Can beginners go white water rafting?
Beginner’s guide to whitewater rafting Much to my surprise, you can actually go whitewater rafting on completely newbie-friendly rapids. The rapids you do go through are totally non-threatening and are actually super fun! Younger kids, roughly 5-9 years old, are best suited for river trips that last up to 3 hours on the water and some are better with shorter spans of 1-2 hours. Each child, of course, is different and able to focus and enjoy for different periods of time.Class I and Class II river rafting trips are the easiest adventures we offer and are suitable for younger kids, (ages 4+), non-swimmers, timid children and seniors. Rapids are wide and clear offering splashy fun!
Should I wear a bathing suit for white water rafting?
What to Wear for a Commercial Rafting Trip. For commercial trips where essential items like a life jacket, helmet and wetsuit are likely to be included, focus on layers. Layers: On the bottom, wear a bathing suit, board shorts or other quick-drying layer that won’t ride up or pinch under a wetsuit. T-shirts, shorts, and swimsuits are all good decisions when preparing for your rafting trip. Instead of wearing flip flops, put on a pair of old sneakers or water shoes. Be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen and consider wearing sunglasses with a retaining strap.Wearing a swimsuit under your gear is a great option. It provides comfort and quick-drying benefits, making it suitable for your whitewater rafting adventure.Whether it be your guide or a guide in a different boat, someone will likely be giving you instructions and working to get you back into a raft. Guides always point in the direction that they’ll want you to swim. The quicker you can respond to them, the quicker they’ll be able to assist you in the water.If you are separated from your raft and can’t quickly get back to it, then your best bet is to swim to another raft if it is closer. If the shoreline is closer than your raft or other rafts, then swim to shore. While swimming, it’s important to keep your bearings with downstream obstacles and shoreline obstacles.Always float on your back with your face out of the water. All the while, keep your feet at or above the surface of the water. Keep your arms out to the side to help slow down and maneuver in the river. Be aware of your position in relation to the raft.
Do I need shoes for white water rafting?
The best shoes to wear while whitewater rafting are water shoes or sandals with a secure fit and good grip. Avoid flip-flops, as they can easily come off and provide little support. Can I wear sandals while rafting? Wearing sandals while rafting is not recommended. Any shoes without backs that could slip off your feet aren’t ideal for white water rafting. Shoes you should avoid include boots, heels, Crocs, and flip flops. Because the inside of the raft will become wet, you want to be sure you can maintain good footing.Trail Running Shoes Running shoes are the perfect pair. These shoes help create balance in warm water that tops off from excessive summer heat. And while maintaining moderate body temperature in cold water splashes, they are suitable white water rafting shoes for winter.Footwear: The best shoes for rafting are ones that stay on your feet and can get wet. Choose water shoes, water sandals with a heel strap or an old pair of sneakers you don’t mind getting soaked. If it’s chilly, you can wear wool socks under your shoes or sandals.Wear quick-drying shorts or pants over your swimsuit (not necessary if your swimsuit has a short bottom). Good options include baggy shorts or athletic leggings. The rafting company will provide you with a PFD (life jacket) and a helmet.
Can you wear jeans for white water rafting?
Synthetic clothing, like what you wear to the gym, will make for a much more comfortable rafting experience. You may love your jeans, but they don’t make for the best pants for the river. Swim shorts, gym shorts, or a wet suit are all much better options. Moderate Fitness: The good news is that you don’t need to be an elite athlete to enjoy white water rafting. A moderate level of physical fitness is sufficient for most rafting trips, especially those designed for families and beginners.Rafting can be strenuous and help build endurance. You need to sustain your paddling on the river as you maneuver obstacles and make your way downstream. It’s a fantastic cardio (aerobic) workout. If you do it regularly, rafting can help get your stamina and endurance to peak levels.Rafting can be strenuous and help build endurance. You need to sustain your paddling on the river as you maneuver obstacles and make your way downstream. It’s a fantastic cardio (aerobic) workout. If you do it regularly, rafting can help get your stamina and endurance to peak levels.Whitewater rafting and kayaking rely heavily on your shoulders, arms, wrists, and core, so it’s important to get these muscle groups used to repetitive motion. Targeted strength training improves control, boosts stamina, and helps prevent common injuries like shoulder strain from overexertion.Whitewater rafting is an exciting and exhilarating adventure that can be enjoyed by people of all skill levels. While it may seem daunting to some, beginners can definitely go whitewater rafting with the right preparation and guidance.