What is bracing and broaching with reference to kayaking?
Bracing is a stroke used to provide support and prevent the kayak from capsizing. A high brace is a strong, supportive bracing stroke normally used when entering or leaving an eddy and a kayaker’s best defense against an inadverdant capsize. Also referred to as a “Duffek stroke.” A low brace is a supportive stroke where the arms are low and close to the body, and the back face of the paddle is braced against the water. Broaching is when the kayak is oriented broadside to waves, currents, or an obstacle. The result of an uncontrolled broach is often a capsize.
