R = raft, and the number = how many people are paddling. R1 is one person paddling a raft, R2 is two, and so on.
C1, C2 traditionally meant canoe, with one person paddling a single-bladed paddle with a T-grip. Today the term covers anyone paddling single-bladed in a canoe, kayak, inflatable kayak or packraft.
Strokes
Canoe style and raft style differ:
- J-stroke (canoe style): the same blade face stays loaded the whole time. You pull, then rotate the blade outward at the end to steer while keeping your momentum.
- Raft style: you often start on one blade face and pry with the opposite face, using the tube as a fulcrum.
Deadsticking is when a boat full of people has only one person paddling, usually the guide in the back.
A word of honesty
R1 and C1 are hard. They're complex skills that take time and effort to master, and they're best learned once you're already proficient in whitewater, comfortable in different positions in a boat, and bring a solid base of knowledge. The payoff is that solo boating gets you on the river more and makes you a better paddler.
Quick answers
What does R1 mean in rafting? One person paddling a raft. R2 is two people, and so on.
What does C1 mean? Traditionally one person in a canoe with a single-bladed paddle. Today it covers anyone paddling single-bladed in a canoe, kayak, inflatable kayak or packraft.
What is deadsticking? When a boat full of people has only one person paddling, usually the guide in the back.
Is R1 hard to learn? Yes. R1 and C1 are complex skills best learned once you're already proficient in whitewater.
