Kayaking 101

Add Extra Waterproof Protection to Your Kayak

How-to blog written by Team Dagger's Todd Wells I think it's safe to say that no one likes a leaky kayak. I especially don't like a leaky kayak, so I decided to take note on a few of the things I do to keep my kayak and everything inside it extra dry. First and foremost I make sure to tighten the screws on my kayak on a regular basis (every few weeks for myself). When we paddle our kayaks we put stress on each of the joints where pieces of outfitting (i.e. seat, thigh braces, bulkhead) meet with the plastic shell of the kayak. Over time this stress will slowly loosen the screws, and to keep...

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How can I retrofit my Dagger touring kayak with bulkheads?

Many touring boat manufacturers (including Dagger, until we introduced welded plastic bulkheads) use minicell foam to fabricate bulkheads. This is a fairly inexpensive and effective method of retrofitting bulkheads in a boat that didn't originally come with them. For current models, simply ask your dealer to order the respective pre-cut minicell bulkhead(s) from us. For discontinued models, you can fabricate bulkheads from 3" minicell foam. (Also available from your dealer. Start with a chunk of foam slightly larger than the area of the boat where you plan to install the bulkhead. Shape it...

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How to properly throw your paddle off a waterfall

Reposted from the Dagger blog, written by Iker Beristain Throwing your paddle off a waterfall is not something you should just decide spontaneously, if you've decided you are going to throw it, you should know it before running. This move has some pros and some contras: Pros Softer landings, less impact, less probabilities to heart your back (if done properly), it’s safer for your face (the paddle can be dangerous around it), and hands (hands take big impact by holding the paddle), you are not going to break your paddle, and it can be very stylish. Contras Ones you lose your paddle it´s...

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Get in, Get a grip, Get going!

Before getting it wet, hop into your kayak on flat ground to adjust the foot pegs and back band to fit you. Then, with kayak in the water parallel to shore, place your paddle shaft behind the cockpit or seat, extending one blade to rest shore-side on firm ground to lend stability when entering. Get a Grip A white-knuckled death grip can lead to discomfort. Relax. Hold the paddle shaft with thumbs and forefingers forming rings, like you’re making the “OK” sign, and keep your other fingers loose. Now you can orient your blades and gain reach without stressing your wrists. To find the right hand...

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Top five winter paddling accessories

Reposted from the Dagger blog, written by Anna Levesque I have to say that I’m not a hardcore winter paddler, obviously, since I run winter trips in Mexico! So, I can relate to those of you who hang up the paddle for other, dryer, sports in the winter. However, I do know paddlers who still motivate even with snow on the ground and icicles hanging from the brims of their helmets. And, I admit that when I do drag myself out when it’s 40 degrees or colder (what I consider cold weather paddling) I have a lot of fun. So, if you’re planning on getting out this winter, or spring here are my top five...

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