Kayak Gear & Accessories
The right gear transforms good paddling days into great ones… keeping you safe, comfortable, and prepared for whatever conditions you encounter. But navigating the world of kayaking equipment can feel overwhelming when you’re starting out. This section cuts through the marketing hype to focus on what actually matters: gear that enhances your safety, improves your experience, and proves its worth trip after trip. You’ll learn how to select paddles that match your style, choose PFDs you’ll actually want to wear, and organize waterproof storage that keeps your essentials accessible and dry. We’ll guide you through clothing systems that adapt to changing conditions, navigation tools that build confidence, and transportation solutions that make getting to the water easier. Smart gear choices aren’t about spending more… they’re about investing wisely in equipment that supports your paddling journey for years to come.
Communication Devices: VHF Radios and Emergency Beacons
You should carry a waterproof, floating handheld VHF clipped to your PFD for nearshore hails and emergencies, plus a satellite-capable PLB or two‑way messenger for beyond VHF/cell range, so you’re covered whether the Coast Guard or satellites need to find you; pick...
Wilderness Systems Waterproof XPEL Dry Bag Review
You’ll like the Wilderness Systems XPEL if you want a tough, waterproof tote that also converts to a soft cooler, with welded seams, a PVC‑free shell, and a one‑way valve to purge air before rolling and clipping, so gear stays dry on trips. Pick 20L for day runs, 35L...
Wilderness Systems Escape Wet/Dry Duffle Bag Review
You’ll like the Wilderness Systems Escape 80L if you want one bag that keeps electronics and spare layers dry up top while stashing muddy kit below a floating divider, it’s made from tough 420/840D nylon with TPU-coated, RF-welded seams and a heavy bottom so it...
Wilderness Systems Fisher Kayaking Life Jacket Review
The Wilderness Systems Fisher is a solid, low-cut PFD that keeps pockets and tools within easy reach when you’re seated, uses tough Cordura with feather-light foam for comfort, and is USCG/UL Type III approved so it’ll do its job if you capsize; try the Small–Medium...
Wilderness Systems Pungo Dashboard Review
The Pungo Dashboard snaps onto your cockpit rim for fast install and gives you a removable dry box for keys or a phone, two draining cup holders, and a SlideTrax rail for a phone or fish finder, so you’ll stay organized and keep gear dry; check fit on your rim, bring...
Wilderness Systems Truefit Spray Skirt Review
You’ll like the TrueFit if you want a snug, warm seal that keeps spray and wind out, but you’ll need the right size and a bit of practice to use it well: measure your cockpit front-to-back and side-to-side, try the skirt seated, check seams and carry seam sealer and a...
Wilderness Systems Phase 3 AirPro Seatback Kit Review
You’ll like the Phase 3 AirPro if you want firmer lumbar support in your Wilderness Systems Tsunami or Zephyr (2013+), it snaps into most strap-style back bands in under ten minutes with basic tools, and it gives ventilated foam, adjustable shoulder straps, and simple...
Kayak Cover for Brooklyn Kayak Company TK122 Tandem 2017–2023 Review
You’ll find this full‑deck cover fits the TK122 tandem if you check for a heavy elastic hem, an extra drawcord, and adjustable quick‑release straps that reach bow and stern, because those keep longer, wider hulls secure in wind while allowing prop vents to breathe;...
Wilderness Systems Mesh Storage Review
You’ll like the Wilderness Systems 3‑pocket mesh sleeve if you want a simple, tool‑free way to stash a phone, snacks, keys or a small camera within reach; it clips to most kayak seats with bungee latches, drains and dries fast thanks to snag‑free mesh, and feels...
Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate Review
The Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate gives you a tough, blow‑molded tankwell organizer with a 29‑liter main hold, four built‑in rod holders, and a lid tray for pliers and leaders, so you can load tackle low and rearward for balance and keep fragile gear in a soft pouch...
Paddle Blade Shapes: Understanding Design for Winter Conditions
When you paddle in winter, pick blades that save energy and resist ice and chop: narrow, low‑angle touring blades cut wind and let you use core rotation for long, glassy lake runs, while shorter, reinforced teardrop or whitewater shapes bite fast in slush, surf, and...
Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart Review
The Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart is built to haul big boats—up to 450 pounds—so you’ll want to set the bunker bar width, pick the higher or lower post to clear chines or skegs, and strap low and forward before you roll, testing balance on sand or gravel to...
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