during longer trips or sea kayaking adventures.

#8 Keel

The longitudinal structure along the bottom of a kayak, extending from the bow to the stern. The keel helps to stabilize and streamline the kayak, aiding in straight-line movement through water and improving tracking.

#9 Paddle

A kayaking essential, the paddle is used to navigate and propel the kayak through the water. They come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific types of kayaking, such as touring or whitewater.

#10 Portage

The act of carrying a kayak over land to avoid difficult sections of water or to move from one body of water to another. Portage routes are sometimes necessary in challenging or unnavigable terrain.

#11 Rapid

A fast-flowing section of river with turbulent water, often creating a challenging and thrilling environment for kayakers. Rapids are classified by difficulty, ranging from Class I (easy) to Class VI (extreme danger).

#12 Skeg

A skeg is a retractable fin located on the bottom of a kayak that helps with steering and stability. It’s particularly useful for keeping a straight course in windy conditions or during strong currents.

#13 Spray Skirt

A waterproof cover that attaches to the cockpit of a kayak and wraps around the kayaker’s waist, preventing water from entering the boat. It’s essential for whitewater and sea kayaking to stay dry.

#14 Stern

The back end of a kayak is called the stern. It’s pivotal in navigation as maneuvers often involve pushing or pulling water at the stern to change direction or maintain stability.

#15 Thwart

A horizontal brace or support typically found in canoes rather than kayaks. In kayaking, a similar concept may be referred to as a bulkhead or support that adds structural integrity to the craft and can also serve as a footrest or gear attachment point.

#16 Whitewater

Refers to parts of rivers, streams, or other bodies of water with rapid, turbulent flow and a frothy surface. Whitewater kayaking involves navigating these challenging conditions, requiring skill, strength, and knowledge of advanced paddling techniques.

#17 Yoke

The yoke is a sturdy crosspiece typically found in canoes, not kayaks, that allows for easier carrying on the shoulders by a single person or with a partner. It’s the central balance point for portaging (carrying the boat over land).

#18 Bracing

Bracing is a kayaking technique used to prevent capsizing, where the paddler uses the paddle against the water for support. There are two main types: high brace for support from above and low brace for support from below.

#19 Broach

To broach is when a kayak becomes pinned sideways against an obstacle, such as a rock or the river flow. This precarious position can be dangerous as it may lead to capsizing or damage to the kayak.

#20 Capsize

Capsizing occurs when the kayak flips over in the water. This can happen due to imbalance, strong waves, or incorrect maneuvers. Practicing a wet exit and Eskimo roll is crucial for safety in capsizing situations.

#21 Dry Bag

A dry bag is an essential waterproof sack used in kayaking to keep gear and personal items dry while on the water. It’s sealed with a roll-top closure and often made of rugged materials like vinyl or nylon.

#22 Eskimo Roll

The Eskimo roll is a self-rescue technique that allows a kayaker to right the kayak without exiting it after capsizing. Mastering this skill is invaluable for paddlers venturing into rough water conditions.

#23 Grab loop

A safety feature on a kayak, usually a loop of rope or webbing located at the bow and stern. Grab loops are used to secure the kayak during transport, for rescues, and provide a handhold for getting in and out of the kayak.

#24 Helm

The direction or position of guidance for the kayak, typically managed by the person in the rear when tandem paddling. Helm decisions are crucial for smooth navigation and avoiding obstacles in the water.

#25 Hypothermia

A potentially dangerous condition that occurs when a kayaker’s body temperature drops due to exposure to cold water or weather. Proper gear and knowledge are essential for prevention during cold-weather paddles.

#26 Kayak

A small, narrow watercraft propelled by means of a double-bladed paddle. Kayaks come in various designs for different water conditions, such as recreational, touring, and whitewater kayaking.

#27 PFD (Personal Flotation Device)

A life-saving device that kayakers wear, also known as a life jacket or life vest. PFDs provide buoyancy and help keep the wearer’s head above water in the event of a capsize.

#28 Sponson

A flotation device attached to the side of a kayak to enhance stability. Sponsons can be particularly useful for beginners or when paddling in rough water conditions.

#29 Tracking

The ability of a kayak to maintain a straight line while paddling. Good tracking helps with efficient paddling and reduces the effort needed to keep the kayak on course.

#30 Wet Exit

The process of safely exiting a capsized kayak. A wet exit is a fundamental safety skill that kayakers should master to prepare for potential capsizing situations.

Kayaking

FAQ

What are some kayaking terms for beginners?

“Bow,” “Stern,” and “Paddle,” are some kayaking terms beginners should start with. Understanding these basics is crucial for communicating and maneuvering on the water.

What are some funny kayaking terms?

“Wet exit” and “Eskimo roll” are some funny kayaking terms, injecting a bit of humor into the sport with their whimsical descriptions of exiting the kayak and recovering from a capsize.

What is a famous kayaking phrase?

“Roll or swim,” is a famous kayaking phrase, often used to denote the decision kayakers must make when capsized: to perform an Eskimo roll or exit the boat and swim.

Meet Rev, one of our dedicated team members who embodies the essence of sports passion. When he’s not immersed in the world of sports content creation, Rev is busy honing his skills in esports and exploring the great outdoors through activities like hiking and basketball.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments