What is kayak slalom?
Canoe slalom (previously known as whitewater slalom) is a competitive sport with the aim to navigate a decked canoe or kayak through a course of hanging downstream or upstream gates on river rapids in the fastest time possible. Kayaks are a lot more nimble and speedy than canoes, due to their shape, their lighter weight and the double-bladed paddle, which allows for quicker and more agile piloting. Canoes, meanwhile, are more stable and harder to capsize.Sit-On Kayaks They are generally more comfortable and easier to get in and out of than traditional kayaks, making them a popular choice for beginners and casual paddlers. Sit-on kayaks are also easier to transport and store, as they can be easily loaded onto the roof of a car or SUV.The kayak size you should get depends on your height, weight, and the paddling you plan to do. Generally, a longer kayak offers better speed and tracking. A wider kayak provides more stability and is suited for beginners or recreational use.The rules of canoe slalom define the specification of the boats, in kayak this means the kayak must be 350cm long, 60cm wide and weigh no less than 8kg. With the shorter tighter course the kayak length reduced to 350cm.
What’s the difference between canoe and kayak slalom?
In canoe slalom events, competitors use a single-bladed paddle and kneel in the boat with both legs tucked under their body. Competitors in kayak events use a double-bladed paddle and are seated in their boats. There are three main types of kayak classifications. White Water, Recreational, and Sea kayaks. Within these classifications, there are sub classifications and variations of each boat design.In canoe slalom there are three different types of boat the Kayak Singles (K1), Canoe Singles (C1) and Canoe Doubles (C2). Paracanoe has two types of boat, the traditional Kayak and the Va’a – a canoe with an outrigger to provide stability.
What are the rules of slalom?
Slalom skiing rules Competitors are required to ski down a slope that has a vertical descent of 180m to 220m for men or 140m to 180m for women. Skiers are supposed to pass through ‘gates’ – which refer to two plastic poles, alternating between red and blue through an earmarked course. The slalom is the most technical event in Alpine skiing with gates set very close together. Skiers need to perform fast turns and rapid changes of direction. Slalom has the shortest course and the quickest turns in Alpine skiing but skiers still reach around 60-70 kph.
Why do slalom skiers hit the gates?
Skiers pass through gates or two plastic poles. Each gate has a minimum width of 4m and a maximum of 6m. Skiers often knock over the poles in order to find the fastest route. Slalom skiers have to pass through two courses. Canoe slalom sees competitors navigate a whitewater course – up to 300 metres in length – by passing through a maximum 25 upstream and downstream gates in as quick a time as possible.