5 Tips For Whitewater Rafting Novices
Did you know that...
Whitewater rafting is becoming an increasingly popular past
time for thrill seekers. Many however fail to fully research
their trip and the result can be at best one of failing to
live up to expectations and at worst putting personal safety
in danger. Here are my 5 top tips to ensure a happy and a
safe first time whitewater rafting experience.
Choose your tour operator and/or instructor very carefully.
Do not go for the cheapest option! Ask yourself just why
they are charging so much less than the next guy. Is your
safety in the water worth compromising for the sake of a few
bucks? Join some internet whitewater rafting forums and seek
advice on the best operators.
Think about what time of year you will be whitewater
rafting. Whenever you go you will get wet - as in absolutely
drenched. Not a great scenario in winter, (being wet AND
cold is never a good combination!). Yet in the summer months
you will get wet and this may mask the heat of the sun -
resulting in sunburn or worse. Think carefully therefore
before booking your trip.
Can you swim? No really can you swim? I don't mean doing a
couple of lengths in your local pool. I mean swimming in
strong currents fully clothed. Think about that for a second
- have you ever tried swimming in a lot more than a pair of
Speedos? If not go and book some lessons - some proper
lessons where you can learn more than the basic breast
stroke.
Choose what you are wearing carefully - it goes without
saying that your clothes will get wet you won't want to be
weraing any designer items - but what about footwear. The
experts all agree that the best option is soft soled canvas
shoes with plenty of grip. You may even consider buying a
pair of proper "river shoes" designed solely(!) for water
sports.
In addition to researching your operator thoroughly it makes
perfect sense to research whitewater rafting itself. Learn
about the types of water - there are 6 classes of river
conditions ranging from Class I (virtually still water) to
Class VI (virtually un-navigable). Whitewater novices should
start at Class II or Class III. Remember also that
classification can change depending on the conditions at the
time. Get to know also the types of craft available to you -
will you prefer kayaks, rafts or canoes? Do some reasearch
and listen to experienced "river rats" in the forums.
You can be sure that with a little forward planning your
first whitewater rafting experience will a highly enjoyable
one which you will want to repeat again and again!
About the Author
Richard Grant is the webmaster at Find-Whitewater-Rafting.com This article is free to publish provided it is antact togteher with this resource box.
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