What’s the point of learning more than one way to roll? Isn’t the C-to-C roll favored by whitewater kayakers the only thing you really need to know?
The quick and forceful recovery of the C-to-C roll is perfectly suited to whitewater situations. Greenland techniques require less energy and rely more on flexibility and finesse. They were borne from sea kayaking imperatives where reliability is more important than speed of recovery. For the Inuit hunters whose lives depended on their kayaking skills wet exits were not an option in the frigid arctic waters. So they devised ways to roll while holding a knife in one hand, with arms tangled in a harpoon line, using only one arm, with the paddle behind their back, with no paddle at all, etc. Today these rolls are done for sport in judged competitions. It is not uncommon for some Greenland enthusiasts to become so obsessed with rolling that they prefer to spend an hour on the water deliberately tipping over rather than paddling for any distance.

Why should I learn to roll if I’m not planning on tipping over?
Because accidents do happen despite our best laid plans. Being able to roll gives a paddler a whole new level of confidence. When you no longer have to worry about tipping over you can concentrate more on fully enjoying the kayaking experience.

What happens when a roll doesn’t work?
You switch to one that does, which is the point of having multiple options i.e. learning as many ways to roll as your can.

Is there a certain design of kayak that rolls easier than others?
Yes but it depends on which type of roll you are considering. Greenland rolling techniques can be applied to any kayak. The video examines this subject in more detail.

What is the best way to learn how to roll?
It varies with the individual. There are many ways to approach the task including books, diagrams, videos, as well as group and individual instruction. By availing yourself of as many of these methods as you can you will give yourself the best chance for success. Persistence pays off.