This article discusses a few of the things that you should bring on a kayaking trip. Some of the topics include a first aid kit, dry suits, floatation bags, and more. It’s also important to remember to dress for your trip and to follow proper safety procedures.
Dry suits
Dry suits can make your kayaking adventures a lot more comfortable. Not only do they keep you dry from splashes, but they can also help you keep warm. They are large, breathable, and made with waterproof materials.
Dry suits are the most versatile type of outerwear, as they can be worn in a wide range of air temperatures. They’re also easy to put on and take off. This makes them ideal for kayaking in a variety of conditions.
There are two main types of drysuits. First is the conventional dry suit, which has latex gaskets and a waterproof zipper. Then there are semi-drysuits, which replace the latex with a neoprene closure.
Neoprene is a better option than latex because it is more durable. Some dry suits also feature heavy-duty fabrics. These include coated nylon, which is waterproof.
Another option is a specialized paddling layer, which is shaped to move seams away from the body. This helps you avoid getting gapping under the PFD when you sit down.
Some dry suits can be customized to your specific measurements. You can get a special color or pattern, and some models even have pockets.
Drysuits are a lot easier to put on than wetsuits. But if you get too tight, you can hurt your flexibility and your range of motion. For this reason, it’s important to start out with a lighter, more breathable base layer.
Drysuits also have latex gaskets at the neck and wrists, which seal against the skin. However, the gaskets can degrade over time. If you’re allergic to latex, you might want to consider a semi-drysuit.
For colder weather, a wicking fleece layer can be worn next to your skin. It draws moisture from inside the suit and toward the outer fabric.
Flotation bags
Flotation bags are an essential piece of equipment for kayakers. Not only can they keep your boat afloat in a pinch, but they also help you carry gear, secure hatch lids, and prevent gear from rattling.
The best float bags are the ones that are well made and easy to inflate. These include the NRS Kayak Stern Float Bag and the Oru Kayak Float Bag. They are made from urethane coated nylon, a material similar to diving gear. This makes them more robust.
Float bags are also available in a variety of shapes. The most common are designed to fit into the bow or stern of a kayak. Some are larger and can hold more cargo. Depending on the type of float bag, you might need to purchase a longer inflation tube.
A good float bag will have an inflation tube, tie-down straps, and a dump valve. This is a small and cheap device that will make your life easier.
A split float bag is a two-part float bag that fits both sides of a support pillar. However, this type of float bag might not be the right size for your hull. It can also be difficult to place this type of float bag behind your seat.
Another float bag that is worth considering is the stow float. These bags combine a dry float with a kayak float. These types of bags are close-liked and are meant to be carried on or near the stern of a kayak. We recommend checking out the Kayaks2Fish Brisbane Shop for all your kayak accessories and equipment.
If you are in need of a float bag, you may be able to save money by going with a vinyl one. Vinyl bags are less expensive but are prone to being punctured.
First aid kit
The first aid kit is a must-have for anyone who kayaks. Although the contents can vary from paddler to paddler, here is a basic checklist of what you need to carry.
First aid can mean the difference between life and death. It’s essential to have a well-stocked first aid kit to ensure that your trip goes smoothly.
The first aid kit is similar to a spare tire on your car. It’s designed to help you deal with a minor injury. Some paddlers will also carry a flashlight.
The size of your first aid kit depends on the number of people you are traveling with. Generally, larger groups will need a larger kit.
A good first aid kit should contain the following: a pair of gloves, tweezers, a good quality rain jacket, a good flashlight, burn cream, a good set of suture kits, a pair of scissors, a whistle, an emergency flag, and prescription medications.
You should also carry a dry bag or a dry box to store your first aid kit in. This is a good way to keep it waterproof.
If you’re going on a long trip, consider adding an extra dry bag. Alternatively, you may want to take a training course to prepare yourself for emergencies.
If you’re heading out on a day-trip, you don’t need to carry a full-fledged first aid kit. Fortunately, most guides will carry a basic first aid kit in a dry bag.
If you plan on whitewater kayaking, you should know that injuries are common. Fortunately, most injuries aren’t serious. But if you do have an accident, having a well-stocked first aid kit is essential to keeping you and your crew safe.
Proper handling of a paddle
The paddle is your kayak’s closest friend, and the proper handling of it is crucial for your success. This is a three-phase process, which includes the wind-up, stroke, and release phase. You should use the proper technique during each phase for maximum efficiency.
The first step in the proper handling of a paddle is to position your hands on the shaft. Your fingers should be slightly farther apart than shoulder-width. If you can, use a wider grip for more control. However, this will tire your hands more quickly.
Next, you should move your right arm across your body to the opposite side. This will create a 90-degree angle between your elbows. Keep your upper arm relaxed.
After positioning your hand on the shaft, wrap your thumb around the grip and then loosen the grip. Be careful not to clasp the shaft too tight, as this can cause blisters.
Next, you should rotate your wrist, and you should allow the blade to go into the water. Depending on the type of paddle you are using, you should position your knuckles in a way that matches the direction of the blade.
Finally, you should plant the blade in the water as far forward as you can comfortably. Do this again, and you should repeat the motion. As you move the paddle, you should make sure that it goes through the water without hitting the hull of the boat.
The proper handling of a paddle is important for your safety, as well as your comfort. Using the correct technique will allow you to reach more areas of the water, and it will give you more speed.
Changing the grip frequently will help you use all of your muscles in a more efficient way. Paddles with asymmetrical blades are especially useful, as they provide more power during the stroke.
Dressing while on a kayak
Having the right clothes for kayaking can make all the difference. Whether you’re planning a weekend on the water or a day of exploration, you need to consider the conditions. From sun protection to hydration, your clothing should have a few key features.
Choosing the appropriate attire is no easy task. Your kayaking clothing should be waterproof, breathable and versatile. It should also be comfortable. You’ll be spending a lot of time in the kayak, so you’ll want to be able to move around easily.
When it comes to weather, you have to wear a PFD (personal flotation device). This will help you stay afloat in the event of a fall. Be sure to remove your PFD after you get back to shore.
If you’re not wearing a PFD, you’ll need to have a towel and change of clothes on hand. The best way to do this is to “raft up” with your kayak buddy. Alternatively, you can dry your clothing on the shore.
The most important piece of kayaking gear is probably your sunscreen. Even in a cloudy day, you’ll need to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Wearing a high-quality sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher will help.
A good pair of sun-protective sunglasses is also a must. Whether you’re kayaking in the summer or winter, sun exposure can be uncomfortable. But a sun-protective, reflective lens will let you see the water and stay safe at the same time.
Another important element of kayaking clothing is the spray skirt. Put one on along the back of your kayak to keep the cold water out. You can also put a rip cord in your spray skirt to pop it in case your kayak flips over.