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Tips for Cold Weather Kayaking
For us in the Midwest, Northeast, and soon across the country, the weather has turned colder and summer recreational equipment, including kayaks, has been put away for the winter (check out winter storage tips here). For those who love the cold weather and outdoors, though, many will be keeping their kayaks available during the winter months for some winter kayaking.
While kayaking in the winter is not for everyone, it can be quiet and peaceful as the crowds of the warmer months have gone and it’s just you, your kayak, and nature. Many also take up winter kayaking for the challenge as it’s definitely a more difficult endeavor in the winter.
If you are considering cold weather kayaking, it’s extremely important to be aware and prepared. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Be confident.
Ideally your first time in a kayak will not be in the winter. When kayaking in the winter, it’s important to feel confident and have a strong knowledge of how to kayak and how to handle various situations while kayaking. - Dress appropriately.
It’s cold out and so is the water. During the winter months it’s best to wear a wetsuit or a dry suit under your clothing in case the kayak tips and you end up in the water. Outerwear should be waterproof and insulated enough to keep you warm. And, of course, wear your lifejacket. - Bring extra clothing and supplies.
In case you do end up in the water or just getting wet by getting splashed or rained on, it’s a good idea to have extra supplies so you can change into warmer clothing. You may also want to consider bringing a blanket, a fire starter and first aid kit. - Stay close to shore.
If you do venture out on a kayak in the winter, it’s best to stay near the shore in case something happens and you do tip or it gets too cold so you can quickly get to safety. - Kayak with a partner.
It’s best to venture out with a partner for safety. And, you and your partner should both let someone know you’re going to be out kayaking, where and expected time of trip. - Check the weather.
This is good advice not just for winter kayaking, but for summer as well. Before going out, it’s best to check the weather and wind speed to make sure there are no storms or high winds in the forecast.
If you’re not ready to brave the winter waters or it just doesn’t appeal to you, don’t worry, spring and summer will be here before you know it!
Caring for Your Kayak and Kayak Rack During the Winter Months
Fall is here and hopefully you are enjoying some of the beautiful fall days on your kayak. For those of us in colder climates, now is the time to start thinking about kayak storage.
Prepare Your Kayak Before Winter Storage
Before storing your kayak for the winter, it’s important to thoroughly clean it to remove any residue from use over time including sand, dirt, and salt. Simply using water and a mild soap will work to get your kayak clean. You can also use a protectant for your kayak that will help to shield UV rays. Be sure your kayak is completely dry before storing it away for the winter.
How to Store Your Kayak for the Winter
One of the most important storage recommendations for keeping your kayak like new is to hang it on a storage rack and not on the ground during the winter months. Ideally your kayak should be stored inside in a garage, shed, basement, or other storage area. It’s not necessary for the storage location to be warm, just so that the kayak is protected from the outside elements.
When storing your kayak on a rack, be sure to evenly distribute the weight on the rack so as not to damage the hull. If you don’t have a rack, avoid having the kayak sit on the floor as this can deform its shape. It’s best to lay it on its side or vertically on a wall.
If you do have to store your kayak outside, it’s best to keep it in a shaded area and where it will not get wet. You can protect your kayak outside by creating a covering for it, but don’t wrap the kayak in the cover too tight. Make sure there is room for air flow as moisture next to the kayak can cause mold. Be sure the cover is waterproof and UV resistant. Storing your kayak this way while outside will preserve it from the elements including moisture, sunlight and extreme heat and cold which can cause damage.
Whether storing your kayak inside or out, a cockpit cover is helpful to avoid having mice or other animals make a home out of it. You can even make your own cover using a garbage bag and tying it around to cover the cockpit. It’s also helpful to check on your kayak occasionally during the winter to make sure animals or insects have not gotten in.
The Docksider Kayak Lift & Rack
We recommend removing the Docksider kayak storage lift and rack from your dock before winter. Though the Docksider is made from architectural or aircraft grade aluminum, the cold and ice during the winter months can cause damage. The lift and rack can be easily detached from your dock by removing the bolt on or clamp on mount.
The Docksider can also be used as a wall mount rack to store your kayak. We offer a wall mount conversion kit so that you can store your Dockside Kayak Lift & Rack and your kayak in your garage, shed or other storage area. Using the Docksider to store your boat indoors will allow you to very easily lift the kayak up into storage position just as you do on the dock.
Kayak and Paddleboard Season is around the corner!
Be prepared to launch and store your SUP and Kayak, take a look at our videos to see how easy and convenient our dock racks will make your summer fun!!
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The DockSider Dock Rack is capable of handling both your Kayak or your Paddleboard!
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Waterside Paddle Board Storage Rack Video
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