For a day of kayaking, pack a PFD, water, sun protection, a dry layer and a sealed, on-body place for your phone and car key. Kayaks tip, hatches leak and bags in the footwell get soaked, so anything you can't afford to lose should be on you, not in the boat.
Safety gear
- A PFD that fits and is right for your waterway. Rules vary, so check your state's maritime authority.
- A whistle attached to your PFD.
- Your phone, sealed and on you, so you can call for help.
- Tell someone your route and return time.
What to wear
- Quick-dry shorts that don't hold water.
- A sun shirt or rash vest.
- A hat with a strap and sunglasses on a cord.
- Water shoes for rocky launches.
In the kayak
- Water and snacks.
- Sunscreen.
- A dry layer in a dry bag for when the wind picks up.
- A spare paddle leash.
Where to keep your phone and car key
Hatches and deck bags help, but they aren't always sealed and they stay with the kayak if you swim away from it. A waterproof pocket in your shorts keeps your phone and key on you. Ours is IPX8-rated to 30 metres and seals itself with magnets.
What we'd wear
The men's swim and travel shorts have a longer cargo cut with extra pockets for snacks and sunscreen, plus the waterproof pocket for your phone. The Men's Outdoorsman Bundle gets you the black and grey pair together. Women's styles are in our women's range.
FAQs
Can I take my phone kayaking?
Yes. Keep it sealed in an IPX8 pocket on you so it stays dry if you capsize.
Are kayak hatches waterproof?
Many aren't fully sealed. Use dry bags inside them, and keep valuables on you.
