Chicago Kayak Essential Sea Kayak Gear List
This is our kayaking gear list for our kayak
trips in Chicago on Lake Michigan. Chicago Kayak does not sell this gear, this is for informational
purposes only.. Before setting out on any journey you should be well equipped
with knowledge, common sense, and experience, as well as essential gear.
Gear is not a substitute for skill.
If you are a member of the Chicago Kayak Club, PFD's, Skirts, paddles,
paddlefloats, pumps, and boats with floatation are always available - you just
need to ask. Purchasing some of these items eventually is what most people
do to get a better fit (for ex. pfd's) or to have your own pump or paddle
float (instead of sharing with the group)
Gear List
1. Personal Flotation Device (PFD) While the Cost Guard only requires that you have an approved life vest with you while paddling, we recommend that one is worn anytime you are on the water. Newer styles allow the paddler more and freedom of movement and may include one or more pockets for to stash that snack or sunscreen.
2. Spray Skirt - usually available in neoprene or waterproof coated nylon. The skirt should fit snuggly around you and your kayak, but not be too tight that you have to struggle to remove it from the cockpit coaming. Look for one that has a large grab loop or attach something to it so that it is easy to locate in the event of a capsize.
3. Paddle / Paddle Float / Paddle Leash / Spare Paddle - The type of paddle you chose is usually based on personal preference. Now available in a variety of materials and styles, choosing a paddle is not as easy as it seems. You want the paddle to not only be the appropriate length, but also it should be well balanced, and feel comfortable to hold. Looking for a paddle with Drip Guards is especially helpful. Some reflective tape helps if you plan to be paddling at night.
A paddle float is another essential piece of gear. This allows a paddler to re-enter the kayak unassisted. be sure to check yours for punctures each time you head out and practice using it in a variety of conditions, before you actually need it!
Paddle leashes are handy if you need to put your paddle down frequently. When I have my camera along, knowing my paddle is attached to my kayak really sets my mind at ease and I don't worry about it drifting off. Also good for when you are eating lunch, helping with a rescue, or are paddling in rough conditions. Be aware that there are different types of leashes, and some tend to tangle. When you use a paddle leash, always be aware, that it could become entagled. I always carry a knife if I am using my paddle leash (I usually carry a knife anyway)
A spare paddle should be carried whether you are paddling alone or in a group. If a paddle is lost, or breaks, a spare paddle provides a great back up and prevents a situation where you need to be towed, or worse.
4. Bailing System - the most common form is a manual bilge pump. Glue some insulating foam to keep it from sinking (if it doesn't come already on the pump) and add some reflective tape if you will be out on the water after dark. One of the advantages that a handheld pump has is that you can fit it in between your body and the spray skirt so that the kayak is sealed off and won't take on any additional water once you have gotten back into the boat. Of course, you do need two hands to operate the pump and in stormy conditions, this may be difficult at best. An electric pump is easy to operate, but is more expensive, pumps water at a slower rate, and can, like any other mechanical device, fail. Be sure you, or someone in your group takes a manual bilge pump as a back up.
5. Flotation- Whether or not your kayak has bulkheads, it is always a good idea to have some additional Flotation Bags. Occasionally bulk heads, like hatches, can leak. If you are paddling in the surf or in an area with submerged rocks or reefs it is especially important in case your kayak is damaged.
6. Rope - at least 50 feet of line is
recommended. It can be used to tow another kayak or person, and can come
in handy once on shore. Be sure to keep it readily available and free of
tangles. I used a figure 8 knot to attach carabiners to the end of mine
that make clipping it to another boat effortless. I purchased the Black Diamond
Hotwire Carabiner ($7.95 each) which can be purchased online from REI,
or you should be able to find them at your local climbing store.
7. Signaling Devices - Coast Guard rules require a paddler to carry at least one signaling device. A simple, pealess whistle will fulfill this requirement, but it really isn't the only options. A properly fitted kayaker should take various signaling devices. I always carry a set of three pocket flares, a signaling mirror, a marine radio, and a cell phone. When paddling at dusk, or at night time, Coast Guard rules mandate 3 signaling devices, so if you always have sufficient gear, not only will you always comply with the rules of the road, you just might get yourself, or someone else, out of trouble one day!
8. Clothing - Dress for the water temperature, not the air temp!! You should always be prepared for immersion when paddling.
the remainder of the gear list is under construction!!!
First Aid Kit -Bandages, Neosporin, Aspirin, Space Blanket,
Weather Radio- preferable a VHF submersible radio
Flashlight/Strobe
Other essentials: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, extra clothing, plenty of water, snacks,