Staying Dry on a Sit-On-Top Kayak

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!