How to Prepare for Kayaking

Kayaking is a relaxing yet invigorating paddling sport. You can kayak in flat water, such as a river or lake, or you can kayak over the ocean waves. Whether beginner or advanced, you need to acquire some standard items of kayak gear that can help ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Cotton shirt
• Sunscreen
• Wide brimmed hat
• Polypropylene shirt
• Fleece or wool sweater
• Waterproof jacket
• Wetsuit
• Drysuit
• Long underwear
• Helmet
• Neoprene booties
• Waterproof bag
• Life vest
• Whistle

Select Proper Clothing

1. Wear regular clothing when kayaking in good weather. A cotton T-shirt or sweatshirt keeps moisture next to your body, which helps to cool you off. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat.

2. Dress in layers if you're kayaking in the rain or moderate cold. Begin with a non-cotton base, made of a wicking fabric like polypropylene, that can keep moisture away from your skin. Add an insulating layer of fleece or wool for warmth. Top it off with a water resistant or waterproof outer shell.

3. Wear a wetsuit when paddling in moderately cold weather or in cold water. A wetsuit works by trapping a layer of water next to your skin that is warmed by your body. Choose a wetsuit made of neoprene that is 2 to 3 mm thick. A thicker wetsuit is too bulky for most paddlers.

4. Don a drysuit when you're paddling in extreme cold or in very cold water. A drysuit keeps you completely dry, even when submerged in water. A drysuit isn't insulated, so wear long underwear or specially designed fleece liners for warmth.

5. Always wear a helmet if you're paddling in the ocean. Exercise good judgment in assessing your need for a helmet in flat water.

6. Protect the soles of your feet during launch with neoprene booties. These booties, either slip on or zippered style, also provide traction as you launch your kayak into the water.

7. Store snacks and miscellaneous items in a waterproof bag. Remember that the bag has to fit into the kayak along with you, so be careful of size. Be sure to use a bag that seals completely. Pack water-resistant items if possible.

Choose a Life Vest

1. Look for a life vest or personal flotation device (PFD) that's certified by the United States Coast Guard (USCG). There are five types of USCG approved life vests for a variety of water conditions and end uses. Use a Type 3 PFD for recreational use where land and/or rescue capability is nearby.

2. Fit your life vest properly. The life vest should fit snugly, but still allow for a free range of motion. Test the fit with a variety of clothing underneath, as you may be paddling in different types of weather and water conditions. The life vest should work for all conditions.

3. Choose a life vest in a bright color that isn't blue, green or teal if you plan to paddle on the ocean. Rescuers may have trouble spotting you if your life vest blends into the sea. Select an orange, red or yellow vest for best visibility.

4. Purchase a life vest that has useful features, such as chest pockets and flare holders. Look for a vest that has a whistle clip. Carrying a whistle or sound producing device is required by law. Clip the whistle to your life vest for easy access.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear your life vest at all times. The life vest is difficult to put on if you've capsized in the water.

• The United States Coast Guard requires every kayaker to carry an approved personal flotation device with them on the water. Even if you feel confident without a life vest, you must carry one in your kayak.