ADAPTIVE PADDLING:

Our mission says it all “…to persons of all abilities…” What that really means is that we have the skills, training, and experience to take almost anyone kayaking pretty much anywhere there is water. Adaptive Paddling is all about adapting kayaks, paddles, gear, and techniques for persons with disabilities, sports injuries, preexisting conditions, and joint pain.

There are very few restrictions as to who can get in a kayak and go for a paddle but it is a water sport and there is always danger of capsize, injury, or drowning. At the very least, you must be able to close your mouth and hold your breath (seal your airway) for a minimum of thirty seconds and you must be able to turn your face up to breathe while floating in a properly fitted PFD (life jacket). There are also weight limits as to what capacity each kayak can handle and some children may be too young for our programs.

Kayak Zak’s offers the only adaptive kayak program in Northwest California. We are one of the only all-inclusive outfitters on the entire west coast! Most programs either take only “disabled” persons or else only take those who can adapt themselves to the outfitter’s program. In many instances one family member has a disability or medical condition and he or she has the choice of staying behind or going with a strictly adaptive group. Kayak Zak’s is unique in that we will take the whole family--disabled or not!

Please let us know in advance if you have a severe disability so that we may be sure to have enough assistants, equipment, and plan the logistics. All Kayak Zak’s instructors, guides, and assistants respect HIPPA law. Your personal, confidential medical information is exactly that—personal and confidential. No individual at Kayak Zak’s will share this information with anyone else without your prior permission.

* Free two-page Download "Adaptive Paddling Tips"

* Questions from real people and answers from Marna Powell.

Check out the adaptive gallery photos.

Article: Questions and Answers

Can you Tell Who is Disabled? Answers below

Key:
1,2—Tramautic Brain Injury (TBI)
3—Spina Bifida/Parapelegic
4—Leg Brace
5—No disablities & 78 years old!
7—Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)
10—Congenital Heart Failure/Developmental Disability
15—FD Syndrome (Developmental & Physical Disablity)