Your great kayaking trip is not complete without a kayak and paddles, but you will need to bring along some safety gear for yourself as well. Wearing a kayaking helmet and a personal floatation device aren’t just good habits for beginning kayakers – you skilled kayakers will want to bring them along also. If you use just a little kayak gear on your trip, you will be able to have a fun trip while avoiding any dangerous situations.
Anyone who wants to enjoy a water sport needs to know the proper gear for their sport – and kayaking is no exception. Using the correct gear keeps beginners safe in case they make mistakes – allowing them to still have fun while they are learning the sport. Experienced kayakers need to use the correct gear, too. As you get into more dangerous (and more exciting) waters, the proper safety gear actually becomes even more necessary than before.
The kayaker needs, first of all, a good helmet. The helmet will prevent the kayaker from hitting his head on any sharp jagged edges and being injured. It also keeps him safe from any mild bumps he might get if his kayak tips. When you buy your helmet, make sure it follows the proper safety standards for kayak helmets: ANSI (American National Standards Institute) has a good set of standards.
You will also want to wear a person flotation device – also known as a life vest. You can rent or buy one from your kayak outfitter. Be sure to get a life vest with a floater in it, as opposed to the inflatable life vests; it is also good to find one with storage compartments for other kayak accessories. Some life vests also have lights and reflectors to make your presence known in the dark. Life vests are also great as warm jackets in cool winds or cold areas. Make sure you are wearing a proper life jacket and helmet before you jump in your kayak – and then shove off to have a great time.