Paddle Your Own Kayak: An Illustrated Guide to the Art of Kayaking - Hardcover

McGuffin, Gary; McGuffin, Joanie

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1550464647 ISBN 13: 9781550464641

Publisher: Boston Mills Press, 2008

Synopsis

Outstanding reviews for the authors' Paddle Your Own Canoe:

"This is the best book on how to canoe." - Canoe and Kayak

"Absolutely the best canoe paddling book on the planet! Clear writing, world-class photography... This book rocks!" - Canoeing icon Cliff Jacobson

Paddle Your Own Canoe set a new standard for how-to-canoe books. In this much-anticipated follow-up, Gary and Joanie McGuffin use the same model for the art of kayaking. The authors discuss the kayak's Inuit history, types of kayaking, recommended kayak sizes and shapes, and proper gear and clothing. They also offer expert, step-by-step instructions on all of the sport's essential techniques.

Illustrated with more than 600 color photographs and illustrations, Paddle Your Own Kayak is designed for both seasoned and novice kayaker, offering guidance on:

• Balancing the body
• Strokes and maneuvers
• Paddling fundamentals
• Recoveries and rescues
• Carrying and launching
• Weather and water conditions techniques
• Staying centered
• Navigation methods.

A special section on kayak camping provides good advice on what to look for in a destination, how to select a site, packing your kayak, setting up tents and shelters, meal preparation, water filtration, first aid and much more.

About this title

About the Author:

Gary and Joanie McGuffin are stars in the paddling world, well known for their wilderness expeditions as well as for their conservation efforts. They are the authors of Superior: Journeys on an Inland Sea, which won the 1996 Great Lakes Booksellers Award, and the bestselling Paddle Your Own Canoe, which set the standard for paddling instruction books. They live on a 300-acre wilderness preserve overlooking Lake Superior.

Review:

Joanie and Gary McGuffin have provided an invaluable resource to beginners and experienced kayakers alike... With over 600 stunning photographs and illustrations, the McGuffins share their obvious joy of kayaking and create within the reader a desire to experience the same.... Avid conservationists Joanie and Gary McGuffin don't just teach you to kayak but succeed in passing along their respect for nature and their hope that the paddler will protect that which they have come to love. (Kim Good The Muskokan Sun 2008-08-28)

This is an excellent resource for those curious to try the world's fastest-growing paddle sport. You'd be hard pressed to think of a kayak-related topic that isn't covered in this book.... Each chapter is presented in a way that not only deepens the knowledge base of a seasoned kayaker, but is also accessible to the total paddling novice. (Ryan Murdock Outpost)

With over 600 stunning photographs and illustrations, the McGuffins share their obvious joy of kayaking and create within the reader a desire to experience the same. Everything you needed to get started [is] included. Step-by-step instructions, complete with photo, make it easy to practice.... Tips and problem solving solutions leave nothing to chance and a detailed index leaves the answers to any questions you may have at your fingertip.... In Paddle Your Kayak, avid conservationists Joanie and Gary McGuffin don't just teach you to kayak but succeed in passing along their respect for nature and their hope that the paddler will protect that which they have come to love. (Kim Good Parry Sound Beacon Star)

Setting the standard for how-to canoe books wasn't enough for the McGuffins. No, ... Gary and Joanie McGuffin had to write a comprehensive book on how to kayak... From the history of kayaks to building your own boat, kayaking strokes, how to read charts and rescue techniques, the McGuffins seem to have thought of everything a kayaker needs to know. Their passion for kayaking is obvious and articulately relayed through their eminently readable and incredibly handy book. (The Calgary Herald 2008-07-31)

This beautifully illustrated guidebook covers all aspects of the sport. [It] is chock-full of instructional photos with clearly written descriptions and is highlighted by colorful scenic images that will compel you to learn more, grab a paddle and join the sport. Whether you're an athlete or traditionally an onlooker, you will enjoy exploring the world of kayaking through the writing of authors Gary and Joanie McGuffin. If you're already eager to experience a journey by kayak, read this guidebook first -- it can safely lead you through the processes you must ford for a successful kayaking future. (Woodall's Camperways 2008-08-01)

The quality of writing, the gorgeous photography along with brilliant, easily followed how-to graphics makes this new book fun to browse even if you have no intention of kayaking. For those just starting out in the adventure of kayaking, this book is a master stroke. It covers every conceivable question, from styles of paddles and kayaks to proper safety gear, paddling methods, rolling and recovery techniques. Sprinkled throughout are the tips from these two experts who can anticipate the foibles and questions of newcomers. I'd suggest you get this before you even put a paddle in water. (Konnie LeMay Lake Superior Magazine 2010-05-01)

"When you pick up a paddle and step into a kayak, be prepared for change. It will enrich and change your life more than you can imagine! Start out with good, hands-on instruction." (Gary and Joanie McGuffin Author interview, Open Book, Toronto 2008-06-18)

With more than 500 color photographs...and illustrations, Paddle Your Own Kayak is a beautiful as well as practical guide to kayaking for novices and intermediate paddlers who would like to advance their skills or reinforce past learning. Cover[s] every conceivable .. Essential Gear is described and thoroughly explained with photographic illustrations... For an introduction to a new sport, or for at-home study before or after lessons, this book is a valuable resource. With personal anecdotes and observations, the authors' love of the wilderness and paddling shine through the practical information presented... Much more than a simple how-to guidebook. (Diana Mumford Wavelength)

These books focus on paddling techniques, including maintaining balance and safety in the full range of currents. The kayak book also includes a special section on kayak camping. Excellent for those ready to take basic skills to the next level. (reviewed with Paddle Your Own Canoe) (John Helling Library Journal 2009-05-01)

A very good instructional book on how to kayak.... Whether you are thinking of taking up this eco-friendly way to travel lakes and rivers or you're an experienced kayaker, you will enjoy and benefit from reading Paddle Your Own Kayak and perusing the hundreds of color photographs in this book. (Glenn Perrett www.simcoe.com (Metroland) 2008-11-15)

About this edition

• Publisher: Boston Mills Press
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 1550464647
• ISBN 13: 9781550464641
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 208