The Reed Avataq is a Greenland rolling flotation aid. Avataq's were originally used by Inuit for hunting. They were traditionally made from inflated seal skins. Today's Avataq's are used when practicing Greenland rolling, as a stabiliser or self righting aid.
They are a great tool for the initial stages of rolling or handrolling as they allow you to roll slowly while focusing on body movement. The Reed Avataq comes in a natural shape with a traditional look and feel. It has 9 grab loop options, either for fitting a Greenland paddle blade into or holding onto by hand.
Inflation and deflation is via a tube and valve. The narrowness of the tube does mean it takes some time and effort to inflate though. It's durable fabric is waterproof and flexible allowing it to be rolled and folded to pack away small.
The Reed Avataq's are available from:
By Philip Clegg
With over two decades of working in the sea kayaking industry, Phil can be found on a daily basis coaching on the sea around Anglesey. That's when he's not researching and writing on all things sea kayaking.