: I take issue with the statement that kayaking is an extreme sport. I don't
: view it that way at all and if it's practiced responsibly, it's
: exceedingly safe. Like many sports, it can be take to extremes, such as
: Class V whitewater and running waterfalls, but that's not what the
: overwhelming majority of paddlers do.

I see your point, however, mountain biking might be considered an extreme sport, depending on the destination...windsurfing might be considered an extreme sport, and back country skiing might be considered an extreme sport...I guess anything that requires effort and entails a certain element of risk beyond rooting for the home team from the living room couch might be considered an extreme sport.

: Yesterday, we were out in rough water (2-5' swells with lots of chop)
: conditions on a cloudy, windy day, with increasing wind and rain
: predicted. We were dressed and prepared for it, and had a great time. The
: PM winds gave us a welcome boost on the return leg.

Sounds like a great day...which of your boats were you in?

: It's all about preparation, if you have the right clothing and gear and the
: skills to use it, even nasty weather can be safe and fun. Without these
: prerequisites, a simple paddle along the seashore can turn into a fatal
: tragedy.

In my case, just getting in the boat without tipping over (and in shallow water, without cracking my noggin on a rock) leads me to consider sea kayaking an extreme sport....But Brian, it's all in one's perspective. Never the less, I agree with you, and the others here, that preparation, proper gear, and practiced skills are a necessity for the enjoyment of the "practice" of paddling. Oh, and for one's safe return, an understanding of how those skills measure up to the conditions...and an up to date knowledge of what those conditions will be for the duration of the outing. Thanks for commenting. Always good to read your input.
Bill Cruz