Kayak Accessories
The most popular kayak and the one most people start out on is the recreational kayak. These are very stable and easy to paddle and can have seats for either one or two people. They are used for flat water and lakes, and are made out of a variety of materials that vary in price. Plastic, wood, fiberglass and Kevlar are the main materials used in designing a kayak. Kevlar is the most expensive but also the lightest, as is generally used in the high-end of recreational kayaks. They provide a stable boat for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
Whitewater kayaks, on the other hand, are very tippy and designed this way for quick turns and maneuverability to work with the fast moving waters. They are tight around the body and this makes essential escape rolls and maneuvers easier to achieve.
Both of these types of kayak require similar kayak accessories. The most important of these kayak accessories is the PFD or personal floatation device. The PFD’s used in kayaking are designed specifically for the sport. They are shorter and thicker than the floatation devices used in other water sports. They are designed to hold your weight up and a large arm area accommodates for your rowing motion. A standard PFD, like the one used for water skiing is not suitable as they are longer and will push up your back when you are sitting in the kayak.
Comfort is important as well on long tours in a kayak. To ensure a comfortable trip, a simple cushion to rest on is a valuable kayaking accessory. Investing in a back support can really enhance your performance and increase the amount of time you can spend out there. Back bands offer lower back support for better paddling posture, control and as a result, easier rolling. These back supports are perfect for the more demanding adventures.
Essential kayak accessories are bilge pumps. A bilge pump will get water out of your kayak should you capsize. It is advisable to invest in a well-constructed bilge pump because you do not want your pump to break down and leave your boat full of water and in a potentially dangerous situation.
Another essential way to prevent water entering your kayak is by having a spray skirt. Spray skirts seal around the rim of the cockpit and your waist to keep water out and are popular kayak accessories for most enthusiasts. The spray skirt will either be made of a waterproof fabric of fabric-covered neoprene. Neoprene is generally more watertight and fabric spray skirts are more comfortable in warm weather. It is important to choose the right type of skirt that suits your paddling. Look for additional features as well, such as daisy-chain loops for clipping on kayak accessories and pockets and hand warmer pouches.
It is important to prepare an emergency kit with your kayak accessories. This should include quality duct tape, lightweight rope, a Swiss army knife, a needle and thread, a small medical kit, water purification tablets, energy bars, a lamp with spare batteries and fire starting materials. Pack all of these items into a dry bag and store it onboard your kayak. This kayak accessory should be enough to help you overcome most situations.