Capsizing and the art of recovery / Muhammad Asraf Zulzali

Capsizing is inevitable in kayaking, but with proper technique and practice, it won't ruin your experience.” Capsizing is an inevitable part of kayaking, especially in challenging conditions like rough waters or during difficult manoeuvres. When a kayak flips over, knowing how to perform a rescue is vital for personal safety and the well-being of fellow paddlers. A kayak capsize rescue involves multiple techniques, depending on whether you are solo or with companions. Mastering these methods ensures a safe, swift recovery and allows kayakers to maintain control, even in adverse situations. How to perform a rescue? The rescue process starts with the most critical action: staying calm. When a kayak capsizes, your immediate reaction should be to orient yourself mentally and prepare to perform a wet exit, which is the first step in rescuing yourself. If you're upside down in the water, the wet exit involves pulling the spray skirt (if you're using one) away from the cockpit, pushing yourself free, and surfacing safely beside the overturned kayak.