What is a va'a?
B · Beginner · Classes and boats · 2 of 3Checked 14 October 2026
The kayak is a single hull up to 5.20 m and at least 12 kg, with one rudder under the hull. The va'a is an outrigger canoe up to 7.30 m and at least 13 kg with a float (ama) on two spreaders (iato), and no rudder or keel. The ama sits on the left but must fit either side.
How it works
- Kayak length: 5.20 m at most.
- Kayak weight: 12 kg at least.
- Kayak rudder: one, under the hull.
- Va'a length: 7.30 m at most.
- Va'a weight: 13 kg, with ama and iato.
- Ama: the float.
- Iato: two spreaders.
- Va'a steering: no rudder, skeg or keel.
The glossary has the kayak (paracanoe), the va'a, the ama and iato, the K1 and V1, the adaptive equipment (paracanoe) and the quick release and flotation.
Tricky cases
Can a va'a have a rudder?
No.
Can the ama go on the right?
Yes. It must be fittable on either side.
Do secure adaptations count in boat weight?
Yes.
Can a kayak hull be concave?
No.
Why the rule exists
Size and weight limits keep boats comparable. The va'a steers by paddling, which is part of the test.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kayak | Rudder allowed | PC 3.3 |
| Va'a | No rudder | PC 3.4 |
| Both | Sit-in or sit-on | PC 3.1 |
From the rule book
ICF, Paracanoe Competition Rules 2025, articles 3.1, 3.3 and 3.4. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: ICF Paracanoe Competition Rules 2025.