Have you ever gone to load your kayak by yourself, only to find that it's…
Best Gifts For Kayakers
Are you trying to find the best gift for someone who loves kayaking? Well, our article may be just what you’re looking for.
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Kayaking is a great way to get out into nature and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you want to take a leisurely paddle down a river or go on a full-blown expedition, there are plenty of ways to enjoy kayaking.
Whether you’re looking for something fun or practical, there are lots of options for gifts that will make anyone smile. From kayaking essential to fun accessories, these are some of our favorite gifts for kayakers.
OUR TOP PICK
The Yakpads Gel Paddler’s Seat is one of our favorite gifts for keen kayakers. After long sessions out on the river, your regular kayak seat can become incredibly uncomfortable and leave you feeling a little sore.
This paddle saddle is the perfect remedy. The gel pad provides soothing relief to any discomfort you may encounter and it also features an adjustable backrest that transforms this seat into a chair when on land.
Designed to provide maximum lumbar support and with gel insulation, this seat will protect you from temperature extremes. It's also extremely quick-drying, so should you inevitably get wet out on the water, this seat will ensure that you have a dry place to rest.
The gel that sits inside this seat is made of elastomer materials, which helps eliminate pressure points. It's firm, but also very flexible and allows you to move around with ease while also providing you with extreme comfort.
These seats are perfect for both adults and children and no matter what activity you are doing, if you are sitting down, this seat will ensure your experience is enjoyable.
Pros
- Support - provides maximum lumbar support.
- Insulation - protects you from extreme temperatures.
- Elastomer material - eliminates pressure points.
Cons
- Comfort - Some users may find the saddle too thin for long trips.
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EDITORS CHOICE
For the adventurous kayaker, this Luck route Dry Bag is a perfect gift that will be used time and time again.
With both ten and twenty-liter options available, this bag is big enough to fit all of your boating gear, accessories, and equipment and it's waterproof which is perfect for kayakers.
It also has a built-in waterproof phone pouch so all of your electronics, such as your phone, watch, cameras, etc can join you for the ride without the chance of getting destroyed.
It comes with a rolled top closure to make sure your items fit perfectly inside, and the lock and fix sealing mechanism will keep all your personal possessions secure.
If you're worried about your bag getting a puncture or being torn, then fear not as this bag has double protection.
It's incredibly durable and with its splash-protected waterproof pockets, this bag guarantees that any kayaker can enjoy the great outdoors while their belongings remain completely safe.
Pros
- Waterproof - Perfect for swimming and diving.
- Size - Ten and twenty-liter options available.
- Double Protection - Extremely durable.
Cons
- Lock & fix - If the bag isn't secured properly, water may get into the bag.
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BEST VALUE
This is another fantastic gift idea for the avid kayaker. With a large dial face and easy-to-read compass, this sea kayak compass makes navigation simple.
The compass includes an adjustable hood which helps protect the compass when it's not in use. This hood also prevents any glare from interfering with the kayaker's vision.
It comes with four adjustable and durable elastic cords which allow the compass to attach to any part of your kayak. The cords also ensure a snug mount so your compass will stay in place no matter how rough the water may be.
This compass is also waterproof so even if your kayak capsizes, it won't be affected. This compass is a must-have for anyone who loves to explore new places and discover new adventures.
Pros
- Size - It's large enough to be seen clearly from a distance.
- Secure - Elastic cords guarantee it stays in place.
- Adjustable hood - Reduces the chances of any glare.
Cons
- Night trips - It doesn't light up so isn't suitable for use in the dark.
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RUNNER UP
With many kayakers enjoying night trips, the need for a bright light as part of their gear is essential. This Kayalu kayak light is a white LED that lasts up to 100 hours and is submersible up to 1,000 feet. It's also buoyant so it's virtually loss-proof.
You can attach this light to your kayak or equipment as it comes with a steel clip and nylon-coated bungee tensioning cable to hold it in place.
If you're heading out at night, attach this to the bow of the kayak and watch the water in front of you come to life.
All it needs to stay alight is 3 AA batteries and this high-performing portable navigation light will provide you with high-visibility 360-degree night navigation for many future kayaking trips.
Pros
- Buoyant - You won't lose it in the water.
- Steel clip - Can easily attach to the bow of the kayak.
- Submersible - Up to 1,000 feet.
Cons
- Battery-powered - There is a chance the power may run out mid-trip.
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KayaluRUNNER UP
When you're out on the water, you want to be enjoying yourself, and we think this waterproof Bluetooth speaker is the way to do it. What better way to enjoy your kayaking adventures than by listening to your favorite songs!
The JBL Clip 3 speaker is a perfect gift for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. As it's waterproof, even if your kayak capsizes, your songs will still play perfectly.
It's also ultra-portable and comes with a metal carabiner that is perfect for attaching to your kayak, bag, clothes, or anywhere that takes your fancy.
It's extremely durable, so even if it gets caught up in reeds, or hits a few rocks, this small but mighty sound system can handle it.
It has a built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery that provides up to 10 hours of battery life, and you can even take crystal clear calls from it.
Its durable fabric material and rugged rubber housing provide incredible protection for this speaker, which is guaranteed to be your new favorite companion when you hit the waves.
Pros
- Waterproof - Great for taking on all kayaking adventures.
- Battery life - Provides music for up to ten hours.
- Durable - Protected by rugged rubber housing.
- Ultra-portable - Can attach to most things, including clothes.
Cons
- Volume - It may not be as loud as some users would like.
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RUNNER UP
Kayaking can be tough on the hands. Many kayakers suffer from blisters, cuts, and frostbite and one way to prevent this is to wear gloves.
These Palmyth fingerless gloves are stretchy, lightweight, and breathable and provide an extra layer of protection for any pair of hands.
They are have certified UPF 50+ and SPF UV Protection weaved into the fabric to protect hands from the sun during the day. They also have a long cuff to protect your wrists which are usually exposed during kayaking.
To help with paddle grip, these gloves have a partial synthetic leather palm for better grip and durability. This layer also prevents blisters, calluses, and insect bites which kayakers can suffer from.
The three-quarter finger length allows the user to retain maneuverability and dexterity while also keeping hands cool and dry.
As they are machine washable, keeping them clean after a trip out on the water is easier than ever, and as their UV protection is woven in and not added with artificial spray-on chemicals, they will always retain their protectiveness.
Pros
- Protection - Provide UPF 50+ and SPF UV protection.
- Durable - Made with synthetic leather for durability.
- Stretchy - Ensures a great fit
Cons
Thin material - May not fully protect hands.
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RUNNER UP
Many kayakers are aware of the condition known as UV keratitis and how damaging it can be to the eyes. Essentially, it's the on-the-water version of snow blindness, which is caused by the glare on the water.
A pair of polarized sunglasses is a perfect way to prevent this.
Even though they are stylish, these sunglasses can prevent long-term UV damage which is incredibly common amongst those who are keen on watersports and fishing.
The Hulislem S1 sunglasses are incredibly lightweight even though they have a strong polycarbonate frame to help keep their shape.
Their HD-grade polarized lenses have UV 400 mirror flash coating and help to protect the eyes from harsh UV rays and reduce the glare on the water without changing the depth perception or distorting colors.
The only thing to note is that even though they are lightweight, they are not buoyant so can easily be lost to a gust of wind or a capsized kayak.
However, there are many floating sunglass straps available that will help stop these glasses from being lost to the depths of the ocean.
Pros
- Lightweight - They provide a comfortable fit.
- UV 400 mirror coating - Protects eyes from UV rays.
- Polycarbonate frame - Incredibly durable.
Cons
Not buoyant - They can easily be lost if they enter the water.
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RUNNER UP
Giving socks as a gift might seem a little boring, but we guarantee that all kayakers will happily welcome a pair of neoprene socks.
These socks are made with an anti-slip sole which is perfect when surrounded by water and slippery rocks as they ensure you have a good grip.
The reinforced rubber sole is also abrasion and tearing-resistant so no matter where you end up in your kayak, these socks will protect your feet without falling apart.
Made with 3mm of high-quality soft neoprene material, these socks have a 4-way stretch for ultimate comfort during long trips.
The flatlock stitched seams guarantee durability throughout the year and provide protection no matter the temperature.
The adjustable strap tightly covers the ankle for a perfectly snug fit as well as keeping your feet dry and preventing insects, sand, and small stones from becoming a nuisance.
So no matter what is planned for the kayaking adventure, these socks are great for keeping your feet protected.
Pros
- Reinforced rubber sole - Provides grip and protects your feet.
- 4-way stretch - Guarantees a tight fit.
- Adjustable strap - Provides extra support and a perfect fit.
Cons
- Extreme heat - May affect the rubber sole.
RUNNER UP
Being in the great outdoors is incredible, and what makes it even better is being able to see everything around you, and ahead of you.
Whether it's wildlife, the river ahead, concerts, or simply watching the scenery, having a monocular telescope by your side can be pretty useful.
It works in a similar way to a pair of binoculars, however, a monocular only has one lens.
The Pankoo monocular has a 55-millimeter FMC objective lens with 12 times high-power magnification, which is great for providing a crystal clear, bright image.
It's sturdy and compact and thanks to its waterproof and anti-fogging technology, it's great to use in all types of weather. It's also covered in a non-slip rubber coating making it easier to use and providing you with a better grip.
This monocular also comes with a smartphone holder so not only can you enjoy the sights as you are kayaking, but you can also snap some images and share them with your friends as you do so.
Pros
- Non-slip coating - Provides a better grip.
- Waterproof - Perfect to use on the water.
- Anti-fogging - Great to use in all weather conditions.
Cons
- Phone attachment - This can be tricky to manage while kayaking.
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RUNNER UP
When it comes to spending time on the water, a life jacket is a must. Safety plays a big part in enjoying time on the water, and without a life vest, you immediately put yourself in danger.
This Awesafe life jacket is perfect for anyone who enjoys kayaking and water sports, as it's designed to place you in the correct position should you find yourself in the water; face up with your head tilted back.
The outer shell is lightweight and has SOLAS-grade reflective strips for extra visibility.
The back foam of this vest provides extra comfort when seated in a kayak and the mesh backing helps you to remain cool in hotter weather.
The shoulder area is covered with soft neoprene material to prevent chafing when worn for longer periods and the double expandable zippered pockets allow you to keep your valuables safe.
To achieve the perfect fit, this vest has adjustable straps which ensure it stays in place when it is worn and comes with an attached whistle so you can alert others to any trouble you may find yourself in.
Pros
- SOLAS reflective material - Provides visibility.
- Neoprene material - Guarantees less chafing and more comfort.
- Lightweight - Its coated nylon outer shell keeps it feeling light.
- Supportive - Provides a stable face-up position when in the water.
Cons
Saltwater - This may affect the zipper so it needs to be kept clean.
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Buyer's Guide
When looking for the perfect gift for a kayaker, there are a few things to look out for. Our guide below should help point you in the right direction and have you on the road to success with your present.
Waterproof
For kayakers, if a gift is waterproof, they will no doubt enjoy it. Whether it's a speaker, a camera, a bag, or a piece of equipment, if it can be taken into the water without being destroyed, it will likely get a big thumbs up.
Essential
Even though buying essential items, such as socks, gloves, and lights may seem like quite a dull present, to a kayaker these are the essentials that are needed when out on the water.
They are also items that more often than not are forgotten about by kayakers.
They are also items that a kayaker will need multiples of, so however boring it may seem to you, a kayaker will always be grateful for more of them.
Personalization
A great idea to jazz up any gift for a kayaker is to personalize it.
Whether it's a bag with someone's name on it, or a compass with an engraved message, adding a special little touch to what would otherwise be an ordinary gift is a perfect way to make a kayaker enjoy their time on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Useful Items To Carry When Kayaking?
When kayaking, there are a few essential items that you should always carry with you. They include:
1. Buoyancy aid
2. Headwear
3. Footwear
4. First aid kit
5. Drybag
6. Food and clean water
7. Throw bag
8. Water whistle
9. A knife
10. Torch
Final Thought
As our gift guide shows you, there are so many different gifts for kayakers you can choose from. From items of clothing to telescopes, every single gift is sure to bring a smile to a kayaker's face and brighten their time on the water.
With our buyer's guide giving you some points to bear in mind when choosing your kayaking gift, you'll have no problem picking out something exciting and interesting for your water-loving recipient.
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