Kayaking Gear Guides
Gear For Every Stage of Touring
Kayaking is more enjoyable when your gear fits how you actually paddle. These guides are written to help you make those decisions — whether you're just getting started on Lake Union or planning longer trips on Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands.The best gear is the gear that gets out of the way and lets you focus on being on the water.
For those looking to improve their paddling technique and learn more about boat control, wind and current, or trip planning, check out our Learn to Kayak page. We cover same fundamentals we teach in our classes and use whether we are paddling on Lake Union, Puget Sound or the inland waters of Washington.
We carry spray skirts, PFDs, paddles, safety gear and more in our shop. We're happy to help you find the right fit for your boat and paddling style.
Essential Kayaking Gear
The gear every paddler needs before they get on the water. If you're new to kayaking, start here. Check out our Beginner's Guide to Sea Kayaking blog for more info.
What type of paddling you intend to do dictates what style of kayak you should look for.​​​
Understanding the differences between a rudder or skeg will help you match the right system to how you actually paddle.​
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How to Choose a Sea Kayaking Paddle
Blade shape, shaft material, and length all affect how efficiently you paddle. A well-matched paddle reduces fatigue on longer trips. -
​Sprayskirt Buyer's Guide
A tight fitting sprayskirt keeps water out of your cockpit. Nylon skirts work well for calm conditions; neoprene skirts are better for rougher water and cold weather. -
How to Choose a Sea Kayak (Puget Sound Guide) A model-by-model breakdown of the full Delta touring lineup for Puget Sound paddlers.
What to Wear Kayaking
Cold water protection is one of the most important decisions you make as a kayaker on Puget Sound. It's easier to cool off than to warm up — bring a layer you don't need rather than needing one you don't have.​
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​​​​Wet Suit vs Dry Suit for Cold Water Kayaking​
Dress for immersion, not the air temperature. A wetsuit provides insulation if you capsize; a dry suit keeps you dry and warm in colder months.
This guide covers what to wear for three Seattle-area paddling environments: Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and Lake Union.
Safety and Rescue Gear
Cold water and open water environments like Puget Sound require preparation and awareness. Experienced paddlers dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Every paddler venturing beyond calm, sheltered water should carry this gear and know how to use it.
Fundamental safety gear and skills to sea kayak safely in cold water environments. A paddle float and bilge pump are crucial pieces of gear for self rescue.
Allows you to assist a tired or injured paddler, or to be towed yourself. A waist-mounted tow belt keeps the line accessible without cluttering your deck.
Learn these Skills in a Class
Our classes focus on practical skills for paddling on Lake Union, Puget Sound, and throughout the Pacific Northwest. If you're just getting started, these guides are a great place to begin. But the fastest way to build confidence is to learn on the water. Explore our kayak classes in Seattle and build the skills to paddle safely on Puget Sound and beyond.
Our most comprehensive beginner sea kayaking course. Over four sessions you'll build confidence with efficient strokes, rescues, and boat control for paddling on Puget Sound.
A focused introduction to efficient paddling technique and boat control for beginner paddlers.​
Learn the essential self-rescue and assisted rescue techniques every sea kayaker should know before heading beyond protected water.
An intro to whitewater kayaking for paddlers ready to move from flatwater into Washington’s rivers with control and awareness.
For Seattle area paddlers who want to keep improving, paddle consistently, and stay connected to a supportive community.
