Beginner: A Beginner level paddle is an easy paddle suitable for all skill levels. All flat water, short distances, no obstacles.

Beginner paddlers are not expected to have any prior experience or specialized gear. Little or no knowledge of paddling strokes or rescue techniques is required. Little or no physical fitness is required.

Beginner Plus: A Beginner Plus level paddle is an easy paddle suitable for most skill levels. Mostly flat water, may include a few riffles or easy obstacles. May be a longer distance paddle.

Beginner Plus paddlers are expected to have a little prior experience and basic kayaking gear required for easy trips. A little knowledge of basic kayak control is needed. Little or no knowledge of kayak rescue techniques is required. A little physical fitness may be required.

Intermediate: Not suitable for beginners. These paddles may include longer distances, more obstacles, and more challenging water such as: Class I-II water, changing weather conditions, tides, open water. Longer boats often required.

Intermediate Paddlers have some kayaking experience and all of the safety and kayaking gear required for the paddle they will be attending. They know all basic kayak strokes and usually have a little knowledge of advanced strokes. They are able to steer their boat confidently. Intermediate paddlers have some knowledge of kayak rescue techniques and can preform at least an assisted or self rescue if required. Intermediate kayakers should be able to complete longer paddles without assistance in most circumstances.

Intermediate Plus/Advanced: Same as Intermediate but with increased difficulty level. Expect many challenges. Strong paddlers with experience in difficult and changing situations only. Specific gear may be required such as helmets, rescue gear, cold water gear. Different boat types may be required (ie: sea kayaks, surf kayaks, white water kayaks).

Intermediate Plus/Advanced paddlers have all of the kayaking equipment required for the paddles they attend, as well as experience and/or training in it's use. They have mastered basic kayak strokes and are familiar with some or many advanced strokes. They are comfortable in tides, strong currents, strong winds, and chop; If whitewater paddlers, they are instead comfortable on Class II or higher whitewater. They have experience and/or training in self and assisted rescues and can preform them confidently. They are in moderately good shape, and will be able to complete longer or more complex paddles without assistance, except in the event of extraordinary circumstances.