The Accessory Question

Kayaking offers a wide range of accessories. Some are absolutely necessary for safe paddling. Others are conveniences for specific conditions. Following is a list of the most common accessories used:

PFD - or life jacket is required and should be worn while paddling. There are many different makes and models. Finding one that is comfortable and fits properly is a matter of personal preference.

Flotation - most kayaks do not come with any type of flotation. Some models are equipped with foam walls that serve as deck support as well as minimum flotation. To be sure your kayak doesn't end up on the bottom of the river or lake, additional flotation is necessary. Float bags are available in several types. A standard set of float bags consists of one bow and one stern bag. They will fit most slalom type and some touring kayaks without foam walls. If a boat has foam walls, split bags are needed. A set of split bags consists of two bow and two stern bags, one for each side of the foam walls bow and stern. Both standard and split sets are available in 20ml and 12ml thickness - the thicker the bag, the more durable and heavy. They also come in storage/flotation combination, where gear is put into the bag, closed and then inflated.

Spray Cover - often called spray deck or spray skirt. These fit around the paddlers waist and around the cockpit to keep water out. They are usually made from neoprene, but are available in coated nylon as well. Neoprene skirts are better at keeping water out. It is necessary for the skirt to fit you and fit your boat. Be sure to try them on both places before you buy.

Helmets - are a must for whitewater paddling. They come in varying degrees of protection. From lightweight racing helmets to foam padded river running helmets. A helmet should fit snugly, but not so tight that it might give you a headache wearing it for several hours.

Poggies - are made to keep your hands warm. They fit around the paddle shaft so you can hold the paddle with bare hands while having covering around them to keep them warm. Poggies are made from either neoprene or nylon and are available in a variety of colors.

Paddle Jackets - are designed to keep you dry. Made from coated nylon or Gore-Tex, they should have water tight closures on the cuffs, around the waist and neck. The cuffs are made from neoprene or elastic/velcro combinations. Waist closures are most often elastic, but an elastic drawstring which can be tightened is best. The closures can be neoprene or elastic with velcro or a tie of some kind. Be sure when trying them on you take into consideration cold weather gear, such as wool sweaters and set suits, which might be worn under the paddle jacket. Give yourself adequate shoulder room.

Wet Suits - are almost a must for cold weather and spring river running. For kayaking, the "Farmer John" type of wet suit offers the most freedom of movement and warmth. Similar to overalls, one can wear a wool sweater under the wet suit for maximum warmth. Also, because no arms are on the suit, shoulders are not restricted.

Spare Paddles - since paddles can break, a spare is a convenience on any kind of extended paddle or river trip. Because it is a spare, it need not be fancy, just durable. It should come apart in the center of the shaft so the two halves can be carried in the rear of a kayak or on the afterdeck of a touring kayak.

Throw Bag - a handy safety item to have along on any whitewater river trip. One end of a 30' - 50' length of rope is fastened inside a floatable nylon bag. Should a rope be needed for rescue, the free end is held securely or tied around a tree, while the bag is thrown to the person in distress. These bags are available in bright colors, complete or in kit form.

Dry Bags - are storage bags which fit into a kayak to keep gear dry. Some are equipped with carrying straps for portaging. Various sizes are available, from camera size to large backpack sizes.

Proper equipment and good instruction render any sport activity an enjoyable lifetime pursuit. Be sure all your equipment suits you, fits you properly, and is high quality so equipment failure won't spoil your enjoyment.

West Side Boat Shop - 7661 Tonawanda Creek Road, Lockport, NY 14094
Telephone: (716) 434-5755
www.westsideboatshop.com