One of the cool things about kayaking is that you don't need a ton of gear to get going (unless you're in cool conditions). But over time, you may find that certain add-ons enhance your experience. Through trial and error, and with the help of some friendly suggestions, I've come to discover a number of sweet pieces for the gear shed. Today, I'll be highlighting six kayak gear items that might also suit your fancy. Starting with…
Surf Ears Review
What are the best earplugs to keep water out of your ears?
Surf Ears are specially designed ear plugs that keep the water out, but let the sound in. Plus, they don't impede your balance. If you're repeatedly submerging your head, then that water can get trapped in your ear canal and cause an infection. And the more infections you get, the easier each subsequent one grabs hold. This is due to something called exostosis.
This phenomenon is particularly common with repeated cold water submersions. Over time, a bony growth in the inner ear forms as an attempt to block out the water. This also impedes hearing and stops the water from finding its way back out (which leads to more infections).
Nowadays, when I do rough-water kayaking, I pop in some ear plugs. I used to use super cheap ear plugs. Whatever kind of ear plugs I could buy at the local drugstore. Until I tried Surf Ears. I gave them a spin in some pretty gnarly whitewater, and they totally did the trick. They didn't move, they kept the water out, and I was still able to communicate with my crew. Even if they were to pop out, there is a simple strap system that keeps them around your neck. They are $50 (USD), which isn't cheap for kayak gear, but I would take that deal just to avoid one ear infection! Or recurring ear infections and ear bone growth!
RapidPure Purifier & Water Bottle Review
How does the RapidPure purifier work?
This thing is a dream for paddlers. As long as you're on a fresh body of water, simply reach over the side of your boat, scoop up some water into the bottle, screw the cap back on, and then suck the drinkable water out. Since this is a purifier, it will take care of protozoa, parasites, bacteria, and viruses. It's important to note that standard filters may separate the first three things, but they do not protect against viruses.
So that's a nice bonus! According to RapidPure, the replaceable canister can generate 75 gallons (341 liters) of drinking water. The insulated, stainless steel version retails for $100 (USD). You can cut that in half by opting for the plastic bottle instead. You'll also be able to attach the lid/filter system to other 2.5-inch lid bottles (such as a Nalgene).
Wiley X Sunglasses Review
Are Wiley X glasses good?
Sunglasses aren't exactly a revolutionary piece of equipment, and yet, I'm always surprised to see so few paddlers wearing them since they are a key piece of kayak gear. Even if you have a hat that keeps the rays off your face, you have to account for the high reflectivity of the water that will zing you from below. I've been using Wiley X sunglasses for about a year now.
Full disclosure, they are a sponsor of Paddle Tales, but they're a sponsor because I love wearing them. I've been fortunate enough to be able to test them across a range of conditions. I have experimented with different lens colors. Lens color can have a noticeable impact depending on if it's overcast or sunny. No matter the style, the lenses will be polarized and shatter-proof (which is a great asset for kayak gear).
Blue Dot Outfitters Jocassee Kayak Cooler Review
What kind of cooler do I need for a kayak?
I've really been liking the Jocassee Kayak Cooler by Blue Dot Outfitters. Using a simple and versatile bungee strap system, it attaches to the back of just about any recreational kayak seat. It can hold 10 cans (of healthy, hydrating coconut water, obviously…), or maybe just a few cans and a nice lunch for you and some buddies.
The kayak cooler has a slick shoulder strap. The shoulder strap is great when moving from the kayak to your choice picnic spot. Best of all, this kayak cooler retails for just $65 (USD). This is super competitive when compared to some of the other popular brands out there.
Farm to Summit Dehydrated Meals Review
What are good dehydrated meals?
There are a lot of dehydrated meals to choose from for camping. Obviously, the first thing to focus on is palatable, dare I say, even tasty selections. Farm to Summit passed that test with flying colors (especially the green chile mac & cheese and the thai red curry). But what also caught my attention was the brand's wholesome story.
Farm to Summit is run by a couple of gals in Colorado. They have a love for food, the outdoors, and the environment. Their mission is to make hearty meals for us adventurers, while also reducing food waste. That's a cool combo.
Dryrobe Review
What is the point of a dryrobe?
Let me tell you. There is so much to love about kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, surfing, etc., but one thing I could do without is having to awkwardly change clothes. So often I find myself on a busy lake or public beach, unsure of how to best ditch my bathing suit.
It is even worse when it's cold and wet. That's where the Dryrobe comes in. The Dryrobe is a roomy, waterproof poncho that's also lined with a super soft, synthetic lambswool (that's made from 100% recycled polyester). This model is best suited for harsher conditions. They also make a simple cloth version for hot sunny days. The heavy-duty dryrobe retails for $215 (USD). This price is a pretty-penny! If you do a lot of cold-water paddling then you'll get good use out of this comfortable piece of kayak gear.
Dryrobe Changing Mat
Another dryrobe product that I use even more than the actual robe, is the changing mat. This has become a permanent fixture in my truck because it's great for changing in and out of my booties.
A water-resistant shell on the outside. The inside has that same lambswool material to embrace my feet in a nice warm hug. This piece is great for gravel parking lots, wet grass, or really any surface. Perfect when you want some separation between your bare feet and the ground. This little changing mat is a game-changer, and it only costs $30 (USD).
Check out paddling tips, adventures and gear guides
So those are the things that have added some extra flavor to my paddling adventures. Perhaps a couple of these can make your experiences a little more enjoyable, comfortable, fun, and/or tasty! If you liked this article, be sure to check out more of my tips, reviews, how-tos by subscribing to our newsletter.
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