The BKC Blog

As we get further into fall, it’s worth considering how your wardrobe should change when you’re on the water. It’s definitely something to prepare for as the temperatures drop. Not everyone knows the difference between wet suits and dry suits, and which one might be best when kayaking in the fall or winter months.

Many turn to the wetsuit or a dry suit as an easy insulating and waterproofing exterior layer. These two pieces are actually optimized for different purposes and have different advantages in a variety of kayaking settings. It’s not always clear which one you should use for what, though. Understanding the pros and cons of each will allow you to suit up for fall paddling sessions with ease!

Dry Suit vs Wet Suit Uses

A lot of people use the words wetsuit and drysuit interchangeably without realizing that they’re different pieces of outerwear meant for different purposes. You can use both for kayaking in different conditions, and both are great as the weather gets colder to protect you against the colder elements.

Pros of a Dry Suit for Kayaking

As the name implies, dry suits are intended to keep you dry throughout your kayaking trip. While staying dry helps you stay warmer, this suit is not directly intended to be particularly insulating on its own. Dry suits fit looser on your body to allow warmer, insulating mid layers to be worn under it. Water-wicking base layers and fleece, insulating mid-layers are recommended underneath a dry suit for maximum warmth.

Dry suits are most effective against splashes and unexpected dunks in the water while paddling. You don’t have to worry about dripping on yourself and getting soaked during kayaking strokes, and it’s a good layer to have to stay dry if you take a spill. You have the freedom to add as many layers under it as you need to stay warm, too. Plus, it’s easier to take on and off because of its looser fit to accommodate clothes underneath.

When to Use a Wetsuit for Kayaking

For sporting activities and more aerobic types of kayaking like whitewater rafting, a wetsuit can be a more useful outer layer. Wetsuits are neoprene, body-hugging suits that insulate you from head to toe without weighing you down. Their main objective is to keep you warm as opposed to keeping you dry.

Wetsuits won’t leave you soaking wet, though. Their insulating technology requires a small layer of water to be allowed in so it can be heated to your body temperature and used as an extra layer of warmth as you paddle. Since it fits so tightly, the warm water gets trapped, and it prevents more cold water from getting in. It’s similar to how you get warmer after sitting in a hot tub for a while!

Because of this method of insulation, wetsuits are most effective for types of kayaking in which you’ll naturally get wet and splashed throughout the trip. Whitewater and touring kayak expeditions are examples of these types of trips--you know going in that you’re going to get wet enough for the wetsuit to work in your favor. It’s not as baggy as a dry suit, so you’ll also be less weighed down and feel more like you’re wearing normal clothes with a wetsuit.

Now that you have a better understanding of when to use a wet suit vs a dry suit, you’re all set to get out on the water kayaking in the fall and winter! You don’t have to worry about the colder water and temps impeding your kayaking trip since you know how to outfit yourself appropriately. Happy paddling!

Kayaking is a year-round sport. Just because the cooler weather is moving in, there are still plenty of ways to continue paddling throughout the fall season. Especially with the changing colors that accompany this season, the scenery you’ll find while kayaking in the fall is unparalleled. Don’t let the colder temps put you off!

While kayaking is possible beyond the summer months, you do have to prepare differently for fall paddling trips. This can be an adjustment for those who haven’t done it before but preparing properly and coming equipped with the right gear and supplies will allow you to comfortably enjoy the trip.

Fall Kayaking Gear

You’ve probably already noticed the temperatures cooling down and getting darker earlier as we move further into autumn. This change in pace is pleasant to most, but it does change up what to expect out on the water as a kayaker. Maintaining visibility, warmth, and your energy level is key to a successful fall kayaking trip.

Because the days get shorter once summer is over, the amount of reliable light you need to paddle in also dwindles. This shouldn’t discourage your kayaking itch, though. Planning trips earlier in the day that end before the evening or packing headlamps and deck lights if you plan to be out later will help you see your surroundings better in lower light. Check the weather before you go, as well, to make sure you aren’t paddling into any conditions that would make your trip more challenging to steer through.

Staying warm and dry is also slightly more challenging when fall kayaking. When it’s warmer out, the occasional splash is welcomed and can be refreshing, but as we move into cooler weather, the water you’re getting splashed with is also colder. Splashes or unintended dunks are now less inviting. Dressing in light, insulating, water-wicking layers will make you the most comfortable out on the water this time of year.

Recommended layers include a water-wicking synthetic or wool base layer, an insulating mid- layer like a fleece, and a water- repellant top layer. Fast drying pants and neoprene boots are also helpful clothing items to protect against splashes. You can also look into a spray skirt for your sit-in kayak to further insulate and keep yourself dry.

Last, but not least, packing snacks, safety enjoyment, and first aid are always recommended when kayaking. Paddling in cooler weather can sap your energy faster than in the summer, so make sure you’re bringing sustenance, so you don’t burn out. PFD’s, first aid, and GPS navigation are also advised kayaking gear in case of an emergency.

Regardless of the season, kayaking is a great opportunity to unwind by connecting with your surroundings and stay active with low-impact exercise. So layer up, put on your headlamp, and get on the water!

Kayaking is a great sport for people of any age. With kayaking, you can experience low-impact cardio and training mixed with the relaxing benefits of engaging with the natural environment around you. Some of the best kayaking spots aren’t the most easily accessible directly by car, however. The idea of carrying your kayak and gear to one of these spots isn’t typically appealing for most.

If you find yourself regularly having to carry your kayak from your vehicle to one of these spots, a kayak cart could be helpful to you. Kayak carts allow you to securely maneuver your kayak over any type of terrain to the spot you want to paddle off from. It’s also great if you don’t want to take multiple trips carrying gear. Overall, they make kayaking more accessible and could save you a lot of time and energy.

Kayak Cart Basics

The most common type of kayak cart has a padded frame that the bottom of the kayak rests on and straps that wrap up over the hull of the boat to secure it. They make these in a variety of sizes so you’re bound to find one that fits the dimensions of your boat. If you have a sit-on-top kayak you could also use one that has extended posts which secure into the scupper holes commonly found on this type of kayak.

Beyond the frame, kayak cart wheels are the other component you’ll want to look into before purchasing to make sure they fit your needs. Depending on the environment you typically kayak in, the ground will look different and you want a kayak cart that can smoothly roll over it without issue.

Classic inner tube tires, which you might be familiar with since they’re similar to bicycle tires, are good for sand and smoother ground. Hard plastic tires are more sturdy but allow you to navigate uneven ground, like gravel or grass, easier as long as you hold onto your kayak before hitting any bumps. There’s also flat free tires that are filled with foam so they can’t deflate and provide cushion over uneven terrain. They do tend to be a bit heavier than the other two options, so keep that in mind.

How to Use a Kayak Cart

Simply put, kayak carts are wheeled carts whose primary purpose is to carry your kayak smoothly over different types of terrain. They’re most commonly employed to help get kayaks from your car to the water safely, easily, and securely. These carts are super useful to those who kayak alone, who don’t want the extra strain of personally carrying the kayak very far, who have a lot of gear on their kayaks, or who prefer to hike downstream before casting off.

Another use of kayak carts is to preserve the exterior of the kayak from any wear sustained by repeated dragging on the ground. By properly positioning and securing your kayak onto the cart, you’ll get more life out of it in addition to sparing yourself some effort and time.

To start, set your kayak on the ground next to the cart. Then you’ll lift the rear end up onto the base of the cart frame, followed by the front end of the kayak. Check your setup not just for how it’s centered lengthwise, but also if the weight is distributed evenly. Neither end of the kayak should drag on the ground as you tow it, and the center of balance might not directly align with the center of the boat. Allow the cart to act as a fulcrum and strap the boat down accordingly.

From there, you’re all set to tow your boat however long you need to! Kayak carts are a great tool if you’re looking to explore more solo trips or more remote starting points and need help getting your boat out there with you. Whatever the reason, carts can come in handy and ensure you have a non-strenuous trip out on the water!

Fall is around the corner, or, for some, it’s already arrived. This change of scenery provides a whole new kayaking experience to enjoy! Whether you’re in a sit-on or sit-in kayak, there are many benefits to continuing to kayak beyond the summer months.

As we get closer to cooler weather, the appeal of getting out on the water may dwindle. Lower temperatures equal colder water, and any splashes could put a damper on the whole trip—especially if you’re on a sit-on-top kayak. Don’t let this intimidate you, though, there are plenty of ways to avoid getting wet while kayaking!

Tips for Staying Warm & Dry on Sit-On-Top Kayaks

Staying warm and dry while in a sit-on-top kayak can be challenging. You don’t have the option of a spray skirt to keep yourself protected from waves, so it’s up to you to dress for the occasion and be intentional about your paddling technique in order to enjoy the sport once fall hits.

Here are a few things you can do to stay dry on a sit-on-top kayak:

• Invest in a dry suit. This is a heavy-duty option for keeping your whole body dry and insulated while kayaking. It is looser than a wetsuit and allows you to wear warmer layers underneath while it repels water on the outside.
• Find waterproof torso and leg wear. If a dry suit seems too much, you can also find water resistant or waterproof tops and bottoms to help keep you dry. Gore Tex makes a lot of great products like this that are insulating as well as water- resistant.
• Perfect your paddle strokes. Sometimes the biggest thing that contributes to you getting wet is splashing yourself while paddling your kayak. Watch how you’re inserting and removing the paddle from the water—if you can dip it in with minimal splash and bring the other one up in a way that doesn’t drip down onto your person, you’re set.
• Install a booster seat. Sometimes with sit-on kayaks, the challenge is rising water that splashes onto the deck, therefore soaking your seat in the process. If your kayak’s seat isn’t raised off the boat slightly, then looking into a booster seat or other apparatus that raises it up a few inches could be worthwhile.
• Look into scupper plugs. Another way to avoid standing water sloshing around on the kayak is scupper plugs. These allow water to drain on its own without you having to bail or sponge it up.
• Watch the weather. You don’t want to be battling with wind and rain, as well as the water and current while you’re kayaking during your trip. Avoid days with predicted high winds or heavy rain by checking the weather radar in advance of planning your trip.

Sit-on-top kayaking can be enjoyable all year round as long as you plan accordingly, bring proper gear, and paddle intentionally. Don’t let the cooler weather deter you from enjoying the sport. Start planning your kayak trip today!

Kayaking is a physically and mentally engaging way to get outside and enjoy the nature around you. It’s also a low-impact activity, so it’s not overly taxing on your joints and body. It may seem intimidating getting started, but it’s not as difficult as it looks. Once you get a couple kayak paddling sessions under your belt, you’ll be set.

Getting in and out of a kayak can be cumbersome and awkward whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned paddler. There are many conditions under which you can lose your balance and feel foolish for a second, especially if the exit is unintentional. There are some tips and tricks of getting in and out of your kayak, in any circumstance.

How to Get In and Out of Kayaks Gracefully

As anyone who’s tried to get in and out of a pool float with style knows, it’s not always easy to balance on something floating in the water. You might not look stylish doing it, but the more you practice getting in and out in of your kayak in different conditions, the easier and more natural it will feel. In certain conditions, it’s most helpful to have a friend stabilize the boat while you’re getting in and out, so consider bringing someone along with you as you’re learning.

In and Out of Kayak from Shoreline

Entering and exiting a kayak from a shoreline, like a river or beach, is one of the more common scenarios you’ll encounter depending on where you are kayaking. To get in, position the kayak perpendicular to the shoreline so that the front half is floating in the water and the back half is on the ground. Then, straddle the boat just behind the cockpit and sit down.

Once you’re seated you can swing your legs in and use the paddle to move forward and push off once you’re situated. Make sure your kayak is far enough in the water for this type of entry, or you won’t be able to maneuver into the water after you’re seated.

Getting out of a kayak onto a beach or ramp is very similar. You’ll paddle close to the shoreline and basically beach yourself--paddle far enough inland that the front half of your boat is on the ground and you can’t paddle any more. From there, you’ll swing your legs out so that they’re straddling the kayak again, then pull yourself forward until you have the balance to stand up.

Exits like this can be challenging for those with less upper body strength. Ensuring that you’re solidly beached beforehand can make it a bit easier in these cases, as you’ll have a solid base on which to push yourself up. You can also push yourself out sideways onto the ground if that’s easier--it’s not as elegant, but until you get enough practice it is a viable exit option.

In and Out of Kayak from Docks

This is an entry and exit situation where it’s helpful to have someone stabilizing the boat for you as you’re learning. This way you don’t have to worry about the boat rocking while you’re trying to balance. Don’t worry if you’re out by yourself, though, it’s still manageable on a solo paddle.

To start, get as low as you can to the water--the closer you are to the boat in the water the easier. The kayak should be parallel to the dock, and you can lower yourself from the seated position on the dock into the cockpit feet first.

To exit, you’ll reverse this process by pulling up parallel to the dock where it’s closest to the water and pull yourself up while using the dock for balance. You should pull yourself into a standing position and maneuver out from there.

Don’t be afraid to lean on your paddle or other surroundings for support as you get more comfortable getting in and out of your kayak. You shouldn’t be deterred by looking silly or awkward, it’s all a part of the learning process. Happy paddling!

Getting out in nature on the water is not just a summer sport. As we enter fall, you can still take advantage of the pre-winter days with different boating sports. Connecting with the environment and getting a full body workout from paddling is a great way to decompress and stay active.

As kayaking and paddleboarding have become popular means of accessing a variety of bodies of water, we also want to highlight skiff boats as a fun option in this same category. Broadly, skiff boats are flat-hulled vessels with a squared stern and angled bow. Several different kinds of boats can fit in this category, but overall skiffs are another way to simplify getting out on the water, especially if you’re into fishing.

Skiff Boat Specs

The term “skiff” has been around for a long time. It generally refers to small, flat-bottomed coastal and river boats that don’t take many people to operate. It’s grown into its own category of vessels that people seek out for a solo or small-party boating experience. For those who enjoy kayaking or paddle boarding, a solo skiff boat combines the best of both of those vessels and can be customized to meet your boating needs.

A skiff is typically flat-bottomed and wider like a paddle board, making it easier to stand up in and balance on in different positions. It has all the storage you need, contains a seat, and can be paddle-powered or motor-powered like a kayak. Solo skiffs are sized for single person trips, they also come in slightly larger sizes if you wanted to bring a friend.

Skiff boats are pretty low maintenance as far as boats go--you don’t have to worry about winterizing anything or getting fancy equipment to tow it to and from the water. They’re easy to handle as well, so as long as you have a covered area to keep it in when it’s not in use and a car with a light-duty towing capacity, you’re all set!

Fishing in a Solo Skiff Boat

Fishing in smaller, more accessible vessels has become quite popular. People enjoy having enough space for their rigs and equipment without the added bulk that traditional fishing boats have. Skiff boats, particularly solo skiffs, are perfect for angling in this regard.

If you’re into inshore fishing in a variety of areas, a skiff boat might be for you. Since they’re flat-bottomed, it widens the number of places they can get to--therein maximizing the places you can fish from! Skiff boat decks are wide and typically non-slip, so however you’re comfortable casting off or steering, you won’t be limited. They also can accommodate add-ons like rod holders, trolling motors, anchors, coolers, and more to ensure you’re able to be out fishing as long as you need.

Whether your skiff is motor or paddle powered, you’ll be able to easily steer and navigate to the best fishing holes in this vessel. Skiff boats are accessible to newcomers as well as experienced boaters or anglers, so don’t hesitate to get into one today and hit the water!

Looking for a new way to explore the environment around you? Kayaking is a low-barrier, engaging way to do so! You’re able to access multiple bodies of water, and get a mind and body work out while you’re at it. It’s also great for solo-trips or bonding with a group.

Compared to motorized boats, kayaks are relatively simple vessels to learn, transport, and maneuver. As you start out kayaking, there are a few basic parts and features to familiarize yourself with so your paddling adventures can go as smoothly as possible.

Basic Kayak Parts

While kayaks these days are highly customizable depending on what you like doing with it, there are some common attributes that will be consistent across most models. Being able to identify the different kayak parts will make it easier for you to find what you’re looking for in a kayak. Whether you’re speaking with a sales associate or shopping online, it helps to know which part is which.

First, you’ll want to familiarize yourself on the kayak. The kayak’s “bow” is the part of the boat that points ahead of you, so it will be what you see when you’re facing forward in the kayak. The “stern,” in turn, is behind you and faces whatever you just passed. These two phrases may be used when describing where other features are positioned, in addition to the terms “port” and “starboard” which are left and right, respectively.

After you’ve correctly oriented yourself on the kayak, here are some more common kayak parts you’ll become familiar with:

• Deck: this refers to the topside of the kayak. Everything outside of the water is the deck, and both sit-on and sit-in kayaks have decks, even if the seats are in different places.
• Hull: this is the opposite of the deck, it’s the underside of the kayak. They’re usually curved to be more hydrodynamic and sit submerged in the water when you’re in it.
• Cockpit: simply put, this is what your body “sits in” in a sit-in kayak. It is a hollowed-out section of the hull that has room for a seat and your legs. A sit-on-top kayak still has a cockpit, it’s just not as embedded in the hull. The sit-on cockpits still usually have grooves for the legs and the seat is in that section, your legs just aren’t covered. The cockpit points you towards the bow of the boat.
• Seat: these can look slightly different in sit-in and sit-on kayaks, but in both styles of boats they are situated in the cockpit facing the bow. Some have backs, some are more bench-like, so be sure to pick one that best supports you when paddling. If you can try the seat(s) before you buy your kayak, that will give you the best idea of what you like.
• Foot braces and Foot wells: foot braces are adjustable pegs that reside within the foot wells to add extra stability. Foot wells are built into the kayak to give more support and sometimes included on sit-in kayaks in the cockpit to provide extra stability while paddling. Not all kayaks have these features, but you might like them for additional support when adjusting to balancing in a kayak.
• Deck Lines: these are straps positioned on the deck towards both the bow and stern of the kayak. They can be stretchy and made of bungee cords, or static and more rigid. They are useful in securing a low-profile piece of equipment or used as a hold when getting in or out of the boat.
• Hatch: this is a really helpful feature on a kayak, as it gives you a secure place to put any extra gear or supplies while out on the water. The hatch is the portal to a storage compartment in the hull of a kayak. Since kayaks are smaller, the extra storage is a great feature to have onboard for longer paddling sessions.
• Scupper Holes or Drain Plugs: as the name slightly implies, these are holes that allow excess water to drain out of the kayak. These are helpful features especially if you paddle in colder waters. It also makes drying out your kayak easier after you’ve finished your session.

You can use a kayak for lots of different types of activities, from fishing to whitewater rafting, so there may be extra features that customize the boat to those conditions. As long as you have an idea of the basics, though, you’re set to understand how any add-ons or customizations impact the kayaking experience. Now all that’s left is to get your kayak out on the water and enjoy the experience!

Are you looking for a new water sport or fun activity that allows you to explore your local river or lake? Have you been craving a simplified, easy-to-transport vessel to explore with? Look no further than stand up paddle boarding, or SUP for short.

Whether you started on a paddle board or are just discovering it, this sport has a lot to offer anyone who’s interested in getting out on the water. There is a bit of a learning curve, however, especially if you’re more familiar with kayaking or traditional boats. Once you get the hang of it it’s a great way to explore your area’s waterways with friends!

SUP Beginner Tips

As the name implies, stand up paddle boards are designed to be paddled while you’re standing up on them. Wider boards are easier to balance for beginners, but make sure they’re not too long for your proportions or you won’t be able to handle it as easily. Find a body of water that is relatively calm and not too crowded. Paddling in sessions about an hour long will allow you to build up comfort and skill level with a SUP. Once you get the hang of how to balance, paddle, and what to bring with you, you’re on your way to a great experience.

SUP Equipment

Basic SUP equipment is similar to what you’d need to kayak: a well-fitting PFD, paddle, and proper sun protection and clothing. Also helpful to have is a board leash (similar to  what surfers use) that tethers you to your board in case you fall off. Stand up paddle boards are fairly lightweight, so a leash prevents the board from floating too far away while you get your bearings after a spill.

There are several different types of SUP’s available now that are customized to different conditions. As you’re starting out, it can be helpful to rent a stand up paddle board to get an idea of what type you like best. Or you can go with a more experienced friend and pick their brain to better understand what to look for in a recreational SUP vs a touring, or surfing one, as an  example.

SUP paddles are maximized for efficiency with their tear-drop blades that angle forward. They should be long enough to comfortably reach the water and allow you to grip the t-grip without overextending your arms. You can also invest in a paddle leash, as well, if you want to keep track of the paddle more easily.

Stand-Up Paddle Board Technique

Balancing and maneuvering on a stand up paddle board is a full workout for both your body and mind. You should get used to mounting and initially standing up in knee-deep water so you can kneel on it to start. Once you’re solidly kneeling in a balanced position, brace the sides of the board with your arms so you can extend your legs one at a time. A strong, engaged core is helpful in not wobbling during this process.

Once you’re standing, you’ll need to maintain your balance by keeping an eye on your footing position, center of gravity, and how you’re shifting your weight. Keeping your feet parallel and at equal distances from the board’s center and sides is ideal, and if your knees are slightly bent you’ll easily be able to sense and correct any imbalances. Shift your weight at your hips as opposed to at your feet to maintain proper form. Staring forward at the horizon, as opposed to down at your feet, is also helpful in keeping yourself properly aligned.

Paddling strokes are similar to those of kayaking or canoeing but note that you’ll need to alternate the side of the board you’re paddling on every few strokes. You can keep the paddle angled in the water by having one hand anchored on the t-grip, and one a few feet lower on the pole guiding it through the water. Reversing your hand position on the paddle is helpful when switching sides, as well.

After even just one session on an SUP, you’ll be feeling more comfortable with how to balance and maneuver your board. From there, it’s just doing it often enough to develop the muscle memory for it! This just gives you more reasons to escape outdoors into nature for an hour or two and enjoy the remainder of the summer. Happy paddling!

As we move later into summer, many anglers are gearing up for fishing season in the fall. Fishing is both a mental and physical workout, since you must think critically about where and how you cast off, as well as how you reel in your fish. The sport is also now expanding across multiple types of vessels to be more accessible to a wider audience. You no longer need a traditional fishing boat to be an angler.

In addition to fishing kayaks as a low-barrier way to get out on the water and fish, there are also now paddle boards designed for fishing! Stand up paddle boards, or SUP’s for short, have great potential to be easily-transportable angling options.

How to Fish with a Stand-Up Paddle Board

If you aren’t familiar with SUP’s, they’re essentially wide, flat hydrodynamic boards that you paddle on while standing up, as opposed to a seated position like with a kayak. SUPs are basically a hybrid between a surfboard and a kayak. They float on top of the water, as opposed to a boat where you glide through the water.

Fishing on a stand-up paddle board isn’t drastically different from kayak fishing, you’re just doing so from a different position. With SUP’s, you’re standing up to cast off, as well as reel in your fish, which allows you a more expansive vantage point when doing so. You can sit on the paddle board to cast off, but you won’t be as effective reeling in a fish from the seated position, nor will you be able to see what’s around you, as well.

Kneeling on your SUP to fish is certainly an option. You can either kneel upright or sit back on your heels. It’s super important, however, to keep your back straight when paddling. If you slouch or hunch forward while paddling, you force your arms and shoulders to do all the work instead of your core and you will tire very quickly!

The other thing to adjust to with an SUP is balancing from the standing position and keeping track of your paddle. Paddle boards typically come equipped with bungee straps to anchor your paddle when it’s not in use, and traditionally there’s an anchored ankle loop to use so you don’t get separated from your board if you lose your balance. Keep in mind how you want to anchor your tackle box or cooler on this board as well to maintain maneuverability.

SUP Fishing Tips and Tricks

Now that you understand the basics of SUP fishing, what can you do to improve your experience out on the water? What should you consider before investing in a stand-up paddle board? Here are some considerations:

• The wider and longer the board, the better. Especially if you’re new to fishing outside of a gas-powered boat, the extra length and girth will help you balance better as you adjust to paddling and casting off.
• Be smart about add-ons. You won’t be able to take all your fishing supplies with you on an SUP as you would a fishing kayak, but they do make staple SUP add-ons like rod holders, paddle leashes, and anchors to allow you the simplicity of packing light without sacrificing functionality.
• Prepare for a full-body workout. Carefully consider what shape you’re in, and how much experience you have maneuvering a stand-up paddle board. Since you’ll be standing for most of the fishing trip, you will have to adjust to balancing and bracing yourself from a standing position, as opposed to the seated position. From core strengthening to muscle building, SUP fishing will engage your entire body throughout the trip. Make sure to take breaks and bring snacks so you don’t burn out!
• Embrace your surroundings! SUP’s are usually easily transportable by just one person, and you can carry it down to the water with ease. This expands where you can start and stop from along your fishing trip as well as where you can navigate to while floating. Checking out smaller spots can yield some great catches.

 At the end of the day, if you’re looking to expand and challenge your fishing experience, stand up paddle boards are an accessible, fun, and engaging spin on traditional fishing boats. You get the mental and physical benefits of a human-powered vessel, while also contributing to more ecological friendly sporting practices. Everyone wins, so get out there and have a great time!

Kayaking offers a lot of different engagement levels to match what you’re looking for: you can set off on a relaxing paddle on the lake, or you can find a river rapids course to speed down. The sport of kayaking is quite adaptable in that respect, but regardless of the trip you’re planning, kayak safety should be something you keep in mind anytime you’re on the water.

Proper preparation and appropriate planning will lead to a safe and fun kayaking trip. Luckily, there is some standard gear and kayak safety equipment that you’ll need regardless of what type of kayaking trip you’re taking. From there, you can customize your safety kit to best meet your needs once you have the essentials covered. 

Kayak Safety Equipment Essentials

To avoid getting stuck and to ensure you’re safe in the event of an emergency on the water, you need to have the right equipment on hand. Here are some advised kayak safety and rescue equipment we recommend:

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

This is the number one piece of kayak safety equipment you should have on during any kind of paddling session. Having a well-fitting PFD already on will be your best friend in the event of tipping over or capsizing, as it allows you to stay afloat without getting tired out. Especially if you’re a new kayaker or not comfortable in the water yet, it will help preserve your energy in case of an emergency. 

First Aid Kit

Another staple to have on board is a well-stocked first aid kit. You’ll want to allocate some waterproof storage space for this so that no materials get ruined during your paddling session. Especially if you’re kayaking with kids, this will be helpful to have on hand in case they get into a scrape.

Bilge pumps

Whether you’re clearing out water from an unexpected splash, or you realize your boat’s hull is leaking, a bilge pump will be your best friend. This bailer is essentially a small hand pump that gets rid of unwanted water inside your kayak more efficiently than an empty jug. You can install electric or foot operated bilge pumps, as well, if you’d like extra power.

Tow lines

Tow lines are especially important when you’re kayaking in a group. As the name implies, these are lines meant to be attached from one kayak to another in an emergency. Some even have floats so they can be thrown to a struggling paddler who’s overboard, as opposed to attached to the kayak itself. Regardless of skill level, having tow lines on hand in case you overexert yourself or if your boat capsizes is a recommended kayak safety measure.

Helmet

While this may not seem like a necessity for calmer paced paddles, it’s good to have a kayak helmet as you’re learning in case your kayak tips over. Hitting your head can cause disorientation & confusion that prevents you from finishing your course, so taking precautions to protect your noggin are worth it in the long run.

Paddle leash

A paddle leash is an elastic cord that secures your paddle to your boat so you don’t lose it while you’re on the water. As you get the hang of paddling techniques, it’s sometimes helpful to not have to chase your paddle around if you drop it or tip over. Especially if you’re kayaking somewhere with a strong current, a paddle leash can come in handy.

Change of clothes

While not really in the ‘equipment’ category, a change of clothes is an often-forgotten item on your kayak safety list. Regardless if you’re kayaking on a placid lake or paddling against stronger river or ocean currents, water will probably find it’s way on you and in your boat. The last thing you’ll want is to ride home in wet, soggy clothes. Also bring a towel to dry off before changing into your dry clothes!

Kayaking safely shouldn’t be intimidating--just think about what you need in case of an emergency and have it on hand, even if you’re an experienced paddler. The goal is to have fun and enjoy nature while on the water and preparing with the appropriate kayak safety equipment allows you to do so with peace of mind!

Whether you’re looking for a new way to explore the nature around you or you’re itching to get back on your favorite water routes, investing in a kayak is a great choice. There are many different types, but this shouldn’t intimidate you. Getting into a kayak is easier than it seems once you know what to look for.

One feature or specification that you many have questions about is the length of a kayak. How does it impact your paddling experience? Is a longer kayak better? How do I figure out the right size kayak for me? We hear these questions a lot and wanted to provide some clarity.

How to Factor in Kayak Length

The most important thing you should consider when looking at kayaks is fit: does the kayak you’re considering fit you, where you’re planning to take it, and the body of water you’re using it in? Kayak length definitely impacts some of these factors, but it isn’t as big a player on its own in most cases.

Different types of kayaks are meant for different environments. After all, whitewater rafting requires a boat with vastly different proportions than one you’d take out on the lake. For river rapids you’d want a slightly shorter, more compact boat capable of making sharp turns easily, whereas on a lake or even in the ocean in some cases, you want something stable enough to not flip over on a whim.

Thankfully, categories of kayaks (i.e. recreational, touring, sea, fishing, etc.) usually take into account their environment and have balanced the ratio of maneuverability, speed, and stability accordingly. What you’ll want to check for, though, is how the cockpit is sized for your individual proportions. You want to have enough leg room to be able to safely free yourself in the case of an emergency, but not too much that you can’t brace the hull of the kayak properly.

We encourage you to physically sit in (or on) the kayak before buying it, in order to gauge how it feels for yourself. This will give you the best indication of how it’s going to perform in the conditions that it’s built for. A kayak’s length independent of its category or type isn’t going to impact its performance on the water. As long as you can get in and out of it safely and you’re not trying to take a recreational kayak out river rafting, you should have a good time! Grab some good company, pack some snacks, and get out in nature!

We encourage everyone to get out on the water during the summer, and kayaking is a relatively accessible way to do so. Whether you’re investing in your own boat and paddle, or renting from a local facility, it gets you out of the house and engaging with nature in an exciting way. Kayaking is a fun family activity and kayaking is a great way to exercise! There are a few things to prepare for if you’re new to kayaking, and that includes the technique that’s behind how to paddle a kayak.

You might not think it a technical ability right away, but any seasoned kayaker will confirm that skillfully paddling a kayak takes some work. From choosing the right paddle to maintaining the right posture throughout your paddling session, your technique and equipment matter in facilitating an enjoyable outing. Thankfully, it shouldn't take too long to get the hang of, especially if you have some tips to work from first.

Choosing the Right Kayak Paddle

What novice kayakers don’t always understand when they’re first starting out is that not all kayak paddles are the same. They differ in length and shape depending on what type of kayak you’re using or the environment you’re intending to use it in.

As a general rule, you want your paddle to be as short as possible, taking into consideration the type of kayak you’re in as well as your height. If you’re using a recreational or fishing kayak, those boats tend to be wider than something like a touring kayak which is longer and narrower. The wider your kayak, the longer your paddle will need to be, and a longer paddle will be necessary if you’re taller, as well. These proportions will allow for maximum leverage without sacrificing control of your kayak.

At Brooklyn Kayak Company, we recommend lightweight materials, such as fiberglass, and adjustable kayak paddles so you can easily customize the paddle’s length to meet your specific needs.

How to Paddle a Kayak: Technique

Once you have a properly- sized paddle, the next step will be learning how to move it through the water, so you actually go the direction you’re aiming for. It’s easiest to practice on calm water, like a lake or placid river. There will be different strokes you’ll learn for more intense conditions, such as rapids or ocean kayaking.  However, here are some essential tips to keep in mind regardless of what stroke you’re going for:

• Check your hand placement. If your hands are in the right place on your paddle, executing the techniques of your stroke will become easier. An easy way to identify where your hands should be is to lift your kayak paddle over your head with your elbows bent at 90-degrees (like a football goal) and move your hands in or out so that they’re in line with your elbows. The center of the paddle should be in line with the center of your body, so that the blades are the same distance from your hands on each side.
• Adjust your grip. How you’re gripping the kayak paddle will impact how easily you’re able to move and control it in the water. Make sure your knuckles are facing upwards, and you’re applying firm, but flexible, pressure on the ends of the paddle.
• Engage your core & stabilize abdominal muscles. Everything will be smoother, and you won’t tire as fast if your core is strong and consistently engaged throughout your kayaking adventure.
• Push from the shoulder. When you pull or push the blades of the paddle through the water, you should be doing so from your shoulder. Your abdomen shouldn’t move much, and you should try to keep your elbows bent at 90-degree angles.
• Keep your blades close to your kayak. This should be aided by your paddle being properly sized, but the closer you can keep the paddle blades to the sides of your kayak when they’re exiting and entering the water, the straighter your trajectory will be through the water.
• Use a sweep stroke to correct your path if necessary. This stroke is handy for beginners as it allows you to turn your kayak in the water. The goal is to create a “C” shape in the water by inserting a paddle blade into the water at your toes and then fully extending your arm out perpendicular to your body as you bring the blade around to the back of the boat. The further you extend your arms, the more your kayak will turn in the water.

These may seem like basic tips, but they’re the most helpful fundamentals in developing expert kayak maneuvers. Mastering these kayak paddle techniques will ensure your foundation is strong and help you conquer more advanced strokes more quickly.