- Class II Rapids
- 14+
- 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, Full Day
Whether your goal is to use Class II as a stepping stone to kayaking more difficult whitewater or as a destination in itself, the skills taught in this Intermediate clinic will serve you well.
Quick Details
*Prior Rolling Experience Required
During the first half of class we often focus on reviewing the components needed to roll. We’ll provide coaching and drills to help strengthen your roll.
The second half has some options. Some folks may want to keep working on flatwater rolls, others may want to take their roll to the river. If folks need a break from rolling we may also focus on paddling skills to help prevent those flips in the first place! We use a logical progression so you get a great foundation to build skill. Taking this course does not guarantee that you’ll come away from it with a roll as everybody learns at a different pace. If you’re an experienced roller, you can work on improving your technique, flipping without setting up, and learning an off-side roll, a hand roll, or any other variation of the basic roll.
For those with some basic kayaking ability who are interested in learning the coolest trick in the sport! The roll is a great self rescue skill to learn after you have begun kayaking in the river.
Wet-exits with a sprayskirt from a whitewater kayak and basic understanding and execution of the river running maneuvers (eddy turn, peel out and ferry). This should not be your first whitewater kayak lesson. This class is for those who have already begun the progression of learning to roll.
While some of the flatwater areas we use are quite warm in June, July, and August, the Deerfield River is always cool, regardless of the time of year or air temperature. When packing your paddling clothes, please plan accordingly, especially if you are coming early or late in the season (April, May, September, and October). Our clinics will run rain or shine.
Wear items such as:
Other items to bring:
Zoar Outdoor will provide:
If you own your own equipment, we suggest you use it in the clinic to get used to its quirks.
Lunch is not provided on our half day clinics.
The following statement is required by state law: “Before placing your order, please inform your server if a person in your party has a food allergy.”
We do not use nuts in our food, but can not guarantee that the ingredients in our meals do not contain nuts or other food allergens. If you have food allergies or other special dietary needs, we strongly suggest you bring your own bag lunch in non-glass containers and we will pack it with the other lunches on your trip. Please inform our office at 413-339-4010 or [email protected] if you intend to do this.
You spend somewhere between three to four hours in your boat. To prepare, stretch your thighs, hamstrings, and torso (back, stomach, shoulders, and neck). If you increase your flexibility, you will have more efficient strokes and be more comfortable in your boat.