Winter Kayaking Gear and Accessories

For any winter sporting adventure, it’s important to protect yourself from the elements. That means guarding your upper body, lower body, head, feet and hands from the chill of winter AND the water spray from kayaking.

Kayaking in the off-season requires extra prep to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip. With the winds and lower temps that accompany winter, the more layers and gear you need to stay comfortable out on the water. This shouldn’t deter you from kayaking during the winter season though--once you know what you need, it’s a new adventure to experience!

Planning your trips becomes slightly more involved when you’re kayaking in the winter as opposed to the summer. Here are some recommended items to have on the boat with you for winter kayaking trips:

Apparel for Winter Kayaking

Jacket & Pants

There are paddling jackets and paddling pants available for winter kayakers, but the most important thing is to have inner layers for insulation and warmth, as well as outer layers that will either repel water or be waterproof. Wear moisture-wicking layers closest to your skin, as you will likely work up a sweat even in frigid temps. Avoid cotton. And double up! Pack another change of clothes for an emergency or even the ride home. It pays to be prepared, especially in extreme temperatures. 

Wetsuit or Dry Suit

These full-body suits serve different but helpful purposes in keeping you dry and insulated while kayaking. A dry suit is looser and allows you to layer up underneath. If you enjoy a moisture-wicking base layer and wool or fleece mid-to-top layers, a dry suit is a perfect outer layer to add to that to keep you dry throughout your trip.

If you enjoy more athletic kayaking or don’t mind not being able to layer underneath it, a wetsuit could be your way to go. These suits do rely on you getting a bit wet in order to insulate you properly, but it won’t get cold after that. Wetsuits come in different thicknesses, so you can customize them based on how cold your area usually gets!

Hat and Gloves

In addition to light, moisture-wicking, insulating layers, the best way to stay warm while kayaking in the winter is to protect your hands and head. A neoprene cap under a wool beanie is a solid combo for really cold weather to ensure you stay dry and warm. Any head covering is helpful if you want to keep it light, but we recommend a waterproof glove to protect your hands from chill and remain agile while you’re paddling. You can check out pogies that are created specifically for paddlers. They allow you to still grip the paddle with skin while providing a warming layer over your hands. 

Feet Warmth

Popular options among winter kayakers are wetsuit socks and kayak booties for insulation and foot warmth. Wetsuit socks are designed to be used along with your shoes, while kayak booties are designed to keep the heat inside and have added grips on the bottom for traction. Keep in mind, however, that neither of these options will keep the water out.

Accessories for Winter Kayaking

Spray Skirt

This is specifically for sit-inside kayaks, but a real help if that’s your kayak of choice. These skirts insulate your legs and protect them from any splashes that might come up while you’re on the water. When the air and water around you are both chilly, a spray skirt really helps keep you dry and warm. 

Well-Fitting PFD

Taking a spill into the water isn’t pleasant in any weather, but when it’s cold out, the shock can become dangerous. A close-fitting personal flotation device, or PFD, is key in keeping your core warm and allowing you to float easily so you can get back in your kayak as quickly as possible. You’ll save time and energy with your PFD tightly fastened while on the water.

Dry Bag for Storing Extra Layers

If you take a spill or get splashed while paddling, having a back-up set of clothes with you is helpful. As mentioned above, whether for the ride home or while you’re finishing up your kayaking trip on the water, a set of dry clothes is never a bad idea. A dry bag, as the name implies, is a waterproof bag that keeps your valuables well-protected from the elements. It’s essential on any kayaking trip but is particularly helpful during the winter in this case.

Extra paddle

It is especially wise to have backups in inclement conditions. In this case, an extra paddle is a wise addition to a winter kayaking trip. Whether you lose or damage a paddle, having a reliable backup could be life-saving.

Energy for Winter Kayaking

Intentional Snacks

You will tire out faster paddling in cooler temps than you might in warmer weather. To combat fatigue without shortening your trip, be sure to pack some additional snacks to fuel your paddling adventure.

Packing a few sugary snack can help with quick energy, but also grab high calorie snacks are a good source of protein as well. You will need to compensate for the calories you are burning and feed those muscles!

Extra Water

Make sure you stay hydrated. You might be surprised at how much water you are losing, especially if you don’t feel like you are sweating. You must replenish those all-important electrolytes. Whether you use good ‘ole H2O or sports drinks, make sure to pack them in a way that they won’t freeze.

Hot Drink

Consider adding a thermos with a hot drink: coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. A warming drink can serve a number of purposes: warming you up inside, getting caffeine on board, providing calories, or just feeding your soul as you grasp the warm cup. 

Kayaking doesn’t just have to be a fair-weather sport. All of this kayak gear helps you have a safe and enjoyable paddling experience once winter hits. If you want to get into year-round kayaking, investing in these accessories will allow you to do so comfortably. Happy Winter Kayaking!