Essential Sea Kayaking [Paperback]

Jonathan Hanson (Author)

Book Description

Series: Essential | Publication Date: January 1, 2000

No other outdoor sport in the world is as easy to get started in as sea kayaking, yet no other outdoor sport in the world offers such an astonishing scope for real adventure." So writes Jonathan Hanson in the introduction to this basic handbook. With his own special brand of easygoing yet safety-first style, Hanson will have even the most tentative paddler on his way to kayaking competency in no time. Beginning with a section on equipment, Hanson evaluates and simplifies all the options for selecting a kayak and kayaking accessories. The second half of the book is devoted to technique, from first strokes to advanced turning to recoveries and rescues. Finally, he covers open-water techniques, currents, navigation, and kayak camping. With dozens of illustrations and handy "insider" tips throughout, Essential Sea Kayaking is the only book you need to get started kayaking on the deep blue.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

YA-Emphasizing safety at every opportunity, this handbook takes novice kayakers through a tour of equipment; techniques, including recoveries and rescues; navigation and seamanship; and even kayak camping. The many black-and-white photographs and line drawings do a great job of supporting the text. The author describes qualities to look for when buying a new or used kayak, makes suggestions about where to cut costs, and where not to skimp. The instructions for proper technique begin as a narration of a first-time experience, and then go into advanced skills. The tone throughout is reassuring and even humorous. A hefty list of sources including manufacturers, relevant equipment, camping gear, clothing, roof racks, and trailers is provided.
Cynthia J. Rieben, W. T. Woodson High School, Fairfax, VA
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From the Back Cover

"No other outdoor sport in the world is as easy to get started in as sea kayaking, yet no sport in the world offers such an astonishing scope for real adventure." So promises noted sea kayaking expert, expedition leader, and author Jonathan Hanson in his introduction to Essential Sea Kayaking. In this complete guide Hanson acquaints you with the fundamentals of this versatile and accessible sport, leading you step-by-step through all the essentials, including: kayak and paddle options; equipment and clothing; basic strokes - including turning and bracing techniques; Eskimo, Pawlata, and Screw rolls; recoveries and rescues; open-water techniques; paddling in wind and waves; launching and landing through surf; navigation and seamanship; a full chapter on kayak camping; complete source listing for equipment, outfitters; and more. (6 X 9, 208 pages, b&w photos, diagrams)

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Product Details

• Paperback: 208 pages
• Publisher: The Lyons Press; 1st edition (January 1, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1558217150
• ISBN-13: 978-1558217157
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 1.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #5,003,548 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars A Poor Re-Write, October 25, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Essential Sea Kayaking (Paperback)

This is shorter re-write of his earlier book "Complete Sea Kayak Touring"; but printed on poorer stock. Of course you do save $. Get the first version.