Winter Kayaking - The Essential List

So here we are approaching the end of another kayak season and you find yourself desperately grasping for just a few more weekends on the water. Does the fun really need to end? That may depend on where you live and how prepared you are for hitting the water in the off-season. Here in North Carolina we benefit from a more mild climate then our friends to the north. That being said, no one wants to be cold and wet which makes kayaking out of season a challenge but it can be done.

For the most part winter kayaking means staying dry and moderately warm, with staying dry the primary goal. Of course a sport or hobby that requires water comes with challenges and we will certainly cover that here but one thing to not overlook is how you dress. The thought of going outside in the dead of winter makes many want to overdress to ensure they stay warm but too much of a good thing is not a good thing. You really want to dress for comfort after your body warms up from paddling and the point your heart rate begins to elevate. If you are warm prior to reaching that point you will most certainly begin to sweat and that is a sure way to not stay dry. Instead consider dressing in layers and adding or removing layers to moderate your body temperature and comfort. Start with a base layer of a synthetic fabric such as polypropylene or some other fast drying fabric. This will draw the sweat away from your body and keep you dryer. Cotton is something to avoid as a base layer since it will stay wet against your skin. With your synthetic base layer first you can then add fleeces and even wool for warmth. These layer(s) should be followed by a waterproof but breathable outer layer to keep the damp elements out. Be sure to protect your hands, head, ears and feet as well. Your body will naturally focus it’s heat conservation towards your core and your extremities may need extra attention and help. The same layering techniques and materials should be used as you cover the various parts of your body. Also do not overlook the basics of being outdoors and exercising. Sunscreen is just as important during the winter as the summer for any exposed skin. Dehydration is also just as likely so plan on having water or fluids to replenish what is lost.

With your body safely dressed it is a good idea to prepare your kayak to stay dry as well and you guessed it, scupper plugs are probably the single most important investment during winter kayaking with a sit-on-top kayak. Keeping water from coming into the boat just makes sense and when it comes to scupper plugs we are your primary source for custom fit kayak scupper plugs. We offer both standard and self-draining plugs in kits to fit most major brands and models. If we do not have it, we can probably make a kit for you. Visit our online store today to learn more.

See you on the water!