Kayaking is generally seen as a man’s sport but we all know that is a myth. Exploring the world of kayak as a women can be a fun adventure but knowing what gear is essential can be confusing, especially since most articles target men. We have compiled a list of the best kayaking gear for women and provided some recommendations for each item.
Best Kayaks for Women
Perception Kayaks Thermaltake Pacific W7 Kayak
The Perception Kayaks Thermaltake Pacific W7 Kayak is our top pick for women. It was designed specifically for the ergonomic needs of women. It’s lightweight and easy to transport as it only weighs 46 pounds. The Perception Tribute is very stable and offers sporty performance for a fun filled day on the water. You’ll be surprised at how fast this kayak goes with effortless paddling. The Perception Kayaks Thermaltake Pacific W7 Kayak is a perfect choice for any women, especially those looking for a lightweight yak.
Lifetime Cruze 100 Sit-in Kayak
The Lifetime Cruze 100 Sit-in Kayak is geared towards small and medium framed women. The ergonomics of this kayak will make you feel secure and firmly in control.
The seat is adjustable and waterproof. It was designed to help relieve pressure points and improve blood flow.
The Cruze 100 provides plenty of storage so you can take longer trips. The hull is designed to help improve steering in winds and high seas.
The combination of stability and maneuverability makes the Lifetime Cruze 100 Sit-in Kayak a favorite among sea kayakers.
Best Life Jackets for Women
Stohlquist Women’s Flo Life Jacket
The Stohlquist Women’s Flo Life Jacket features a denier inner and out shell that is durable and lightweight.
The high back flotation is designed for comfort and fits perfectly in any seat found in today’s sit-on-top kayaks. The open sides and mesh back help keep you cool while you are paddling hard. The cross-chest chinch harness will not ride up. The large bellow pockets include drainage to help keep dry. The Stohlquist Women’s Flo Life Jacket is an essential gear for any woman kayaker.
O’Neill Women’s SuperLite USCG Life Vest
The O’Neill Women’s SuperLite USCG Life Vest sets a new standard for life vest comfort. The flotation panels are trimmed to conform to your torso.
The mesh ventilation allows for improved air flow. This life jacket was designed for paddling and allows for easy movement of your arms. If you are looking for a high quality life jacket that was designed for women, consider the O’Neill Women’s SuperLite USCG Life Vest.
Best Paddles for Women
Seasense X-Treme Ii Mix Kayak Paddle
The Seasense X-Treme Ii Mix Kayak Paddle is an extra-long paddle that is designed to be fully submerged during every stroke which helps you move faster without using more energy. This paddle is extremely sturdy and durable. It has a light feel and can be used for feather paddling or power paddling.
The paddle can be adjusted into three positions. It is a great option for women since you don’t need to be very strong to use this paddle. Overall, we highly recommend the Seasense X-Treme li Mix Kayak Paddle.
Shoreline Marine Kayak Paddle
The Shoreline Marine Kayak Paddle is another great option for women. It is a 96-inch paddle that features a corrosion resistant shaft and a rounded blade.
The blades are molded for better use and the high impact handles make this paddle comfortable to use. If you want an affordable paddle that is still high quality, consider the Shoreline Marine Kayak Paddle.
Kayaking Clothes for Women
Outdoor Research Women’s Oasis Sombrero Hat
The Outdoor Research Women’s Oasis Sombrero Hat will keep you safe from the sun while out on the water. You will still need to apply sunscreen but this hat will help shade your face for even more protection.
The Solar Shield construction provides up to UPF 50 sun protection. The TransAction headband keeps your head dry and cool. If the hat blows off of your head, don’t worry losing it because it floats. This stylish hat is perfect for a day of kayaking.
NRS Womens Paddle Shoe
The NRS Womens Paddle Shoes are designed for women kayakers. They are manufactured out of a durable, breathable and waterproof neoprene material. They are natural shaped to a woman’s foot for outstanding comfort and fit. The high-top and low-profile design adds warmth and protection without the bulk.
The zipper allows you to slip them on and off over bare feet. The sole of the shoes wraps around your heel and toe for extra protection and protects your foot when it is pressed up against the side of the kayak. When you are ready to head out on the water for a day of fun, you need the Women’s NRS Paddle Shoe.
NRS Women’s Half-Finger Boater’s Gloves
The NRS Women’s Half-Finger Boater’s Gloves will help protect your hands from the sun and will help prevent blisters caused by the paddle.
These gloves are made from a lightweight spandex which provides UPF 50 sun protection. The synthetic leather palms will protect against blisters. The NRS Boaters Gloves for Women are extremely flexible so you can paddle with ease.
Dive Skins Full Body Wetsuit
The Dive Skins Full Body Wetsuit is a one-of-a-kind cold weather base layer perfect for women kayakers. The thick skinned suit is form fitting.
This soft material is made from Greenplus environmentally friendly polyester and spandex, creating a heavy weight, stretchy, double sided fleece that will provide you with the ultimate comfort, warmth and protection.
A high tech super stretch neoprene collar allows you to enter the suit via the neck opening. The Dive Skins Full Body Wetsuit is the best base layered suit ever created.
