Do you have someone in your life who loves kayaking? Whether they enjoy a relaxing trip on a fishing pond or racing down the rapids, these gifts for kayakers are sure to excite that person in your life!
Best Kayaking Gear Gifts
Kayak Seat Pad
Even though kayaking is exhilarating, it can definitely leave you with a sore bottom the next day from sitting on those hard, uncomfortable seats that many kayaks have. This Kayak Seat Pad features gel cushioning for maximum support and comfort. It’s loaded with features that the kayaker in your life will appreciate.
This cushion has a silicone non slip coating to ensure the pad won’t slip. The kayaker in your life will appreciate this gift for years to come.
JOTO Waterproof Cellphone Case
The Waterproof Cellphone Case by JOTO is a must-have for kayaking trips. It can be used to store phones (up to a 7″ diagonal size) as well as money, credit cards, and more. It’s the perfect way to keep your essentials close, without worrying they’ll be damaged by the water.
This waterproof phone case is certified waterproof up to 100-feet. As an added bonus, they won’t have to take their phone out to use it. The plastic used to make the pouch is touchscreen friendly. They’ll also appreciate that the case has a wrist strap, making it easier to carry, and a snap-and-lock design that lets them get their phone in or out of the case in just seconds.
Sealine Dry Bag
The Dry Bag by Sealine is perfect for storing clothes, food, and anything else that you don’t want getting wet. It comes in four different sizes, with this one being 20L. Not only does it keep contents dry, but this can be used to compress the contents so they slide more easily into available space in the kayak.
This has a DrySeal roll-top closure that makes everything easy to access while keeping it dry and a waterproof valve for better compression. The outside of the bag is slick when wet, helping it slide smoothly, and there is a transparent window so it’s easy to tell what’s inside. The kayaker in your life will love this gift!
MoveVent Life Vest
Safety is a must in the water, even for experienced swimmers. The MoveVent Dynamic Sports Life Vest by ONYX is a great choice for keeping your loved one safe. It is Coast Guard approved and designed for action, making it easier for them to paddle their kayak through the water.
Some of the features the kayaker in your life will appreciate are the mesh lower back, which helps them sit better against high-back seats, neoprene comfort pads, and an adjustable shoulder area. This also has expandable zippered pockets that have mesh in the back to allow drainage and SOLAS reflective material, which helps with visibility if they fall in the water at night.
Outdoor Research Sombrero
It’s easy to forget to stop and reapply sunscreen when you’re paddling on a pond or river. The Seattle Sombrero by Outdoor Research is a great alternative for protecting a kayaker’s sensitive areas like their face and neck from the sun. It’s great for kayaking and even floats in the water, just in case it gets knocked off!
The wide brim provides UPF 50+ protection and is made from floating foam. This is also made using lightweight 100% Supplex nylon, which is water-resistant and easy to wash. Inside the sombrero, there’s a TransAction headband that wicks away moisture and sweat. This helps keep sweat out of their eyes and keeps them cool and comfortable. Finally, an adjustable and removable chin cord keeps the hat from flying off.
Katari 3 Hydration Backpack
The Katari 3 Hydration Backpack by Osprey will keep the kayaker in your life hydrated while they hit the rapids. This unique backpack features a water compartment that holds 2.5L of water and comes with a valve attachment so they can drink even when they’re navigating down the river. The backpack also has a scratch-free pocket to store things like devices or their sunglasses and dual mesh side pockets made of stretchy material.
This is comfortable to wear and can be placed on the front or back of the kayaker’s body. An AirScape mesh back panel keeps them cool and the soft-edged harness prevents the straps from digging into their skin. They’ll also appreciate that the bite valve is magnetic- they can easily secure it to the pack after taking a drink and won’t lose water when it’s not in use.
Hooway Floating Binoculars
These Floating Binoculars are perfect for spotting upcoming bends and hazards like rocks or trees. They are built with an internal compass and range finder and have features making them perfect for water, including being waterproof and being able to float.
Kayakers never have to worry about not knowing what’s coming up ahead because these won’t fog up. They also have a non-slip rubber grip on the outside, so the binoculars are easy to hold onto even when their hands are wet. The kayaker in your life will love this thoughtful gift!
Seattle Sports Bilge Hand Pump
This lightweight Bilge Hand Pump by Seattle Sports is a must-have for kayaking trips. Bilge pumps are used to remove water from the hull that might splash inside while kayaking.
Something nice about this pump is that it is ergonomically designed with a rubber grip on the handle. It accepts a hose that makes it easier to direct the water wherever you need it while pumping. Another benefit is that kayakers don’t have to worry about losing this if the kayak tips. It’s neon yellow which improves visibility and has a foam collar that makes the bilge pump float.
Best Kayak Gifts for Fisherman
Scotty Rod Holder
This Power Lock Rod Holder from Scotty is perfect for the kayaker that loves to fish. The power-lock interior uses a universal cradle that will fit most rod and reel setups. It also has a front locking ring that keeps the rod secure while traveling.
The mount dimensions for this rod holder are 4″ x 2″ x 2″, so it will work on most styles of kayak and other watercraft as well. It comes with a side/deck mount as well, so they can put the holder wherever it’s most convenient for them. As an added bonus, it has full up and down adjustment, as well as 360-degree rotation. It’s really adaptable to any fishing situation!
Blisswill Fishing Backpack
This Fishing Backpack by BLISSWILL makes it easy for your loved one to pack up and get some fishing done. It’s a multi-functional backpack with plenty of storage space. In addition to the many pockets, this has an outer pocket for a bottle of water, two braided straps to secure a fishing pole, and a secret compartment on the bottom for even more gear.
The highly adjustable straps make this easy to wear in a variety of ways, preventing shoulder fatigue. It can be worn crossbody, as a sling bag, carried as a handbag, or worn across the chest. This fishing backpack will also last and last, being made from highly durable water-resistant fabric. The double zippers ensure the fisherman in your life will always be able to easily access their gear, too!
Lucky Wireless Fish Finder
This Wireless Fish Finder by Lucky is a great choice because kayaks don’t have a power source. They can attach this to their boat using a mount or hold it in their hands. It works using a sonar ball that can easily be attached to the fishing line. Then, the fish finder alerts them when fish or schools of fish pass by below and has a range of 147 feet deep. It can even tell them if the kayak is approaching shallow water!
The fish finder has a battery life of around 5-6 hours of continuous use, which is perfect for a day or night of charging. It can be recharged with a portable battery pack if they plan on staying out longer. Since the fish finder is waterproof, there’s no risk of damage if water splashes overboard and it gets wet. It even floats, which is great if it happens to go overboard! The kayaking fisherman in your life will be thrilled to receive this as a gift.
Best Novelty Gifts for Kayakers
Kayaker Parking Sign
This tin Kayaker Parking Sign is 8″ x 12″. It’s made from aluminum metal for a lightweight, but durable design. The metal has a coating to reduce fading and resist dust. This makes it the perfect decoration for a kayak enthusiast’s garage, man cave, or living room.
The kayaker in your life will also love that this is super easy to hang up. It comes with holes pre-drilled and is ready to be hung right out of the box.
I’m My Head I’m Kayaking Mug
Many kayakers find themselves daydreaming about their next excursion, especially while they’re getting ready for work. They will get a chuckle out of the In My Head I’m Kayaking and start their day off right with 11 ounces of their favorite beverage, whether they enjoy coffee, tea, or cocoa.
The words, “You might think I’m listening to you, but in my head I’m kayaking”, are printed on both sides of the mug. It has a wide, C-shaped handle that is easy to hold onto and is dishwasher and microwave safe. The kayaker in your life will love this!
I’m Sexy And I Row It T-Shirt
This Sexy And I Row It T-Shirt is another funny gift that the kayaker in your life will appreciate. It says the words, “I’m sexy and I row it” with a colorful picture of a kayak and rider in the middle.
This shirt is made with quality fabric that is breathable and lightweight. It is designed with a classic fit and has a double-needle sew along the bottom hem and sleeves for better durability. The kayaker in your life will love wearing this shirt!
More Cool Gifts for Kayakers
Convertible Inflatable Kayak
Even if the kayaker in your life already has a sturdy kayak, this compact model would make a good gift. The Convertible Inflatable Kayak by Advanced Elements is super easy to set up and inflate after you get to your location. Before, it can be stored in a convenient carrying case. This makes it perfect for those hard-to-get-to destinations where you might not want to carry a traditional kayak.
Even being an inflatable, this kayak tracks through the water with ease. It has built-in aluminum ribs for added strength in the bow and stern and is coated in three layers of material, making it extremely durable and puncture-resistant. They’ll also appreciate that this comes with 3 different seat locations, meaning that it can be used solo or tandem and remain balanced.
Bonnlo Kayak Carrier
Kayaking is a lot of fun, but sometimes the most challenging part is getting the kayak into the water. This Kayak Carrier by Bonnlo makes it easy to get a kayak to rivers and lakes, even if there’s limited access. It supports up to 165 pounds, so it can easily be used to transport your kayak. It’s made from quality materials including a solid aluminum frame, foam bumpers to prevent scratches, and rubber bumpers to protect the frame from wear and tear.
The solid polyurethane tires travel easily across most surfaces, including gravel and sand. Two ratchet straps are also included to ensure the kayak is secure and ready to go. Once they get to their location, a spring-loaded stand helps them keep the kayak dolly propped up for quicker loading and unloading. The kayaker in your life will love to receive this as a gift!
NRS Co-Pilot Knife Black One Size
There are a lot of situations where a knife might come in handy while kayaking. The Co-Pilot Knife by NRS can be used to cup rope, zip ties, and more. It also has a compact size that fits well in the pocket of most PFDs, so it’s right where they will want it in an emergency. Even in a non-emergency, it’s convenient to reach and helps them stay prepared for anything.
In addition to a serrated side and a super sharp smooth blade, this has a blunt safety tip and a bottle opener. The blunt tip can even be used as a screwdriver! This survival knife comes with a sheath for when it isn’t in use. It’s easy to take out, so they’ll always be prepared in an emergency.
Floating Insulated Cooler
The 30 quart Floating Insulated Cooler by CreekKooler is a must-have for those long kayaking excursions. It holds up to 20 pounds of ice and 30 12-ounce cans and retains ice for an impressive 48 hours. This is great since there usually isn’t somewhere to stop for ice on the river!
The floating cooler features an O-ring design and locking lid to keep water out and cold in, as well as a tow handle so it doesn’t take up any space in the kayak. It also has four convenient drink holders on top. The kayaker in your life will love taking this out on their next outing!
Hornet Floating Sunglasses
These Floating Sunglasses by Hornet Watersports have all the features you could want in kayaking sunglasses. Their polarized coating provides UV400 protection from UVA and UVB rays. They have a wrap-around style design that helps them sit securely and even if they fall off, these sunglasses float.
These sporty glasses are a great kayaking gift for men or women. They are able to float because of unique air chambers in the frames, which give them the ability to float without looking bulky. The floating sunglasses also come in a handy carrying case that stops them from getting scratched when you take them off.
GYMTOP Kayak Cover
Does your friend or family member have a kayak cover that’s looking a little rough? This Kayak Cover by GYMTOP is made from 420D waterproof material that blocks UV rays, dust, and the weather from damaging their kayak. It’s a must-have whether they are covering up their kayak for the night or putting it away until next season and has a range of 7.8 to 18.2 feet.
This kayak cover is designed especially for outdoor use and prevents rust, fading, damages, and general dust and grime. It’s made from a thickened Oxfod taffeta material and has an adjustable design. Once the kayak cover is stretched over the boat and sized, there are three reinforcement badges to add to ensure the cover stays where it is put. It doesn’t matter if you aren’t sure what size their kayak is. This fits seven standard kayak sizes and works for kayaks with a length between 7.8 and 18.2 feet.
How We Selected Gifts For Kayakers
Usefulness
We tried to include plenty of gifts that the kayaker in your life can actually use. While they probably have the basics covered, there’s a lot of cool gear for kayakers that they may not even know existed. Plus, who doesn’t love a gift that is actually going to get used? If you want to know some of what they might need, go out on the kayak with them once or twice to get some ideas.
Novelty
Novelty gifts are a fun way to show someone you’ve noticed their love of kayaking. From a Kayaking Coffee Cup that will make them laugh in the morning to a Kayak Parking sign, the kayaker in your life will appreciate that you paid attention.
Budget
Gifts were included to fit a wide range of budgets. Whether you’re looking for a more expensive gift or are on a budget, there’s something for everyone shopping for the kayaker in their life.
FAQs – Gifts for Kayakers
What gear does a kayaker need?
In addition to a kayak, a kayaker should always start with safety. They’ll need a life vest or personal flotation device (PFD). Water shoes are also a good place to start, since they will prevent cuts from sharp rocks in a river bed. Finally, proper clothing is important. Kayakers should always dress for the weather in quick-drying clothing during warmer times or an insulated body suit in colder weather.
Safety aside, there’s always a chance that a kayak might tip. It’s important to have a dry bag that stops phones, car keys, and other important items from getting wet. Safety gear like a headlamp and batteries in case it gets dark, a whistle or other signaling device, and a bilge pump (a pump that helps get water out of the hull). While these basics are a good place to start, kayakers will want additional gear for longer excursions. This might include the Floating Cooler like the one mentioned above and a dry bag to store a tent, change of clothes, and other important things.
Is a kayak a good gift?
Yes, a kayak does make a good gift for someone who loves watersports. Even if the enthusiast already has a kayak, something like an inflatable kayak is a good choice. An inflatable kayak is a lot more convenient to carry to the water’s edge, especially for people who go kayaking alone. They are also significantly more lightweight than a traditional kayak. Our top choice for inflatable kayaks is the Convertible Inflatable Kayak. It is rigid enough to track through water but flexible enough it can be folded down into a convenient, easy-to-carry case.
