With so many best kayak accessories on the market, what am I using right now? That’s a good question. I’ll share with you my list of current gear. Also, for my kayak camping gear, check out: Kayak Camping Tips & Lessons.
I will be adding reviews for each of these specifically. Check out all our Gear Reviews for more info.
Touring Kayak:
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 (Shop Now)
This is the blue kayak that you see in some of my pictures. I also have an older Perception Carolina (Shop Now) 14.5′. This is the red one in some pictures. Lastly, I have a Pelican Trailblazer 100 rec kayak, which is similar to the Maxim 100X (Shop Now). Hint: If you want to stay happy with your kayak, don’t try out way more expensive gear with your local kayak club.
Kayak Paddle:
Aquabound Manta Ray Carbon Fiber Kayak Paddle (Shop Now)
After a lot of research, I went with the Aqua Bound Manta Ray Full Carbon paddle. This was an upgrade over a Field & Stream aluminum paddle, and it was well worth it. Check out my full review: Aquabound Manta Ray Carbon Paddle Full Review
Kayak PFD:
Onyx Movevent Paddle Sports Life Vest (Shop Now)
I got this when I first started kayaking and had a smaller budget. I haven’t felt the need to upgrade yet, but this is probably the next thing I’d upgrade. Check out my full review: Onyx Movevent Dynamic Review
Kayak Spray Skirt:
Seals Sea Sprite Spray Skirt (Shop Now)
Does a great job sealing out water and it has a tight fit around the coaming. My legs do get pretty hot underneath in the summer, but that’s one of the trade-offs on the neoprene vs nylon skirts.
Kayak Deck Bag:
NRS Taj M’Haul (Shop Now)
I looked for a deck bag for a while. I finally chose the NRS Taj M’Haul, and it was worth the price. Check out my full review: NRS Taj M’Haul Full Review
Kayak Dry Bags:
Freegrace Waterproof Bags Set of 3 (Shop Now)
I got the 10L bag. I chose this one for the zip seal closure plus the other bags. The cell phone bag works great, and I use it every trip now. I haven’t used the waist pouch much.
Kayak Storage Rack:
Cor Surf padded wall sling (Shop Now)
I got the wall sling, because I am hanging my kayaks on the edge of a pallet rack right now. I don’t think a traditional wall rack would work in that spot. So far this has worked great! Only downside is it can be difficult balancing the kayak and trying to connect the strap by yourself
Kayak Truck Rack:
Harbor freight Bed extender (Shop Now)
I had to purchase this quickly, as I was on my way to pick up a 14′ kayak that wouldn’t fit otherwise. The surface has gotten scratched up, so I put some pool noodle type foam over it to protect the kayaks.
Kayak Cart:
Suspenz SK Airless Cart (Shop Now)
I’ve only used this cart a couple of times, as most of my launches are right next to parking. It took a bit to get the hang of the straps, but it definitely made it easier to maneuver. These tires are a bit small, which I liked for storage, but if you are in a lot of deep or loose sand, another cart may be better.
Conclusion
So that’s what I’m using right now. I’m relatively happy with all of these. I’d like a faster kayak with a little less stability just for some fun. I may pick one up soon, but I think the Tsunami is a great all around option for all the different things I do. I’d probably spend a little more on the PFD next time just to get one a little less bulky. The Onyx is a great affordable option, though.
What do you think of our current set-up? What’s your current kayak gear?