5 Tips For Whitewater Rafting Novices
Did you know that…
Whitewater rafting is becoming an increasingly well loved past time for thrill seekers. Many but fail to fully research their trip and the result can be at best one of failing to live up to expectations and at worst putting personal safety in danger. Here are my 5 top tips to ensure a pleased and a safe first time whitewater rafting experience.
Choose your tour operator and/or instructor very carefully. Do not go for the cheapest option! Question yourself just why they are charging so much less than the next guy. Is your safety in the water worth compromising for the sake of a few bucks? Join some internet whitewater rafting forums and seek advice on the best operators.
Reckon about what time of year you will be whitewater rafting. Whenever you go you will get wet – as in absolutely drenched. Not a fantastic scenario in winter, (being wet AND cold is never a excellent combination!). Yet in the summer months you will get wet and this may mask the heat of the sun – resulting in sunburn or worse. Reckon carefully therefore before booking your trip.
Can you swim? No really can you swim? I don’t mean doing a couple of lengths in your local pool. I mean swimming in strong currents fully clothed. Reckon about that for a second – have you ever tried swimming in a lot more than a pair of Speedos? If not go and book some lessons – some proper lessons where you can learn more than the basic breast stroke.
Choose what you are wearing carefully – it goes without saying that your clothes will get wet you won’t want to be weraing any designer items – but what about footwear. The experts all agree that the best option is soft soled canvas shoes with plenty of grip. You may even consider buying a pair of proper “river shoes” designed solely(!) for water sports.
In addition to researching your operator thoroughly it makes perfect sense to research whitewater rafting itself. Learn about the types of water – there are 6 classes of river conditions ranging from Class I (virtually still water) to Class VI (virtually un-navigable). Whitewater novices should start at Class II or Class III. Remember also that classification can change depending on the conditions at the time. Get to know also the types of craft available to you – will you prefer kayaks, rafts or canoes? Do some reasearch and listen to experienced “river rats” in the forums.
You can be sure that with a small forward plotting your first whitewater rafting experience will a highly enjoyable one which you will want to repeat again and again!
By OutdoorPro, January 22, 2012 @ 11:40 pm
Today everyone talks about being green and appreciating the environment but how do you turn such talk into action and get both kids and adults to respect their surroundings? One way to introduce nature enthusiasts to a wide variety of outdoor wonders is through wilderness camping and whitewater rafting. The combination of pristine forests, clean rivers with thrilling rapids and scenic views make an outdoor rafting and camping trip a terrific way to educate people about nature and all it has to offer.
OutdoorPro