Ron Chase: Rolling for whitewater safety By Ron ChaseSeniors Not Acting Their Age Contributed photo A reliable roll is essential for difficult whitewater kayaking. Many solo canoeists survive the sport without a roll; however, acquiring one is a game changer. I started out canoeing so I learned the canoe roll first. Most people consider the canoe roll to be more difficult. That was my conclusion when I began kayaking since the kayak roll came easier. No longer a canoeist due to a knee replacement; the quality of my kayak roll has diminished in recent years as a result of old age and less practice.