ESC

The Six Seats

Why each position matters, what the job actually is, and what separates a paddler who's good in that seat from one who's just filling it — pulled together from club seat-role guides across three countries, since this is one of the few things nearly every source agrees on almost word for word.

Terms on this page
There's no hierarchy among seats. Each position is vital, and no seat is more important than another — every paddler is essential to the crew's success. This page breaks down what's different about each job, not which one matters more.

The Front

Seats 1 and 2 — the pace-setting pair everyone else in the boat is reacting to.

The Engine Room

Seats 3, 4, and 5 — where raw power gets delivered, and where balance matters as much as strength.

The Back

Seat 6 — steersperson and captain. The full skillset lives on its own dedicated page; this is the summary.