Canoe rescue stirrups are designed to assist YOU enter a canoe while YOU are in deeper water. Approach the canoe AT the END that canoe stirrup is attached. Place both hands on the BOW. Place your foot on the stirrup that is hanging in the water. Push down and back with your foot. The canoe will glide under YOU. This is especially helpful if YOU are tired. Weak or suffering from hypothermia. The boat ladders are available in 3 sizes. The 2 step ladder is 36" long. 3 step is 48" long. 4 step is 60" long. The ladder are schedule 80 PVC. The cable is 1/8" vinyl covered. Aircraft cable. The cable is inserted through each step for added strength. Folds easily for storage. The hang-up lets YOU hang UP anything YOU CAN wrap it around. Garden hose. Electric cords. Power tools. Canoe paddles.