Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment is provided?
For courses/club trips, we provide boat, paddle, spraydeck, buoyancy aid, and helmet. We do not provide footwear or other clothing.
What clothing should I bring?
You should expect to get wet!
  • Wear clothing made of artificial fibres - not cotton, and not jeans!
    see http://www.paddling.net/guidelines/showArticle.html?95
  • Bring a towel, change of clothing, and spare footwear.
  • A waterproof top can help keep you warm (prevent wind-chill).
  • Bring sun cream if the weather warrants it.
  • Footwear is definitely a requirement in the Thames, but trainers can sometimes make fitting in kayaks a trial for those with large feet, so a pair of thin water shoes may be a worthwhile investment.
  • For cool weather paddling, you might want to consider a dry cag, or something like the Reed Chillcheater gear or a wetsuit.
  • For winter paddling, a drysuit is a sensible choice, perhaps with gloves/pogies.
  • When buying, consider how to cool down too (some tops have a zip or velcro to allow air to circulate).
Where can I buy suitable clothing?
You can buy all paddling clothing/equipment locally at the Riverside Centre, Oxford. Isis members get a 10% discount
Who will be coaching me?
Click here to see profiles of our team of coaches
What about disabled people?
While we can cater for minor disabilities, we are not equipped to provide sessions for people who need one-on-one care.
In that case you may wish to contact Falcon Rowing and Canoe Club 01844 216844, who have a "Disabled Peoples Canoe Group".
An interview may be required if any medical condition is stated on application form.
Can I store my boat at the club?
We are currently in the process of building an extension on our boat shed so there may be a possibility of storage space in the Summer..........watch this space.
All of our coaches get free priority storage space.
Can I rent boats from the club?
Only members are able to use club equipment (apart from taster sessions).
To borrow equipment for peer-led trips you can either pay extra (presently £20) for a key to the container, or you can rent the equipment ad hoc
(kayak £5 per day, open canoe £10, sea kayak £8, double kayak £8)
(NB. Brooks hire out boats from Isis boathouse near Iffley Lock)