Paddling through Side Waves

Many of you know that the easiest way to deal with a series of wind waves and boat wake is to paddle directly into them. But it isn't always favorable to change your direction to paddle into a series of waves. You'd rather continue your course and let the waves pass by without interruption. 

Doing so requires allowing waves to 'roll' under your board, but that's only half of the effort. Having your paddle in the water allows you to brace against it, acting like a bicycle's kickstand for stability. Shorter, quicker strokes keep your paddle in the water for longer periods of time than out of it,  improving your stability. I prefer, in most cases, to paddle on the side of the board that is opposite  to the side which the waves are reaching my board. At the same time, I've found that digging your paddle into the water while in the trough of the wave and timing its exit with the wave's crest and then repeating is an excellent way to push yourself both forward and over waves. Forward momentum improves stability. So does a relaxed posture with soft knees.

Next time waves approach you broadside, relax, change your posture and paddle stroke, and paddle over the waves by placing your paddle in the water between waves and drive yourself over them. This should enable you to continue your pace, momentum, and direction without interruption.