Water Sports Equipment: 6 Must-Know Facts

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Water sports are exciting activities to engage in, especially during summer. These sports give a next-level thrill that you cannot find on land. They’re so popular that there are even sports betting sites with slots for water sports. The IRS requires betting companies to deduct 24% of total winnings and submit as gambling winnings taxes. However, these sports are associated with some level of risk. To keep enjoying the sports, understanding various equipment and how to keep yourself safe is essential. 

Understanding the Dangers That Come with Water Sports

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in water sports. When you are at a beach, pool, or lake, ensure you practice the following swimming precautions: 

• Learn CPR techniques so you can deal with any emergencies.
• If you don’t know how to swim, don’t get into the water.
• Always have company when swimming.
• Do not swim while drunk.
• Ensure you can always spot a lifeguard while in the water.
• Carry safety gear such as flashlights, toolbox, and maps.
• Avoid restricted areas and obey warning signs. 

It is vital to understand water sports equipment and how it works. Some widely used gear includes dry and wet suits, snorkel masks, life jackets, water skis, canoes, and wake surfers. 

Dry and Wet Suits

Drysuits keep you dry while in the water or on the surface. They are made of waterproof and breathable fabric to prevent overheating. The suits are watertight and waterproof, hence keeping all the water out and keeping the body warm. Drysuits also come fitted with purge valves to let out any water that might have gotten in.

Wet suits, on the other hand, retain your body’s heat, hence providing thermal protection. They preserve the body’s heat through the suit’s material and a thin layer of water that make up a protective barrier that allows your body to stay warm for a long time. These suits come in varying thicknesses. The thicker the suit, the more warmth it can retain. 

Life Jackets

Life jackets are essential to avoid drowning, hence saving your life. They come in handy in moments of disaster, whether you are a skilled swimmer or not. The jackets are available in different fits and keep you warm while in the water. 

Snorkel Masks

A full-face snorkeling mask comes in handy when snorkeling due to several reasons. First, the mask helps to keep water out of your face and provides better visibility. Secondly, it allows normal breathing hence keeping you calmer. 

Water Skis

Waterskiing is fun and exciting but can be dangerous if not done carefully. To avoid injury, revisit the hand signals between you and the boat operator. Also, avoid skiing at extreme speeds if you are not used to it. To prevent any accidents, remember to inspect your gear before you set out. 

Canoes

Canoeing can be relaxing and fun, but it is also important to remember some safety tips on your next canoeing trip. Always carry life jackets and avoid jerky movements to prevent the canoe from flipping over. Also, avoid rocks and always stay low to avoid losing balance. 

Wakesurfers

You can consider trying wake surfing if you haven’t already. But while you are on it, avoid high speeds if you are not used to wake surfing. Also, go for a clear spot to avoid collisions with other boats. 

Final Thoughts

While water sports can be thrilling, they can result in dangerous accidents that can sometimes turn fatal. To avoid this, ensure you always familiarize yourself with water sports equipment before you set out. Also, as a general rule of thumb, consult a professional before using these water sports equipment.