Houston: Boy Scout Paddle – Kayak or Canoe Option｜United States

Work with Boy Scouts to help them earn badges, learn outdoorsy skills, and have fun. This program is specially designed for Boy Scouts to have a bonding experience while sharing performance kayaking OR canoeing equipment during a Training or Touring paddling experience (a fun, adventure-filled class or guided eco-tour).

Besides teaching paddling skills, also highlight areas such as leadership development, effective communication, adaptability, perseverance, planning, group solving problems, and maintaining a winner attitude.

The average Troop size is 10+ Scouts and their Dads (16 – 20 paddlers), but the operator works with some smaller troops too. The event is a half-day commitment, but it can be designed to be a full day with the incorporation of a guided eco-tour, lunch, etc.

Classes take place on a variety of wind-and-wave protected waters around Houston metropolitan (Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Cypress, Clear Lake, etc).

Start with on-land instruction and safety briefing, adjust the gear to your stature, and be on the water soon thereafter. This activity requires a moderate fitness level. The sit-in touring kayaks come in sizes and can accommodate paddlers up to 250 lbs. and 42-inch hip/pants size.

Bring several 33 oz. / 1L water bottles and energy drinks to take with you in the kayak; a granola bar and a small thermos would be nice. Dehydration and heat stroke are of the biggest concerns being on the water this time of the year.

Leave a cold-water bottle and a snack in the car for you to have ready at the end of the event when you will probably be hungry, hot, tired but happy. Bring with you but leave in the car a full set of dry clothing into change at the end, should that be needed, and a large towel to cover your car seat for a comfortable ride home.

Take meaningful precautions to avoid unintended capsizes, however, small crafts are unstable and water dripping off the paddle into your lap is possible. Dress for immersion by dressing with clothes made of synthetic materials that are comfortable and dry out quickly. Avoid any cotton clothing.

Dress with a long sleeve shirt and long pants to avoid insects and sunburns. For exposed skin, bring sunscreen and plan to apply often. Your feet will get wet up to knee. Water shoes, closed toed sandals, or old sneakers are a great kayaking choice. Crocs, flip-flops, hiking boots and rain boots are not good options.

Bring a large brim hat with under chin strap and sunglasses. Bring paddling gloves or cycling/workout gloves to prevent blisters and sunburn.