Tips for selecting Kayaking Accessories

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING FOR KAYAKING ACCESSORIES

 

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LIFE VEST/PERSONAL FLOATATION DEVICE (PFD)

It’s essential to wear a proper fitting, approved PFD when kayaking. A PFD helps keep you afloat and offers upper body protection against obstacles both above and below the water’s surface. Choose a PFD that provides a snug, yet comfortable fit. There are many PFDs designed especially for kayaking.
 

PFD SIZING CHART
SIZE	CHEST SIZE (cm)	CHEST SIZE (inches)	APPROX WEIGHT
XS - S	76 - 96cm	30 - 38"	45- 70kg
M - L	91 - 111cm	36 - 44"	68 - 90kg
XL - XXL	106 - 127cm	42 - 50"	85 - 110kg+

 

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PADDLES

Your paddle has a big impact on how enjoyable paddling will be. One that’s poorly made and doesn’t fit you can make for a miserable day on the water, while a high quality, well selected paddle is a real delight. Personal preferences definitely figure into your selection. How does it feel? How fast are you going to paddle? How far? These are all important questions to consider and discuss with your dealer. If you can, try out several different styles and lengths to get a feel for what’s most comfortable. When choosing a paddle keep these important characteristics in mind.

DESIGN

• Wide blades provide better acceleration, long and narrow blades are good for paddling long distances.
• "Feathered" paddles are easier to use when paddling into the wind since the blade that’s out of the water is horizontal and offers no wind resistance.
• Oval shaped shafts tend to better fit the hand, helping with both comfort and control.

CONSTRUCTION

• Paddles are made from many different materials – lighter is usually better (and more expensive).
• Paddles made from synthetic materials require less maintenance than timber ones.
• Paddles can be made with a take-apart joint that allows the paddle to be broken down for easier storage and transport, and allows the blades to be set feathered or straight.

SIZE
Paddle length is really a matter of personal preference. Go with what feels best. Keep in mind that a longer paddle tends to be necessary if your kayak is wide or if you’re more comfortable with a slower paddling stroke. Before buying, try several different lengths to find what feels most comfortable. The following chart makes a good starting point:
 

PADDLE LENGTH CHART
PADDLER HEIGHT	WHITEWATER	TOURING
152 - 160cm    [5’ - 5’3"]	197 - 200cm	210 - 220cm
162 - 170cm    [5’4" - 5’7"]	197 - 203cm	210 - 230cm
173 -180cm    [5’8" - 5’11"]	200 - 203cm	220 - 230cm
183 - 190cm    [6’ - 6’3"]	203 - 206cm	225 - 240cm
193 - 200cm    [6’4" - 6’7"]	203 - 209cm	230 - 240cm

 

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SPRAYSKIRT

A well designed sprayskirt is necessary for any rough water kayaking, and is a good idea under many conditions. Coated and breathable nylon sprayskirts adjust to fit different waist sizes and aren’t damaged by chlorine during "pool sessions." Neoprene sprayskirts keep more water out of the cockpit, and are specifically designed and sized to fit different waist sizes and cockpits. Regardless of the type of sprayskirt you use, you want it to fit to your body and kayak snugly, but not so tight that it’s difficult to exit the kayak. Remember, the grabloop must be accessable at all times.

 

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HELMET

A paddling helmet is indispensable. Choose a helmet that protects the front of the head and the temples – the most common sites of injury. A helmet should fit snugly, eliminating sideways and up and down movement. A foam liner will help absorb the force of impact with rocks or obstacles.

 

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CLOTHING

It’s also important to protect your feet, head and hands from the elements. When properly fitted, paddling clothing should not interfere with your range of motion or flap too much in the wind. Loose fitting, lightweight clothing with a good SPF is essential during the warmer months. Long sleeves, high collars, gloves and hats are essential. Neoprene booties keep your feet warm and provide protection from the terrain. A wool pile or polypropylene cap prevents heat loss through the head. And neoprene or wool gloves or paddle mitts (which are attached to your paddle and allow easy hand entry/exit) will keep your hands warm on especially cool days.