For more of our top kayaking gear recommendations, check out the Best Wetsuits for Kayaking. 

Reviews - The Best Hats for Kayaking

Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure

Specs

• Color: Eucalyptus and Pumice
• Fabric: 88% Nylon/12% Polyester
• Style: Sun Hat
• UPF: 50
• Moisture Wicking: Yes
• Brim: Yes, 3.25”

Features

• Adjustable Chin Strap for the Best Fit
• UPF 50+ Rating, Wide Brim, and 6” Neck Cape for Sun Protection
• Water- and Stain-Resistant to Keep You Looking Sharp
• Sunglass Lock to Keep Your Shades in Place
• Moisture-Wicking Sweatband and Crown Vents Allow Sweat to Escape

BEST FOR: ALL-PURPOSE COVERAGE

This hat has everything you could ask for in a kayaking hat. It shades against the sun, keeps sweat to a minimum, holds your sunglasses, and lets dirt and rain slide right off. I mean, you’re looking at hats for one or more of those reasons anyway, right? Lucky for you, this hat protects your head in all different ways, all while feeling like it’s barely there.

When you’re not kayaking, you might want to grab this hat for backpacking adventures or even trolling the fairgrounds on a hot summer day. Some users note the slightly geeky appearance, but it’s perfect if the seriousness of sun protection overrides your ego. And remember, you can always fold that back flap up into the hat.

View at REI

View at Backcountry

REI Co-op Vented Explorer

Specs

• Color: Beachwood and Rockwall
• Fabric: Organic Cotton
• Style: Sun Hat
• UPF: 50
• Moisture Wicking: No
• Brim: Yes, 3”

Features

• Adjustable Drawcord for the Best Fit
• Mesh Side Vents Allow for Ventilation
• Moisture-Wicking Sweatband Keeps Sweat Out of Your Eyes
• Snaps on Both Sides to Secure The Brim
• Inner Stash Pocket to Hide Cash or Car Key

BEST FOR: CASUAL OUTINGS

You want something to protect your head and face from the sun and splashback better than a ball cap. This wide-brim hat casts shade all around your head and keeps you from overheating with breathable ventilation. Plus, you can secure it to your head with the adjustable drawstring chin strap, so the hat doesn’t join all the other ball caps at the bottom of the lake.

This hat doesn’t have all the extra bells and whistles as some of the other hats on this list, but maybe all you need is simple. And you appreciate the softness and substantiality of organic cotton. Then, this one’s for you!

View at REI

Sunday Afternoons Shade Goddess Hat

Specs

• Color: Opal and Purple Larkspur
• Fabric: Nylon and Polyester
• Style: Sun Hat
• UPF: 50
• Moisture Wicking: No
• Brim: Yes, 4”

Features

• Adjustable Chin Strap for the Perfect Fit
• UPF 50+ Sun Protection Rating
• Moisture Wicking Sweatband and Crown Vents Regulate Sweat
• Sunglass Holder

BEST FOR: FASHIONISTAS

Listen ladies, we know the whole safari hat look might not exactly be the style you’d choose for your kayaking voyage. You’re looking for something a little more tasteful and chic to complement your outdoorsy pursuits. The Shade Goddess has the look you’re after with it’s easy feminine style. You’ll look right in place when you pull up at the country club too. 

A decorative ribbon and ruching make you look graceful as you paddle through the calm waters or attempt your best golf swing. You can maintain your perfect coif with the integrated ponytail hole. Meanwhile, the generous hat protects your delicate skin from sun damage.

View at REI

LETHMIK Fishing Sun Boonie

Specs

• Color: Beige and Gray Green
• Fabric: Polyester
• Style: Sun Hat
• UPF: 50+
• Moisture Wicking: No
• Brim: Yes

Features

• Waterproof Fabric Allows Splashes and Rainfall to Fall Right Off
• Adjustable Chin Strap Keeps the Hat From Blowing Away
• Snaps Allow You to Pull the Brim Away From Your Face
• Folds Down Into a Pocket-Sized Package

BEST FOR: HUNTING AND FISHING

When you’re out in the boonies, waiting for your catch to appear, you need a hat that matches your sporting stamina. This hat lets sweat and raindrops roll right off of you, keeping your composure unaffected. The hat also redirects sunrays, so you don’t wind up with more sun damage than fish. 

Do be aware that the hat seems to run a bit small. If your head is on the larger side, you might want to skip this hat. Otherwise, it fits the average-sized head like a charm. For the price, this hat provides a great beginner-friendly place to start.

View at Amazon

REI Co-op Paddler’s

Specs

• Color: Titanium
• Fabric: Nylon
• Style: Sun Hat
• UPF: 50
• Moisture Wicking: Yes
• Brim: Yes, 3-4"

Features

• Adjustable Chin Strap for the Best Fit
• Wide Brim and UPF 50 Rating for Sun Protection
• Mesh Panels Allow Airflow on Hot Days
• Moisture-Wicking Polyester Headband Keeps Sweat Out of Your Eyes
• Foam Insert Allows the Hat to Float

BEST FOR: WINDY DAY CRUISES

Strap this hat on tight with both the chin and rear strap and it’s not going anywhere when the wind picks up. Even if you do accidentally drop the hat in the water, it floats! You can turn back around and grab your hat because it should still be bobbing on the top of the water.

The hat also has some excellent sun protective qualities. It has a 3” brim in the front and 4” brim on the back to protect your face and neck. The hat also carries a UPF 50 rating to keep your scalp protected too.

View at REI

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A KAYAKING HAT

MATERIAL

All the hats on this list are made of one or a combination of the following: polyester, nylon, or organic cotton. Polyester and nylon are highly durable and have better moisture management qualities than cotton. Nylon tends to have a little more give and dries quicker while polyester absorbs less water in the first place.

Cotton has a breezy summer feel to it and packs down easily, but it becomes water-logged if it gets wet. Compare the conditions you’re kayaking in and how you want your hat to perform to the material properties (here’s a comprehensive material guide) before making your selection.

SIZES

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a kayaking hat is sizing. No hat is worth it if it doesn’t fit well. Some hats are slightly adjustable, and nylon hats have a little give. If your head tends to run on the big or small side, you may want to measure the crown of your head against the manufacturer’s recommendations and look to see if the hat tends to run according to size.

SUN PROTECTION

Sun protection is one of the main purposes of buying a kayaking hat, so it’s important to determine how much coverage you need. A hat’s UPF rating tells you how well the hat protects the covered skin and the size of brim determines how much skin is covered. The thicker the brim and the higher the UPF rating, the better the protection. In addition, a back flap covers even more exposed neck skin, if that’s important to you. Learn more about how to stay protected here.

MOISTURE MANAGEMENT

A kayaking hat’s moisture management properties refer to its moisture wicking qualities from the inside and water repellent features on the outside. If you’re kayaking on hot days, you may want a hat that’s breathable and moisture wicking. If you know rain and splashing will be involved in your trek, then you may want a water repellent hat.

STYLE

Kayaking hats often have a distinctive safari or bucket hat look. Some people enjoy that rugged, outdoorsy look while others prefer a different style. Although kayaking hats are meant to be more practical than decorative, wider hats are gaining popularity these days and styles have come a long way. The Shade Goddess hat, in particular, has a distinctive design for those who appreciate higher fashion.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

BRIM

The brim of a hat is the part that extends out from the crown. Most kayaking hats have a brim that extends around the perimeter of the hat to provide shade from all angles.

UPF RATING

UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor and refers to how well a hat’s fabric blocks ultraviolet radiation. A UPF rating of 50, for example, means a hat blocks 97.5% or more of the sun’s UV rays and is considered an excellent rating.

CHIN STRAP

Kayaking hats usually come with an adjustable chin strap. The strap goes under the chin and can usually be tightened to ensure you don’t lose your hat when a gust of wind hits.

MESH PANELS

Mesh panels are mesh material inserts on the crown of the cap that allow for airflow. The mesh allows sweat to escape when you start to get hot.

CROWN VENTS

Just like mesh panels, crown vents are holes in the crown of the hat that allow heat and sweat to escape from your head.

NECK CAPE

A neck cape is a length of fabric at the back of the hat that provides extra neck coverage. A neck cape helps reduce the amount of skin that gets exposed to the sun.

The post Best Kayaking Hats of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Here at The Adventure Junkies, it’s our job to research the best gear for every budget. Make no mistake, it can be tedious. But, we love what we do and we do all of this to make sure that you can get outside and up and running (or paddling) faster. You’ve come to the right place.

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

Below, you will find a list of terms we’ll be using throughout the guide to describe each piece of clothing.

BEST MATERIALS: This term will help you understand what materials to look for when shopping.

PRICE RANGE: From the low to high end, you’ll know what to expect.

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: This is our recommended best conditions to wear the product in.

TYPE OF KAYAKING: There are a few types of kayaking. This will help you dress for the occasion.

IDEAL PROPERTIES: Here we will describe the qualities in technical clothing terms.

LEARN MORE: More product-related information may be listed in a link here.

1. TOPS

SHORT SLEEVE SHIRT

In warm weather on cold water, it’s fine to wear short sleeves as long as you pack long sleeves in a dry bag. Men may enjoy Vapor Apparel Men’s UPF 50+ Short Sleeve Shirt or Amazon Essentials Men’s Quick-Dry Golf Polo Shirt. Women should check out the Vapor Apparel Women’s UPF 50+ Short Sleeve Shirt.

LONG SLEEVE SHIRT

In warm weather on cold water, some of the best options include long sleeves that roll up into short sleeves. Sun-protective clothing with a UPF rating, like fishing shirts, are lightweight, breathable, durable, versatile, and resistant to some of the gory bits you may encounter while fishing.

Check out Columbia Sportswear Blood and Guts III or Columbia Sportswear Women’s Bahama, while women may enjoy the Coolibar UPF+ 50 Women’s Beach Shirt.

BEST MATERIALS: Polyester

PRICE RANGE: $20 – 100

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: Warm, temperate weather with a breeze

TYPE OF KAYAKING: Day trips, sit-on-top

IDEAL PROPERTIES: Lightweight, breathable

LEARN MORE: Sun Protection (UPF) Clothing: How to Choose

SHELL

In cold weather on cold water, wear layered long sleeve clothing with a tough outer shell to combat the wind. Some of the best shells include the North Face Venture Jacket (available in men’s and women’s) or a dry top like the NRS Rio Top Paddle Jacket.

BEST MATERIALS: Nylon, urethane-coated

PRICE RANGE: $50 – 200

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: Cool to cold weather

TYPE OF KAYAKING: Day trips, sit-on-top, whitewater

IDEAL PROPERTIES: Waterproof, windproof, breathable

LEARN MORE: Clothing for Cold-Water Paddling: How to Choose

2. BOTTOMS

SHORTS

Bottoms follow the same rules as tops regarding the weather. In warm weather, UPF protective shorts like the Gerry Men’s Short or the Columbia Women’s Coral Point Short. Both of these options contain 30 UPF+ sun protection and are a versatile addition to your wardrobe.

PANTS

In the event your warm day on the water turns a bit chilly, it’s best to pack a long pair of pants to stay warm. Men should check out the Coolibar UPF 50+ Men’s Sport Pants. Women should look into models similar to the Columbia Women’s Anytime Outdoor Boot Cut Pant.

BEST MATERIALS: Canvas, nylon, polyester

PRICE RANGE: $30 – 100

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: Warm to cool weather

TYPE OF KAYAKING: Day trips, sit-on-top

IDEAL PROPERTIES: Flexible fabric for pulling over short layers, windproof, waterproof

LEARN MORE: How to Dress for Kayaking

OUTER SHELL

If you’re looking for a warm pair of pants to wear on a cold day on the water, or a day when there’s a possibility of rain, look no further. Shell pants like the Marmot PreCip Pant are a highly popular option.

Pull them over your shorts or wear long underwear underneath on extra cold days. Women may enjoy the Geval Women’s Outdoor Windproof Waterproof Softshell Pants.

DRYSUITS

If you’re an experienced kayaker, you may already be into battling river waves and pitching over waterfalls. If you’re new to whitewater kayaking, fear not. We wrote an entire review on the best drysuits.

What is a drysuit, you ask? It’s a one or two-piece waterproof suit that keeps you warm and dry while kayaking in rough conditions. Think wetsuit meets ski wear.

BEST MATERIALS: Gore-Tex, nylon

PRICE RANGE: $350 – 1000

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: Cold, icy, frigid conditions

TYPE OF KAYAKING: Whitewater, cold days touring

IDEAL PROPERTIES: Front-entry, mesh draining areas, adjustable wrists, ankles, neck

LEARN MORE: Kayaking Drysuits 101 >>

3. FOOTWEAR

SANDALS

While many different types of sandals can work just fine, we recommend a sandal with a tough sole and straps that hold your foot in place. Some of our favorite options are the Chaco Men’s Z2, Chaco Women’s ZX3, or the Keen Newport H2 Men’s and Women’s Sandals.

WATER SHOES

After reading those two words, ‘water shoes’, you may have had a terrible flashback to a family vacation at Panama City Beach in 1991, when neon spandex was everywhere. That was a bad time in fashion history, but trust us, water shoes have progressed (a bit).

The Nike Lab Aqua Sock 360 is actually a pretty attractive shoe compared to its 1987 counterpart. Other popular options include the Yizer Water Shoes, Adidas Terrex Outdoor Climacool Boatlace, and the RYKA Women’s Hydro Sport Water Shoe.

BEST MATERIALS: Polyester webbing, mesh, stretch fabric, neoprene, rubber sole

PRICE RANGE: $50 – 150

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: Warm days

TYPE OF KAYAKING: Touring, sit-on-top

IDEAL PROPERTIES: Durable, drainable

LEARN MORE: Kayaking Shoes 101 >>

WHITEWATER KAYAKING SHOES

Most drysuits will be useless if they leave your feet exposed and cold. Some drysuits do come with built-in booties, while others are attachable to dry shoes.

Look for a neoprene, waterproof boot that will ensure warmth stays in and water stays out. We recommend the NRS Paddle Wetshoes or the Kokatat Nomad Paddling Boots.

BEST MATERIALS: Neoprene, rubber sole

PRICE RANGE: $50 – 150

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: Any temperature while whitewater kayaking

TYPE OF KAYAKING: Whitewater

IDEAL PROPERTIES: Insulated, durable, waterproof

LEARN MORE: Kayaking Shoes 101 >>

4. ACCESSORIES

WIDE-BRIMMED HAT

We can’t stress enough how much sun protection is important. A well-made wide-brimmed hat will serve you in many outdoor sports and adventures.

Check out the Columbia Sportswear Bora Bora Booney II and the Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat. Choose a hat that has adjustable straps to hold the hat on your head in strong winds.

WARM HAT

A wide-brimmed hat is useful for sunny days, but won’t do much to keep you warm. Consider buying a balaclava-type piece of headgear to wear alone or in conjunction with a brimmed hat or helmet. The Maoko Full Face Mask or a trusty Buff are both good options.

BEST MATERIALS: Nylon, microfiber, polyester

PRICE RANGE: $20 – 50

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: Warm and cold days

TYPE OF KAYAKING: Touring, sit-on-top, whitewater

IDEAL PROPERTIES: UPF+ rating, durable

UV PROTECTIVE GLOVES

Gloves aren’t just for cold winter nights. UV protective gloves have really taken off in recent years, as a lightweight, breathable way to keep your hands from getting burnt or weathered. Coolibar makes a few options.

One is full-finger, another is full-finger with touchscreen compatibility, and last is their fingerless option. NRS also makes a 3/4 finger glove that is quite popular. For arm protection while wearing a short sleeve shirt, check out the Eclipse Sun Sleeves.

BEST MATERIALS: Polyester, spandex

PRICE RANGE: $20 – 50

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: Warm days

TYPE OF KAYAKING: Touring, sit-on-top

IDEAL PROPERTIES: UPF+ rating, Touchscreen compatibility

LEARN MORE: Kayaking Gloves 101 >>

WARM GLOVES

Hands are one of our most important assets as humans. Keep them warm, dry, and frost-bite free with models like the Glacier Glove or Mountain Made Outdoor Gloves.

BEST MATERIALS: Neoprene, nylon, fleece

PRICE RANGE: $20 – 50

CONDITIONS BEST FOR: Cold days

TYPE OF KAYAKING: Whitewater, touring, sit-on-top

IDEAL PROPERTIES: Adjustable wrist strap

The post What To Wear Kayaking – The Ultimate Kayaking Clothing Guide appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Here at The Adventure Junkies, one of our top goals is to find out which wetsuits are worth the price and highlight everything you should look out for when choosing a wetsuit for kayaking. In this guide, we’ll tell you how to choose the best wetsuit and show you the best models of the year.

For more of our top kayaking gear recommendations, check out the Best Drysuits for Kayaking. 

Reviews - The Best Kayaking Wetsuits

O’Neill Epic

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: Ultra-flex Neoprene
• Cut: Steamer
• Thickness: 4.00 mm/3.00 mm

BEST FOR: MULTISPORT PADDLERS IN COLD WATER

PROS: Double-seal neck closure, great value, glued and stitched seams, knee pads

CONS: Neck area can be very tight

View at Backcountry

View at Amazon

NRS Farmer John

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: High Stretch Neoprene
• Cut: Sleeveless
• Thickness: 3.0 mm

BEST FOR: PADDLERS WANTING A TOP-OF-THE-LINE WETSUIT FOR A GREAT PRICE

PROS: Glued and stitched seams, comfortable, extremely flexible, great value

CONS: Can be tight for some

View at REI

Henderson Thermoprene

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: Nylon II Neoprene Mix
• Cut: Steamer
• Thickness: 3.0 mm

BEST FOR: MULTISPORT KAYAKERS IN VARIABLE CONDITIONS

PROS: Stretchier than a typical wetsuit, great value, durable, comes in plus sizes, flexible knee pads

CONS: Not as warm as traditional neoprene

View at Amazon

Sharkskin Chillproof

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: 3-layer Composite, Fleece/Lycra/Nylon
• Cut: Steamer
• Thickness: 0.5 mm

BEST FOR: WARM WATER KAYAKERS NEEDING A SUIT THAT PROTECTS AGAINST SUN AND WICKS SWEAT

PROS: Makes a great under-layer for thicker wetsuits, protects against stingers, machine washable, wind-proof, rear zip

CONS: Too thin for cold water, size runs small

View at Amazon

Oceanic Lavacore

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: Fleece/Polyurethane/Lycia
• Cut: Steamer
• Thickness: 0.5 mm

BEST FOR: WARM WATER PADDLERS NEEDING A WETSUIT THAT PROTECTS THEM AGAINST THE ELEMENTS

PROS: Flexible, comfortable, wind-resistant, can be worn under thicker wetsuit, easy to put on

CONS: Too thin for cold-water paddling, fleece pills after heavy usage

View at Amazon

Kokotat NeoZip

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: 2-sided Neoprene
• Cut: Sleeveless
• Thickness: 3.0 mm

BEST FOR: PADDLERS WHO WANT FLEXIBILITY AND FULL ARM MOBILITY

PROS: Seamless arm holes for less chaffing, knee pads, front entry zipper

CONS: Tends to run large – especially in women’s version

View at Amazon

SUPreme Blade

Specs

• Material: Quantum Foam Neoprene, Fleece Interior
• Cut: Short-sleeve
• Thickness: 3.00 mm/2.00 mm

BEST FOR: MULTISPORT PADDLERS WANTING A GREAT ALL-AROUND WETSUIT

PROS: Flat lock construction to guard against chaffing, windproof, fast trying, knee pads, easy on-and-off

CONS: Material tends to stretch after heavy use

View at Amazon

Henderson Aqua Lock Jumpsuit

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: Neoprene, Fleece Interior
• Cut: Steamer
• Thickness: 5.00 mm

BEST FOR: COLD WATER AND WHITE-WATER PADDLERS WHO NEED EXTRA WARMTH

PROS: Interlocking wrist, ankle, and neck openings compatible with other accessories, seams double glued and sewn, flexible

CONS: Challenging to put on and take off for some

View at Amazon

Stohlquist Rapid

Specs

• Material: Ultra-stretch Neoprene
• Cut: Sleeveless
• Thickness: 3.0 mm

BEST FOR: PADDLERS IN MODERATE TEMPERATURES WANTING A HIGH-FLEX WETSUIT

PROS: Glued and stitched seams, extra wide arm holes, relief zipper, padded knees, reinforced back and seat

CONS: Tends to run small

View at Amazon

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST WETSUITS FOR KAYAKING

MATERIALS

Most wetsuits are made with neoprene, a synthetic rubber that insulates your body by keeping a thin layer of warm moisture between your skin and the material. Pure neoprene is typically stiffer than neoprene mixed with lycra or nylon. If you want a flexible suit that’s easy to slip into, choose a wetsuit with a neoprene mix or ultra-flexible neoprene.

Many wetsuits pad the inside of the wetsuit with a layer of microfleece for extra softness and protection.

THICKNESS

The thickness of a wetsuit is typically measured in millimeters, especially when made with neoprene. Thin neoprene (less than 3 millimeters) tends to be more flexible and is perfect for tropical water and can guard your body against wind and sun without being too warm.

Some wetsuits are made with mostly nylon or lycra, are very thin, and act as an exposure suit. These very thin wetsuits have a smooth surface and can easily be layered under thicker wetsuits for when you need some extra warmth.

Thick wetsuits, (4 millimeters and above) are best for cold water kayakers who need something that will keep their bodies very warm as they paddle. These tend to be much stiffer than thinner wetsuits — making it harder to paddle. However, if you’re in icy temperatures, they’re a must-have.

If you are paddling in near-freezing conditions, a wetsuit will likely not be warm enough. In that case, you might consider investing in a kayaking drysuit. Go Kayak Now has an article on drysuits vs. wetsuits if you’re not sure which one is right for you.

CUT

Wetsuits come in virtually every combination. You can buy a wetsuit as just the top, bottom, or as a full suit. Steamers provide the most warmth and have long sleeves and long legs. There are short sleeves, short sleeves and legs, long sleeves and short legs, and more. If you can think of it, it’s probably out there.

Kayakers tend to like the farmer-john style sleeveless wetsuits, with no sleeves and long legs. This allows kayakers to have a full range of arm motion and a warm body as they paddle. Paddling in a steamer sometimes causes chaffing in the armpits if the wetsuit isn’t fitting properly or if you’re out for a long paddle.

SPECIAL FEATURES

What features you’d like in a wetsuit totally depends on personal preference. High-quality wetsuits tend to have glued and stitched seams to prevent water from seeping in. Reinforced knees add to the lifespan of a wetsuit and provide protection — a great feature for kayakers constantly docking in and out of the water.

Some wetsuits also have relief zippers for those who hate peeing in their wetsuits, locking systems where you can pair your wetsuit with other accessories, and even internal heaters. Thicker wetsuits often have leg zippers to help ease into your suit. What you choose completely depends on the conditions that you plan to paddle in.

SIZE

Getting the right size is one of the most important things you need to consider when buying a wetsuit for kayaking. If it’s not offered in your size, don’t purchase it. The wetsuit needs to fit snug — think of it like a second skin — but not too snug where it will cause pinching and chafing.

While it’s usually okay if the sleeves and legs are the wrong length, you need to watch for a snug fit around the torso. If the torso is too baggy, water will pool inside and make you cold. If the neck opening is the wrong size, you risk having water flush into the suit too easily — or getting a rash if it’s too tight.

When you try on the wetsuit, it should be flush against your body without pinching any areas or sagging. Some key areas to look at are the armpits, bottom, neck, and chest.

If you have a great fitting wetsuit, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of kayaking without feeling cold.

The post Best Wetsuits for Kayaking of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

While drysuits are unnecessary in tropical weather, freezing weather and strong waves can make for a dangerous combination if you’re far from land. Here at The Adventure Junkies, we can guide you through a wide selection of the best drysuits available to make your purchase simpler and your kayaking experience safe, warm and dry.

For more of our top kayaking gear recommendations, check out the Best Wetsuits for Kayaking. 

Reviews - The Best Kayaking Drysuits

Kokatat Front Entry

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: Gore-Tex
• Fit: Medium
• Warranty: Lifetime

Features

• Specialized sleeves for mobility
• Reflective highlights
• Front entry for pit stops
• Integrated Gore-Tex socks
• Reinforced knees and seat

BEST FOR: LONGBOAT WHITEWATER KAYAKING

PROS: Durability of Gore-Tex, latex gaskets prevent leakage

CONS: No hood

View at Backcountry

Kokatat Hydrus 3L Meridian

Specs

• Material: Hydrus 3L
• Fit: Medium
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Features

• Front entry zip
• Relief zipper or rear drop-seat for women
• Hydrus 3L socks
• Adjustable waist
• Reinforced seat and knees
• Latex and neoprene gaskets
• Self-draining chest pocket
• Key lanyard

BEST FOR: COLD DAYS

PROS: Highly breathable, durable, and warm

CONS: Neck gasket is snug

View at REI

View at Backcountry

Kokatat Idol

Specs

• Material: Gore-Tex
• Fit: Medium
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Features

• SwitchZip for two-piece functionality or relief
• Dual adjustable overskirt
• Self-draining
• Zippered sleeve pocket with key lanyard

BEST FOR: FREESTYLE WHITEWATER KAYAKING

PROS: Very durable

CONS: Price, no hood

View at Amazon

Stohlquist EZ

Specs

• Material: 4-Layer Twin Sensor
• Fit: Relaxed
• Warranty: 3 Year

Features

• Waterproof cross-chest entry
• Relief zippers
• Neoprene neck gaskets
• Articulated armored knees
• Reflective accents
• Adjustable cuff covers
• Fabric dry socks

BEST FOR: FREESTYLE KAYAKING

PROS: Easy chest entry, armored knees for freestyle kayaking

CONS: Lacks durability of Gore-Tex

View at Amazon

O’Neill Boost

Specs

• Material: PVC-backed Nylon
• Fit: Relaxed
• Warranty: 1 Year Limited

Features

• Latex ankle and wrist seals
• Built-in suspenders

BEST FOR: WHITEWATER ON A BUDGET

PROS: Price, relaxed fit designed for additional layering

CONS: Weight, PVC-backed nylon lacks breathability

View at Amazon

Level 6 Emperor

Specs

• Material: Cordura Seat/Knees
• Fit: Relaxed
• Warranty: Lifetime

Features

• Bi-layer Cordura seat, knees, elbows, and forearms
• Adjustable waist
• Double tunnel waistband
• Neoprene ankle, wrist, and neck gaskets
• Rear entry
• Relief zippers
• Integrated socks
• Fleece pockets
• Emergency whistle
• Taped seams

BEST FOR: ALL AROUND KAYAKING

PROS: Great drysuit for all four seasons

CONS: Slightly bulky and warm, rear entry

View at Backcountry

Stohlquist Amp

Specs

• Material: 4 Layer Twin Sensor, Laminated Nylon Shell
• Fit: Relaxed
• Warranty: 3-year Limited

Features

• Masterseal entry
• Relief zippers
• Cordura-reinforced knees and seat mesh drainers
• Waterproof fabric socks
• UV-resistant
• Reflective accents

BEST FOR: COMFORT

PROS: Price, relaxed fit for layering

CONS: Lacks durability of Gore-Tex

View at Amazon

HOW TO CHOOSE  THE BEST DRYSUITS FOR KAYAKING

MATERIAL

Drysuits are almost always made of either nylon or Gore-Tex. Sometimes, the nylon is coated or laminated with a hydrophilic substance to repel water. Gore-Tex is highly durable, and while more expensive than other fabrics, is definitely worth the money.

Many suits will offer Cordura-reinforced knees and seat, soft latex and neoprene gaskets around the neck, ankles and wrist to prevent chafing, or even a proprietary fabric on the interior of the suit for added comfort. Consider the climate and intended use when shopping for a drysuit.

FIT

Like all pieces of clothing, drysuits are made to fit snugly, loosely or somewhere in between. If you enjoy whitewater kayaking in late fall or early spring when the daytime temperatures are still low, you might consider buying a drysuit that offers a loose fit and ample room for warm, long sleeve layers underneath.

If you don’t anticipate needing extra layers, perhaps opt for a suit that fits more snugly to eliminate excessive bulk.

BREATHABILITY

We covered materials above. While staying dry and warm are the main reasons for wearing a drysuit, thicker, water-repellent fabrics are less breathable than thinner, uncoated fabrics. However, Gore-Tex, in addition to being durable, is one of the most breathable fabrics available.

Sweating underneath your clothes in a cold environment can be dangerous as it leaves you wet and prone to hypothermia. Breathable fabrics were developed to overcome this problem, which can present challenges in nearly all sports, from mountaineering and long-distance running to snow-skiing and kayaking.

ENTRY TYPE

Up until recent years, there have been two types of drysuit entries, back entry and front entry. The first uses a zipper down the back of the suit, the second, down the front of the suit. While they each have their benefits, front entry suits will typically offer a relief zipper which makes pit stops a breeze.

The third entry type, SwitchZip, was developed by Kokatat. Their drysuits can be completely separated in the middle and function as either top only, bottom only or full drysuit when fused.

FEATURES

Make a list of wants and needs before you shop. If comfort is very important to you, choose a drysuit with mesh draining areas, and adjustable wrist, ankles and waist cinches.

If functionality is more essential, perhaps for an activity like fishing in the early morning hours, gear pockets, loops, reflective trim may rank higher on your list of desired features. While some drysuits come with built-in socks, you will need to find kayaking shoes and kayaking gloves, as they will not be included in your purchase.

WARRANTY

Warranty may be more important to some users than others, depending on their choice of activity. Fisherman and whitewater kayakers will damage or wear out their suits faster than the casual kayaker.

A drysuit will most likely be the second most expensive purchase you’ll see apart from your kayak. So, a lifetime warranty will come in handy if it should ever need to be replaced.

The post Best Drysuits for Kayaking of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Here at The Adventure Junkies, we strive to offer our readers in-depth information and detailed overviews about the best outdoor gear. So, if you want to avoid getting blisters, prevent your fingers from freezing or keep your hands warm, you’ll want a good pair of gloves.

Below, we provide an overview of the ten best kayaking gloves on the market. We also talk about a number of things you should keep in mind when buying a new pair.

For more of our top kayaking gear recommendations, check out the Best Wetsuits for Kayaking. 

Reviews - The Best Gloves for Kayaking

NRS Boater’s

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: Nylon/spandex shell and synthetic leather palm
• Fingerless: Yes

BEST FOR: VALUE FOR MONEY

PROS: Affordable, light, UPF 50 sun protection, fleece on thumb helps remove sweat, non-slip grip, Velcro wrist closure, quick-drying fabric, durable material

CONS: None that we could find

View at Amazon

NRS HydroSkin

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: 0.5mm neoprene shell and patterned silicone palm
• Fingerless: No

BEST FOR: IN-BETWEEN WEATHER

PROS: Great protection with thin fabric, good palm grips, fits well, four-way stretch outer layer, water repellent coating, thermal plush inner lining, stretching slip-on wrist

CONS: Pricier than other models

View at REI

View at Backcountry

NRS Maverick

Specs

• Material: Neoprene with titanium laminate
• Fingerless: No

BEST FOR: EXTREMELY COLD CONDITIONS

PROS: 2mm neoprene, waterproof, neoprene HydroCuff, superb grip, durable, offers warmth even in icy conditions and the coldest weather, good fit

CONS: Expensive, limited finger movement

View at Backcountry

Sea to Summit Eclipse

Specs

• Material: Spandex shell, synthetic leather palm and neoprene cuffs
• Fingerless: Yes

BEST FOR: AVOIDING BLISTERS

PROS: Thin fabric for nuanced feel grip, UPF 50 sun protection, 2mm neoprene cuffs, durable

CONS: Not good for cold weather

View at Amazon

Kokatat Lightweight

Specs

• Material: Nylon/spandex shell and Amara synthetic suede palm
• Fingerless: Yes

BEST FOR: BOTH MALE AND FEMALE KAYAKERS

PROS: Synthetic suede provides solid grip, reinforced fabric between thumb and index finger, mesh back, hook-and-loop wrist closure, unisex design

CONS: No UV protection

View at Amazon

NeoSport 3/4

Specs

• Material: 1.5mm neoprene
• Fingerless: Yes

BEST FOR: MULTI-SPORT USE

PROS: Anatomical fit, wrist fasteners, light, water resistant, affordable, useable for biking, kayaking, sailing, wakeboarding and other water sports

CONS: Not 100% waterproof, lower quality materials

View at Amazon

Glacier Premium

Specs

• Material: Neoprene with fleece lining
• Fingerless: No

BEST FOR: WINTER KAYAKING

PROS: Waterproof, fleece on the inside provides warmth, pre-curved knuckles

CONS: Thickness makes for limited finger movement

View at Amazon

MRX Gloves

Specs

• Material: Spandex shell, synthetic leather palm and neoprene cuffs
• Fingerless: Yes

BEST FOR: BUDGET-CONSCIOUS MEN AND WOMEN

PROS: Unisex design, four-way spandex cloth, neoprene cuffs, reinforced fabric between thumb and index finger, multiple colors

CONS: Can be bulky in the palms

View at Amazon

Warmers Barnacle

Specs

• Material: Synthetic leather/spandex/neoprene/terry cloth shell and synthetic leather palm
• Fingerless: Yes

BEST FOR: WET CONDITIONS AND WARM WEATHER

PROS: Quick-drying materials, “barnacle” grip for superior grip, extra padding between index finger and thumb

CONS: Loose fit, especially for women and people with small hands

View at Amazon

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST KAYAKING GLOVES

While kayaking, your hands are one of the first body parts that get cold, sore, wet and/or uncomfortable. It’s important to offer adequate protection if you’re going to do some serious paddling.

You might need kayaking gloves for various reasons. They will protect your hands against blisters on long-distance excursions,. They also offer better grip on your kayak paddle. Having better grip means less fatigue in your hands and arms. If you’re going kayaking in winter or kayaking in Antarctic or other cold regions, you’ll want to keep your hands warm and dry.

MATERIAL

The material your gloves should be made of depends entirely on where and how long you will be kayaking. For summer and warm weather kayaking, you’ll be alright with nylon/spandex gloves. Thick gloves are designed for kayaking in cold conditions. Waterproof neoprene is the way to go in that case. Some cold-weather gloves even contain a fleece lining on the inside.

It’s good to know that synthetic materials often dry much quicker. The downside of synthetic is that the seams give out faster, as noted by Paddling.com.

One of the big perks of kayaking gloves is that they offer extra grip. This is achieved by using synthetic leather, patterned or raw neoprene on the palms. All the best kayaking gloves have gripping palms. Don’t buy any that don’t provide that extra grip.

THICKNESS

When it comes to glove thickness, there is a difficult battle between protection and dexterity. The thicker your gloves are, the better they’ll protect your hands and keep them warm. On the other hand, this means that you’ll give up some maneuverability.

This is a delicate decision you have to make. Of course, in cold climates, keeping warm and dry should be your priority. In other climates, however, you can consider how much you’ll need your fingers. It is, after all, convenient if you have enough finger movement to adjust your helmet, check your watch, grab your bag, etcetera.

FIT

It’s also essential to make sure that your kayaking gloves fit your hands properly. A fit that’s too loose will be uncomfortable and maybe even cause blisters to form. It will also decrease the warmth offered by the gloves.

Gloves that are too tight, on the other hand, can cut off circulation in your fingers. This can be a serious problem in cold weather.

FINGERS

Fingers or fingerless? The pros and cons are pretty obvious here. Gloves with fingers are much warmer and often significantly more waterproof. They do allow for less dexterity, though.

Fingerless gloves are great for kayaking in warmer weather when you don’t need to worry about your hands getting wet or cold. Those gloves offer extra grip while keeping your fingers free. You’ll be able to use them as you would without wearing gloves.

The post Best Kayaking Gloves of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Here at The Adventure Junkies, we’re obsessed with the finer details and discovering the best gear on the market. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect pair for your climate and ability. We’ll also show you our top picks for kayaking shoes of the year.

For more of our top kayaking gear recommendations, check out the Best Wetsuits for Kayaking.

Reviews - The Best Shoes for Kayaking

NRS Paddle

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: Neoprene, gusset-backed YKK zipper, neoprene insole, rubber outsole
• Cut: Ankle
• Thickness: 3 mm

BEST FOR: KAYAKERS IN COOL WATER WANTING A GREAT ALL-AROUND KAYAKING SHOE

PROS: Very warm, durable, comfortable, keeps out gravel and sand

CONS: Water can pool inside and needs to be drained

View at REI

View at Backcountry

NRS Freestyle

Specs

• Material: Terraprene neoprene, VaporLoft lining, rubber outsoles
• Cut: Ankle
• Thickness: 3 mm

BEST FOR: KAYAKERS WITH TIGHT HULLS THAT NEED AGILITY AND FLEXIBILITY

PROS: Made specifically for technical kayakers, flexible, durable, great value

CONS: Tread can be a bit slippery for mossy or smooth rocks

View at REI

View at Backcountry

NRS Boundary Water

Specs

• Material: Neoprene upper, thick neoprene insoles, plastic shim, buckle strap at the calf
• Cut: Knee
• Thickness: 5 mm

BEST FOR: KAYAKERS WADING THROUGH COLD WATER AND ROUGH TERRAIN

PROS: Waterproof, sturdy, comfortable, warm, versatile

CONS: Sizing can be confusing as this model is unisex

View at Backcountry

View at Amazon

Kokatat Scout

Specs

• Material: Neoprene, rubber toe cap, vulcanized rubber outers
• Cut: Ankle
• Thickness: 3 mm

BEST FOR: KAYAKERS HOPPING IN AND OUT NEAR SLIPPERY TERRAIN

PROS: Flexible, comfortable, easy to adjust around the ankle, great grip

CONS: Tends to run small, especially for wider feet

View at Backcountry

Sea to Summit Blitz

Specs

• Material: Velcro strap, neoprene, thick rubber sole
• Cut: Ankle
• Thickness: 3 mm

BEST FOR: VERSATILE KAYAKERS WHO ALSO FISH, WADE, AND WALK ACROSS WET SURFACES

PROS: Warm, durable, easy to adjust, stylish

CONS: Rubber sole too smooth to walk along moss or algae

View at Amazon

Kokatat Nomad

Specs

• Material: Double lined neoprene, waterproof gaiter, neoprene cuff, blind-stitched seams, rubber outsole
• Cut: Knee
• Thickness: 3 mm

BEST FOR: COLD WATER KAYAKERS WADING THROUGH FRIGID WATER

PROS: Warm, durable, compatible with cold weather outer gear, flexible

CONS: Takes a few wears to break in due to tight ankle opening

View at REI

Sea to Summit Ultra Flex

Specs

• Material: Neoprene, rubber outsoles, Velcro Y strap
• Cut: Low
• Thickness: 3 mm

BEST FOR: WARM WATER KAYAKERS NEEDING FLEXIBILITY AND TRACTION

PROS: Extremely flexible and perfect for all types of kayaking, breathable, durable

CONS: Sole might be too thin for jagged rocks

View at Amazon

Stohlquist Tideline

Specs

• Material: Neoprene upper, vulcanized rubber outer, YKK non-corrosive zipper, rubber toe and heel caps
• Cut: Ankle
• Thickness: 5 mm

BEST FOR: COLD WATER KAYAKERS WANTING A RELIABLE ALL-AROUND KAYAKING SHOE

PROS: Great traction, easy to fit with wetsuit, warm

CONS: Runs small and can be too tight around the lower shin

View at Amazon

O’Neill Freaksneak

Specs

• Material: FilterTech mesh, 2 mm fluid foam, rubber outsole
• Cut: Low
• Thickness: 2 mm

BEST FOR: STYLISH KAYAKERS WHO WANT SOMETHING DIFFERENT FROM THE TYPICAL KAYAKING SHOE

PROS: Could be mistaken for an everyday shoe, comfortable, quick drying

CONS: Not the best for technical kayaking or walking through slippery terrain

View at Amazon

NeoSport Low Top

Specs

• Material: Neoprene, rubber outsoles, Velcro strap, elastic cinch cord
• Cut: Low
• Thickness: 2 mm

BEST FOR: KAYAKERS WANTING A DURABLE LOW CUT PAIR OF SHOES AT A GREAT PRICE

PROS: Easy to slip on and off, flexible, stylish, multiple cinch points, great quality for price point

CONS: Thin sole makes these shoes not ideal for jagged surfaces

View at Amazon

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST KAYAKING SHOES

TEMPERATURE

Kayaking shoes come in a range of thicknesses and materials that are largely tailored to the temperature of water you’ll be kayaking in. Cold water kayakers will want a thick neoprene or waterproof shoe, while those in warm water will need something with airflow to keep feet from overheating.

In general, cold water kayaking shoes will have thick neoprene, 4 mm and up, and might be cut above the ankle for extra warmth and protection. Warm water kayaking shoes will likely be made of thinner neoprene, mesh, or a rubber sandal style. In an article about kayaking clothing from Paddling.com, they advise kayakers to never wear cotton (this includes socks) while kayaking because it draws heat away from the body and takes too long to dry.

The temperature you’ll be paddling in should be one of the biggest considerations you look for when choosing the best kayaking shoes. When in doubt, get something that’s a little warmer than is necessary because it’s easier to cool down feet than warm them up when kayaking.

Dress correctly, and you can even explore the wild waters of Antarctica from the comforts of a kayak like Antonio and Amanda from The Adventure Junkies have done.

TERRAIN

Will you be scampering up jagged rocks? Wading through mud? Treading through pebbles and sand? Or stomping through marshes? Each terrain you explore on your kayak excursion dictates the type of kayaking shoe you’ll want — especially if you’re hopping in and out of your kayak often. By the way, did you know there’s a proper way to get into a kayak? Check out our guide that explains how to climb inside your kayak with ease.

You’ll want a kayaking shoe with a thick sole if you’re going to be walking over jagged rocks, tread for smooth surfaces, and a tall, closed-shoe if you’re walking through sand or pebbles to prevent blisters.

Kayakers often find themselves in slippery situations. The combination of moss, water, and wet rocks near bodies of water can create a catastrophe for adventurers. Fortunately, BC Forest Safety has a guide on navigating through this slippery terrain safely and with ease. Wearing sturdy shoes is essential.

Consider where you’ll be kayaking most of the time and choose your shoes based on that. If you’re kayaking around variable terrain, then opt for an overall shoe that suits the average temperature.

SHOE HEIGHT

Kayaking shoes typically come in three heights, low-cut, ankle, and knee height.

Low-cut shoes work best in warm weather and offer a lot of comfort and flexibility. These are best if you’re looking for minimal protection while hopping in and out of a kayak. They’re often made of mesh or thin neoprene, meaning it’s easy to cool your feet off with a quick dunk into the water.

Ankle high kayaking shoes are a little bit warmer and offer more support than low-cut shoes. These are typically found in overall kayaking shoes as they’re versatile and tend to come with thicker soles. They’re easy to put on, pack, and wear.

Knee high shoes are loved by cold-water kayakers who need extra warmth or waterproof shoes when wading in and out of the water. Surf kayakers, who are no strangers to getting wet, also tend to gravitate towards these. Knee high shoes should be very snug to prevent water pooling inside because this can be dangerous and restrict movement if the kayak capsizes or the kayaking falls into the water.

FIT

Your kayaking shoes should be more snug than the shoes you wear in everyday life, especially if it’s made of neoprene. Think of it as fitting more like a glove or a sock. Too tight, and you might have foot cramps after just a few hours of paddling. Too loose, and you risk having water pooling inside, debris coming in, and getting blisters. A bulky shoe might also not be compatible with the inside of your hull if you have a kayak with small footholds.

You should be able to flex your foot, including your toes, comfortably, but not have any loose material. Keep in mind that neoprene expands and becomes more flexible in water.

The post Best Kayaking Shoes of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.