Getting stuck inside a capsized kayak is one of the most common fears among new kayakers. The good news is that for most kayakers paddling in flat water, it is very unlikely to happen. The design of most kayaks means you will naturally fall out when they flip.
The exception is sit-inside kayaks used in whitewater conditions, where water pressure and debris create a higher risk of entrapment. All kayakers should know how to perform a wet exit just in case.
What Kind of Kayaks Can I Get Stuck In?
White Water vs. Flat Water
The risk of getting stuck depends largely on where you paddle.
Flat water refers to calm, slow-moving water such as lakes, ponds, and gentle rivers. In flat water conditions, if your kayak flips you will almost always fall out naturally due to gravity. Entrapment is very unlikely.
White water refers to fast-moving, turbulent water found in rushing rivers and rapids. The powerful current creates water pressure that can hold you inside a capsized kayak, and submerged rocks and debris add further risk. White water kayaking requires proper training and equipment before attempting.
Why You’re More Likely To Get Stuck in White Water Kayaks
More Pressure From Water
Kayaks are designed so that you will naturally fall out if it flips over. In flat water, the water surrounding you won’t offer any resistance.
Kayaking in white water means that if you fall out, the water pressure of the quickly moving water will keep you stuck in the kayak, unless you take action.
White Water Is Disorienting
Experienced kayakers will know that keeping a cool head is key to self-rescuing once your kayak tips over. Unfortunately, the first time it happens, you might become overwhelmed by the quickly-moving water. When the water is rushing around you, it can be hard to get your bearings.
Rocks And Debris In Your Way
Flat water is not only more predictable on the surface, but usually offers fewer surprises in the water bed. If you suddenly flip over, it’s unlikely you’ll find yourself thrust under a rock.
White water constantly disrupts the water bed, making large rocks and debris more likely to get in your way if you tip over.
Can You Get Stuck in a Flat Water Kayak?
It’s possible to get stuck in a flat water kayak, although much less likely. You should fall out of the kayak when it flips over, but sometimes this doesn’t happen.
You are more likely to get stuck in certain flat water kayaks than others. Here’s a breakdown of the different kinds of flat water kayaks and which ones you are most likely to get stuck inside:
- Inflatable kayaks: These can only be used in flat water. They rarely have a closed cockpit and will not be sturdy enough to trap you inside.
- Sit-on-top kayaks: These kayaks have no closed cockpit. You cannot get stuck in them.
- Pedaling kayaks:These kayaks don’t have closed cockpits, either. That said, the pedals could cause you to be caught inside should you flip over if you have to strap your feet into them.
- Recreational and touring kayaks both have closed cockpits. It’s possible to get stuck in these since you are tucking your legs physically inside the kayak. It is still unlikely you will be stuck inside these.
However, it is always considered good practice to be prepared for any emergency when using a kayak. Even flat water kayakers should always be prepared to self-rescue.
For more on kayak stability, read our guide: Kayak vs Canoe: Which Is More Likely to Flip Over?
How To Self-Rescue If You’re Stuck in a Kayak
Rescuing yourself from a flipped-over kayak when you’re stuck can feel intimidating, but it’s a simple process that anyone can do. This will work in almost any kayak, regardless of the type of water.
While performing a self-rescue, the most important thing to do is remain calm. You may want to practice this process in calm water a few times so you don’t panic in an emergency.
If you find yourself stuck underwater in your kayak, here are the steps to perform a “wet exit” (also known as a self-rescue).
Note: You should always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) when kayaking.
- Curl your torso and put most of your weight forward.
- Grab the pull-on loop in front of you on top of your kayak.
- Once you have a grip, push on the boat. The pressure should help pull your legs out of the kayak, freeing you.
Some people’s first instinct is to lean back instead of forward, fearing that they will trap themselves further. NEVER lean back in an overturned kayak. This will wedge your legs more firmly in the cockpit and actually keep you stuck!
For a helpful demonstration of a self-rescue, check out this video:
Final Thoughts
For the vast majority of kayakers paddling in flat water, getting stuck in a capsized kayak is very unlikely. Sit-on-top kayaks and inflatable kayaks have no closed cockpit, making entrapment essentially impossible. Even recreational sit-inside kayaks will usually release you naturally when flipped.
The real risk is in whitewater kayaking, where current, rocks, and debris create genuinely dangerous conditions. If you paddle whitewater, learning the wet exit and practising it regularly in calm conditions is essential.
Regardless of where you paddle, always wear a properly fitted PFD. It is the single most important piece of safety equipment you can have on the water.