| Kayaking is an extremely fun recreational sport that | | | | type of sport sandal or water shoe will work fine. If |
| can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether | | | | you are whitewater kayaking or kayaking in cooler |
| you’ve rented a kayak and already tried your | | | | weather then I would highly suggest investing in a |
| first paddle or are just starting out, knowing what | | | | good pair of water booties. Wet feet can equal cold |
| basic gear to have will make you more comfortable | | | | feet and that is no fun. |
| and prepared. | | | | If you are sea kayaking you may need a sprayskirt |
| Basic Kayaking Gear | | | | for your kayak. A sprayskirt will keep the water out |
| - If you own a kayak you will of course need a | | | | of your kayak and therefore keep you dry. If you |
| paddle. If you are in a solo kayak you only need one | | | | are kayaking through waves and ocean surf, a |
| double ended paddle. They come in many different | | | | sprayskirt will be a much needed accessory. |
| sizes and materials but most beginners will start with | | | | |
| the most inexpensive paddle which will work just fine. | | | | Additional Accessories that May be Neededesides the |
| If you progress to the level of kayaking weekly then | | | | most important gear listed above, you may also |
| you may want to invest in a higher end paddle. | | | | want to have a dry bag aboard your kayak. A |
| - Next and very importantly you will need a PFD | | | | drybag will allow you to store your essentials like car |
| (personal flotation device), otherwise known as a | | | | keys, sunglasses, food, extra clothes, etc. It will keep |
| lifejacket. It is mandatory to wear a lifejacket for | | | | them completely dry even if your kayak should |
| any type of boating and kayaking is no different. Get | | | | overturn. A small drybag is extremely inexpensive |
| a lifejacket that is comfortable for your shape and | | | | and a very useful kayak accessory. |
| size and that does not rub or irritate your skin while | | | | The last thing you may want to consider is a safety |
| paddling. | | | | kit. Most kayak stores will offer some type of safety |
| If you are doing whitewater kayaking it is mandatory | | | | kit with first aid materials as well as possible rescue |
| to wear a helmet. If you are kayaking in lakes or a | | | | equipment. Although we all hope we will never have |
| calm ocean then a helmet is not necessary. | | | | to use this, realistically it is smart to have one stored |
| - Having the proper clothes will make a big different | | | | within the drybag and along for the ride. Whether |
| in your comfort level. If it is really hot out and you | | | | you are brand new to kayaking or an experienced |
| are recreational kayaking then you may choose to | | | | paddler, it is always important to be prepared for |
| kayak in your bathing suit (with your lifejacket). For | | | | emergency situations. |
| cooler weather however a moisture wicking shirt as | | | | For most recreational kayakers, there is very little |
| a base layer and then insulation on top as well as a | | | | necessary kayak gear that is needed. Starting off |
| waterproof jacket and pants will go a very long way | | | | with these few essentials will provide for an |
| in keeping you warm and dry. | | | | enjoyable paddling experience and hopefully many |
| - In the summer when recreational kayaking any | | | | years of paddling fun. |