Inflatable sea canoe: how to get started, and what you need to go canoeing

Where and when can I go with an inflatable sea canoe?

What equipment is needed to get started with it?

And which one is essential for my safety?

If you are approaching the world of inflatable sea canoes for the first time, these are probably the questions you are asking yourself. In this article, we try to give you an overview of what is important to have in order to get started!

FIRST THINGS FIRST: INFLATABLE SEA CANOES ARE NOT KAYAKS!

Confusing an inflatable canoe with a kayak is a rather common mistake. For this reason, the first thing to do is it ensure that we are speaking about the right boat.

Unlike the kayak, the canoe is completely open: it has free entry and is not restricted by the cockpit; inside, you sit with your legs bent and not stretched forward; above all, the canoe has a single paddle and not a double one.

SECOND ORDER OF BUSINESS: HOW TO DISCRIMINATE BETWEEN AN INFLATABLE SEA CANOE AND A FRESHWATER ONE

come distinguere la canoa gonfiabile da mare da quella da acque dolci

Once the canoe has been identified, it is important to select the right type: a first distinctive feature is the size, with the inflatable sea canoe being decidedly longer than the freshwater one, even reaching 4-5 meters in length.

Further, by carefully observing its structure, you will notice how the inflatable sea canoe has a more protruding keel, which allows it to face the waves in a safe and stable manner without running the risk of capsizing during navigation.

THIRD POINT: WHAT KIND OF EQUIPMENT IS NEEDED

Once you have chosen the inflatable sea canoe, it is time to choose all the accessories necessary for its correct use and navigation:

paddle
clothing
safety devices
inflator

canoa gonfiabile da mare - quali attrezzature servono

When it comes to paddles, the choice is quite wide, with models that are suitable for all budgets: from the cheapest to those in carbon fiber or fibreglass, the difference lies not only in their resistance but also in their weight - the more expensive ones being certainly lighter and consequently also easier to manoeuvre.

The clothing is lighter if you go to sea exclusively in summer, while obviously heavier and more technical if you want to use it in colder temperatures.

In terms of safety, a life jacket should never be missing, as it is to be worn on any occasion and season. There are a few other small precautions: during the summer season it is important always to use and carry good sun cream with you (in order to avoid sunburn and sunstroke), while in winter it is a good idea to bring a hot drink with you to sip during your excursion.

Quali gonfiatori per canoe gonfiabili?

Last but not least, the inflator for your inflatable sea canoe: there are 3 types, namely manual, pedal or electric. The first two are cheaper and easier to transport, but less efficient and convenient when compared to the electric model; the latter can be purchased both as an electrically-charged, and as a rechargeable battery model.

We at Scoprega have been dedicating ourselves to the world of inflators for over 40 years, not only for the inflatable sea canoe, but for every type of aquatic inflatable: take a look at the products on our website and do not hesitate to contact us for any doubts or for advice. We will be happy to help you get back into shape!