What equipment do I need?

In Premier Division and International racing there are strict rules about the length, width and minimum weight of your boat (see below) but you can use any kayak to start with. When you want a “proper” slalom kayak, buy one second-hand – you will often find them for sale at competitions. A slalom boat is light, long and low so that it can pass under the gate poles.

You need a paddle and a spraydeck, and you must wear a buoyancy aid and a helmet. Other equipment – wet shoes, shorts, a cagoule – you can get later.

A slalom kayak

Once you need a “proper” slalom boat

All types of K1

Minimum length 3.50m, Minimum width 0.60m, Minimum weight 9 Kg

All types of C1

Minimum length 3.50m, Minimum width 0.60m, Minimum weight 9 Kg

All types of C2

Minimum length 4.10m, Minimum width 0.75m, Minimum weight 15 Kg

All boats must have a minimum radius at each end of 2 cm horizontally and 1 cm vertically.

There are no restrictions on what boats are made of, but in practice carbon fibre and resin, and sometimes kevlar, are the best materials to build a boat this light and strong enough for the job.

Boats may weigh as little as 7 Kg and carry a lead weight to bring them up to regulation weight. Using a weight placed at the centre of the boat keeps the ends light so that the boat turns fast, and it is allowed as long as it’s permanently fixed into the boat.