No matter how benign or turbulent the conditions, paddlers must always be prepared with the right gear. Based on the decades of paddling experience our guides possess, Charles River Canoe & Kayak has assembled the recommended kayaking gear list below. We also have a printer-friendly version.
The list is divided into three sections based upon the exposure of the water on which you’ll be paddling and, therefore, the potential for hazardous wind and wave conditions. Make sure you understand the environment in which you are paddling. Learn the skills required to paddle there, and practice them consistently. Our paddling classes and trips will get you started and keep your skills sharp.
Practice! Practice!
- Carrying this gear is not enough!
- Learn to use your kayak and gear.
- Learn about the environments in which you want to paddle.
- Practice using your boat and gear in realistic conditions.
- Our classes and trips can get you started and keep you sharp.
- Questions? We’re here to help!
It may not be necessary to keep all these items immediately available. For example, it’s fine to keep your splash jacket stowed in a hatch on a flat-calm, sunny day on the Charles. If rain moves in or you capsize and get cold, you’ll be glad you brought it. However, there are some items you should never, ever stow in a hatch — including your Personal Flotation Device!
The Paddling Store at Charles River Canoe & Kayak stocks most of the items on our gear list, and we are happy to help you select the right gear or answer any questions. Just drop in or e-mail us, because we’re here to help!
Every Time You Paddle
For example, a small lake or flatwater river, like the Charles River Lakes District at our Newton Boathouse
Paddle – Personal Flotation Device
Pump – removes large amounts of water from the cockpit after a capsize
Paddle Float – helps a capsized paddler perform a self-rescue
Dry Bags – helps keep clothes, food, and gear dry
Sponge – removes small amounts of water from the cockpit
Wetsuit or Drysuit – whenever the water is 60ºF or colder
Whistle
Extra Dry, Warm Clothing
Extra Food & Water
Sunscreen
Hat & Sunglasses
Splash Jacket – keeps off rain and spray
Water Shoes/Sandals – protects your feet, keeps you warm
Gloves or Pogies – warmer gloves/pogies in cold water or weather
When Paddling Protected Ocean
For example, Essex Marsh or Hingham Harbor, or a larger lake like Squam in New Hampshire
everything listed above plus:
Adequate Kayak Flotation – two bulkheaded hatches or float bags
Spray Skirt – helps keep water out of the cockpit
First-Aid Kit
Deck-Mounted Marine Compass
Nautical Chart & Chart Case
Nav-Aid – easily find compass directions from your chart
Tide Chart
Spare Paddle
Waterproof Flashlight/Strobe
Cell Phone & Waterproof Case
Paddle Leash – helps prevent loss of your paddle
Towing System
Knife
Rescue Stirrup – helps with assisted rescues
When Paddling Open Ocean
For example, trips to the Outer Boston Harbor Islands or Thacher Island
everything listed above plus:
Repair Kit – to fix common boat problems
Signal Flares – flares, mirror, smoke signals, etc.
VHF Radio & Waterproof Case – contact other boaters or the Coast Guard
