An introduction to canoeing that uses step-by-step photographs to demonstrate the essential strokes and maneuvers; includes safety tips and information on equipment.

2005 National Outdoor Book Award Winner. A fully illustrated introduction to river kayaking with a full-color gear guide plus chapters on river safety and reading the water. Step-by-step instruction on essential techniques, including all major strokes and rolls.

The perfect step-by-step handbook for beginners, with sage advice on every aspect of flat-water kayaking, from selecting a boat to kayak sailing.

CLICK HERE to download the section on sea kayaking "Safety: Self & Assisted Rescue" from Sea Kayaking * Features 130 demonstrative photographs and 30 charts and illustrations * Written by a veteran paddling coach and expert in kayak stroke efficiency * Advice from expert contributors throughout adds full range of experience The latest addition to the award-winning Mountaineers Outdoor Expert series, Sea Kayaking: Basic Skills to Advanced Paddling Techniques, offers authoritative advice for paddlers of all levels, from beginners considering their first gear purchase to competitive kayakers looking to perfect their forward stroke. As a longtime paddling professional and National Team coach, author Dan Henderson draws from a lifetime of personal experience, teaching, and his academic research in exercise science to instruct readers on everything they need to know to get out on the water, including: * Gear -- how to pick the right kayak for your body size, skill level, and lifestyle * Foundations of safety, how to plan and prepare, and must-know advice for assisted and self-rescue * Basic paddling styles to advanced techniques (side slipping, edging, bracing) * Techniques for a range of conditions caused by wind, waves, currents, swells, and more * Expedition planning and camping * Getting the most out of kayaking for fitness “Dan’s participation in paddlesports is celebrated by a lifetime of contribution to the sport, friendships that span the globe and professional success across all disciplines of paddling. The opportunity to learn from Dan’s experience will only add to your enjoyment and success in the sport.” -- Joe Jacobi, Chief Executive Officer USA Canoe/Kayak

Go with the flow! You’re no idiot, of course. You love being on the water and in the great outdoors. But when it comes to canoeing or kayaking, you’re starting to think you hear a waterfall. Don’t head for higher ground! The Complete Idiot’s Guide® to Canoeing and Kayaking will prepare you for your journey—whether you’re heading down a local river, around a regional lake, or into the ocean. In this Complete Idiot’s Guide®, you get: • Detailed information on the different types of canoes, kayaks, and tips for choosing the right one for you. • Paddling strokes, maneuvers, and techniques for all kinds of conditions. • Foolproof tips on navigating all types of waters—from rough rapids to slow-moving streams. • Great advice on using kayaks and canoes for fitness, fishing, camping, and competition. Learn more about: • Safety considerations, including quick exits, Eskimo Rolls, swift water-rescue techniques, and more. • Safely paddling with kids, to make sure everyone has fun. • Clothing and equipment, including how to choose and care for a personal flotation device. • Paddling techniques and how they evolved through the years. • Planning a trip and choosing an outfitter or guide. • Building your own canoe or kayak.

For a generation, the Basic Illustrated series has been as much a part of the outdoors experience as backpacks and hiking boots. Information-packed tools for the novice or handy references for the veteran, these volumes distill years of knowledge into affordable and portable books. Whether you’re planning a trip or thumbing for facts in the field, Basic Illustrated books tell you what you need to know. Basic Illustrated Kayaking Basic Illustrated Kayaking includes a buying guide to kayak design, kayak features, accessories, and gear so the reader can decide the kind of kayak that is right for him or her. The book is packed with step-by-step information on transporting, launching and landing, basic and advanced strokes, techniques, navigation, rescues, and expedition planning. It focuses on recreational (flatwater) kayaking, providing step-by-step instructions and easy-to-follow photos.

This exciting and demanding sport is much different than its flat-water sibling, with different equipment and techniques, all of which are covered in Basic Illustrated Sea Kayaking. Full-color images cover the many sea kayak models and accessories, as well as important information on tides and currents, packing and loading tips for comfort and safety, and a glossary chock-full of helpful terminology. You'll discover how to perfect your paddle stroke, perform self rescues and assisted rescues, paddle and navigate safely, pack your sea kayak for an expedition, and get your kayak on and off your vehicle.