I have always had a problem with the standard paddle float rescue where one pins the paddle to the combing with one's hand. I have small hands and it is a stretch to get a grip on the combing and over the paddle, especially in rough water. This looks so much better, can't wait to get in the water and practice it!
This was very helpful. I can do a couple of styles of assisted wet reentry, but have always had trouble with the self reentry - struggling until I was frustrated and exhausted. I just went outside and dropped my North Shore Aspect into the pool and had no trouble reentering this way - from either side, and with my paddle skirt and 2 different styles of pfds (including the bulky-in-front style). When I forgot your exact instructions, the maneuver seemed so intuitive I was able to easily complete it. Thank you! (I'm a reasonably fit 58 year old woman packing some extra weight. If this works for me, anyone should be able to do it!)
Anita Wood Congratulations! Be sure to practice in the actual conditions and equipment in which you'll be paddling, in addition to the pool! Adding a wetsuit, and practicing in chop, wind, and cold water can make it much more challenging. :-)
This is a good technique and probably the easiest and most stable of all. It is mentioned in this video, but I will voice it again: When you are in wind and waves, it is absolutely essential that you keep solid contact with your kayak at all times. In high seas, the kayak will blow away from you faster than you can swim to it, especially with gear on and a paddle in your hand. One second is all it takes to separate you from your kayak.
Thank you so much Jeremy - this has worked and on a much shorter crossover boat (9ft 7in)., with less choice of decking lines and with a much shorter, older, plumper and femaler paddler than you , who previously found it impossible to get in by herself using other methods. Someone below said they took notes and you were interested in them. So in case it helps others - a couple of points noted from the video but not specified, but that seemed to make a huge difference in making this smooth a) putting bottom or even top part of the arm, not just the hand on the paddle as you get the legs in (esp if you don't have decking lines in quite the right place) b) as you bring in the second leg cross it across the leg already in - this means that you get the rotation rather than ending up lying flat on the boat. The intention now is to practice and then test it out in bouncier water. Thank you again.
This is an excellent video and a contribution to paddlesports safety. I particularly liked the many key points covered - a lot of which are omitted from the usual self-rescue videos. As this video notes, the rescue isn't complete until the cockpit is pumped out, the skirt attached, the float stowed, and the paddler is ready to go. A common refrain in incidents where rescues failed is "every wave washed into the cockpit - pumping was useless". That's why you practice with the skirt on - as demonstrated in the video. Another thing I appreciated was the way in which the paddle was placed on the deck - loosely held by the deckline. Removing the paddle from behind you with one hand is a frequent cause of secondary capsizes. This method slips it out and with deflation conducted with the float still attached, support is maintained during the final phase of the rescue. Good points, well stated, and five stars, well-earned.
very helpful having 2 points of reference(bow&stern cameras)and showing the procedure THEN explaining! let's the student absorb more fully what you are trying to teach us.Thank You!!
Jeremy, I actually went out and tried this yesterday. I normally teach the "standard" paddle float reentry with the swimmer in front, or fore of the paddle; and hooking the paddle shaft with the one's aft leg. I found your heel hook variation to be far easier. I was surprised how little effort it took to get back into the boat on both my first and subsequent attempts. I'll be using this with students in the future. Well done!
I took a lesson and was all black and blue from my unsuccessful standard paddle float reentry attempts. I was able to perform this maneuver the first time I tried it. Thank you so much!
As stated, I practiced this today. Absolutely brilliant. Very "easy" and quick. Not as much strength, nor balancing as the "standard " cowboy self rescue. Again thanks for great video.
A great video, and very helpful… Just a couple of questions? Would a foam float versus an inflatable float be quicker, more efficient (pro/con)? Were you storing your pump on the rear deck? It appears like it came from nowhere… I really like the heel hook as you can store material on your back deck and not have to slide over it. Looking forward to future videos from you! 👍😊
I'm so glad you liked it, Leo! It's been over 10 years since I recorded it, but people seem to still like it. 🙂 A foam float would be perfectly acceptable and would get you back in the boat more quickly. They're just bulkier in storage. My pump was stored in a velcro harness behind my seat, inside the cockpit. Happy and safe paddling!
@@JeremyVore thanks for coming back so quickly… Do you still have that kayak any possibility you take a photo of the pump holster? Also, is the paddle float stored in the same spot? I’m looking for ideas to clean up the deck. 🤣. Wishing you well!
@@leoburns9674 You're most welcome! I'm afraid that the Cetus MV is long gone and my current boats don't have that harness system for the pump. It was just a piece of webbing and a piece of velcro mounted to the bulkhead behind the seat, but I don't have any photos of it. My paddle float slipped between the hull and the side of the seat when it was deflated and folded.
This works every time. And with practice it is easy to do and easy on the body. Finally, I have something I can trust even when I'm tired and in heavy wind and waves. It did not worked for me the first few times. So I reviewed it several times (rewind-replay each move) and made detailed notes. Once I got it the first time is has never failed. I have done this many times since because I like showing off with it! Buoyancy is important. I tried it successfully with both NRS and Riverstone floats. It did not work with foam float.
This is a belated reply - my apologies for not commenting sooner, Donald. As you took those detailed notes, what aspects of the self rescue made the difference between success and failure for you? What were the points that made it a reliable, go-to rescue?
This is great, thank you. I appreciated having both the bow and stern side camera perspectives. Hadn’t thought about partially retying the kayak skirt while emptying the water but that makes sense in rougher conditions
There's also a "toe hook" variation that I find easier. Position yourself FACE UP next to the kayak with your outside arm stretched out on the paddle. Then, put one foot in the cockpit and arch your back to get your butt into the boat. Eliminates having to turn over after you're on the boat, which can be tricky in rough water.
Very happy that you're interested in this as a self-rescue option, Joya! It's not perfect and - like any rescue - has it's limitations. However, it's a great tool to have in your tool box and can be successful for almost any paddler, regardless of upper body strength. Enjoy and let me know if you have any questions.
This is an excellent video. I have been trying to see how you get your first foot into the kayak so easily and it appears that there is an important movement which I don't think you mentioned. It appears that you position the whole of your lower left arm onto the paddle shaft just before lithe heel hook. This moves your upper body out towards the paddle float and gives the additional support and space to left the foot into the kayak. This is something I am going to try later today.
I think you stated the solution to my difficulty today: I was too close to the kayak and didn't have my arm on the paddle shaft. My legs wanted to go under the boat. Not good! I use a Greenland stick with the NRS float and putting it through the lines on both sides did seem to simplify things a bit. Still worth hanging on to the paddle and line as shown too. Btw I'm 71 years old.
Excellent presentation! I read all previous comments (seems like one commenter w negative vibes is jealous of you!). I would, however, like to see an updated version of this in windy/wavy conditions, as well as the other various methods you recommend to help us build our skill sets ... could save lives! Keep up the good work!
This seems to work - for me at least. Further variations: I tried this without putting the blade under the deck line on the far side of the rear deck. Saves a couple of seconds. Also, i put the paddle a bit further across the deck, so that the blade is clear of the deck. This way, the paddleshaft takes the load, rather than putting stress on the blade. Great variation of this idea, will put it to the test with some students that struggle with swimming on to the back deck.
Thanks for this video, Jeremy! Filming with Marquette & the Dome in the background adds to the credibility! :-) I did my PADI certification dives on that shore 20 years ago in April. :-) My husband and I just upgraded from our Necky's to fiberglass P&Hs this summer and are finding re-entry to be a bit challenging. This should help! :-)
JoAnn Baldwin-Glenn If you're local or in the area, feel free to contact me via www.theartofpaddling.com. I'd be happy to schedule a lesson with you to help with the re-entry challenges. And it's a wonderful place to be on or in the water, isn't it?
Jeremy, thank you for this video - this is the easiest self-rescue I've ever seen, other than a roll or re-enter and roll (when it works, but for me that is not 100%). But I'm hoping someone is still looking at this post and can help me diagnose: the first time I tried this it worked seamlessly. Then after several years of little or no paddling while recovering from injuries (and some increased stiffness), I can no longer make it work. I think the main difference even more than increased stiffness is that I started using a foam paddle float. Does anyone find that an inflatable float (more flotation) is a necessity to make this work?
An instructor once explained it to me largely as you did with one variation. Rather than fiddle with paddle float, grab the spare paddle (while you still have the paddle float outrigger) put the spare together then just stash the paddle with the float still on it and head to a safe place to reset the boat.
Do it quickly. Stay low keep the paddle float on until you are calm and collected. Practice paddling your boat gull of water in case you have to paddle out of a bad location. Paddle with a partner.
Teaman1974 This can be challenging in an Ocean cockpit. You'll have to rotate onto the back deck instead of directly into the cockpit, which gives you momentary instability while you're sitting high and shimmying into the cockpit. However, it's absolutely doable with practice! I spent over 15 years paddling ocean cockpit Nordkapps and Pintails, so I appreciate the added challenge. :-)
Good points. This is definitely not my primary (or secondary . . . or tertiary!) self-rescue. That said, it's perfectly achievable in rough water, though I wouldn't try it in a surf zone or area of breaking wind waves.
It also seems to be important to hold the near side combing just before lifting the first foot. This has the affect of pushing your upper body out towards the paddle float.
You should be able to do a scramble easier on open deck. But yes it would work. Closed decks let you use some foot leverage that you don't get with SOT.
Its actually important to realise the actual Hook in a Heel-Hook Entry. When the toes or foot hook under the cowling it keeps you locked into the kayak and it will not be washed away by a big wave.
What is the best technique to remove the water from a submerged kayak following a capsize before attempting the self-rescue? The video does not mention this.
Thank you for your comment! When self rescuing, the water is usually pumped out after the paddler is back in the boat. If you empty it beforehand, it's likely that you'll still end up with a flooded cockpit from water entering during the reentry maneuver. In modern sea kayaks with large cockpits and bulkheads, including one right behind the seat, you can swim to the bow and do a "lift and flip" to remove some water from the cockpit before self-rescuing, but you'll still have to pump once you're in the boat. The video shows the pumping process after the self rescue at the end.
Jeremy, thank you for your reply. I will try your technique but the most difficult part remains the lift and flip because the kayak would be heavy and quite unstable especially during unfavorable conditions. I tried practicing the lift and flip using my 11 Footer perception kayak and I tell you, not an easy feat!! Having said that, once water level is reduced, the solo rescue would be relatively easy.
I made a long comment, but I have no way of telling if the comment was recieved or not. Or perhaps my comment were too long. Is it possible that it has been closed to new comments.
There are a couple of reasons to leave it upside down, I think. First, flipping it upright immediately might actually allow MORE water into the cockpit. When it's upside down, there's a large bubble of trapped air in the cockpit. As long as that air doesn't escape, water can't displace it. If you turn the boat upright, waves are free to swamp the cockpit until it's literally filled to the brim. Second, I have one leg inside the cockpit and the other leg outside the cockpit, along the deck, and am squeezing my legs together to help maintain contact with the boat. By hooking my legs in the cockpit, I can momentarily use both hands to set up the paddle float. If the boat was upright, I'd always need to have on hand holding the boat to ensure that it's not separated from me. I can't actually think of any reason *to* flip it upright, unless your paddle float is stored somewhere that can't be reached with the boat upside down (which it shouldn't be!).
@@JeremyVore Thanks for the exhaustive and fast reply! Yes, waves, I've heard of those :-). Makes sense! Was teaching this today on placid Lake Chapala, Mexico. Had her right the boat, then put her foot in to secure it. Sure enough, she pulled the edge of the coaming under water and filled the boat up spectacularly. One more reason you were right! Your videos are my Bible. Thanks so much!!
p.s. when entering TheArtOfPaddling.com ... my security pops up it's a dangerous and untrusted site! I "assume" you are experiencing a technical difficulty and look forward to you posting here when that issue has been resolved, as I'd look forward to your other tutorials.
Ack! Yes, the website is long defunct. I’ve moved from a focus on instruction to a focus on personal paddling. I no longer have the raw files for the Art of Paddling videos, so can’t remove the website references or the heinously loud intro and outro music . . . :-/
This is a great video, and a fantastic teaching tool. However, it does put strain on your paddle joint. I suspect, you have the skills to ditch the paddle float, and simply re-enter without worrying about gear to assist you.
True, Sharpuslf, if I needed a self-rescue, this would be one of the last methods I would use, personally. My roll, re-entry and roll, and cowboy/scramble would all be ahead of this method. The exception would be if I was unusually tired or injured. In those cases, the additional stability and lower strength requirements of the heel hook paddle float self rescue would be significant assets. Also, if you do it correctly, there's actually very little stress on the paddle and very little weight on the paddle float. If, however, you aren't smooth or quick, you're absolutely right - too much weight for too much time can damage a paddle!
@@JeremyVore I was not trying to imply that you are not skilled paddler. I was just making a suggestion on a different method that might be fun to try. I haven't seen anyone do a video on my method which eliminates thigh scraping on wider boats or less than fit people. I hope that clears up my comment, I was not trying to be insulting.
@@sharpuslf Oh! I didn't take it as insulting, at all! I just saw it as great conversation! I'd love to know more about your method - if you make or find a video of it, let me know and post a link to it here.
Well the comment below just ruled out the last possibility. Is there some way I can get a long comment to you Jeremy? I'm the inventor of the paddle float self-rescue, back in 1980 or 81. I think you will be interested in what I had to say, even if it was too long for the Comments on your exellent video.
If you're limber, in shape, somewhat lightweight, great upper body strength, etc, I can see doing this without the paddle float. For the rest of us poor schmucks.. I'll use the paddle float. That extra floatation is the key to stability while re-entering in this manner.
I'm only 7 months late in responding . . . and I don't have an answer for you! :-D The branding is long worn off (that float is probably 20 years old), but it's just a basic two-chamber float, similar to this one: www.rutabagashop.com/products/sea-kayak-paddle-float
Empty as in not loaded? Basically, yes. It has my usual day kit, which weighs about 30 pounds, distributed between the day hatch and 4th hatch in front of the cockpit. It had about 4 inches of water in it after the rescue.
I never saw a deck line that loose on any factory boat like a Current Design or Seaward. It all looks great if flat water where 99% of the time you won't need it.
As long as they're not so loose that they represent a snag or fouling hazzard, I'm usually pretty happy. The slack you see in the video is the total of all slack and stretch from the entire run of rear deck deck lines. I could probably have pulled an inch or so of horizontal slack out of them, but I hate having lines so tight that I don't have grip options when handing the boat during a rescue or launch. I've already addressed your flat water comments in a number of your other, repeated comments on this video over the past 2 years, so won't bother to do so again here. It would be great if you put up some of your own instructional and informative videos with the techniques that you find useful to both yourself and beginning paddlers, PaddleDogC5.
Jeremy Vore not a instructor but most all demos are flat water which may give people false confidence. Even s two foot chop is another world from flat water.
Hence the reason that it's said in both the video and comments that the rescue should be practiced in the conditions in which a person actually paddles and shouldn't be relied upon as the primary rescue for exposed, open, or rough water. However, it's a great tool to have in the tool kit for any paddler, is absolutely doable in conditions with practice, and, for sheltered or flatwater paddlers with limitations in strength, balance, etc., it can be a great go-to, primary rescue, as well. Have you actually tried the heel hook variation of the paddle float rescue, PaddleDogC5?
You've been coming back to this video for 8 years and chipping in with criticisms. It's not meant to be a rough water rescue. The video wasn't shot with me standing on the bottom. Plenty of people are flat water paddlers with limited upper body strength and need a reliable self rescue for those conditions. Plenty of other people are learning and need a progression of foundational skills. It's a rescue that many of my students and viewers of this video have found to be a useful addition to their toolbox. If that's not sufficient context, then please just move on. Go for a paddle. Enjoy being on the water.
@@JeremyVore This video lives rent-free in his head. I have a noob question. Is there a good reason why a paddle float can't be inflated beforehand? Just a space consideration? I've never seen that done so there must be...
Thank you for your comment, Vicky. It works very well in rough water, too, though isn’t my personal first choice in rough or calm water. It’s another tool in the tool box and gives paddlers more options to choose from. As I said in the video, it’s critical to practice in the conditions in which you normally paddle, so if rough water is where a paddler wants to use this rescue, that’s also where they should practice it (safely and with an easy “out,” of course). Happy paddling!
It's perfectly doable in rough water, but 1.) you have to practice in rough water in a safe environment so that you know your limitations, and 2.) you absolutely can't let go of your boat or you risk losing contact with it. Even while inflating the paddle float while both hands are free, I have one leg in the cockpit and the other squeezing the deck. If conditions were big enough to make that method of maintaining contact questionable, I would also maintain contact with a deckline while inflating the float.
PaddleDogC5 I'd have to give that some thought. As a general statement, I would never tether myself to the boat, especially in rough water. And, I should also clarify that this rescue should never be the primary rescue for someone planning to paddle in rough water - it's absolutely doable in conditions, but it's far from the ideal option.
jh2010 This one is red, so it has to be my Gaia Paddlesports float. I have a couple of paddle floats bouncing around my gear bag, but all have two, separate floatation chambers and two inflation tubes. Any of them would have worked.
I have always had a problem with the standard paddle float rescue where one pins the paddle to the combing with one's hand. I have small hands and it is a stretch to get a grip on the combing and over the paddle, especially in rough water. This looks so much better, can't wait to get in the water and practice it!
This was very helpful. I can do a couple of styles of assisted wet reentry, but have always had trouble with the self reentry - struggling until I was frustrated and exhausted. I just went outside and dropped my North Shore Aspect into the pool and had no trouble reentering this way - from either side, and with my paddle skirt and 2 different styles of pfds (including the bulky-in-front style). When I forgot your exact instructions, the maneuver seemed so intuitive I was able to easily complete it. Thank you! (I'm a reasonably fit 58 year old woman packing some extra weight. If this works for me, anyone should be able to do it!)
Anita Wood Congratulations! Be sure to practice in the actual conditions and equipment in which you'll be paddling, in addition to the pool! Adding a wetsuit, and practicing in chop, wind, and cold water can make it much more challenging. :-)
This is a good technique and probably the easiest and most stable of all. It is mentioned in this video, but I will voice it again: When you are in wind and waves, it is absolutely essential that you keep solid contact with your kayak at all times. In high seas, the kayak will blow away from you faster than you can swim to it, especially with gear on and a paddle in your hand. One second is all it takes to separate you from your kayak.
Thank you so much Jeremy - this has worked and on a much shorter crossover boat (9ft 7in)., with less choice of decking lines and with a much shorter, older, plumper and femaler paddler than you , who previously found it impossible to get in by herself using other methods. Someone below said they took notes and you were interested in them. So in case it helps others - a couple of points noted from the video but not specified, but that seemed to make a huge difference in making this smooth a) putting bottom or even top part of the arm, not just the hand on the paddle as you get the legs in (esp if you don't have decking lines in quite the right place) b) as you bring in the second leg cross it across the leg already in - this means that you get the rotation rather than ending up lying flat on the boat. The intention now is to practice and then test it out in bouncier water. Thank you again.
Thanks for the video...very well done. I'm 70 years old and found this re-entry quite easy.
This is an excellent video and a contribution to paddlesports safety. I particularly liked the many key points covered - a lot of which are omitted from the usual self-rescue videos. As this video notes, the rescue isn't complete until the cockpit is pumped out, the skirt attached, the float stowed, and the paddler is ready to go. A common refrain in incidents where rescues failed is "every wave washed into the cockpit - pumping was useless". That's why you practice with the skirt on - as demonstrated in the video. Another thing I appreciated was the way in which the paddle was placed on the deck - loosely held by the deckline. Removing the paddle from behind you with one hand is a frequent cause of secondary capsizes. This method slips it out and with deflation conducted with the float still attached, support is maintained during the final phase of the rescue. Good points, well stated, and five stars, well-earned.
Excellent, and very well laid out video, for a novice paddler on the wrong side of 50
very helpful having 2 points of reference(bow&stern cameras)and showing the procedure THEN explaining! let's the student absorb more fully what you are trying to teach us.Thank You!!
Jeremy, I actually went out and tried this yesterday. I normally teach the "standard" paddle float reentry with the swimmer in front, or fore of the paddle; and hooking the paddle shaft with the one's aft leg. I found your heel hook variation to be far easier. I was surprised how little effort it took to get back into the boat on both my first and subsequent attempts. I'll be using this with students in the future. Well done!
tvcrider that’s really nice to know. 😲👍
I took a lesson and was all black and blue from my unsuccessful standard paddle float reentry attempts. I was able to perform this maneuver the first time I tried it. Thank you so much!
As stated, I practiced this today. Absolutely brilliant. Very "easy" and quick. Not as much strength, nor balancing as the "standard " cowboy self rescue.
Again thanks for great video.
You're most welcome! Happy paddling, Nektarios!
Thanks .One of the best videos on this subject I have seen so far, can't wait to check it out ...
yes definitely one of the best, if not the best video on the unassisted heel hook reentry
I like how the boat stayed stable and there is hope for those who are extremely cold to reenter without needing upper body strength.
if they have the right gear they won't be cold. If they don't they are risking their life!
Such a smooth voice and clean, clear narration, too!
A great video, and very helpful… Just a couple of questions? Would a foam float versus an inflatable float be quicker, more efficient (pro/con)? Were you storing your pump on the rear deck? It appears like it came from nowhere… I really like the heel hook as you can store material on your back deck and not have to slide over it. Looking forward to future videos from you! 👍😊
I'm so glad you liked it, Leo! It's been over 10 years since I recorded it, but people seem to still like it. 🙂
A foam float would be perfectly acceptable and would get you back in the boat more quickly. They're just bulkier in storage.
My pump was stored in a velcro harness behind my seat, inside the cockpit.
Happy and safe paddling!
@@JeremyVore thanks for coming back so quickly… Do you still have that kayak any possibility you take a photo of the pump holster? Also, is the paddle float stored in the same spot? I’m looking for ideas to clean up the deck. 🤣. Wishing you well!
@@leoburns9674 You're most welcome!
I'm afraid that the Cetus MV is long gone and my current boats don't have that harness system for the pump. It was just a piece of webbing and a piece of velcro mounted to the bulkhead behind the seat, but I don't have any photos of it.
My paddle float slipped between the hull and the side of the seat when it was deflated and folded.
This works every time. And with practice it is easy to do and easy on the body. Finally, I have something I can trust even when I'm tired and in heavy wind and waves. It did not worked for me the first few times. So I reviewed it several times (rewind-replay each move) and made detailed notes. Once I got it the first time is has never failed. I have done this many times since because I like showing off with it! Buoyancy is important. I tried it successfully with both NRS and Riverstone floats. It did not work with foam float.
This is a belated reply - my apologies for not commenting sooner, Donald. As you took those detailed notes, what aspects of the self rescue made the difference between success and failure for you? What were the points that made it a reliable, go-to rescue?
This is great, thank you. I appreciated having both the bow and stern side camera perspectives. Hadn’t thought about partially retying the kayak skirt while emptying the water but that makes sense in rougher conditions
Very well done. The camera shots and descriptions were excellent.
Denis Dwyer I agree
There's also a "toe hook" variation that I find easier. Position yourself FACE UP next to the kayak with your outside arm stretched out on the paddle. Then, put one foot in the cockpit and arch your back to get your butt into the boat. Eliminates having to turn over after you're on the boat, which can be tricky in rough water.
Thanks for the video. For me, the key to remembering which leg and arm to use is to remember the mantra "bow leg, bow arm".
Liquid Adventuring Absolutely! Using the bow leg and bow arm let you reach *across* the boat and use the greatest leverage and strength to re-enter.
Thanks. A really nice presentation. The orientation of the body before re-entry is the key. Can't wait to try it.
Very happy that you're interested in this as a self-rescue option, Joya! It's not perfect and - like any rescue - has it's limitations. However, it's a great tool to have in your tool box and can be successful for almost any paddler, regardless of upper body strength.
Enjoy and let me know if you have any questions.
This is an excellent video. I have been trying to see how you get your first foot into the kayak so easily and it appears that there is an important movement which I don't think you mentioned. It appears that you position the whole of your lower left arm onto the paddle shaft just before lithe heel hook. This moves your upper body out towards the paddle float and gives the additional support and space to left the foot into the kayak. This is something I am going to try later today.
I think you stated the solution to my difficulty today: I was too close to the kayak and didn't have my arm on the paddle shaft. My legs wanted to go under the boat. Not good!
I use a Greenland stick with the NRS float and putting it through the lines on both sides did seem to simplify things a bit. Still worth hanging on to the paddle and line as shown too.
Btw I'm 71 years old.
Excellent presentation! I read all previous comments (seems like one commenter w negative vibes is jealous of you!). I would, however, like to see an updated version of this in windy/wavy conditions, as well as the other various methods you recommend to help us build our skill sets ... could save lives! Keep up the good work!
This seems to work - for me at least.
Further variations: I tried this without putting the blade under the deck line on the far side of the rear deck. Saves a couple of seconds.
Also, i put the paddle a bit further across the deck, so that the blade is clear of the deck. This way, the paddleshaft takes the load, rather than putting stress on the blade.
Great variation of this idea, will put it to the test with some students that struggle with swimming on to the back deck.
Good narration with explanations and great video views.
Thanks for this video, Jeremy! Filming with Marquette & the Dome in the background adds to the credibility! :-) I did my PADI certification dives on that shore 20 years ago in April. :-) My husband and I just upgraded from our Necky's to fiberglass P&Hs this summer and are finding re-entry to be a bit challenging. This should help! :-)
JoAnn Baldwin-Glenn If you're local or in the area, feel free to contact me via www.theartofpaddling.com. I'd be happy to schedule a lesson with you to help with the re-entry challenges.
And it's a wonderful place to be on or in the water, isn't it?
Jeremy, thank you for this video - this is the easiest self-rescue I've ever seen, other than a roll or re-enter and roll (when it works, but for me that is not 100%). But I'm hoping someone is still looking at this post and can help me diagnose: the first time I tried this it worked seamlessly. Then after several years of little or no paddling while recovering from injuries (and some increased stiffness), I can no longer make it work. I think the main difference even more than increased stiffness is that I started using a foam paddle float. Does anyone find that an inflatable float (more flotation) is a necessity to make this work?
Excellent technique and excellent video, Jeremy.
Many thanks!
Cassandra.
This is great. But what if you are an old lady and not quite so strong and agile?? The rope step would help right??
An instructor once explained it to me largely as you did with one variation. Rather than fiddle with paddle float, grab the spare paddle (while you still have the paddle float outrigger) put the spare together then just stash the paddle with the float still on it and head to a safe place to reset the boat.
thanks for this very good instructional vid. what is it like to do this in high seas? any additional suggestions for when the water is rough?
Do it quickly. Stay low keep the paddle float on until you are calm and collected. Practice paddling your boat gull of water in case you have to paddle out of a bad location. Paddle with a partner.
Very well done, sir! Time to check out your website! Thank you!
Excellent video, and instructions. I will pass this on to my new-to-kayaking friends :)
So glad to have found this. Worked the first time I tried it. Thanks!
I've had trouble with using the heal hook with a paddle float. I'll try it again soon as your way of doing it looks so easy!
Let us know what you think after you try it!
Excellent! I look forward to trying this variation with students tomorrow night.
This looks like a much easier way, thanks for sharing.
very informative video. Thanks. Just got a nordcapp with an ocean cockpit so this is the only way to self rescue Im confident with.
Teaman1974 This can be challenging in an Ocean cockpit. You'll have to rotate onto the back deck instead of directly into the cockpit, which gives you momentary instability while you're sitting high and shimmying into the cockpit. However, it's absolutely doable with practice!
I spent over 15 years paddling ocean cockpit Nordkapps and Pintails, so I appreciate the added challenge. :-)
BRAVO... Excelente...
Muchas Gracias por el vídeo.
Saludos desde Buenos Aires Argentina...
Nice. time for version two in harsher condition.
Always have plan A, B, C, D...etc.
I'll stick to solid floats less time in water.
Good points. This is definitely not my primary (or secondary . . . or tertiary!) self-rescue. That said, it's perfectly achievable in rough water, though I wouldn't try it in a surf zone or area of breaking wind waves.
Smooooooth! Nice demonstration.. Thank you.
It also seems to be important to hold the near side combing just before lifting the first foot. This has the affect of pushing your upper body out towards the paddle float.
Excellent masterclass. Thanks.
Great video. I will be practicing tomorrow.
Thank you.
Excellent video. Thank you!
Would this also be useful (or even make sense) in an open-deck kayak?
You should be able to do a scramble easier on open deck. But yes it would work. Closed decks let you use some foot leverage that you don't get with SOT.
That looks great. I'm going to practice that next time I'm on the water.
Its actually important to realise the actual Hook in a Heel-Hook Entry.
When the toes or foot hook under the cowling it keeps you locked into the kayak and it will not be washed away by a big wave.
Thanks for making it look so easy and stopping the video to show important hand holds and actions.
Excellent. Excellent. Thanks. Hadn't seen this technique before.
What is the best technique to remove the water from a submerged kayak following a capsize before attempting the self-rescue? The video does not mention this.
Thank you for your comment! When self rescuing, the water is usually pumped out after the paddler is back in the boat. If you empty it beforehand, it's likely that you'll still end up with a flooded cockpit from water entering during the reentry maneuver.
In modern sea kayaks with large cockpits and bulkheads, including one right behind the seat, you can swim to the bow and do a "lift and flip" to remove some water from the cockpit before self-rescuing, but you'll still have to pump once you're in the boat.
The video shows the pumping process after the self rescue at the end.
Jeremy, thank you for your reply. I will try your technique but the most difficult part remains the lift and flip because the kayak would be heavy and quite unstable especially during unfavorable conditions. I tried practicing the lift and flip using my 11 Footer perception kayak and I tell you, not an easy feat!! Having said that, once water level is reduced, the solo rescue would be relatively easy.
I made a long comment, but I have no way of telling if the comment was recieved or not. Or perhaps my comment were too long. Is it possible that it has been closed to new comments.
Very good demo. Would be nice to see this done in the very rough water and wind that probably caused the capsize.
Don't worry it does work in waves and tide races. I have done and taught it in rough conditions
That rescue should work for me can't wait to try it.
Will leaving the boat upside down while rigging the paddlefloat allow more water to enter? What's the downside to flipping the boat ASAP?
There are a couple of reasons to leave it upside down, I think.
First, flipping it upright immediately might actually allow MORE water into the cockpit. When it's upside down, there's a large bubble of trapped air in the cockpit. As long as that air doesn't escape, water can't displace it. If you turn the boat upright, waves are free to swamp the cockpit until it's literally filled to the brim.
Second, I have one leg inside the cockpit and the other leg outside the cockpit, along the deck, and am squeezing my legs together to help maintain contact with the boat. By hooking my legs in the cockpit, I can momentarily use both hands to set up the paddle float. If the boat was upright, I'd always need to have on hand holding the boat to ensure that it's not separated from me.
I can't actually think of any reason *to* flip it upright, unless your paddle float is stored somewhere that can't be reached with the boat upside down (which it shouldn't be!).
@@JeremyVore Thanks for the exhaustive and fast reply! Yes, waves, I've heard of those :-). Makes sense! Was teaching this today on placid Lake Chapala, Mexico. Had her right the boat, then put her foot in to secure it. Sure enough, she pulled the edge of the coaming under water and filled the boat up spectacularly. One more reason you were right! Your videos are my Bible. Thanks so much!!
p.s. when entering TheArtOfPaddling.com ... my security pops up it's a dangerous and untrusted site! I "assume" you are experiencing a technical difficulty and look forward to you posting here when that issue has been resolved, as I'd look forward to your other tutorials.
Ack! Yes, the website is long defunct. I’ve moved from a focus on instruction to a focus on personal paddling. I no longer have the raw files for the Art of Paddling videos, so can’t remove the website references or the heinously loud intro and outro music . . . :-/
This is a great video, and a fantastic teaching tool. However, it does put strain on your paddle joint. I suspect, you have the skills to ditch the paddle float, and simply re-enter without worrying about gear to assist you.
True, Sharpuslf, if I needed a self-rescue, this would be one of the last methods I would use, personally. My roll, re-entry and roll, and cowboy/scramble would all be ahead of this method. The exception would be if I was unusually tired or injured. In those cases, the additional stability and lower strength requirements of the heel hook paddle float self rescue would be significant assets.
Also, if you do it correctly, there's actually very little stress on the paddle and very little weight on the paddle float. If, however, you aren't smooth or quick, you're absolutely right - too much weight for too much time can damage a paddle!
@@JeremyVore I was not trying to imply that you are not skilled paddler. I was just making a suggestion on a different method that might be fun to try.
I haven't seen anyone do a video on my method which eliminates thigh scraping on wider boats or less than fit people.
I hope that clears up my comment, I was not trying to be insulting.
@@sharpuslf Oh! I didn't take it as insulting, at all! I just saw it as great conversation!
I'd love to know more about your method - if you make or find a video of it, let me know and post a link to it here.
@@JeremyVore Ok good. If I can find someone to film me, I will do that.
Excelente video y bellísimo paisaje !!👋👋👋
Great job. My go-to, thanks for the lesson.
Well the comment below just ruled out the last possibility. Is there some way I can get a long comment to you Jeremy? I'm the inventor of the paddle float self-rescue, back in 1980 or 81. I think you will be interested in what I had to say, even if it was too long for the Comments on your exellent video.
Do you have to use a paddle float? Can you just use the paddle itself?
If you're limber, in shape, somewhat lightweight, great upper body strength, etc, I can see doing this without the paddle float. For the rest of us poor schmucks.. I'll use the paddle float. That extra floatation is the key to stability while re-entering in this manner.
Good video friend 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Nice video, well done
I must try this. It looks easy
Nice all around job.
Thank you! The video and sound quality aren't stellar, but I think it gets the technique across adequately. :-)
Great stuff😊
what paddle float is this ?
I'm only 7 months late in responding . . . and I don't have an answer for you! :-D
The branding is long worn off (that float is probably 20 years old), but it's just a basic two-chamber float, similar to this one: www.rutabagashop.com/products/sea-kayak-paddle-float
Like this but in waves, wind and cold, it's a different story.
hood great video
Looks good. You're entering an empty boat?
Empty as in not loaded? Basically, yes. It has my usual day kit, which weighs about 30 pounds, distributed between the day hatch and 4th hatch in front of the cockpit.
It had about 4 inches of water in it after the rescue.
I like this.
U could advise to drain kayak before re entry.
I never saw a deck line that loose on any factory boat like a Current Design or Seaward. It all looks great if flat water where 99% of the time you won't need it.
As long as they're not so loose that they represent a snag or fouling hazzard, I'm usually pretty happy. The slack you see in the video is the total of all slack and stretch from the entire run of rear deck deck lines. I could probably have pulled an inch or so of horizontal slack out of them, but I hate having lines so tight that I don't have grip options when handing the boat during a rescue or launch.
I've already addressed your flat water comments in a number of your other, repeated comments on this video over the past 2 years, so won't bother to do so again here. It would be great if you put up some of your own instructional and informative videos with the techniques that you find useful to both yourself and beginning paddlers, PaddleDogC5.
Jeremy Vore not a instructor but most all demos are flat water which may give people false confidence. Even s two foot chop is another world from flat water.
Hence the reason that it's said in both the video and comments that the rescue should be practiced in the conditions in which a person actually paddles and shouldn't be relied upon as the primary rescue for exposed, open, or rough water.
However, it's a great tool to have in the tool kit for any paddler, is absolutely doable in conditions with practice, and, for sheltered or flatwater paddlers with limitations in strength, balance, etc., it can be a great go-to, primary rescue, as well.
Have you actually tried the heel hook variation of the paddle float rescue, PaddleDogC5?
@@JeremyVore yes. He couldn't find flatter water.
Show demo in even 2' chop by a bullhead
You've been coming back to this video for 8 years and chipping in with criticisms. It's not meant to be a rough water rescue. The video wasn't shot with me standing on the bottom. Plenty of people are flat water paddlers with limited upper body strength and need a reliable self rescue for those conditions. Plenty of other people are learning and need a progression of foundational skills.
It's a rescue that many of my students and viewers of this video have found to be a useful addition to their toolbox.
If that's not sufficient context, then please just move on. Go for a paddle. Enjoy being on the water.
@@JeremyVore This video lives rent-free in his head. I have a noob question. Is there a good reason why a paddle float can't be inflated beforehand? Just a space consideration? I've never seen that done so there must be...
Capó sos el mejor
Ye right nice calm water😅 try it in a rough sea
Thank you for your comment, Vicky. It works very well in rough water, too, though isn’t my personal first choice in rough or calm water.
It’s another tool in the tool box and gives paddlers more options to choose from.
As I said in the video, it’s critical to practice in the conditions in which you normally paddle, so if rough water is where a paddler wants to use this rescue, that’s also where they should practice it (safely and with an easy “out,” of course).
Happy paddling!
Just roll.
That's my preference. :-D
try that in rough water where you let go of your boat
It's perfectly doable in rough water, but 1.) you have to practice in rough water in a safe environment so that you know your limitations, and 2.) you absolutely can't let go of your boat or you risk losing contact with it. Even while inflating the paddle float while both hands are free, I have one leg in the cockpit and the other squeezing the deck. If conditions were big enough to make that method of maintaining contact questionable, I would also maintain contact with a deckline while inflating the float.
***** paddle leash will give you a second chance to hold the boat near
PaddleDogC5 I'd have to give that some thought. As a general statement, I would never tether myself to the boat, especially in rough water. And, I should also clarify that this rescue should never be the primary rescue for someone planning to paddle in rough water - it's absolutely doable in conditions, but it's far from the ideal option.
These rescues are a bit far fetched with zero wind and waves. Why would anyone fall out in that water to begin with unless stone dead drunk.
except he is standing in shallow water
Sorry, PaddleDogC5, that was about 10 feet of water. No standing and no touching bottom. :-)
jh2010 This one is red, so it has to be my Gaia Paddlesports float.
I have a couple of paddle floats bouncing around my gear bag, but all have two, separate floatation chambers and two inflation tubes. Any of them would have worked.