What Is Boofing In Kayaking?

Boofing is the act of keeping the bow of a kayak from diving underwater, which is crucial for paddling creeks. It involves lifting the bow at the edge of a vertical or near-vertical obstacle, such as waterfalls, steep drops, holes, pourovers, reactionaries, and even eddy lines. This technique is essential for kayakers of all skill levels, as it allows them to keep their bow high and dry as they move downstream.

Boofing involves executing a specific technique to lift the bow of the kayak and propel it over an obstacle. The steps to boof include pulling yourself over the water, executing a knee lift, and executing an acceleration move. Proper kayaking boofing technique helps cross eddy lines, navigate boulder gardens, and maintain speed and control.

The Aquabatics Calgary team presents an easy-to-understand three component progression to learn how to boof a kayak on a local Class IIIII river. Boofing is the most important skill to learn for paddling creeks, as it allows you to land flat from a drop or stay on the surface through a hole to maintain speed and control.

The boof stroke is one of the coolest and most useful whitewater kayaking moves, especially when moving up to grade 4 river levels. Boofing is the act of pulling yourself over the water to lift the bow and propel it over an obstacle. By mastering this skill, you can safely navigate your kayak on any type of creek, from waterfalls to eddy lines.