BADCC Hints and Tips
Back to Hints & TipsWhat Hat Should I Wear?
No this is not an etiquette guide for those attending high society functions. It is a guide to kit for sea kayaking. Well so what hat should I wear?
That depends. On sunny days a broad brimmed hat that keeps the sun out of your eyes and off your face is great, whilst on cold days a fleece or thinsulate hat is best. Early in the season when the sea is coldest you might also consider a thin neoprene skull cap, just in case you take a dip. A helmet is rarely necessary unless you are playing near rocks (yes, it is possible to play in a sea kayak, though do not expect to pull 360s).
What other kit is different for sea kayaking?
- A whistle, attached to your buoyancy aid, is good for attracting attention in your boat or if you are in the water.
- Sun glasses are essential if it is sunny. Either a glasses cord or neoprene band to keep them on will prevent premature loss.
- Sunscreen is a healthy and more comfortable alternative to sunburn. Remember to reapply sunscreen at intervals through the day.
- Pockets on your buoyancy aid are great for storing nibbles for the day and perhaps a drink (Capri sun drinks are good (there are other pouch style drinks available) and I prefer a 2 litre platypus water bottle on my deck).
- The alternative to pockets is a bumbag worn outside the spraydeck. These are great for keeping sunglasses, sunscreen, flares etc handy during the day.
- And if you are paddling a sea kayak there will be masses of space for storing spare clothes, sports sandals, wildlife books, snorkel etc for the lunchtime beach stop.
However, from my experience last weekend the most important thing is to remember to put the kit you have packed in the car before setting off down for the coast. In Kimmeridge car park on Sunday the haunting cry of "where’s my hat?" could easily be heard above the hubbub.
Date first published: April 2007 by Peter Mansell
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