The low brace is called for when the paddler feels off-balance and about to capsize, or when side-slipping a low wave. The back of the blade is placed flat on the surface on the side of the impending capsize, a little away from the boat (set the offside hand near the midline). The shaft is held horizontal and low, close to the deck. The elbows are positioned above the level of the paddle shaft. The paddle is pushed down onto the water, and AT THE SAME TIME the paddler uses the lower body to right the kayak. To do this, the onside knee is raised and the offside buttock is lowered.

Head position can be significant in retaining balance. It helps to turn the head, or angle it, toward the onside blade (the same side as the lifted knee) in order to keep it over the center of gravity. When the kayak is upright, the paddle blade is sliced out of the water and brought back to paddling position.