The Inuits and Aleuts constructed kayaks of sturdy wooden frames, lashed together with sinew and covered with skins (often seal). Read on and find out how their early experimentation and refinement lead to the boats we know today.

During the same era as the Inuits and Aleuts, further south, nations such as Iroquois, Huron, Algonquin Ojibway, and Kwakwaka Wakw built canoes from wooden frames covered in birch bark and dugout canoes from carved tree trunks. The art of dugout construction reached its peak along the Pacific coast, where giant red cedars were plentiful.

Early paddles were more than just propulsion devices. Many had pointed ends which could be used as weapons or to dig for clams. They could also double as drinking vessels and signaling devices.

“These people have come across the great water in wonderfully large canoes, which have great white wings like those of a giant bird.” (Unknown native Canadian describing the ships of European explorers.) The “great white wings” really impressed the natives with their abilities. Sails were added to many dugout canoes after the appearance of Europeans. Reciprocally, early explorer, Samuel Champlain was the first to discover that the watercraft of Europe was totally unsuited for the needs in the new world, and that canoes built in the style of the natives made much more sense.

Materials and designs have changed, but the basic designs are still visible. In a future article, we’ll discuss important kayaking equipment.