Bit late in the day! My reply that is as only just came to this site! But I was a canoe/kayak coach in my youth. I use to help run week-long camping /canoeing expeditions down the River Wye in the UK. I Hope you got into this great sport its very easy now with sit-on canoes and lots of cheaper Read more… inflatable canoes and kayaks out there to suit all budgets. Happy to offer any advice you don't need much kit just a good buoyancy aid or if you are a weak swimmer maybe a lifejacket there is a big difference! The canal or a slow inland river is a great place to start and learn the basics. Happy to help and if you would like to try it I have all the gear. I have to say I'm a fair-weather kayaker canoeiest these days and limit my outings to spring and summer on into the early autumn. But more than happy to help. Good luck and hope you are enjoying it if you took it up. Kev.