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Safety Video

Whitewater Safety by American Whitewater
Planning a Whitewater River Trip

Important Gear

River Rapid Classification

Class I- Beginner

  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • River Environment: Very easy with small, calm riffles and waves.
  • Recommended Craft: Suitable for wide variety of craft.

Class II- Novice

  • Skill Level: Novice
  • River Environment: Easy with rapids and waves only requiring some maneuvering.
  • Recommended Craft: Suitable for wide-variety river specific craft.

Class III-Intermediate

  • Skill Level: Intermediate
  • River Environment: Moderate difficulty with large waves and features requiring skilled maneuvering.
  • Recommended Craft: Suitable for only whitewater specific craft and equipment.

Class IV- Advanced

  • Skill Level: Advanced
  • River Environment: Difficult with powerful rapids and hazardous features requiring specific maneuvering.
  • Recommended Craft: Suitable for skilled groups with whitewater specific craft and equipment.

Class V- Expert

  • Skill Level: Expert
  • River Environment: extremely difficult with long rapids and strong turbulence and features that requires precise maneuvering around frequent obstacles. Near the limits of navigation.
  • Recommended Craft: Only suitable for highly skilled groups with whitewater specific craft and equipment.