What is Freestyle Kayaking?
Freestyle is discipline of whitewater kayaking or canoeing
where the paddler performs various technical moves in one place (a stopper or wave), as opposed to downriver whitewater canoeing or kayaking where the objective is to travel the length of a section of river. The moves and tricks are often similar to those performed by snowboarders, surfers or skaters, where the athlete completes spins, flips, turns, etc. With modern freestyle kayaks it is possible to get the kayak and the paddler completely airborne while performing tricks.
Click here to see examples of Freestyle Kayaking on our media page
Have you ever had a go at paddling a short-ish freestyle boat on flat or moving water? Or tried surfing, enders or cartwheels? If so then you are already on your way to being a freestyle paddler and competition could be the next step for you.
If you want to get started in competitions, have a look at the competition dates and choose an event that is close to you. Choose the class and category that is most appropriate for you (novice, intermediate or elite check out the individual event details for more info on which rules are being used for each category). Then sign up beforehand online or turn up on the day (depending on the event), bring your friends along with you and have a go!… and don’t forget to find out about any coaching at the event.
