Frequently Asked Questions

If your question is not listed below or you want more information contact us at play@portlandkayakpolo.com

What is kayak polo?

Kayak polo, or canoe polo as it’s called in other parts of the world, is a fast-paced game of 5 vs 5 in kayaks with the objective of getting a water polo ball into nets suspended 2 meters in the air. You can use your hands or your paddle to pass, dribble or shoot the ball. Boat to boat contact is part of the game as is pushing over an opponent in possession of the ball. (If you don’t have a roll don’t worry, we won’t push you over.) The general game play is a combination of soccer, basketball, hockey, and water polo.

Do I need any paddling experience?

Nope, many of us who play kayak polo had our first introduction to kayaking through kayak polo. It’s a nice low-consequence way to learn how to move your boat from point A to point B in the fastest way possible.

What kind of safety equipment do you need?

There are many safety rules to discourage contact of equipment with bodies but in addition to rules there is specialty kayak equipment designed for polo to make it safer. We supply everyone with helmets with face masks to protect the face and head from any inadvertent contact. We use kayaks that are under 10 feet long with rounded padded bumpers on the bow and stern. There are also special personal flotation devices that are extra thick and padded on the sides to protect the torso even more than regular PFDs. Polo paddles are extra thick with rounded edges, and we also provide edging for non-polo paddles to make them safer.

Do I need my own gear?

We can accommodate most heights and weights with club owned gear. If you have it, feel free to use your own. We recommend a whitewater kayak or recreational kayak that is 10 feet or less, a paddle, a helmet with face guard, and a PFD.

Is it expensive?

Outdoor kayak polo is low cost or free. If we rent a pool it is around $15 per person per session.

Where is it played?

Check our calendar for current scheduling and location details. In the past we have played at Tryon Cove Park in Lake Oswego (or you can park at Rivervilla Park in Oak Grove and paddle across to Tryon Cove) when it is warm enough to play outdoors. In the cooler months we have rented pool time at a variety of metro pools.

Do I need to know how to roll a kayak?

Nope! You may find as a new kayaker you will reach a little too far to grab a ball on water but we will teach you how to safely wet exit before your first game. We will also teach other options such as T rescues to keep you from having to get out of your boat in the event you capsize. With time you will find rolling is handy and Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe provides great instructors who can help you get a solid roll. Kayak polo provides an excellent opportunity to get used to rolling and being in a kayak so you may find rolling to be much easier to learn once you have played kayak polo for a bit.

Can I use my own boat?

Absolutely, if you already own a kayak that is 10 foot long or less that'll probably work fine. We have club polo boats available for people to borrow upon request. If you want to buy your own polo boat let us know and we can help you source some options for either a new or second-hand polo boat.

Do I need to have a team?

Nope! You can join as an individual. Depending on how many players we have at each session we try to create well-balanced teams so everyone has a chance to play, have fun, and learn from those around them.

Will my inexperience be a problem?

Nope! We were all inexperienced polo players at some point in our past. We love to have new people give the sport a try and are happy to provide coaching to help you improve.

Is it dangerous?

Any water activity or sport has inherent risks. We follow rules that are intended for safe play and we wear safety equipment. Fortunately, injuries are not common and most are minor such as a scrape or bruise.

Will this make me a better kayaker?

Absolutely! When you play kayak polo you are motivated to paddle efficiently and effectively while staying upright. This translates to all types of kayaking and you will find the skills you pick up will help in other disciplines such as slalom, whitewater, sea kayaking etc.

How do I sign up?

Email play@portlandkayakpolo.com and we’ll get you started!