Rec. School Gear

[AR-Nimrod]

Was hoping someone could give us a list of required and optional gear needed for Rec. School. Beyond boat, paddle and PFD (figured I'd better put that in lest someone be tempted to go there if I didn't). We are hoping to attend and will know within a few days if we can go. If there's something we need to get this will give us time to get it. Appreciate your input.

[Liz Caldwell]

You're on the right track with boat, paddle and PFD. You'll also need a helmet if you are in a whitewater kayak (as opposed to a rec kayak), or using thigh straps on your canoe. And if you are in either kind of kayak (as opposed to a canoe), you'll need a skirt. Sit-on-tops are not required to wear helmets, though they are encouraged.

If you revisit the info sheet on Rec School (link on the right-hand side of the ACC home page), it has a subtitle "What Do I Need To Bring?" I lifted the following from the Rec School page:

Everyone should pack a lunch, snacks and plenty of water or other quality hydration for the time on the water. The weather will likely be hot, so you may wish to wear a bathing suit or non-cotton shorts with a synthetic top (cotton fabrics do not dry as quickly as synthetics, and they tend to chafe). Bring a sun hat or ball-cap, sunglasses with a tether or float, and plenty of sunscreen! Also bring a camp chair/folding chair so you'll have someplace to sit during our group topics.

Other items you may wish to bring:

Rain or paddling jacket to add as a top layer in case of rain.
Water bottle that doesn’t leak and has a loop for attaching to your boat.
If you plan to be in a canoe and if it doesn’t have built-in knee pads, you may want to bring knee pads to wear....

Each person must provide his/her own gear and boat. PFDs (life jackets) are to be worn at all times while on the river. Helmets are to be worn at all times while on the river if participant is secured in boat by spray skirt or thigh straps. The water likely will be cold, and the weather in May is still unpredictable, so synthetic clothing (polypro, fleece, etc.) is highly recommended. Layers are good, in case it's hot. Students also may wish to bring a wetsuit or other warm gear, especially in the case of cold weather or if they tend to be cold regardless of the weather. Remember, river paddling means that you will get wet.

Canoes should be fiberglass, plastic or polyethylene. Aluminum, wood, canvas or square-stern boats will not be allowed to participate. All canoes must have bow and stern lines. Float bags are highly recommended.

All decked kayaks and canoes must be made of plastic, fiberglass or kevlar. No wood or canvas boats are allowed. Float bags are highly recommended and bow and stern grab loops are required.