Being able to spot and catch an eddy in the midst of a whitewater rapid not only opens up a world of play, it also increases the safety of you and your paddling companions. Armed with this skill you can choose to stop nearly anywhere in a rapid to rest, prepare for a rescue, or just scout your next move. Performing that eddy turn with a tail pivot gives you access to smaller and more dynamic eddies. It also feels and looks way more awesome.
Before experimenting with pivot turning into whitewater eddies start with mastering pivot turns on flat water. Watch your posture - keep your body aligned more vertically than is common for flatwater SUP with you hips tucked forward and head up. Also work on smoothly moving your feet into position - if you have a longer board check out my post on Cross Stepping. Remember to have your paddle in the water and loaded to maintain control whenever you move a foot.
Not all eddies are appropriate for a TAIL pivot turn. If the eddy is especially shallow and rocky beware damaging your board or fins. A flat turn or the more challenging NOSE pivot turn may be a better choice for shallow eddies.
The following video tutorial demonstrates a "toe-side" eddy turn on a 7'6" inflatable board. Enjoy - and let me know if this is helpful.
Need more direct instruction, coaching, feedback? Book me through Mountain River Guides on the Nolichucky and French Broad Rivers near Asheville, NC.
