Essential Kayak Gear

Of the many outdoor sports, kayaking is one that is filled with adventure and excitement. However, when starting out on the sport it is essential to know about the kayak gear required for maximum enjoyment.

Essential gears for kayaking

Listed here are some of the basic equipment that will be enough to give a pleasurable experience and also keep you prepared for all emergencies.

•Kayak seat: River and sea kayaking call for different types for kayaks but when purchasing one, see to it that the kayak seat is comfortable. It is important for you to be comfortable in your position to paddle better.

•Paddle: There are various types of kayaks and each one calls for a different type of paddle. When purchasing a kayak consult the store owner who will help you figure out what type of paddle will go with your kayak.

•Helmet: It is very important to keep your head safe as even a minor injury can turn disastrous. When kayaking if any kind of accident takes place, a helmet will keep the head secure. This is basically required for whitewater kayaking and not for sea kayaking.

•PFD: Personal Floatation Device or PFD is another essential requirement. In the form of life-jackets or life-preservers for kayakers, they prove to be life-saving equipment in emergency situations.

•Spray Skirt: To keep the kayak afloat, the water has to be kept out which is exactly what a spray skirt does. Fitted around the opening of the cockpit this kayak gear helps keep water out of the kayak. You can find custom fitting ones for your kayak but once you know your kayak well you will be able to decide the size better.

•Apparel: Like every other sport, kayaking too, calls for appropriate apparels. This can be a tricky area as it is possible for the weather to be warm but the water to be chilly. Whatever the conditions, one thing must be kept in mind - dress up to be ready to get drenched.

•Rope bag: Might not sound very important but in times of need it could help save a person in need.

Apart from these essentials there are other items that can be included into the kayak gear list – gloves, booties, knife, extra food, water and some other items you may find necessary. The idea is to stick to the barest minimum and not overload the kayak.     

Starting out on a sport can be exciting and also a bit confusing – the many items to be bought to pursue the sport. Same goes for kayaking. When buying kayak gear stick to the basic essentials like comfortable kayak seat, PFD, helmets etc.