Rolling a Kayak

Book excerpt: The roll is one of the most important paddling techniques for kayakers- and as long as you don't mind getting your head wet, you can learn to do it! Rolling a Kayak is Ken Whiting's sixth book on kayaking technique and the most comprehensive, clear, and concise guide to learning and perfecting the kayak roll. Written for both whitewater and sea kayakers, this book provides novie kayakers with foundation skills and step-by-step instructions for the standard rolls, such as the C-to-C, Sweep, and Pawlata Rolls. Experienced paddlers can take advantage of Ken's clear explanations of how to execute advanced rolling techniques, including the Back Deck Roll, the Hand Roll, the Dry Head Roll, as well as how to roll in current, waves, holes, and ocean surf. Ken also describes the most common problems that are encountered when learning the various types of rolls, and provides both their solutions as well as tricks for instructors to help students overcome them.