Important Notes about Clothing

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to Call the Showroom for assistance.

Q. What to Wear

For the most part, cotton is the least desireable fabric to wear as it tends to get wet, stay wet and dries very slowly. Imagine a pair of soggy jeans.

• Cooler Weather: most synthetic materials like polypropelene, polyester, nylon, wool all stay warm while wet and help wick mositure away from your skin. Do not wear Lycra as it is actually a cold conducting fabric.
• Cooler Weather Garments = long baselayer pants and shirt under a windbreaker shell, fleece or wool cap and socks. Change of clothes and a towel.

• Warmer Weather: SPF rated quick drying non-cotton shirt and shorts.
• Warmer Weather Garments = short or long sleeve sun shirt or baselayer, shorts or quick drying synthetic material pants, wide brimmed hat. Change of clothes and a towel.

The River Connection offers a full range of Warm Weather and Cooler Weather Garments, you may want to show up a few minutes early to peruse our in-store selection. For online information about these items, we also suggest you take a look at Baselayers; Cooler Weather Tops & Bottom Shells; Warmer Weather Tops & Bottoms and; Hats, Caps & other Headwear.

  Back to top

Q. What to Bring

Waterproof camera, non-alcoholic and non-spoiling beverages (we supply bottled water), snacks that do not require refrigeration (we supply granola bars), sunglasses with eyeglass retainers.

  Back to top

Q. What to Leave on Shore

Cell phone, pagers, iPod, Personal Play Station, hearing aids, non-waterproof cameras, dangling jewelry, non-waterproof wristwatches, water damagable clothing, electronic keys or automotive remote controls.

The River Connection offers a full range of water proof cases for cellphones, pagers and dry bags for that gear you just cannot leave on shore, you may want to show up a few minutes early to peruse our in-store selection. For online information about these waterproof containers, we also suggest you take a look at Dry Bags and Boxes.

  Back to top

Q. Before you Go

Have a hearty meal before you go kayaking. The extra fuel will carry you through a day of moderately vigorous aerobic excercise such as kayaking.

  Back to top

Q. While on the Water

Be sure to drink plenty of water to keep your body well hydrated while having fun.

  Back to top

 Important Notes about Cotton Clothing

  Back to top

 Important Notes on Transport Options

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to Call the Showroom for assistance.

Q. Bulkheads & Hatches

• Bulkheads: The primary function of bulkheads is that of safety. Dry storage compartments is also an added benefit to having a kayak outfitted with bulkheads. If a kayak overturns, properly constructed bulkheads with a sealed hatch cover will trap air in these compartments and allow the kayak to float, even if the cockpit fills with water. The bulkheads also allow for easier draining of the kayak during resues than with a kayak of non-bulkheaded construction. Bulkheads can prevent water from flooding the entire waterline of the kayak, but if your kayak does not have them, use Float Bags to mitigate water entry into the fore and aft of the kayak.
• Hatches: Come in various styles. Usually a heavy rubber Tupperware sealing type tend to be the driest. Allows access to your gear that is stored under deck in the area walled off by the front or rear bulkhead.
• Important Note on Hatches & Bulkheads: Some kayaks have hatch covers but do not have bulkheads. It is important to learn about your kayak and these important safety features. Take a look under the deck to check for bulkheads and always check that your hatch covers are properly sealed prior to launch and after any hatch access.

  The safety function of a bulkhead & hatch combination can only be accomplished when the hatch is properly sealed during any on water activity.

The River Connection offers a full range of bulkheaded kayaks from Impex Kayaks; P&H Kayaks; Venture Kayaks and; Prijon.

  Back to top

Q. Perimeter Lines & Deck Bungees

• Perimeter Lines: Perimeter Lines are load bearing ropes threaded through fittings called padeyes that are often recessed into the deck. Perimeter Lines allow for moving the boat around on the water hand over hand instead of having to wrestle with a wet slippery spindle or wet top deck. Perimeter Lines also allow you to manage your kayak when you are out of it, on a dock or in the water, or for someone else to hold onto while they are in their boat during a rescue. Use of these lines can also be of benefit to stabilize a kayak whilst you get out a snack or drink from your day hatch.
• Deck Bungees: Bungee cords typically criss-cross the front and rear decks are handy keepers of necessary on water items like water bottles, map cases, spare paddles and squirt guns. Bungee cords are not designed for heavy load lifting but rather convenience. Some manufacturers use Deck Bungees in an arrangement behind the cockpit for paddle placement/attachment during a self rescue.
• Important Notes on Perimeter Lines & Deck Bungees: Some kayaks do not have Perimeter Lines or Deck Bungees. It is important to learn about your kayak and the use and important safety features of these systems. Take a look under at the deck of your kayak and if your kayak does not have Perimeter Lines or Deck Bungees most kayaks can be retrofitted with these lines. Please Call the Showroom for assistance.

  Back to top

Q. Toggles & Carry Handles

• Toggles: These T shaped corded handles at the ends of the kayak are not for carrying the boat but rather for controlling it by yourself if you happen to be out of it or for another boater to hold on to help guide and control your kayak.
• Carry Handles: Strongly attached handles or load bearing corded handles that are used for carrying the boat.

  Back to top

Q. Cockpit Configuration

The Cockpit is the control center of your kayak and contains several features that will be important to the fit, comfort and efficiency of your time on the water.

• Adjustable Foot Braces / Foot Pegs: Foot braces will allow you solid purchase with your feet and can move fore/aft depending upon the paddler leg length and type of footwear being worn. These should be sturdy enough that pressure can be put upon them at every stroke without them flexing or bending. Adjustable foot braces can be a convenience but also allow for proper fit in a kayak, but if your kayak does not have them, most kayaks can be retro-fitted to use Adjustable Foot Braces.
• Seat Pad: Provides comfort but also keeps you from slipping around in the seat therefore improving the power transfer from your paddle through your body to the hull of the kayak.
• Seat: The seat of the kayak should be of close enough of a fit to make contact with the sides of the seat but not feel like the seat is pressing in on you. The shape of the seat pan should help keep you centered in the kayak. Better fit will help in smooth power transfer to the hull of the kayak and will also help keep the kayak trim and level. Proper seat, footbrace & thighbrace configuration is the main connection for heeling the boat during turns or countering the action of waves.
• Backband or Seatback: Both the backband and / or seatback provide support in the lower back just a bit above the iliac crest of the hip. Too tall of a seat back will interfere with body movement during paddling and create a chafing point. A properly fitted backband or seat back will allow you to maintain good paddling posture over distance with far less fatigue. Your best paddling position is with an upright, relaxed posture. A proper backband / seatback will help support you and attain this posture during all water conditions.
• Thigh Braces / Thigh Pads: Thigh braces, often referred to as thigh pads are flanges at the front sides of the cockpit. Thigh braces create a larger surface area for contact between the top an inside of your lower thigh to brace against the kayak. Thigh braces are a major connection point for control of your kayak.
• Coaming: The coaming it the lip that runs around the cockpit opening. This lip is the edge that the sprayskirt will attach to in order to keep water out. It is also a reinforcing feature of the deck adding rigidity to the kayak. The River Connection offers a full range of spray skirts / spray decks, you are always welcome to visit the showroom to peruse our in-store selection. For online information about spray skirts, we also suggest you take a look at Spray Skirts.
• Important Notes on Cockpit Configuration: Proper seat, footbrace & thighbrace configuration is the main connection for control of the kayak, heeling the boat during turns or countering the action of waves. Most kayaks can be retrofitted for proper comfort. There are a variety of aftermarket items that will help your time on the water be more enjoyable. We invite you to take a look at some of the items that can installed such as Foot Braces footbraces or Gel Seat Pads.

  Back to top

Q. Skeg or Rudder

• Skeg: A skeg is a retractable mechanical blade that can protrude downward from the underside stern end of the kayak to provide lateral stability commonly known as tracking. As little or as much skeg protrusion may be used to achieve as hard of tracking on a course is as desired according to the peddler’s preference and conditions. Skegs are typically used when paddling across windy stretches.
• Rudder: A rudder is a retractable mechanical blade that is typically activated by a pulley system on the aft deck to provide lateral stability commonly known as tracking. Once deployed, the rudder may be pitched from side to side by tension on the adjusting cables which run to sliding foot pegs. By changing pitch (side to side movement of the rudder blade), the paddler can change course. Changing pitch is typically done by changing foot position. Usually a bit of practice is required with a rudder because your feet are not evenly positioned on the foot pegs and differing pressure will be experienced on the legs against the thigh braces.

  Back to top

 Important Notes on Transport Options

  Back to top

 Important Care and Safety Reminder About Paddles

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to Call the Showroom for assistance.

Q. What makes a Paddle?

Touring/Sea Kayaking paddles come in a variety of materials, sizes and shapes. Ultimately it is your connection with the water that you will be using 700 – 800 times per mile so investing in a paddle that provides you with greater efficiency for your style of paddling will make your time on the water one that you will want to experience again and again.

  Back to top

Q. What types of materials are used to construct paddles?

Kayak and Canoe Paddles can be made of various materials, each has its benefits. One thing to consider is the overall swingweight of the paddle versus materials of construcion. This comparison can be summarized as follows:

• Heaviest: Metal Shaft/Plastic Blades
  

• Mid-Weight: Wood or Fiberglass
  

• Lightest Weight: Foam Core Carbon Fiber

  Back to top

Q. How do I Select the Right Paddle Length?

Kayak and Canoe Paddles are made in different lengths. You should strive to match the paddle length to your style of paddling such that with every stroke, the entire blade surface should lie just under the surface of the water without extra shaft length. This length will be dictated by the kayaker’s torso height, the width of the kayak, the depth of the cockpit and the habitual paddling style (high angle or low angle) of the kayaker. For further information, we also suggest you review comments on paddle Blade Shapes.

  Back to top

Q. How do I Select the Right Paddle Blade Shape?

Paddle blade shapes generally fall into two categories: long and slender and; wider, shorter blades. The shape of the blade is important as we have discussed in the Paddle Length comment, the blade should be completely submerged with every paddle stroke and this is a function of the style of paddler you are (high versus low angle); kayak and paddler physical characteristics; length of the paddle and; paddle blade shape.

• Long Slender Blades: Allow for a balanced blade with little flutter when pressure is applied relatively far away from the centerline of the kayak. This is the blade style that fits well with kayakers that prefer a Low Angle style. This is an easy relaxed style of paddling that the kayaker’s top (non-water) hand rarely strays above shoulder height. These paddle blades work best with longer paddle lengths, taking into account the considerations in Sizes.
  

• Wider, Shorter Length Blades: Allow for solid purchase close into the kayak for greater power and efficiency through more practiced technique utilizing torso rotation instead of leverage. This is typically a style more applicable with more slender kayaks. These paddle blades work best with shorter paddle lengths as the paddle blade is being placed in close to the kayak of course taking into account the considerations in Sizes. A High Angle style is typically a kayaker whose top (non-water) hand is usually above shoulder height.

  Back to top

Q. Notes on Ferrules and Feathering?

• Ferrules:A Ferrule is the mechanism that allows for a long paddle to be taken apart into two or sometimes four parts for easier transport. A closely mated ferrule system is extremely important to the overall strength of the paddle and it’s feel in your hands. You will be surprised that with experience, you may find yourself doing more than just paddling with your paddle.
• Feathering: More importantly ferrules allows one blade to be Feathered or offset from the other paddle blade. This degree of offset is usually the same amount that a kayaker rotates their body allowing for less stress on the hands, arms and shoulders by forcing the kayaker to maintain a light grip on the paddle. Additionally the offset blade presents less air resistance while arcing through the top part of the swing. This is especially noticeable when paddling into headwinds.

  Back to top

 Important Care and Safety Reminder About Paddles

Paddlers searching for a paddle, whether it is their first
purchase or as a replacement have many things to consider before
making a choice (i.e. length and materials of construction), but it is critical to keep
in mind the paddles primary purpose is to help get you somewhere. 

Make sure you review the condition of your paddle frequently and have a spare paddle with you on any trip. After all, it is always better to be up the creek with a paddle, than not one at all. No one ever plans on losing gear on any trip, but having a spare paddle will give you that piece of mind (and way home) when circumstances require you to use it.

Paddle safe, always carry a spare.

  Back to top

 Important Safety Reminder About Sprayskirts

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to Call the Showroom for assistance.

Q. What is a Sprayskirt & Why would I need one?

A sprayskirt is a fabric cover that you wear from your waist and it’s deck covers over the cockpit opening of the kayak. It’s primary job is to keep water out of the kayak.

Some kayak designs are very broad and/or very deep so they tend to be a very dry ride in calm conditions. In this scenario a sprayskirt isn’t a necessity. Kayaks that are better fitted to the kayaker tend to be of lower volume and paddled more often, sometimes in rougher water conditions. In this case a sprayskirt is necessary, as otherwise wave action will add more and more water inside the cockpit area of the kayak. Provided the kayak has floatation from bulkheads it won’t sink but will be more unstable to paddle with the inertia of the water sloshing around inside. Lastly, if a kayaker plans on learning to brace or roll their kayak they will use a sprayskirt. The reasons in this case are fairly obvious.

  Back to top

Q. What types of sprayskirts are available?

Sprayskirts can be made of various materials, each has its benefits:

• Waterproof cloth – tends to be the easiest to put on and take off of the cockpit coaming, very light and non-restrictive. Usually has an adjustable Rand which is a bungi cord running through the perimeter hem. Tends to be the least water tight.
• Neoprene – nylon cloth with foamed rubber sandwiched between, like wetsuit material. Usually sewn onto a either a thick bungi rand or glued/welded onto a angled rubber rand. These make for a very solid dry seal but need to be the appropriate size for your cockpit opening so as to make them manageable to put on and more importantly take off quickly in a hurry.

  Back to top

 Important Safety Reminder About Sprayskirts

Paddlers searching for a spray skirt, whether it is their first
purchase or as a replacement have many things to consider before
making a choice (i.e. pockets & fabric), but it is critical to keep
in mind the spray skirts primary purpose is to safely seal the
kayaker in and the water out of the cockpit.  A properly
fitting spray skirt provides protection from the effects of a
flooded cockpit but should be easy to pop off with one hand, even if
that hand is cold, wet or gloved.  Practice donning and doffing
your new spray skirt before you launch.

  Back to top

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to Call the Showroom for assistance.

Q. What is your Reservation & Cancellation Policy?

Our programs fill quickly, so make your plans early. Registering by phone and guaranteeing your registration with a credit card is the most convenient and preferred method.  Payment in full is required to reserve your space.  If cancellation notice is provided 7 days prior to a program, the registrant is given the option of a full refund or to reschedule the program.  If cancellation notice is provided less than 7 days but more than 24 hours prior to a program, the registrant is subject to a $15 cancellation fee or may reschedule to another program.  If cancellation notice is provided less than 24 hours prior to a program, the registrant will be charged the full amount for the program and may not reschedule to another program. Fees for services performed are nonrefundable after the service has been completed.

  Back to top

Q. What is your Tour & Instruction Participant Policy?

A signed release waiver is required for all persons participating in one of our programs.  Release waivers are required for all participants and must be completed by a parent or guardian for all minors.

• Download a Waiver: Particpant Waiver (Adobe Reader Required)
  

• Download Adobe PDF Reader:
  

  Back to top

Q. Weather Policy?

Kayaking is an all weather sport. The River Connection cannot ensure perfect weather conditions for your trip and will not refund for cancellations made by participants due to perceived inclement weather.  If The River Connection management cancels a trip due to unsafe or inappropriate weather conditions you will receive a full refund. For further information, we also suggest you review our program Reservation and Cancellation Policies FAQ.

  Back to top

Q. How many participants are in a typical program and do you have a Minimum Enrollment Policy?

• The River Connection maintains a maximum ratio of 4 participants to 1 instructor for all activities. The industry standard is 6 participants to 1 instructor. We feel that our 4:1 ratio provides a better learning experience and offers each participant greater access to instruction and guidance during any one of our programs. All of our programs put the focus on your development as a safe and effective paddler.
• The River Connection reserves the right to cancel any program due to insufficient enrollment. If your program is cancelled for this reason you will have the option of rescheduling, receiving a full refund or for group instruction programs you will have the option to convert to semi-private or private instruction time.

  Back to top


Q. What are your Store Policies?

• A 15% restocking fee will be charged on returns or exchanges of any boating accessory, including but not limited to dry bags, and paddle wear, unless defective.  Full refund of the purchase price and / or in house credit for the returned items will be approved on a case by case basis.
• Personal Floatation Devices are non-refundable unless defective.
• Returns or non-fulfillment of payment due for all Special Order Kayaks are subject to a 25% restocking fee and / or non-refund of deposit paid. Refunds will be approved on a case by case basis and are subject to be converted to in house credit.
• In order to receive credit for returned items that were purchased in new condition, they must be unopened and un-used.
• Gift certificates issued after April 30, 2008 are good for one-year from purchase and are non-redeemable for cash or other cash equivalent. Gift certficiates are redeemable for in store purchases and are good for services such as instructional programs and guided kayak tours. Gift certificates have no cash value.
• Delivery, installation and other fees for services performed are nonrefundable after the service has been completed.

  Back to top