How to Eskimo Roll a Kayak
Rolling a kayak is an important skill for any kayaker. Getting comfortable with being upside down in the water is the first step to successfully rolling a boat. You need to stay calm and relaxed throughout the roll. Taking a class or working with an instructor is the best way to roll safely and efficiently.
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Instructions
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Set up a roll by tucking your head close to the front of the boat. Then move your paddle to the side, keeping it out of the water and parallel to the boat. Twist your torso over the side of the boat and use your left knee to push the boat down into the water.
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Position your paddle so that it's on the surface of the water parallel to the right side of the boat.
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Loosen your grip and relax. Hold your paddle gently between your thumbs and forefingers.
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Engage your rolling knee, or right knee (the side does not matter as long as it is the opposite of your setup knee). Use this knee to push up against the inside of the boat.
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Make a wide, slow sweep through the water with your paddle away from the boat, avoiding resistance while your knee is engaged. Keep your head tucked into the shoulder of your sweeping arm. Your opposite wrist should be tucked tight to the shoulder while the elbow points out over the opposite knee, the rolling knee.
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Keep the head tucked as you come up to the surface. Lifting the head too soon will cause you to roll back under or strain your shoulders. When you complete your roll, quickly take a stroke to re-center your body in the boat.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure that your boat fits you correctly. Without the proper fit, you won't be able to use your knees to flip the boat.
Wear nose plugs when you're learning to roll a kayak.
Practice the different steps of the roll by working on drills to improve your muscle memory. Specific drills target specific aspects of the roll and increase your confidence.
Wear a helmet when necessary and always practice your rolls with your personal flotation device on.
Take a class or work with an instructor before attempting to roll a kayak on your own.
