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5 Tips For Whitewater Rafting Novices

white water rafting

5 Tips For Whitewater Rafting Novices by Richard Grant

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Whitewater rafting is becoming an increasingly popular past time for thrill seekers. Many however fail to fully research their trip and the result can be at best one of failing to live up to expectations and at worst putting personal safety in danger. Here are my 5 top tips to ensure a happy and a safe first time
whitewater rafting experience.

Choose your tour operator and/or instructor very carefully. Do not go for the cheapest option! Ask yourself just why they are charging so much less than the next guy. Is your safety in the water worth compromising for the sake of a few bucks? Join some internet whitewater rafting forums and seek advice on the best operators.

Think about what time of year you will be whitewater rafting. Whenever you go you will get wet - as in absolutely drenched. Not a great scenario in winter, (being wet AND cold is never a good combination!). Yet in the summer months you will get wet and this may mask the heat of the sun - resulting in sunburn or worse. Think carefully therefore before booking your trip.

Can you swim? No really can you swim? I don't mean doing a couple of lengths in your local pool. I mean swimming in strong currents fully clothed. Think about that for a second - have you ever tried swimming in a lot more than a pair of Speedos? If not go and book some lessons - some proper lessons where you can learn more than the basic breaststroke.

Choose what you are wearing carefully - it goes without saying that your clothes will get wet you won't want to be wearing any designer items - but what about footwear. The experts all agree that the best option is soft-soled canvas shoes with plenty of grip. You may even consider buying a pair of proper ‘river
Shoes’ designed solely(!) for water sports.

In addition to researching your operator thoroughly it makes perfect sense to research whitewater rafting itself. Learn about the types of water - there are 6 classes of river conditions ranging from Class I (virtually still water) to Class VI (virtually un-navigable). Whitewater novices should start at Class II or Class III. Remember also that classification can change depending on the conditions at the time. Get to know also the types of craft available to you - will you prefer kayaks, rafts or canoes? Do some research and listen to experienced ‘river rats’ in the forums.

You can be sure that with a little forward planning your first whitewater rafting experience will a highly enjoyable one which you will want to repeat again and again!