How To Re-Enter A Sit-On-Top Kayak

In this video, we're going to look at the best way to re-enter a sit-on-top kayak in the event that you've fallen off, jumped off, or capsized. One of the huge advantages of sit-on-top kayaks over sit-inside kayaks is they're relatively easy to get back onto from the water, and they don't swamp because they have scupper holes, which are holes that go right through the kayak and let the water drain.

If your kayak is upside down to start, your first order of business is to flip it upright. Getting back onto the kayak requires a combination of technique and some power. You'll position yourself alongside the kayak just in front of the seat. With a firm grip on the edge of the kayak, let your legs float to the surface behind you, and then give a powerful kick of the legs and push with your arms to haul your chest up and onto the kayak. Once there, keep your center of gravity low, as you twist around and settle back into the seat.

To make the whole re-entry process even easier, a friend can stabilize the kayak as you get back in. To stabilize a kayak for someone, you'll position your kayak parallel to the other, get a good grip on it, and lean your body onto the other kayak. As long as you maintain a good grip on the kayak, there's virtually no chance of flipping.

So, there you have it, a quick and easy way to re-enter a sit-on-top kayak from the water.