Wet exit

A wet exit is the term used to describe exiting the kayak while upside down.

The wet exit is one of the most basic skills that all paddlers who wear sprayskirts (most people) must know how to perform.

When you capsize, relax, lean forward, and reach up (feels like reaching down!) and WHACK your hull with your hands three times. Your paddle should be between one arm and your hull so you don't lose it. This is a signal to your paddling partners that you would like an Eskimo rescue.

If nobody is immediately available, proceed with the wet exit. With one hand on your paddle, take the grab loop of your skirt in your other hand. Pull the grab loop forward and then peel the skirt off the coaming. The sprayskirt will easily free itself of your cockpit. Move your hands to the deck near the rear of the cockpit and push yourself out of the kayak the way you'd push off a pair of pants. With your boat in one hand and your paddle in the other, swim up to the surface.

You are now ready for a Rescue.

A couple of things to remember are:

• Don't rush. Most people can hold their breath for 30 seconds or even longer. When practicing, capsize and count to three before popping your spray skirt. The more deliberate you are, the greater the chance that you will come to the surface still holding on to your kayak and your paddle.
• This technique is dependant on being able to reach the grab loop. Always check to make sure the grab loop is hanging out. Some paddlers attach a whiffle ball (a practice golf ball that is hollow plastic with lots of holes in it), a foam blob or some such to the grab loop to make it easier to find with the hand while your eyes are closed.