The Best Kayaks and Accessories
When it comes to aquatic adventures, few kinds are as exciting or physically demanding as kayaking. Whether you're a newcomer to water sports or fairly comfortable in sea-faring vessels, kayaking is a fantastic solo or group activity that varies in difficulty from white water rapids to lazy river excursions. If you are just getting into kayaking, our list of the best kayaks and kayak accessories will be a perfect introduction to a cherished pastime. While not an exhaustive list of every supply required to cast off, the items on our list will get you started with quality gear that's built to last.
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
Cast Off, Matey
The Intex Explorer K2 is comfortable, accessible, and surprisingly durable for what appears to be a glorified inflatable raft. Fortunately, in this case, looks are extremely deceiving. The Explorer K2 can accommodate two people with generous legroom and sturdy backrests that will not go soft in the middle of your trip. The skeg, or bottom fin, can be attached for increased directional stability, and when it is attached, it makes a big difference for inexperienced users. While we wouldn’t recommend any white water excursions with this vessel, it’s more than capable of withstanding the occasional collision while navigating calmer waterways and lakes.
Pros:
- The kayak is highly visible
- Can handle up to 400 pounds
- The exterior layer is constructed with durable vinyl
- Purchase includes two oars and an air pump
Cons:
- The lack of a top hull gives this a canoe feel more than a kayak
Oceanbroad Alloy Shaft Kayaking Oar
Turn the Tide
A proper kayak paddle should have hydrodynamic blades, plenty of length, and a comfortable grip for extended use on the water. Oceanbroad’s alloy shaft kayaking oar is an extremely popular paddle made of aluminum alloy and polypropylene, a durable polymer with countless industrial applications. While material composition like this won’t take you to the Olympics, you will be able to un-beach yourself without snapping a blade if you find yourself in shallow water.
Pros:
- A bungee paddle leash is included for added security
- The paddle will float if dropped off the kayak
- Handle padding prevents blisters
Cons:
- The aluminum shaft is prone to bending if too much force is unevenly applied
Wintek Kayak Hanging Hooks
A Mount That Matters
Having a trusty storage solution for your ship not only dissuades opportunistic thieves, but it also extends the life of your purchase significantly. Wintek is a manufacturer that knows a thing or two about storage, and their kayak hanging hooks are about as intuitive as they come. When you’re ready to install, measure out four pilot holes inside or outside your garage, drill them, and mount your kayak. The purchase comes with all the mounting hardware you’ll need, while EVA foam protects the exterior of your vessel from dents or scrapes.
Pros:
- Constructed with heavy-duty steel
- Available in two color shades
- The hooks are finished with a rust-resistant coating
- Superior customer service
Cons:
- Included mounting screws can be easily stripped if you’re not paying attention
Gymtop Waterproof Kayak Cover
Cover All Your Bases
When you need a portable storage solution to stave off the elements and your car’s roof racks offer no solace, Gymtop’s waterproof kayak cover will come to your rescue. This nifty casing is designed for two things: enduring everything mother nature can throw at you and folding into a convenient carry-away bag that takes seconds to disassemble. One of the top appeals of this cover versus others is its UV-protective layer. Dust and water can at times inflict functional and cosmetic damage, but ultraviolet light is the bane of all polyethylene-coated products, including most kayaks. Having a cover that protects against all three will keep your kayak in pristine condition for years to come.
Pros:
- Adjustable elastic cord allows for the perfect fit
- Available in seven sizes ranging from seven to eighteen feet
- Drawstring bag and three adjustable straps included with the cover
- Graded to SPF 50
Cons:
- Buckle straps will tear if overtightened
Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Vest
Families that Float Together Stay Together
Life vests are about as essential to watersports as body armor is to hockey. Yet somehow, hard-headed individuals tend to overlook them as unnecessary due to their bulky or obtrusive design. While this is never an acceptable excuse, the Onyx MoveVent life vest is a shining example of form and functionality perfected. The open arm layout gives you plenty of maneuverability for paddling, and the chest side isn’t so bulky that it gets in your way. The lower back mesh is attached to the chest plate with length adjustable straps, and getting into the vest is simple with a large, snag-free zipper.
Pros:
- Highly reflective shoulder pads
- Chest-mounted whistle in case of emergency
- Mesh chest pocket for miscellaneous accessories
Cons:
- The sizes run slightly larger than normal life vests
Frequently Asked Questions
What additional supplies should I bring kayaking?
Being equipped with the proper clothing and survival essentials will make your outdoor trips more enjoyable and stress-free. For the warmer months, swimwear, wet shoes, and a lightweight rain jacket should be sufficient as far as apparel. At the same time, a wetsuit is recommended if you’ll be swimming in water that’s below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Other accessories you might consider are a headlamp, dry bag, first aid kit, and watch.
Do I need to be physically fit to kayak successfully?
The short answer is no, but the long answer is that being in shape certainly helps. Kayaking can be dangerous — in fact, people regularly lose their lives in kayaking accidents. Sometimes this is down to pure bad luck. But to maximize your chances of being safe and having a good time, it’s always a good idea to be in good shape.
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