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Packraft Dictionary A-Z

4 July 2025
Packraft Dictionary from A to Z all about rafting and packrafting

On the road with the Packraft Dictionary: your ultimate guide to packraft adventures

Packrafting is booming. More and more adventurers are discovering this unique combination of hiking and boating, where a collapsible boat gives you access to hidden places in nature that normally remain inaccessible. While packrafting is surprisingly accessible, the terminology surrounding this fast-growing water sport can sometimes be intimidating. That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Packraft Dictionary: a comprehensive guide where you’ll find everything you need to know to start your adventure with confidence.

Why a packraft dictionary, you may ask? Everyone who gets into packrafting sooner or later comes across a variety of terms such as “forward stroke,” “pressure relief valve,” or “self-bailer. While these terms are obvious to experienced packrafters, they can discourage or even deter beginners. This packraft dictionary serves as a bridge between beginner and expert, making even the most technical terms understandable and accessible. With simple, clear descriptions and clear examples, we ensure that anyone can effortlessly enter the world of packrafting.

The packraft dictionary is not just for absolute beginners. Experienced adventurers can also use this reference book to deepen their knowledge and discover new techniques or materials. From essential paddling techniques and safety equipment to specialized materials such as drop stitch floors and ultralight backpacks, everything is covered in detail.

In addition, the packraft dictionary not only helps you get on the water better prepared, but also helps you make better decisions when buying your gear. Knowing the difference between a drysuit and a wetsuit or the pros and cons of different types of paddles can save you time, money AND frustration.

Whether you’re planning your first packraft adventure or an experienced packrafter looking for depth, this packraft dictionary offers valuable insights for every level. Ready to expand your knowledge and get even more out of your adventures? Dive into the dictionary and discover the power of knowledge as you plan your next unforgettable trip.

Dictionary Paddling Techniques

Forward stroke

The standard forward paddle stroke. Important for efficient forward paddling.

Reverse stroke

Backward paddling to brake or reverse.

Draw stroke

Lateral stroke to pull the raft to the left or right.

J-stroke

Technique to correct course during solo paddling on flat water.

Sweep stroke

Large bow stroke to turn quickly with the raft.

Brace

Support stroke to stabilize yourself when waves or wobble.

Packraft terms A-Z

A

Airtight Cell

Air chamber of a packraft that provides buoyancy.

Alpacka

Well-known packraft brand, pioneer in the packraft world.

Anchorage

Attachment point on the raft for luggage or accessories.

B

Backrest

Back support for extra comfort while paddling.

Bailer / Self-bailer

Raft with open bottom that automatically drains water.

Bottom mat

Mat for comfort and insulation in the raft.

Bow

The front of the packraft.

Bow bag

Bag at the front of the raft for extra storage space.

C

Cam straps

Straps to secure equipment on or in the raft.

Carbon paddle

Lightweight carbon fiber paddle.

Carrying system

Carrying solution for packraft or equipment.

D

Deckpack

Luggage system on the deck of the raft.

D-ring

Round loop for attaching equipment.

Drysuit

Waterproof breathable suit for cold conditions.

Drybag

Waterproof bag that keeps your gear dry.

Dropstitch floor

Rigid inflatable floor for stability and paddling ease.

E

EVA foam seat

Lightweight foam seat for comfort.

Eskimorol

Technique for getting upright after flipping over with raft.

F

Fast drain holes

Holes in the floor for quick water drainage.

Fin / tracking fin

Fin under the raft for better course keeping.

Flatwater

Still or slow-flowing water.

Floatation

Buoyancy of raft or person.

G

Gear loops

Loops for attaching equipment.

Grab loop

Handle on the raft for carrying or gripping.

Gore-Tex

Waterproof and breathable material for drysuits.

H

Packrafting manual

Explaining safe and efficient packrafting.

Hull

Bottom or hull of the raft.

Hypalon

Wear-resistant material used in heavy-duty packrafts.

I

Inflation bag

Bag that you use to inflate your raft.

Inner tubes

The raft’s internal air chambers.

IPX rating

Waterproofing of electronic accessories.

J

Jerry can pump

Self-built water system for expeditions.

K

Kneestraps

Straps for more control in whitewater.

Button

Used for attachment or safety.

L

Lash points

Attachment points on the raft.

Leash

Strap to attach equipment to you.

M

Multi-day packraft trip

Tour with overnight stays along the way.

Modular paddle

Multi-piece paddle, convenient for transportation.

N

NRS

Brand of water sports equipment.

Nylon

Strong and light material for rafts and bags.

O

Pressure relief valve

Allow air to escape at overpressure.

Outfitting

Modifications to raft such as seats or straps.

P

Paddle

Double-bladed paddle for packrafting.

Packweight

Total weight of your equipment.

Portage

Carrying the raft past obstacles.

PFD

Personal Flotation Device: life jacket.

Q

Quick release buckle

Quick release buckle for safety.

R

Rolltop closure

Waterproof closure on drybags.

Rudder

Rudder, rarely used on packrafts.

Repair kit

Kit for repairing your raft.

S

Sprayskirt

Splash sail that keeps water out of the raft.

Self-rescue

Self-sufficiency after capsizing.

T

T-grip

T-shaped handle on paddle.

Throw bag

Lifeline in a bag.

U

Ultralight

Super lightweight gear for expeditions.

V

Valve

Inlet for air (inflating/venting).

W

Waders

Waterproof pants with boots.

Law exit

Safe disembarkation after capsizing.

X

X-bed

Lightweight inflatable mat for multi-day trips.

Y

Y-attachment

Attachment with three-point strap for stability.

Z

Z-drag

Rescue system with pulleys for jammed rafts.

Seat

Comfortable seating, often inflatable or foam.
Are you missing a term? This packraft dictionary is growing with our community. Do you have a term, technique or piece of equipment that is still missing? Let us know about it! We will gladly add your suggestion so that this remains the complete reference for all packrafters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What terms do I need to know as a packraft beginner?

The main terms are: whitewater (rapids), eddy (quiet spot behind a rock), ferry (cross at an angle), and high brace (support stroke to avoid capsizing). All terms are in this dictionary.

What does class 1 to 5 mean at rivers?

Class 1 is calm water with no obstacles. Class 2 has light rapids. Class 3 is challenging for advanced students. Class 4 and 5 are for experts. Beginners start at class 1 or 2.

Do I need a course before packrafting?

For Class 1 and 2 water, a course is not required but is helpful. Rent a Packraft provides instructional materials with each rental. For class 3 and above, we strongly recommend a course.

✓

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