The Interesting History of Kayaks and the Sport of Kayaking

The first kayaks were created thousands of years ago by arctic inhabitants now known as the Intuits. These early indigenous people, formerly known as Eskimos, inhabited areas of Greenland, the northeastern point of Russia, Alaska, and the uppermost regions of Canada. Early Eskimos made kayak frames using driftwood, and early kayaks were wrapped in sealskins. Early kayaks were virtually unsinkable with air-filled seal bladders. These early kayaks were used during summer months primarily for hunting and fishing. The word "kayak" literally means "hunters' boat."

Early kayak design varied according to the specific needs of inhabitants of particular regions. For instance, early kayaks designed by inhabitants surrounding the Bering Straight created wider, shorter kayaks. This kayak design provided a large area for storing game and supplies, and it was more stable on rough water than the longer more slender kayaks designed for speed by the Aleuts. Kayaks were designed to remain upright on rough waters, and the design of the kayak enabled kayak users to right themselves if turned over by rough frigid waters that would otherwise prove deadly in an open craft.

Early kayak design varied according to the specific needs of inhabitants of particular regions. For instance, early kayaks designed by inhabitants surrounding the Bering Straight created wider, shorter kayaks. This kayak design provided a large area for storing game and supplies, and it was more stable on rough water than the longer more slender kayaks designed for speed by the Aleuts. Kayaks were designed to remain upright on rough waters, and the design of the kayak enabled kayak users to right themselves if turned over by rough frigid waters that would otherwise prove deadly in an open craft.

Europeans eventually discovered the versatility of the kayak, and kayaks once designed with sealskins were designed by Europeans with fabric covers. In 1905 a German inventor named Hans Klepper eventually purchased a design for a folding canvas kayak from a German student. He called this kayak a "foldboat." Klepper began selling this early version of the folding kayak, and kayaks once used primarily for navigation and hunts by indigenous people were now being used for sport.

In 1936, kayak racing became a part of the Olympic games in Berlin. Kayaks were used in an event called "flatwater racing." Kayak clubs began developing all over Europe, and kayaks became more and more popular as time went by.

The 1950's brought the development of the fiberglass kayak, and a company known as Valley Products began producing the first fiberglass kayak. This fiberglass kayak was known as "Anas Acuta." Valley Products went on to design another kayak called the "Nordkapp." This model could handle more cargo while remaining tight and maneuverable. Just as early Eskimos designed kayaks, modern kayak designers also designed kayaks according to regional needs and preferences.

Plastic kayaks were introduced in the 1980's, and kayaks continue to become lighter, sturdier, and more versatile. Now there are several types of kayaks designed with various materials suitable for a variety of sporting events. Those who love the sport of kayaking have more choices now than ever before.

Copyright 2006 Smarket Limited

Related Videos
Play Video What is River Surfing	Play Video 5 Essentials of Kayaking - CKS	Play Video How to do Kayak Rescues	Play Video How to do Kayak Eskimo Rescues and Rolls	Play Video How to do Kayak T Rescues

Listed below are more articles related to the above article from the "River Rafting Kayaking" article category.

People interested in the above article "The Interesting History of Kayaks and the Sport of Kayaking" are also interested in the related articles listed below:

 

Raft Building Steps and Techniques

When walking through a nature trail near a river, one feels how much fun it would be to build a raft and then think that it is difficult to do. Actually, cutting tools are needed.

Going to Wisconsin for Whitewater Kayaking

The beautifully diverse state of Wisconsin is crossed with beautiful and scenic rivers frequented by both kayakers and canoeists, as well as those enjoying a day of tubing, rafting, or just relaxing on the river. With more than 40 rivers for kayaking and canoeing, it is no wonder the whitewater kayaking in Wisconsin is some of the best in the nation. This brief guide will cover some of the best whitewater kayaking spots in Wisconsin.

Beginners Class for River Rafting Adventurures

Summer brings along with it the warm sun and glorious blue skies, outdoor activities and adventures. If you are one of those people who greatly enjoy the nature in all its beauty along with the adventurous sports it brings your way such as hiking, kayaking and camping in the wild then you are the right person for a river rafting adventure.

Preparing for the Excitement of Whitewater Kayaking

Going on a whitewater kayak adventure can be fun, exciting, and exhilarating; however there are a few basics which you should acknowledge yourself with before even considering going on this sort of outing. For one, the whitewater kayak sport is incredibly gear intensive.

You too could Whitewater Raft your way down the Chattooga River!

The 1972 American Thriller 'Deliverance' was filmed mainly around and on the Chattooga river; a river located in the NE corner of Georgia. Scenes of this film were also shot at the Mount Carmel Baptist Church Cemetery, however, this landmark now lies almost 300 feet beneath the surface of the Lake Jocassee, South Carolina.

Inflatable Kayak Review - The Best Cheap Kayaks

The fastest growing trend in the kayaking industry is clearly the use of inflatable kayaks. Today's technology makes these inflatable crafts more rugged and maneuverable, while remaining lightweight and portable. Even seasoned kayakers are gradually making the switch to inflatable kayaks.

White Water Rafting Adventure - 7 Tips For Taking the Ride of Your Life

Ever wonder about jumping in with both feet and taking a whitewater rafting adventure? The beginner can have just as much fun and excitement as the seasoned expert. The following 7 tips will help get you safely prepared to take the ride of your life.