The things that have changed in the small boat world in the last 20 or 30 years have almost all been steps forward. The boats and paddles are lighter, yet stronger and more durable. Canoes and kayaks made from synthetic materials such as fiberglass, Royalex, and polyethylene, while they have arguably taken some of the romance out of the sport, have given us affordable boats that don't need much, if any, maintenance. And there are hundreds of models to choose from (many, many more than a few decades past), to suit whatever goal you have in mind, whether it be morning paddles listening for loons, whitewater runs, or extended expedition paddling.

	Jonathan Hanson Jonathan Hanson Jonathan Hanson is a writer whose lifelong appreciation of nature shows up frequently in his work. Meet Jonathan Previous Answers

Another great thing about canoeing or, as an alternative you might also consider, sea kayaking, is that you don't need to be in any prime physical condition to start. You can begin with easy, short paddles, and work on your stamina gradually. When I was leading sea kayak trips I had many clients in their 60s and 70s. For some I needed to cut down the daily mileage a bit; others could keep pace with 20-year-olds. But — and this is important to remember — all of them were able to go the same places and see the same sights.

This might be a little bold, but judging from the tone of your letter I think you just need to jump in with both feet. Buy a book or two on basic canoeing or kayaking, and pick up the annual buyer's guide published by Canoe and Kayak magazine, which will give you an idea (bewildering at first,I know, but useful) of what's out there. Then visit a few shops that have rental programs and classes so you can get a direct feel for the boats. You'll soon home in on something you like. Don't be afraid of buying a used boat, either — it's an excellent way to get into the sport cheaply. I do recommend buying new, and top-quality, paddles, however, as the paddle will determine more than almost anything else how much you enjoy the sport.

One thing that hasn't changed a bit since you paddled last is"the beauty of it all," as you put it. Seeing the world from a small boat is still an experience of sublime grace. So do it now, Adele, but hurry you've only got 30 or 40 years of paddling time ahead of you.

P.S. You might also check out some paddling clubs in your area, such as California Kayak Friends, who despite their name welcome canoeists as well. Their website is www.ckf.org. And in case you want to go really wild, Adele, I'm told there are at least two nude paddling clubs in the L.A. area!

Go to GORP Paddling Forum

Previous Expert Answers

Back to GORP Paddling

Return to Top