When we think about rafting equipment, the raft obviously comes to mind first! Without a suitable boat, the activity is simply not possible – otherwise it is not rafting.
A boat is therefore necessary to practice rafting. It looks somewhat like a Zodiac, since it is an inflatable craft. Thanks to the inflatable tube system that surrounds the boat and is divided into several sections, the raft is unsinkable. The bottoms of rafts have a self-bailing system, which means there is no need to bail water out while navigating. To ensure the stability of the boat, there are transverse tubes that make it more rigid, as well as a flat bottom and raised ends.
Rafts are usually between 3 to 6 meters long, and can generally accommodate between 2 and 10 people. They are made of resistant multi-layer materials such as PVC. Around the raft, there is also a safety rope – called the “lifeline” – which is a thin rope attached to the raft and allows people to hold on. On the floor, straps are provided for securing the feet (and therefore the whole body) while paddling – these are called “footstraps.” The shape and size of the boat may vary depending on the capacity required, the technicality of the craft, and the type of navigation planned.
For proper navigation, paddles are also necessary – unless it is a raft steered with an oar. To clarify, a paddle allows you to maneuver the raft without resting on it, whereas an oar does. Paddles can be made of different materials, especially depending on level of practice: plastic, aluminum, Kevlar, carbon, or fiberglass. In rafting, the paddle is a “single blade” paddle, with a knob at the end of the shaft (called the “grip”) to hold it. There are specific paddles for this activity, with a wider blade for better water catch and a more resistant shaft.
The rest of the equipment is mainly for safety and protection during rafting. It is important to have quality equipment in order to avoid unnecessary risks. These items are generally provided by rafting clubs.
Among them, there is the wetsuit, which helps maintain body temperature even in cold water. It also provides some protection in the event of a fall or impact, while being flexible enough to allow paddle movements. The wetsuit is made of neoprene and is about 3 to 4 mm thick. It may have reinforcements in certain areas and can sometimes be worn over thermal underwear.
The helmet is another essential safety item in rafting. It protects the head in the event of a fall, blows or collisions. Often, there are holes on the top to let water escape. There are models with additional protection for the chin, cheekbones, etc. for more demanding practices.
Finally, the life jacket is the last essential item, as it provides a minimum level of buoyancy in the event of falling into the water. The jackets are subject to European standards, and are specific to rafting, with buoyancy ratings based on weight and size. Like the wetsuit, they still need to allow the necessary movements for rafting to be carried out.
In addition to all these items, one may also use special shoes or neoprene booties to protect from cold and impacts and to avoid slipping. Likewise, it is possible to wear special gloves and additional neoprene jackets against the cold. There are also fully waterproof drysuits for very experienced practitioners.