Sea Eagle Universal Kayak Sail Kit

Sea Eagle has expanded their inflatable kayak accessories to include a universal kayak sail called the QuickSail. The QuickSail will convert almost any kayak into a sailing vessel.

Kayakers have been modifying their kayaks for years and many people who have wanted to take advantage of the winds have added sails before. The great thing about the QuickSail is that you can use it without having to make any modifications to your kayak or attach any complicated or heavy gear.

This sail kit sets up in under one minute and can be stored in the bow or stern of your kayak as it breaks down to just 43”.

Advantages of a Kayak Sail

There are many advantages to using a sail with your kayak including:

• faster speed with less effort in the wind
• the ability to rest your arms, shoulders, wrists and back when tired – without losing ground
• a sail for your kayak is a lot of fun and will make you look forward to windy days on the water!

QuickSail Important Details

The QuickSail universal kayak sail is able to be used on almost any kayak whether it is an inflatable or hard-shell design and works on all of the Sea Eagle kayaks. It consists of a strong aluminum frame and a 14 Sq foot sail.

To use the QuickSail you stand it in the front of your kayak and attach with the rope provided to your D-rings (see video below). If your kayak does not have any D-rings on the side you can always easily add them yourself by purchasing a D-ring pack and gluing them on.

This sail is self-standing and can operate hands-free which means that you can still hold on to your paddle and steer. It also has a handy window so that it does not block your view while sailing. It comes with a nylon carry bag and weighs very little so is easy to transport and store anywhere. The QuickSail is able to sail up to 45 degrees left or right and reach speeds up to 8 miles per hour.

Weight and Measurements:

• Weight: 3 lbs.
• Measures: 43” x 6”

Sea Eagle QuickSail Video

Below is a quick video of Ryan from Sea Eagle demonstrating the set-up and use of the QuickSail.

For an affordable price you get a quality kayak sail that can be used on almost any kayak and comes with Sea Eagles standard two part guarantee… 180 day risk free trial and great 3 year warranty.

The QuickSail universal kayak sail kit can be found at SeaEagle.com.

Durable Water Repellent for your Kayaking Clothes

When the warm months are over you can keep paddling if you are well protected from the elements. One of the key factors in staying happy and warm is to keep dry. This can be difficult especially if you live in a wet and cold fall/winter climate like I do.

It is important to have the right cold weather paddling clothes and once you have them you can use a Durable Water Repellent such as ReviveX in order to keep any water from leaking through.

Durable Water Repellent (DWR) is used by technical clothing manufacturers in order to waterproof breathable outerwear such as:

• drysuits
• drytops
• splash wear
• rain gear
• ski and snowboarding jackets
• and all other wet and winter sports wear

What is Durable Water Repellent

• Durable Water Repellent is made up of chemical substances that bond with the individual fibers in the threads of the fabric.
• The chemical properties prevent water from soaking into the threads. The water will instead ‘bead up’ and roll off the fabric.
• In turn this keeps the spaces between the threads open and allows moisture from your body to escape more easily through the waterproof coating.

Although this type of water repellent works really well it does not last forever. Over time dirt, oil and abrasion will wear it down and possibly mask it.

When that happens the water will no longer bead up. Instead it will soak into the fibers and interfere with the breathability.

How to Use DWR

For paddling gear and clothing made from neoprene it is recommended to use a Durable Water Repellent spray that does not need heat in order to activate it. For an air dry water repellent spray follow the instructions below.

1. Machine wash garment: Close all zippers and Wash garment in warm water without detergent. If garment is heavily soiled, wash with detergent and rinse twice.
2. Spray: Place the garment on a hanger. Shake bottle well. Hold 6”-12” from garment and spray exterior of garment.
3. Allow to air dry.

What to do when your DWR wears off

If you suspect that your DWR treatment has worn off there are a few things you can do to get it back on and working again.

1. Clean the clothing garment with warm water thoroughly. Avoid detergents as these will interfere with DWR performance. If it is dirt that is masking the DWR, this will likely solve the problem and reactivate the water repellency.
2. Once your garment is dry again spray a little bit of water on it and watch to see if the water beads up. If not go to step 3.
3. Reapply the DWR treatment to the garment. Spray until evenly wet and follow the instructions on the bottle.

What Type of DWR to Use

Many DWR products require heat in order to activate it. For example they will require you to heat the garment in a clothes dryer after you have sprayed it on in order to set it.

However with most paddling gear that is made of neoprene or latex, heat is a very bad idea. Therefore for kayaking gear you should look for a Durable Water Repellent such as ReviveX Air Dry Water Repellent Spray that does not require heat in order to active it.

For more paddling tips see our Kayaking Tips & Advice Section.

Advantages of Neoprene Clothing for Kayaking

Layering for cold weather paddling is always a bit of a challenge. Figuring out the right kayaking clothing to wear takes some consideration.

The air temperature will likely be a lot warmer than the water temperature. Dressing for the air temperature is one thing but what if your kayak should capsize? You will lose your body heat twenty-five times faster in water than in the air.

Before you dress for your kayaking trip make sure to consider the air temperature, the wind as well as the water temperature.

One of the more popular choices for cold weather clothing for kayakers is neoprene.

Facts about Neoprene

• Neoprene is one of the best insulation materials, especially when it is wet.

• Kayaking clothes made of neoprene are usually 3mm thick. The thickness will determine the amount of insulation. Too thick means extra insulation but it is not comfortable. 3mm is a good amount of thickness for ease of movement as well as for good insulation.

• When wearing neoprene clothing the thin layer of water between the neoprene and the body is heated by your body warmth and stays there without being replaced by cold water.

• You will not normally find kayakers wearing one-piece neoprene suits. This is because their mobility will be restricted and the ventilation will be poor.

• If you wear neoprene clothing for insulation you will want to then layer on top with either fleece or wool – not cotton, for extra warmth.

• Neoprene is very durable. It tends to be one of the longer lasting insulation type of materials for clothing.

• Neoprene tends to be quite economical. It is possible to get neoprene kayaking clothes for an affordable price.

Types of Neoprene Clothing

Types of neoprene clothes for kayaking are:

• Wetsuits – usually consists of pants and attached bib – no arms
• Shorts
• Gloves
• Footwear – wet shoes and wet boots
• Wetsocks
• Long sleeve tops
• Short sleeve tops
• Vests
• Helmet and head liner

Where to Find Neoprene Clothing

Just about any kayak shop will sell neoprene clothing. See our list of kayaking online retailers for a list of kayak shops.

Stohlquist Cruiser Women’s PFD Review

I got the Stohlquist Cruiser PFD a while back and wanted to really wear it in a few different water and weather conditions before giving my review.  After multiple uses I feel very confident that the Cruiser is a well fitted and comfortable lifejacket that is well made to suit most women’s bodies.

I initially chose the Stohlquist Cruiser for several reasons:

• The biggest reason was that I wanted a PFD made for me and not a unisex model.

• This particular lifejacket has mesh on the side panels as well as on the lower half back area which makes it ideal for hot weather

• There are two big pockets on the front that can fit my camera and other things I want to keep close by.

• It has extra wide armholes – there is nothing worse than a PFD that is tight around the arms and restricts movement.

• It is made with hand-scupted PVC-free front foam with supportive inner cups – no PVC means better for the environment.

• It has several great colours to choose from.

The Fit of the Stohlquist Cruiser

I was really impressed with the fit.  It is the first PFD I have worn that did not feel really bulky.  It is easy to put on with the zippered front and it was very comfortable and easily adjustable. I found that it did conform to my body far better than any PFD I had every worn prior and it felt good when sitting in my kayak seat.

I did find that I had to pull the back down once while I was paddling as it had ridden up slightly but that also likely had to do with the back of my seat and my shifting around… so wasn’t a big deal. 

Also the padded shoulders and waist belt were really comfortable.  The armholes were large enough that I didn’t feel restricted at all and it did not rub or irritate my skin which was my main concern.

The mesh siding is fantastic.  I am notorious for complaining about being too hot in my PFD.  I hate the feeling of sweating in my lifejacket while out paddling in hot weather.  It was a really nice change to actually be able to ‘breathe’ in my lifejacket with the mesh siding and back.

I got the Cruiser in two different colours, the pink and the blue although it is also available in other colours.  The colours are a nice shade and I think look good on the water. 

I have lent out my second one to a couple of different friends and they also found that the PFD was very comfortable.  Although my PFD is a small I found that it can be adjusted quite a bit at the shoulders, chest and waist to suit different body shapes. 

The Pockets

I was very pleased that the pockets were as big as they looked in the pictures.  I could easily fit my camera in one and my snacks in the other.  You would also easily be able to fit your cell phone, keys, or other necessities if you needed to.  I have used these pockets each time I have gone out so I think they are very handy.

My Pictures:

Click the pictures to see larger view on Flickr.

Stohlquist Cruiser PFD Stats:

• Buoyancy 16 lbs. 12 oz.
• 500 denier Cordura shell
• 200 denier oxford liner
• Front zipper entry with #5 YKK non-corroding slider
• Hand sculpted front foam with supportive inner cups
• Extra wide armholes and cool mesh side panels
• Adjustable neoprene-padded shoulders
• Cinch harness system
• 1.5” webbing waist belt with forward pulls
• Zippered bellows pockets with drainage
• High waistline cut
• #10 YKK Vision front zip entry
• 4-way accessory lash tab
• 3M reflective trim front and back
• PVC-free Gaia foam
• US Coast Guard and Transport Canada approved

Although I have only used this PFD for kayaking, I would imagine that it would be fine for many different types of water activity.  However if you are paddling it is best suited for ocean or lakes… not whitewater.

The Stohlquist Cruiser is Available at:

The best prices I have found are at:

• Amazon.com – Stohlquist Cruiser PFD
• REI.com – Stohlquist Cruiser PFD

Importance of 303 Protectant for Inflatable Kayaks

There is very little care involved with an inflatable kayak. Besides drying it out, cleaning it now and again with an inflatable boat cleaner or an all natural cleaning agent the only thing you really need to concern yourself with is making sure it is UV protected.

Just like us, inflatable kayaks and inflatable boats need UV protection. UV rays will eventually wear down the material and weaken it. There is a very simple solution to that problem and that is to use a 303 Aerospace Protectant Spray.

If you own an inflatable kayak or an inflatable boat you should definitely have a 303 protectant spray handy. This will literally offer the best protection for all inflatable kayaks, canoes, boats and rafts.

One 16 oz. bottle only costs approximately $15 and it will last a very long time. I have been the same bottle for two years now and I still have lots left. Granted I am probably not using it as often as I should be but it still lasts a very long time.

303 Protectant Features

• Extremely effective UV protection for all inflatable boat materials including Hypalon, PVC and Nitrylon.
• Restores color, shine and gloss without being oily.
• Easy to use – spray on and wipe off.
• Repels dust, soiling and staining and treated surfaces will stay cleaner longer.
• Does not contain any silicone oils, waxes, glycerine or petroleum distillates.
• Besides being good for inflatable kayak materials it can also be used on vinyl, leather, fibreglass, plastic windows and chrome.
• Also improves resistance to chemicals and other types of harmful exposure.
• Non toxic and non-flammable

Proper Use

303 Protectant Spray is guaranteed to work when it is properly used as directed. Therefore below is exactly how to use this UV protectant spray.

• Spray the entire inflatable kayak surface with 303 Protectant while your kayak is dry – really spray it so that it is wet and not just damp. Then wipe the boat completely dry with a clean and dry towel. Polish the boat with a new dry and clean towel to remove any excess 303.
• Once finished your kayak or boat will have a nice shine and look like new.

It is recommended that you spray your inflatable kayak every 30 – 45 days with the 303 Protectant Spray. I personally don’t spray it that often but that is the recommendation for maximum protection.

Word of caution: One word of caution is that after first being sprayed your inflatable kayak material will be quite slick and slippery. So just be aware of this if you are spraying your seat or the area where you will be sitting or standing.

303 Aerospace Protectant Spray will help your inflatable kayak material stay strong for many years. It can be purchased at just about any inflatable kayak or inflatable boat retailer. See our list of inflatable kayak retailers for recommended online stores.

New Sea Eagle Electric Turbo Pump

Sea Eagle has just come out with a new electric turbo pump that is able to pump up their inflatable boats and kayaks in a few short minutes flat.

There are a few things that I like about this electric pump that make it unique from other electric pumps on the market.

No Over-Inflation Worries

It allows you to set the exact pressure amount for your kayak or boat and when it reaches that set pressure it automatically stops.  It does this by pumping your boat in two stages.  At first it will quickly inflate it with a high pressure blower and once it gets near the pressure point it switches to a piston pump in order to finish off and fully pressurize the hull.   This means that you do not have to worry about over inflating your inflatable and possibly popping it.

With other electric pumps over-inflation is always a concern and it is recommended that if you use an electric pump to stop just before it is fully pumped up and then to top it off with a hand pump or a foot pump to finish.

However with the Sea Eagle electric turbo pump this is no longer an issue and it is the only pump you will need.

Battery Pack Option

I love that this electric pump comes with the option of purchasing a portable battery pack and charger. That means that you can inflate your boat right at the waters edge where it is convenient and you do not have to hook it up to an external power source such as your vehicle.

The battery pack costs a little extra but I think it is completely worth it as it gives you the versatility and convenience of being able to pump it up absolutely anywhere.

Sea Eagle states that with a full battery charge you can easily inflate their largest boat several times over.

Specifics

• Easy Configuration – set your pressure and press ON.
• Stops Automatically – the pump stops when it reaches the set pressure amount
• Very Fast – this electric pump will inflate a Sea Eagle 12.6 boat in less than 5 minutes and inflates a kayak in even less time
• Two Stages – quickly inflates with a high capacity blower and then switches to a piston pump to pressurize the hull
• Optional Battery Pack – portable lead battery and battery charger, no need for external power source
• Accessories Included – includes alligator clips, hose, adaptors, and carry bag
• Power Supply – 12V DC
• Maximum Pressure – 14.5 PSI/1 Bar
• Weight – 4 lbs.
• Dimensions – 12” x 4” x 6”
• Warranty – covered by their two part guarantee (30 day return policy for a full refund excluding shipping and 3 year warranty against manufacturer’s defects)
• Price – available with alligator clips for $149 for use with an external 12 volt battery, or with the battery pack for $199

For an inflatable boat this is the best electric pump I have yet to see on the market. It is not cheap but it is the most convenient, versatile and safe option I have seen so I think well worth the money if you want an electric pump. The option of the battery pack, the good warranty, the two stage inflation process and the fact that you don’t have to worry about over-inflating your boat makes it worth every penny.

Personally I don’t mind using my little foot pump for my inflatable kayaks and I would think that the majority of people who have an inflatable kayak will choose the less expensive foot pump option. However I can understand the convenience of using this electric turbo pump especially if you own a larger inflatable boat in which case I think it would be almost a necessity.

The electric turbo pump with optional battery pack can be found at SeaEagle.com.

Inflatable Kayak and Canoe Anchor System

It is not that easy to find a good inflatable kayak and inflatable canoe anchor system that works well and is simple to pack away.

The Advanced Elements Canoe and Kayak Anchor System is probably one of the best ones on the market.

This anchor system is ideal for those who like to fish as well as for any of us who like to take a break from paddling, have lunch and possibly a nap without floating away.

Designed by an inflatable kayak company it has functionality and portability in mind.  It is secure, functional and easy to bring along while traveling.

This inflatable kayak galvanized grapple anchor weighs only 3 lbs. and has some great features.

Kayak and Canoe Anchor System Features

• a sliding collar that keeps the flukes drawn up tight against shank when stowed
• the sliding collar drops to lock the flukes open when deployed
• easy removal from water – simply pull and stow
• portable fold up for easy storage
• 60 ft. of line
• carabineer
• line float
• mesh travel bag for both the anchor and the line

The Advanced Elements kayak and canoe anchor system will work for all inflatable kayaks and inflatable canoes as well as hard-shell kayaks and canoes.

If you are looking for a good anchor system for your paddling adventures this is the one to get.

It is affordable, portable and most importantly works well. It will anchor to most bottoms including sand and rock.

Best Price

As usual the best price I have found is on Amazon.com. At the time of this writing it is selling for $29.99.

What Others Are Saying

There are some excellent reviews on Amazon from people who have purchased this product. Below are a few of the comments…

Good basic kayak anchor – Easy to use, works well, and appears sturdy. All you can ask for in an anchor.

Everything as promised – I bought this as a gift for my son and he loved it. He said for the money it was a great buy and did what anchors are supposed to do, LOL.

VERY well-designed Anchor – Used this anchor new out of the box this past weekend. Very well-designed anchor: compact, locks open for use, locks closed for storage and not punching holes / scratching the interior of my new canoe. Worked very well in shallow muck / weed bottomed lake, which surprised me given the anchor is not that heavy. All in the design I guess… Held canoe in place when a monster Northern Pike broadsided the small 25 3/4″ Northern Pike I hooked. What a fight with 16 ft canoe getting pulled around in circles! Now if only we had had a landing net that was as well-designed as this anchor.

For more information visit Amazon.com – Advanced Elements Canoe and Kayak Anchor System.

The Go Girl – For Women Only

So here is a funny little product for women that really made me laugh… The Go Girl Urination Device.

I realize this isn’t a topic that everyone wants to discuss but I think that all of the outdoorsy women out there will understand. Peeing in the outdoors simply isn’t as convenient for women as it is for men.

If you spend a lot of time kayaking, hiking, camping or traveling then the ‘Go Girl’ is worth checking out.

What is The Go Girl?

The Go Girl is a simple sanitary device that allows women the convenience to pee standing up. The Go Girl is:

• Easy to use
• Reusable and washable with soap and water
• Made from medical grade silicone that conforms to your body
• Comes with a reusable storage tube with a baggie and tissue
• Clean and mess-free with its patented splash guard that eliminates messing and spilling
• Comes in pink or khaki

Who Would Use The Go Girl?

The Go Girl is perfect for many different types of women including women who:

• are extremely active
• are germ-conscious
• travel
• like to camp
• spend a lot of time outdoors doing activities such as hiking or kayaking
• don’t have access to a sit-down toilet
• don’t want to use unfit or unsanitary facilities – gross

In other words The Go Girl is perfect for many different types of activities and in general is extremely useful when sitting down to pee is simply not an option. The Go Girl will eliminate uncomfortable squatting and the possibility of messing up your clothes or dribbling down your leg (ugh).

How to Use The Go Girl

It is pretty simple… just put the Go Girl against your body forming a seal then aim and pee. What a concept heh!

Believe it or not women in Europe have been using female urination devices for years. There are several other products out there but from my quick research it seems to me that the Go Girl is the best.

This product can fit easily in your backpack, your purse or even in your pocket. I really think it is a great product for all outdoorsy women, those who are into sports, those who like to travel and for all of us who are tired of trying to squat in unsanitary conditions or cover up a dirty public toilet. It can be used by women or girls of all ages.

Where to Buy The Go Girl

The best price I have found is on Amazon.com. They sell for just under $10 or you can get a pack of three for just under $25. I have just bought one myself but have yet to receive it so here are some reviews from women who have already used theirs…

Amazon Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Go “anywhere” girl!!!, December 6, 2010
By D. Norville
this product really lets you go anywhere. so easy to use, clean and store and no need to worry about legs touching public bathroom toilets.

5.0 out of 5 stars I LOVE THIS!! I CAN PEE LIKE A GUY!!!, December 4, 2010
By Anabanana
I never thought this was going to be a good idea and bought some disposable ones recently as a joke gift then thought it MIGHT Be a good idea after reading all the reviews and NOW… I LOVE IT! YES it takes practice but not much. AND…. it works great! I can pee standing and NOT take my clothes off!!! NO dropping trow in the woods!! NO MOSQUITO BITES ON MY REAR END!!! LOVE IT!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Really does work!!, December 19, 2010
By sugirly
I thought this product was great and it really does work! I only had to practice once in the shower and pretty much got the hang of it. Although I wish the tube part was a little longer so I don’t have to stand quite so close to the toilet bowl rim. If I wearing pants and using it in a really filthy public restroom, my pants will probably have to touch the rim since I have to stand pretty close for the pee to go in the bowl. But all it all, I love it, can’t wait til I can use it in a real situation. Although I was thinking of purchasing it as favors for our annual Girl’s Christmas Dinner and my friend thought it was disgusting! Guess you have to be kinda quirky to like it. Not sure how much it will catch on! Guess people get pretty grossed out by the rinse and reuse part!!

Pee Like a Man!

From what I have read after practicing a time or two using the Go Girl will become second nature. So for all of you kayaking women who would like the convenience of peeing like a man take a look at The Go Girl at Amazon.com.

Gift Guide for the Kayak Enthusiast

If you are looking for the perfect gift for the kayak enthusiast or if you are simply looking to spoil yourself over the holidays I have compiled a list of great kayak accessories that any kayaker would love.

Many of the below items I own myself and love and some of them are on my own special wish list. They are categorized by price so there is something to fit everyone’s budget.

Gifts for Under $15

• Kayak Ornaments – These are a really cute idea for the person who has everything. They are very inexpensive and can be hung from a tree, from a mirror or from anywhere you choose. There are some really cute ornaments that would make any kayaker smile.

• Dry Bag – If you kayak and you want to bring any type of gear along with you for the ride you will need a dry bag. Dry bags can vary in price depending on what size they are.

• Nose Plugs – These are great for whitewater kayakers who have a habit of taking on some big water and doing lots of rolls.

• Ear Plugs – Same as above, great for whitewater kayaking to avoid water getting in your ears.

• Wetsuit and Drysuit Shampoo – If your kayaking friend uses a wetsuit or a drysuit they will need shampoo to clean it. This tends to be very inexpensive and to last a long time.

• Gear Deodorizer – This is great for getting rid of odors that aren’t easily washed away.

• UV Inflatable Boat Protectant – If you use an inflatable kayak, canoe or boat then you will need some UV protectant to help preserve the quality and life of the material.

• Boat Sponge – An excellent tool for soaking up extra water which really helps with comfort.

• Kayaking Books – There are so many good ones to choose from that talk about everything and anything to do with kayaking.

Gifts from $15 – $30

• Kayaking DVD – Always inspiring to watch.

• Waterproof cell phone case or camera case

• Kayaking Gloves – A must for all season kayakers, whitewater kayakers and from those who suffer from blisters.

• Wetsocks – Will protect your feet in cooler weather

Gifts for $30 – $50

• Kayaking Survival Kit – Hopefully you will only ever need one of these

• Waterproof Cooler – This is a fantastic idea for those who like to bring food along for the ride.

• Rescue Throw Bag

• Water Shoes

• Performance Shirts

Gifts over $50

• H2O Waterproof Headphones – Bring the tunes along with you

• Hydroskin Shirt

• Waterproof Jacket

• Paddle Bag – Protects the paddles and great for traveling

• Drysuit or Wetsuit

• New Paddle

Now for those who really want to splurge… you can never go wrong with a new kayak!

To find the best shops to purchase these gifts see our list of popular kayaking online retailers.

Winter Kayaking Gear Guide

As long as the water is not frozen and you have the proper gear to keep you insulated and dry then you are good to go for some exhilarating winter kayaking.

It is easy to get house bound in the colder months but if you can force yourself to get out there you will find that kayaking in the winter can be a lot of fun.  There is no hot sun shining on you so you may find that you can paddle much further distances than in the summer months.

The main requirement for cold weather kayaking is to be sure you have the right winter kayaking gear. It will be essential to your comfort, warmth and safety.

Winter Kayaking Gear Checklist

Winter kayaking clothes tend to be more expensive than summer kayaking gear. However I find that it is really a one time purchase as most of it will last a really long time. Each person’s level of cold tolerance is a little different but there are a few basics everyone will need to have. There are four main areas to be concerned about…

1. Comfortable and Cozy Feet
   
   If your feet are cold and/or wet you will not be happy. It is very important to make sure your feet are warm and cozy. For this you will need a good pair of wetshoes or waterproof boots as well as a pair of wetsocks. The socks combined with the neoprene booties will draw moisture away from your skin and keep your feet warm.
   
   I personally use the NRS Paddle Wetshoe along with the NRS Hydroskin Wetsocks. I tend to use the wetshoes in the fall weather and then add the socks for the winter months. These wetshoes are one of the most comfortable pair of booties I have ever worn. They are equally as comfortable with bear feet as they are with socks. I find these wetshoes along with the watersocks to keep my feet ample warm for year round paddling.
2. Warm Hands
   
   If your fingers get cold they tend to tighten up which can be dangerous when out on the water. Get yourself a good paddling glove. There are different levels of protection from light protection to toasty mitts. Be sure to get a pair that will suit your cold weather.
3. Protect Your Head
   
   You will lose the most heat from your head so it is important to keep it covered. What type of head protection you use will depend on the type of kayaking you are doing. For easy lake paddling I tend to simply use a fleece toque. However for ocean or whitewater kayaking you will likely want a neoprene type hood. You can get a warm neoprene skull cap that fits snugly under your helmet or under your waterproof jacket hood.
   
   Another thing to consider if you are going to be getting some serious water on your head is a pair of ear plugs. Freezing cold water dribbling in your ear can be extremely dangerous. It can not only be annoying but it can disorient you for a short time. These would only be necessary for heavy whitewater kayaking or sea kayaking in rough water.
4. Keep Your Core Warm with Layers
   
   Next of course you need to focus on keeping your body warm. The best way to do this is with layers. Your fist layer will be a moisture wicking top such as a Hydroskin shirt and bottoms. This will draw water away from you while trapping in your body heat. Then you will need your insulation layer which in my case is normally a comfortable fleece top and fleece leggings.
   
   From there you will need your top layer which will be a waterproof jacket and pants. All of these layers will keep you extremely warm and cozy, however you may not need them all if the weather is not totally freezing. The most popular cold weather paddling gear for keeping your body warm and dry are the wetsuit and the drysuit.
   
   Important Tip: The most important thing to remember with layering is not to wear cotton! Cotton will soak up the water and hold it against your skin. Wearing cotton is the quickest way to freeze while paddling.

Wetsuit or Drysuit?

Two popular cold weather outfits for paddling are the wetsuit and the drysuit.

The Wetsuit is a one piece jumper suit that draws moisture away from your body and traps in your body heat. This suit makes an excellent base layer and works best in moderate weather with temperatures 50 degrees or higher. It is also ideal for colder weather with added insulation worn on top. Most kayakers love the wetsuit and if you plan on doing much winter kayaking it is an excellent investment to make.

The Drysuit is normally made with Gore-Tex and will keep you very warm and very dry. The Drysuit is very popular with avid cold weather kayakers as it will ensure a warm and dry trip. However it also tends to be quite expensive so I wouldn’t recommend investing in one unless you really plan to use it a lot. It you can get one on a good sale you will love owning this piece of kayaking gear and will probably find you will look forward to the winter paddling months even more.

Where to Buy Winter Kayaking Gear?

Any kayaking shop will offer winter kayaking gear but there is one place that is my favorite. NRSweb.com in my opinion has the best selection and often the best prices. Browse their large selection to see if they have what you need:

• NRSweb.com – Winter Kayaking Apparel

Also check out their clearance rack for special deals:

• NRSweb.com – Winter Kayaking Apparel Clearance Rack

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