Kayak Rolling

In certain circumstances the information given in the preceding paragraphs may need to be modified. The possibilities for rolling situations are infinite but a few are readily identifiable.

In stoppers or when 'bongo-sliding' in surf, there is so much turbulence and power in the water that normal techniques are impossible. Instead the body is braced with the paddle in such a position that the drive of the water turns the boat upright, and the body position is then adjusted to ensure stability.

Rolling in Shallow Water

In shallow water, especially if it is relatively slow moving, pushing off the bottom with a vertical paddle can be very effective. A good hip flick is important, and care must be taken to ensure that the shaft is truly vertical before the roll is attempted. Aligning the paddle blade with the water flow will reduce the pressure on the blade, and will sometimes allow for a roll to be completed even in very fast water. In very shallow water it may be impossible to find clearance to do a normal roll and levering against the bottom may be the only option. In shallow, rough water rivers any use of the paddle to roll may be impossible, and a hand roll off the bottom or a passing rock is worth attempting. Aggressively moving into the roll wind-up position will remove the head and face from the most direct impact with rocks, and speed and success will save the paddler from bruises and scrapes as he tries to eject.

Re-Entry and Roll

There may be occasions, particularly when sea paddling, that an attempt at rolling fails and the paddler finds himself in the water alongside his boat but a long way from any safe landing. It may not be possible for his colleagues to come and rescue him, so he is on his own. One option he has is the re-entry and roll. He comes alongside his kayak which has hopefully remained upside-down and is not too full of water, turns himself upside down, gets in and rolls up. Once clear of immediate danger the boat can be emptied by pump or conventional rescue techniques.

Stunt Rolls

These rolls are used for entertainment and building water confidence.

Clock roll

The paddle acts as the hand of a clock. Wind-up is as for a Pawlata roll but turn the wrists outward as for the Steyr. During capsize sweep the paddle over the head to the Steyr start position. Roll up using the steyr. For a clockwise clock the sequence must be performed left-handed. Repeat as often as desired.

Rotary Roll

The boat capsizes. The paddle remains under water, parallel to the surface. It is extended so that the near blade is held horizontally while the far blade is vertical. An action similar to the sweep stroke will cause the boat to spin round and round on the surface. The paddler rolls up when he runs out of breath.

Top Hat Roll

This can be performed with any prop, but a top hat is traditional. The paddler must be able to roll one-handed. For a right-handed roll he removes the top hat from his head with his right hand and capsizes to the left. As the boat settles upside-down the still-dry hat is placed on the upturned hull with the right hand. It is retrieved with the left hand as the roll is completed with the right hand and placed, still dry, back on the head.

Cross Bow Roll

Wind up and capsize is as for a normal screw roll. Under water the paddle is crossed over the bow and swept out in the opposite direction. The paddle finishes under the boat, so it must be released as the roll finishes. Many variations are possible.