This class meets at Alder Creek in Hood River, Oregon

This full day class introduces the skills and knowledge needed to paddle in wind strong enough to hinder progress and maneuverability. The class will be held in open water with wind up to 25 knots. You will discover how to surf wind waves and apply all of your skills in a windy environment. We will show how you can use the wind to help you, covering a variety of techniques for turning up wind, and down wind, and making use of a skeg or rudder to balance your direction in a cross or down-wind scenario. You will gain extensive experience paddling in head, side and following seas, and will have a lot of practice applying your self and assisted rescue skills in the kind of environment where they are likely to be needed. The class will also cover seamanship issues such as the effect of geographic features on wind, the effects of wind on sea state and the use of the Beaufort scale for describing and recognizing sea states. 

Wind & Waves will be scheduled a couple of times during the summer and fall. Call to reserve your spot in the next class.

888.571.4545

Outline: Wind & Waves

• introduces the skills and knowledge needed to paddle in wind strong enough to hinder progress and maneuverability in open water with wind up to 25 knots

• discover how to surf wind waves and apply all of your skills in a windy environment

• techniques for turning up wind, and down wind

• make use of a skeg or rudder to balance your direction in a cross or down-wind scenario

• gain extensive experience paddling in head, side and following seas

• practice applying your self and assisted rescue skills

• seamanship issues such as the effect of geographic features on wind

• effects of wind on sea state

• use of the Beaufort scale for describing and recognizing sea states

On The Water, You Will Need:

- Tennis shoes or river sandals with wool socks or wetsuit booties
- Sunglasses with retention device (i.e. Croakies, Chums, etc)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30), lip balm (SPF 15)
- Sun hat, rain hat, and/or fleece hat
- Synthetic top and bottom (thermal underwear, heavier wt. for cooler weather)
- Rain coat and rain pants
- Nylon shorts and/or swimsuit
- Water bottle (1 quart)
- Towel and change of clothes for ride home
- Lunch and snacks.

Meeting Place/Directions:

This class meets at Alder Creek in Hood River, Oregon.  You will receive detailed instructions and a map with your confirmation packet.

 If you have any questions about what to bring please contact us. Alder Creek has a full line of paddling equipment and accessories. We would be happy to assist you in getting outfitted for your trip. Please remember to keep your personal gear to a minimum, but keep your comfort in mind. Remember the goal is to travel light and efficiently.

Call for more information.

888.571.4545