Unfortunate as it is, not all your kayak trips can take place in calm, glassy waters. When cold weather prevails, you eventually need to invest in a spray skirt for your sit-in kayak. However, choosing the perfect kayak spray skirt is not complicated once you know this essential equipment’s basics.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the parameters that you need to be aware of while purchasing the kayak skirt that’s the right fit for you:
When to Wear a Kayak Spray Skirt?
Kayak spray skirts are suitable for cold weather when the water conditions are harsh, or there is a high chance of rain. However, while it may feel somewhat stuffy to wear kayak skirts during warm weather, they become necessary when the water is too rough. Otherwise, the waves washing over the deck could destabilize and swamp your vessel under such circumstances.
Spray Skirt Materials to Choose From
1- Neoprene
Neoprene is a hard-wearing material that provides warmth and protection from water in equal measures. These kinds of spray skirts hold firmly to the cockpit so they can withstand the pressure of breaking waves in extreme conditions.
However, you’ll need to practice your skirt-removal technique before using it, as it can get a bit difficult to remove them after a wet exit.
2- Nylon
All-nylon spray skirts are more breathable and comfortable in moderate weather conditions. They are easier to attach and remove, but you can’t expect them to keep the water out if the kayak capsizes.
3- Neoprene/Nylon
The neoprene/nylon kayak spray skirt is a great design for when the weather conditions are variable. If there’s a prospect of high wave development during the day, these skirts will hold their own quite well.
Special Types of Kayak Spray Skirts
1- Splash Decks
The splash decks are suitable for comparatively calm waters and warm weather. These are attached to the cockpit’s front to keep the paddle from dripping water onto your legs. Moreover, as these skirts don’t cover the whole opening, the air freely circulates within the cockpit and keeps you cooler.
2- Tandem Kayak Spray Skirt
The tandem spray skirts are designed for two-person boats with a single cockpit. It comes in two pieces that you can fasten over the cockpit together. They’re usually a good investment for kayaking during rough weather and water conditions.
Getting the Right Fit
To examine the kayak spray skirt’s fit, you should put it on your waist first and then tie it to the kayak. If the size is exactly right, it will leave you just enough wiggle room to move comfortably.
Moreover, you must always examine the grab loop that goes on the kayak’s front. If your kayak capsizes, you’ll need to grab hold of it immediately and pull on it to release the skirt. That’s why ensuring it’s of high quality is one of the most crucial factors.
Keep in mind the information provided in this blog post to get the perfect kayak spray skirt without a problem!
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