How are paracanoeists classified?
A · Advanced · Classes and boats · 1 of 1Classification has seven steps, from documents about 30 days ahead through leg, trunk and on-water tests to a class and status. A medical and a technical classifier sit on the panel. The on-water test must use the same boat, position and adaptations as in racing. At world championships athletes may not race up a class.
How it works
- Documents: about 30 days ahead.
- Physical tests: legs and trunk.
- On-water test: in the race boat setup.
- Changes: reported to the Head of Classification.
- Panel: medical and technical classifier.
- Observation: in competition if needed.
- Not eligible: cannot compete in paracanoe.
- Racing up: not at world championships.
The glossary has the classification process (paracanoe), the on-water technical observation, the not eligible, the racing up, the minimum eligibility (kayak) and the adaptive equipment (paracanoe).
Tricky cases
A paddler changes the seat after classification. Allowed?
Only if reported; adaptations must match classification.
Can a KL1 paddler enter KL2 at worlds?
No.
Who sits on the panel?
A medical and a technical classifier.
Are the classification rules current?
They predate the 2025 IPC Code and may change.
Why the rule exists
Testing in the race boat shows the real effect of the impairment. Banning racing up keeps classes clean at the top level.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| On-water test | Race setup | KM, PC 3.2.13 |
| Worlds | No racing up | PC 13.3.2d |
| Not eligible | No paracanoe | KM |
From the rule book
ICF, Paracanoe Kayak Classification Manual (19 August 2018), with ICF, Paracanoe Competition Rules 2025, articles 3.2.13 and 13.3.2. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: ICF Paracanoe Competition Rules 2025.