Whether you’re gliding through calm lakes, navigating rushing rivers, or exploring coastal waters, kayaking provides an intimate connection with nature.
However, like any water activity, it comes with inherent risks. One of the most critical safety skills for any kayaker to master is the wet exit.
This maneuver can be the difference between a minor mishap and a life-threatening situation.
If you want to learn more about wet exit, why it’s important, how to perform it effectively, and how to practice and prepare for this essential technique, stick around. We will discuss them all today.
What is a Wet Exit?
A wet exit is the act of safely removing yourself from a capsized kayak while underwater.
It’s called a “wet” exit because, well, you’re going to get wet! This technique is essential for all kayakers, regardless of their experience level or the type of kayak they use.
In enclosed kayaks, such as sea kayaks or whitewater kayaks, paddlers typically wear a spray skirt.
This neoprene or nylon skirt creates a watertight seal around the cockpit, preventing water from entering the kayak.
While this is great for keeping you dry and your kayak buoyant, it also means you need a reliable way to exit if you capsize.
How to Perform a Wet Exit? 7 Point Checklist
Performing a wet exit involves the following:
1. Prepare: Before you even get on the water, adjust your spray skirt so it’s snug but not too tight. Familiarize yourself with the grab loop location and practice reaching for it without looking.
2. Stay Calm: If you capsize, take a moment to orient yourself. The bottom of the kayak will be above you. Fighting the instinct to panic is crucial – remember, your PFD (Personal Flotation Device) will keep you buoyant.
3. Locate the Grab Loop: Feel for the grab loop of your spray skirt at the front of the cockpit. It’s typically a large loop or strap at the front center of the spray skirt.
4. Pull the Skirt: Firmly pull the grab loop forward to release the spray skirt from the cockpit rim. Use a strong, decisive motion to ensure the skirt fully detaches.
5. Push Out: Push yourself out of the kayak using your hands on the sides of the cockpit. If you’re wearing a spray skirt, you may need to wriggle your hips to fully exit.
Some paddlers find it helpful to imagine doing a forward somersault out of the kayak.
6. Surface: Once clear of the kayak, follow your bubbles to the surface. Keep one arm up to protect your head as you surface, especially if you’re in shallow or rocky areas.
7. Secure Your Gear: Once at the surface, stay with your kayak if it’s safe to do so. It can be used as a flotation device and is easier for rescuers to spot than a lone swimmer.
How to Practise Wet Exit?
Practise wet exit in a controlled environment before you need to use it in an emergency.
Many kayaking courses offer supervised practice in pools or calm waters. Here are some tips for effective practice:
- Start in Shallow Water: Begin your practice in water shallow enough for you to stand in. This adds an extra layer of safety as you’re learning.
- Use a Spotter: Always practice with a partner or instructor who can assist if needed.
- Gradually Increase Difficulty: Once comfortable with basic wet exits, try practicing in different conditions – wearing different clothing, in moving water, or with your eyes closed to simulate murky water.
- Combine with Re-entry Techniques: Practice wet exits in conjunction with assisted rescues or self-rescues to create a complete safety skill set.
- Regular Refreshers: Even experienced kayakers should practice wet exits periodically to maintain their skills.
Why it is Important?
Let’s understand why you must learn to wet exit a kayak.
Safety First: In the event of a capsize, knowing how to quickly and calmly exit your kayak can prevent panic and potential drowning.
Water can be disorienting, especially if you’re upside down and strapped into a kayak. A well-practiced wet exit ensures you can get to the surface quickly and safely.
Confidence Booster: Mastering the wet exit gives you the confidence to paddle in various conditions, knowing you can handle a capsize.
This confidence allows you to focus on improving your paddling skills and enjoying the experience, rather than worrying about what might happen if you tip over.
Prerequisite for Advanced Skills: The wet exit is the foundation for more advanced techniques like rolling, which allows you to right your kayak without exiting.
Many kayakers progress from wet exits to learning how to “roll” their kayak back upright, but even expert paddlers who can roll reliably still need to know how to wet exit as a backup.
Adapting to Different Situations: Capsizing can happen in various scenarios – in rough waters, near rocks, or in strong currents.
Knowing how to wet exit efficiently helps you adapt to these different situations and maintain your safety.
Group Safety: In group paddling situations, being proficient in wet exits not only ensures your safety but also means you’re less likely to become a liability to your fellow paddlers.
What are Some Essential Safety Tips?
Safety should always be the priority. Ensure the following:
- Proper Equipment: Always wear a well-fitting PFD and appropriate clothing for the water conditions.
- Know Your Limits: Be honest about your skill level and the conditions you’re prepared to handle.
- Paddle with Partners: Whenever possible, kayak with others who can assist in case of an emergency.
- Understand Your Environment: Be aware of water temperature, currents, and potential hazards in your paddling area.
Conclusion
The wet exit is a fundamental skill that every kayaker should master.
It’s not just about knowing what to do in theory; it’s about building muscle memory so you can react instinctively in a potentially stressful situation.
Mastering wet exit will not only ensure your own safety but also open the door to more advanced kayaking techniques and adventures.
Understand that a skilled kayaker isn’t one who never capsizes, but one who knows how to handle it when it happens.
The wet exit is your ticket to confidence on the water, allowing you to push your boundaries and fully embrace the joys of kayaking.
