Last Updated on April 3, 2024 by ETC Team
Are you planning a kayaking getaway? Before you get going, you will want to make sure you have all the necessary equipment. Kayaking can be a thrilling experience, but without the best kayaking equipment, you will most likely find yourself wildly unprepared.
But don’t worry! We’ve put together a list of some essential kayaking items. Below you will find the best kayaking equipment you need to make sure your kayaking experience is memorable and safe.
Kayaking Equipment
Kayaking is much more than just a kayak and a paddle. Not properly preparing can lead to disaster, especially clothing wise. It’s important to dress for the water, not for the weather, as on the rare occasion you fall in, you will want to be wearing the proper clothing.
There are different types of kayaking, creating a widespread range of equipment. But no matter what type of kayaking you choose, from recreational to white water, it is important to bring these essentials.
Kayak
This one may seem like a no brainer, but it is essential to remember to bring your kayak when going kayaking. Depending on what type of kayaking adventure you are participating in, as well as the body of water you are kayaking on, it is important to choose the right kayak.
Kayaks range in types, sizes, and shapes; including narrow racing kayaks, tandem kayaks for multiple people, sea kayaks built for the choppy waters, inflatable kayaks, and touring kayaks.
Depending on the quality and type of kayak, prices can range from $250 to $3,000. For beginners it is recommended that you use a sit-on-top kayak as they are designed for steering ease and provide extra stability.
Kayak Seat
Sitting in a kayak for an extended amount of time is not the most comfortable position. While it is not required, a kayak seat can help add comfort to your kayaking adventures. These seats are also great for providing core and back support, making them highly recommended for senior paddlers and those in need of this extra support. Kayak seats should be compatible with the type of kayak you plan to use.
Leader Accessories makes a highly rated kayak seat that is made from durable molded foam for comfort, has four straps for adjustability, and even comes with a storage bag to hold personal items.
Bilge Pump
A bilge pump is an essential safety item to have with you at all times while kayaking. If you happen to take on water, this pump will help remove the excess water from the hull of the kayak. The ability to mitigate the dangers of a swamped kayak and restore comfort to your kayaking adventures is a very important one. These pumps come in multiple varieties and can be handheld or automatic.
The Better Boat Store has a great manual bilge pump that is highly rated. This pump is doesn’t require power which makes is light-weight, easy to pack, and the long hose makes water removal quick.
Dry Bag
While storage is not essential for kayaking, a dry bag is a must have for those who like to be extremely prepared. A dry bag provides ample storage space for any miscellaneous items you desire to have with you while kayaking. Dry bags are waterproof and have a claps-type closure to keep your items safe from water.
These bags range in types and styles and typically range in price from $20 to $200.
Earth Pak makes this reliable and highly rated dry bag that is great for kayaking trips. This bag is made from 500D PVC making it light-weight and durable. It comes it multiple sizes so you are sure to find one that suits your needs. Once sealed, it floats so if it happens to go overboard you can easily retrieve your belongings.
Headlamp
If kayaking after dusk, it’s important to have a headlamp that can be to the head or hat of the paddler. Headlamps are great because they provide a hands-free navigation tool that helps the paddler see the water in front of them.
It also acts as a signal, letting other boats and sea-goers know that a kayak is present in the nearby waters. Headlamps come in a variety of types and sizes.
This two-pack of headlamps from LightingEVER would make a great addition to your kayaking gear. This rechargeable(no batteries!) headlamp is not only light-weight but also IPX4 waterproof and shockproof. It also has five lighting modes and adjustable angles.
Kayaking Shoes
While kayaking, you are most likely going to get wet. It is important to have specific wet shoes for kayaking that are designed to get wet and protect your feet. Having secure and protective footwear will make you kayaking trip more enjoyable. Certain kayaking shoes will also provide warmth and insulation similar to that of a wetsuit. Like all shoes, these kayaking wet shoes vary in styles and designs.
These SEEKWAY water shoes can provide the protection your feet need while on your kayak excursions. They are Ultra-breathable and flexible to also provide comfort and the 3D non-slip treads can handle multiple terrains.
Life Jacket / PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
No matter the experience of the paddler, some form of a personal flotation device should be worn at all times while kayaking. Depending on the location of your kayak trip, it may even be required. In the rare event the kayak tips, these flotation devices can save your life.
While kayaking, it is recommended that you choose a buoyancy aid over a normal life jacket as these provide a wider range of mobility around the neck and shoulders, better suited for the act of paddling.
The ONYX life vest is designed for paddle sports. It features a sculpted flexible foam that conforms to your body and stays in place while paddling. It is made with quality nylon fabrics to resist tears and punctures. This vest also features SOLAS grade reflective material and is U.S. Coastguard approved.
Paddle
Paddles range from recreational paddles to paddles specifically designed for white water kayaking and kayak fishing. It is important to choose a paddle that is compatible with your type of kayak and the type of kayaking in which you are participating.
The size of the paddle is dependent on the type of paddle as well as the paddler’s height, and in general range from 180cm-240cm.
Two features that make a great kayak paddle are light-weight and durability. You’ll find both and more with this kayak paddle by Overmont. The shaft is constructed with aerospace-grade aluminum and features one-piece molding. The blades are durable with adjustable angles for easier strokes. The hollow aluminum tubing allows the paddle to float and comes with a paddle leash for retrieval.
Signal Whistle
In the event of an emergency while kayaking, if you can not get yourself to safety, it is crucial that you have a signaling whistle on hand. Even the most experienced paddlers and swimmers should carry a whistle at all times in the rare event that they find themselves unable to get out of the water/kayak.
The LuxoGear emergency whistle can provide up to 120 decibel sound for signaling up to a mile. The high visibility and reflective lanyard keeps the whistle available for quick use when needed. It also features a flat design to help it float.
Wetsuit / Drysuit
While a wetsuit is only required for cold water temperatures, it should be considered for all kayaking trips. Not only do wetsuits protect against the temperatures of the water, but they also provide mobility and make getting wet more comfortable.
A drysuit is meant for warmer water temperatures for the purpose of keeping you dry while kayaking. However, drysuits contain no insulating properties like the wetsuit.
This SeaSkin 3mm wetsuit will help with those cold waters while kayaking. It features three layers of diving fabrics. The outer nylon layer is highly elastic and durable, while the middle neoprene layer provides heat insulation and is waterproof. It also has a quality YKK front zipper and is available in shorts or full body.
Spray Skirt
A spray skirt is not required for kayaking but can have many benefits if you decide to use one. A spray skirt is a kayak accessory that surrounds the paddler and the cockpit of the kayak. Its main function is to keep water out of the hull of the kayak.
This in turn reduces the risks of a swamped kayak and also has an added benefit of keeping the lower portion of the paddler’s body dry, something that is highly recommended if you value comfort while kayaking. Spray skirts come in specific sizes based on the cockpit opening of your kayak. They can range in price from $60 to $150.
Helmet
While a helmet is not always required, it is important to bring one if you are going white water kayaking or kayaking in any form of narrow, shallow, or rapid waterways. Helmets provide a safety barrier for your head, and can save lives in the event of a collision with the terrain.
Helmets come in many different designs, however, the most important aspect of the helmet is its quality and safety rating.
The Vihir water sports helmet features a tough ABS outer shell for impact protection while the inner cold-molded foam provides flexibility and comfort. It also includes a waterproof liner for added comfort.
