This Paddle Board and Kayak Gear Is Expert-loved

When the cold and gray days finally subside and it’s summer in Upstate New York, I get out on the lake any chance I can get. While boat trips with friends are a favorite weekend pastime, I’m most frequently navigating the waters by paddle board and kayak. These quieter watercraft are better for spotting eagles, beavers, and other wildlife, not to mention the built-in exercise and joy of unplugging in nature. 

Though each water sport can be done with just a paddle and lifejacket, there’s some additional gear and apparel I like to pack to extend my time on the water with safety and comfort in mind. Most kayaks and paddle boards have sufficient weight capacity and storage to accommodate extra items.

From lightweight sun protection and waterproof storage to quick-drying swimwear and other accessories, these are kayaking and paddle board essentials I recommend packing for enjoying your next paddling adventure.

Bote LowRider Aero Inflatable Hybrid Paddle Board

We have multiple paddle boards for ourselves and guests, and this inflatable hybrid model is my go-to for introducing friends who are new to stand up paddle boarding. It’s three feet wide and has a 300-pound weight capacity, meaning excellent stability and buoyancy for paddlers working on their balance and confidence. I find that it tracks well for an inflatable board due to its three fin setup. Or in simpler terms, it’s not difficult to paddle in a straight line. The ability to use it as either a kayak and paddle board is a big value-adder for me. The cushy removable seat and included four-piece paddle make it seamless to reconfigure for kayaking. 

“It is sturdy to stand on and the seats are comfortable for your back,” noted one paddler that reviewed it on REI. I also find the deck to be more forgiving on the feet than traditional stand up paddle boards. “I’ve ridden a number of boards from many manufacturers, and this is the most stable board I’ve ever ridden,” chimed in another paddler from REI. 

On a budget or just starting out? This highly-rated inflatable paddle board from Amazon has more than 8,000 five-star ratings and is nearly a fourth of the price. It comes with all the accessories you’ll need to get yourself on the water, including an adjustable paddle, hand pump, detachable fin, safety leash, and travel backpack to take the board and its gear anywhere with you.

Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak Set

I use an inflatable tandem kayak to comfortably hold my husband, dog, and me while paddling. Although my go-to kayak is sold out, this is a rugged and affordable alternative at less than $200. The open cockpit design helps take full advantage of the 400-pound capacity, whether loading full of passengers or camping gear. It comes with two 86-inch kayak paddles, two inflatable seats with backrests, a pump, and one repair patch.

According to reviewers, it’s “comfy, durable, and fun” and inflating the three chambers takes just 10 minutes. Many customers also reported that it accommodates their dogs for a day out on the water.

NRS Ninja PFD

Having a comfortable lifejacket adds assurance and peace of mind, especially when kayaking rougher waters or still getting the hang of paddle boarding. I love the mobility afforded by this low-profile lifejacket. My complaint with conventional lifejacket designs is that they restrict movement while paddling and rub against the skin. But the Ninja avoids this by concentrating flotation in the abdomen and mid-back. I made frequent use of the zippered clamshell pocket for my waterproof camera, and it’s also equipped with hand-warming pockets and attachment points for additional gear. 

The side-entry takes a moment to get used to, but I find the design enhances adjustability reduces the risk of straps getting caught or twisted. “The straps are easy to adjust, and the low profile helps when moving around and getting back in my boat,” said one paddler on NRS’s website. “The comfort and fit of this Ninja PFD is amazing and once I put it on for the first time I knew i wouldn’t be going back to any other PFD,” added another. 

Orvis Jackson Quick-Dry Shorts

On longer paddles and camping trips, I turn to these durable quick-dry shorts over a bathing suit. I’m a fan of the clean and sleek silhouette to reduce the risk of getting snagged. This tapered fit doesn’t come at the cost of mobility thanks to the fabric’s four-way stretch. The UPF 50+ protection is another major selling point to safely spend hours on the water. 

The shorts have a nine-inch inseam and come in waist sizes 30-42. According to one paddler, they stayed “totally comfortable for six hours in a drift boat,” adding that they quickly dried when wet and looked good even after being on the water for hours. 

Bearbottom Stretch Swim Shorts

When summer heats up, I sport these stretch swim shorts so I can take a dip (a planned one, that is) while paddle boarding. They’re quick-drying and stretchy for staying comfortable and nimble while paddling. The mesh liner is plenty loose, and I haven’t had any issues with chafing while wearing for hours on end. I’m a fan of the bolder patterns, though there are some classic designs in the mix. 

The stretch waistband keeps the shorts in place without feeling too tight. “These are my new go-to swim shorts,” said one shopper, adding that they’re very well-made and super comfortable. “The colors are vivid and the quality of material is outstanding,” another chimed in. 

Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt

This quick-dry shirt is part of my hiking and camping repertoire, but it also performs well as a base layer on cooler paddles The quick-drying fabric does a great job at wicking away sweat, but the lack of seams is where this shirt stands out for comfort. I appreciate the effectiveness of the odor control— an issue I’ve had with other quick-dry shirts. 

Its use of recycled materials, plus the sleek aesthetic, are also nice touches for sustainability and wearing it post-paddle. The shirt is available in five sizes (S-XXL) and multiple colors. 

Eddie Bauer Solarfoil Pro Hoodie

Paddling on the open water means a healthy dose of Vitamin D, but also increased exposure to the sun. For late morning and midday padding, this quick-dry hoodie let’s me stay out longer while keeping my skin protected. The lightweight fabric wicks away sweat and provides UPF 50+ protection against the sun. I’m a fan of the thumbholes on the cuffs, which keep my sleeves from rolling up while paddling. 

I also appreciate that there’s ample stretch in the hoodie material for unrestricted movement while paddling. “It’s lightweight, moves well, and keeps me cool,” said one shopper on Eddie Bauer’s website. Another traveler mentioned that it kept them comfortable and shielded from the sun on a trip to the Galapagos, adding that “the tour group went on multiple daily hikes in really intense equatorial sun and I did not get sunburned.” 

Eddie Bauer Exploration UPF Vented Boonie Hat

While this sunhat isn’t the most fashionable, the ventilation and practicality are hard to beat. Though my larger head doesn’t work for most hats, the drawstring closure does a fine job at achieving a secure and comfortable fit. The brim is wide enough to offer shade without obstructing vision. The quick-drying materials also boast UPF 50+ sun protection. 

I love that I can fold up the hat and stash it in a pocket for transporting or between use. One shopper that called it a “great travel hat” agrees: “The brim is soft and pliable so the hat could easily fit into a cargo pocket, purse, or small backpack.”

Pit Viper The Exec Fondue Glasses

The side shields on these sunglasses have been a game changer in terms of UV and wind protection. For a more relaxed look off the water, the removable side shields easily pop off. The rubber on the nose and earpieces deliver a snug fit without any pinching or pressure points. They’re also durable, having already endured a fall after being left on the roof of the car while loading my paddle board. The glasses come with both soft and hard carry cases, plus a drawstring for added security while wearing. 

Bote MagnePod Insulated Tumbler

While this insulated tumbler is universally a great way to stay refreshed and hydrated in summer, it pairs best with a compatible Bote paddle board to secure it to the magnetic base. The attachment point on my LowRider Aero, for instance, is just in front of where I stand while stand up paddle boarding or where the seat attaches for kayaking. I love having a cold beverage at the ready and the assurance that it won’t tip over while paddling. The sliding lid and straw make it easy to grab a drink with just one hand. 

I have the citron yellow version and the stainless steel exterior doesn’t get overheated in the sun. “Not once did our cups fall off, fall over, or spill” said one shopper, adding that they use them in the waves and surf without issue. 

Rumpl Everywhere Towel

Though my quick-drying apparel doesn’t stay wet long, this packable towel comes in handy for paddling excursions that involve swimming or picnicking. I love the retro design options and how packable it is. It’s six feet long but can fold down small enough to fit neatly in a backpack pocket or get tucked in the bungees of my kayak or paddle board for easy access. I’ve had no issue rinsing off dirt after using it to sit or lie along the shoreline. 

There’s also a discrete loop to hang the towel on a hook or branch to let it air dry. The functionality was praised by many customers. “Absorbent, dries quick, and takes up so little room,” summarized one shopper. “It was easy to shake the sand off and very absorbable,” added another. 

Seal to Summit Big River Dry Bag

We take a couple camping trips to boat-access only sites in the Adirondacks that require loading up gear and provisions. This dry bag is a trusted companion for getting clothing and equipment safely to shore. Aside from its waterproof protecting, the roll-top closure makes for easy loading and unloading. It’s compact design also helps save space in the boat. 

The bag comes in a variety of sizes, ranging from 5 liters to 65 liters. The smallest is perfect for holding a phone and valuables while paddle boarding and kayaking, while the largest is suited for hauling camping gear. The durability and waterproof protection have earned it a 4.7-star average rating from nearly 100 shoppers. “Kept our keys, phones, and wallet dry while we were snorkeling, swimming, and paddle boarding in Hawaii,” said one shopper.  

Breakwater Supply Submersible Backpack

To safely transport gear on my paddle board, I rely on this waterproof backpack. I make use of the smaller zippered compartment for my car keys and phone, while the spacious main compartment easily holds an extra layer and packed lunch.  Its welded seams and durable nylon TPU exterior are not only waterproof, but incredibly tough against wear and tear. While these materials aren’t breathable, the EVA back panel helps with airflow so I don’t overheat. 

The backpack has a 4.6-star average rating from hundreds of customers, with many praising its comfort and reliability. “The straps are wide and don’t dig in and there is good padding on the back,” said one shopper. One traveler who used the backpack while island hopping in the Philippines notes that “never a drop of water got into the bag,” adding that it stayed watertight even while swimming with and submerging it. 

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 Speaker

When kayaking or paddle boarding with friends, this waterproof speaker helps set the mood, whether it’s a leisurely paddle or more active adventure. It has 14 hours of battery life and can be submerged to a depth of one meter for 30 minutes. Though I haven’t pushed the speaker to those limits, it’s endured heavy splashing on my paddle board without any detectable impact. I appreciate the 131-foot range for Bluetooth connectivity, so the tunes will continue even if the connected phone and speaker diverge a bit on the water. 

The waterproof speaker has a 4.6-star average rating from more than 2,000 customers. The packable design and performance are top of mind for many customers. “It’s compact enough to toss into my bag or backpack without adding extra bulk or weight, making it ideal for adventures on the go,” said one shopper.  “The appearance is deceiving because it sounds like a large sound system with a bass,” added another that called it the “perfect speaker.”

NRS Kayak Bilge Pump

Whether navigating choppier waters or an unexpected rain shower, there are many scenarios where water can get in your kayak. This compact bilge pent makes it easy to take care of water while paddling or before loading my inflatable kayak back into the car. The long, slender design is adept at getting into the cockpit and recesses of the kayak to pump out water. It’s small enough to fit in the cockpit or secure with bungees. 

With a 4.7-star average rating from over 1,500 customers, the bilge pump is a tried-and-true solution for bailing out water. In the words of one shopper: “It has outstanding suction, works easy, and cleans up like brand new.”

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