2023-09-17 04:18:00
In this Sunday’s Instant Sport, a new sport will be in the spotlight: Packraft. A mix between walking and navigation, it appeals to many Belgians.
This practice from Alaska has enjoyed enormous success here in recent years. The principle is simple: walk with a backpack that contains a light and practical inflatable boat.
At Lake Nisramont, in the middle of a majestic setting, both on land and on water, enthusiasts enjoy a moment of escape.
“It’s really an adventure in your garden, a micro-adventure” says Luc Van Ouytsel, a fan of this sport. For him, the success of this sport is due to Covid. After the pandemic, “people needed outdoor experience” he says.
The great advantage of this activity is that it is accessible to everyone. Combining sport and relaxation, you don’t have to be a great sportsman to be able to practice it.
In their backpacks: an inflatable kayak and paddles. If the equipment seems heavy, it is not. “We barely have 5 kg on our backs” explains Luc.
With a size of 2.20 meters, the boat is easily foldable, but above all, it is very quickly inflatable. “We just need an inflatable bag that weighs 80 grams“.
You just need to attach the tip to the boat and no need to breathe. “The bag traps the air, it’s like a big balloon. You just have to push the air which will go into the boat.“
Once on the water, inflatable kayaks are easily maneuverable. “You can easily make a U-turn. These are boats that are very short” confirms Luc.
Accessible to everyone perhaps, but economically the Packraft has a cost: it takes 800 euros for a solid and rock-resistant boat.
Without forgetting that although it is not obligatory, a life jacket is recommended. An additional charge to the boat.
An activity that is worth the money spent, if we are to believe the many followers. The boat allows you, in complete discretion, to discover natural sites in a different way. A priceless discovery.
Wallonia has 400 km of waterways for kayaks. To walk there, you don’t need a license, you just have to respect the regulations.
For the more sporty looking for thrills, head to the mountains. The descents are faster and more rugged.
But for the majority of practitioners there remains: a simple desire to combine sporting activity and escape.
Packraft Sport kayak trail market Instant Sport
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