Equipment List for Kayaking

Over the years, I have answered many questions about the gear needed for kayaking.  Unfortunately some guests have found out the hard way that you can get cold when paddling in Florida on the Cedar Key Kayaking Trip or that cotton sweatshirts on our Everglades Trip are not the best choice.

​Realistically, all you need is a kayak, paddle and PFD (personal flotation device).  However, when you advance beyond being a recreational kayaker and/or want to understand more about safety gear and essentials the list gets a little longer. Some paddlers do take it a little too far, (you know who you are...) buying every gadget and gizmo that comes out. But the list below should work as an outline for everyone and you can take or leave whatever interests you.

​The Gear You Need:

• Kayak – It doesn’t matter what it is, just get out and use it.  However, remember if there are no bulkheads in your kayak, there’s no flotation!  In the event of a capsize it will be very difficult to rescue.
• Paddle - Choose the paddle that fits you and your boat (length-wise) and your paddling style (blade shape and size).
• PFD - U.S. Coast Guard approved, Type III or better. It can be an inflatable or standard vest but many folks realize that they wish they had pockets after purchasing an inflatable.
• Audible Warning Device – At least a whistle that can be attached to your PFD.
• Proper clothing – Ideally you want to dress for the water temperature – NOT the air temperature!  Your paddling clothing should be made of a quick-drying synthetic material that can be     layered and that will provide the proper warmth when wet.  You should also have a layer of wind-protection.
• Proper footwear - Sandals (such as Tevas or Chacos – NO flipflops), neoprene booties, or well-fitting water shoes all work well. The main goal is to protect your feet.
• One Dry Bag - There are two basic kinds – the ones with the roll down top (a “damp” bag) and the real water-tight “Ziploc” sealed bags (such as Watershed).  Get a size that will fit a change of clothes and/or lunch and also fit easily into your hatch opening.
• At least one water bottle
• Transportation System - A rack system (or foam blocks) and straps for car-topping your boat safely or a kayak trailer.

 
The Gear You Will Eventually Want/Need:

• Paddle Float - This can be foam block kind or inflatable.
• Bilge Pump
• Stirrup - For help in re-entries, this can be made from waterline (rope that floats).
• Extra paddle - A break-down paddle so that it can be easily strapped to your deck.
• Spray-skirt - This can be either nylon, neoprene or a combination of both and it will need to fit both you (your waist) and your boat’s cockpit size.
• First-Aid Kit
• Tow Rope

 
The Optional Stuff:

• Extra dry bags
• Warning Devices - Signal horn, signaling mirror, VHF radio and/or waterproof phone.
• Paddling-specific spray jacket - This will have good closures at the wrists and will be relatively water and wind-proof.
• Wet/Dry Suit - Wet-suits (“Farmer John/Jane” suits) that are neoprene will let the water in but will provide insulation and warmth when in the wet. Dry suits or a dry top will keep you dry. They are made of waterproof materials and have neck, wrist, and ankle gaskets to keep the water out.
• Paddle Leash - This will allow you to attach your paddle to your boat and comes in handy whenever you want to have two free hands.
• Bow Line - Some kind of rope that will allow you to tie your boat up by shore so it doesn’t get pulled away by current or waves.
• Deck Compass
• GPS
• Map Case - This clear “ziploc” seal case holds a map and can be attached to your deck in front of the cockpit.
• Gear Bag - This “duffle-style” bag is a convenient way to carry your gear to and from the water. Some even have separate compartments for wet and dry gear.

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Equipment List for Kayaking Comments