There seems to be a resurgence in the “does certification kill adventure” debate lately. I really have no opinion on that, to be honest. I do want to say a few words about being able to roll a kayak. To me this is the biggest point that sea kayakers obsess over. To many, It is like some vaunted club that unlocks the secret levels of kayaking. I only sort of agree.

I (re)discovered kayaking as an adult and I have a confession to make. I suck at rolling a kayak. I practice every week, I can hammer out the basic rolls (front and back deck), I have even became pretty confident rolling in conditions. How did it happen? Blood, sweat, tears and a healthy dose of emotion. Why was it so difficult? I don’t know. But it was, and it took a lot of work to get where I am now. I want to say to all of the kayakers out there without a roll: “Take a deep breath, it’s ok.”

Why do we learn to roll a kayak? For me it was two reasons. First, it became clear that it was the fastest way to self rescue. Secondly, it looks cool to non-kayakers. For the vast majority of kayakers who will never be interested in surfing, moving water and standing waves, it is a luxury item. It can be replaced with intelligent trip planning, a rock solid self rescue or even better, paddle with a partner and dial in an assisted rescue.

So why do we obsess over it as a measure of access to events? I don’t. I will still paddle with you if you can’t roll. I will go surfing with you at Pleasant Beach, I will go kayak camping with you on Georgian Bay. What matters to me is passion, an attitude towards safety on the water and willingness to have a good time. We can adjust trip plans to suit the needs of the group. We can’t and shouldn’t adjust people’s desire to grow.

Now that I have that off my chest. Yes, you should probably learn. There is something about it. It can be relaxing, it can be infuriating. It is a great workout. For most adults it is not easy. It takes dedication, flexibility, concentration and practice. It will take time, do not get discouraged. I have been there and I sympathize.

Here is my timeline:

Season 1

• • Pool water sucks far worse than cold water (buy some ear plugs).
  • If I see one more 15 year old roll a kayak on the first day I am buying a bloody canoe.

Season 2

• • Peer mentorship is amazingly awesome.
    • Even if they suck but have a good heart.
  • Coaching is worth it. It won’t however, replace practice.
  • Once you start nailing your first roll (layback right side) you don’t have to wet exit, empty and re enter every time.
  • It becomes much less exhausting.
  • All of a sudden you are getting it every time. You did it. This is a major life event. Mark your calendar and celebrate.
  • Back to earth, start on the left side. Why is this so hard, I can’t get it.
    • But you can roll up on your good side after you fail.
  • You don’t realize it yet but you are practicing rolling in real conditions.
  • Holy crow you got the left side.

Season 3

• • You try kayak surfing and get a major beat down. WTF my roll doesn’t work here.
  • You try again
  • You try again
  • You try again
  • Contemplate board surfing

Season 4

• • You go surfing and get smashed, You roll up and surf in. You don’t even realize it but your crew is cheering. Holy shit.
  • You try to roll in current.
  • Yard Sale
  • You try to roll in current.
    • Yard Sale
  • You try to roll in current.
    • Yard Sale
  • You try to roll in current.
    • Yard Sale
  • You try to roll in current.
    • You realize laybacks suck.
  • You try a forward finishing roll.
    • You layback and fall in x100 times
  • You finally nail it. FUGGGG YES YOU DID!

That is the reality of rolling a kayak for me. I am not ashamed of it, I earned every bit of that pathway with determination. It is not easy. I have much to learn and I welcome the challenge.

---

If you are interested in supporting Kayak Ontario, please do so by attending our kayaking lessons (clinics, classes and events). To find more information, please visit our shop by clicking here