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Extreme Sea Kayaking
by Eric Soares and Michael Powers
Published 1999 by Ragged Mountain Press
Paperback 121 pages
ISBN 0-07-050718-X
Price $15.95
A quick flick through the pages of this book reveals what a diverse sport sea kayaking is. The contrast between the standard sea kayaking photograph of glassy seas with perfect reflections and the photographs within the pages of this book couldn't be more pronounced. They depict excitement, energy and a style of paddling which is a complete anathema to most sea kayakers. This isn't a book, though, which should be discarded by the majority of sea paddlers, as contained within its pages are numerous pieces of advice which are relevant to all sea kayakers.
Many paddlers seek the shelter of the inner waters, but there is a whole world waiting to be explored on the exposed open coast. The impact zone between the ocean and the shoreline, where the waves release their energy, is an exciting area to paddle but one which requires knowledge and skill and ideally a knowledgeable guide. In the absence of a personal guide this book is an excellent substitute.
As members of the legendary Tsunami Rangers, these paddlers have cut their paddling teeth off the coast of California and further afield. They are therefore suitably qualified to lead the reader into the world of extreme sea kayaking. Advice is given on equipment, both clothing and kayaks, with appropriate photographs illustrating their gladiatorial look prior to venturing out onto the ocean. The section on skills, not only contains the usual strokes, but advice on a personal training regime. Physical training, judo throws inside the surf break and survival swimming, do not normally come within the scope of a sea kayaking manual but in this case they are fairly essential.
Clearly an understanding of the fickle environment is paramount to safe paddling in such areas and its many facets are explained. The surf zone, rock gardens and sea caves are all waiting to be explored and the techniques are covered. It then covers a range of communications which can be used on the water to ensure safer paddling within a group.
This book is more than a technical manual though. It is interspersed with a number of fascinating stories describing situations encountered which is further evidence that the authors have the experience and knowledge to write a book such as this. The photographs, which illustrate the chapters, show the excitement and potential dangers which can be encountered in the zone between the open ocean and the coast.
If you want a book which offers a different perspective on sea paddling, then "Extreme Sea Kayaking" may be that volume. You don't have to aspire to reach the levels of skill depicted in the photographs to derive something from this book. Anybody who journeys by kayak, will encounter times when the conditions are beyond their comfort zone and it is then that the techniques and advice contained within this book come into their own. Even if such a situation never arises then this book is worth having as an inspiration to see what some paddlers are able to do with their kayaks.
Kevin Mansell
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