Classes
Intro To Kayaking First time in a kayak? Looking to sharpen up your paddling skills? If so, then, this may be the class for you.
Intro To Kayaking is a two hour class focusing on the fundamentals of paddling. There will be a brief discussion on equipment and safety followed by on-water paddling strokes. Skills covered will be efficient propulsion strokes, corrective strokes, and support strokes. Although this class is not about getting in the water, you should be dressed and prepared to get wet. Remember to bring along a set of dry clothes to change into. The paddling skills covered in this class are the building blocks for all advanced paddling skills and are appropriate for recreational, touring and white water boats. Class size is limited - please call 269-381-7700 to sign up. Time: 10:00 to 12:00 AM Place: Ramona Park, Long Lake Dates: May 29th, June 12th, July 10th, July 24th, August 21st, Sept. 4th Advanced Kayaking Time for some new strokes? Ready for exit and re-entry skills? Then get ready to get wet this class is the one you want.
Advanced Kayaking class begins with a short on-shore review then we head for the water. Once on the water we'll do an overview of strokes with an emphasis on improving stroke efficiency then introduce new strokes. Next we'll work on turning techniques using boat lean, support and brace strokes then move into wet exit and re-entry. Assisted rescues will be part of re-entry and will provide the chance for paddling partners to work these skills together. This is a get wet class so dress for submersion with current water and air temperatures in mind. Generally this class lends itself to light touring and touring kayaks that have thigh braces, bow and stern floatation and a spray skirt. Class size is limited - please call 269-381-7700 to sign up. Time: 10:00 to 2:30 PM with a short break Place: Ramona Park, Long Lake Dates: June 26th, August 7th, Sept. 18th
Join us Thursday Evening from 7:00 to 8:00 PM for a series of free camping classes. The classes are from April 1st to May 20th and are held at our main store at 311 W. Kilgore Rd. Portage , Mi. Call 269-381-7700 for additional information. Session 1 - April 1 The Series Intro and Clothing Systems
Examine clothing options and layering techniques for many different outdoor situations. See what is new in technical outerwear, baselayers, midlayers and how to combine them to suit your trip. Session 2 - April 8 Packs and Packing
Let's take a look at that 'house on your back'. We'll talk about pack types, brands, features and fit for a good overview on current models. Plus there will be tips on loading and carrying your pack. Session 3 - April 15 Tents and Shelters
The shelter part of the house on your back will examine the many kinds of tarps, bivy sacks and tents that are available. Learn technical and practical information to choose your tent plus we'll have tips on set-up, cleaning and maintaining your tent. Session 4 - April 22 Bags and Pads
A good nights sleep will make any trip more enjoyable. Learn about sleeping bags, insulations and ground pads so that you can make that good night sleep happen. We'll also talk about storage, cleaning and warm sleeping techniques. Session 5 - April 29 The Outdoor Kitchen
Everyone says "Everything tastes better when you are camping." Learn how to make that happen on your trip. We'll talk about stoves, fuel types, cook sets, water filtration and plus how to maintain your gear. Session 6 - May 6 Boots and Feets
Our feet are our link to the terrain. Boots and shoes not only protect our feet from the terrain, they help us interact with it. This session will cover what footwear to choose, proper fit, construction, and footbeds. Related items like socks and water proofing will also be covered. Session 7 - May 13 Backcountry Skills
Somewhere between a Cub Scout and an Apache chief stands a variety of basic backcountry skills necessary for survival. Essential skills like building a fire, orienteering, heat retention, unique shelters and bedding will be covered in this session. Session 8 - May 20 Open Mic Night for Local Outdoor Groups
Find out what's happening around the area with outdoor groups, clubs, organizations and events. We have invited representatives from a variety of clubs and organizations like the Great Lakes Adventure Club and the Kalamazoo Nature Center to come and speak plus we will have information on many local events.
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