Eight Accessories To Check Before Paddling This Spring

Eight Accessories To Check Before Paddling This Spring

With spring just around the corner, it’s time to start taking a closer look at the paddling gear you’ve had stored away for the winter. Proper storage can help prevent damage to your paddling vessel. Even if you were diligent in your storage technique it’s still essential you inspect and test several accessories before you head to your favorite launch point this spring.

Your paddle should be free of cracks, rust, and damage before venturing out for the first time this season. Check your PFDs for rips and holes, and confirm they still fit. Test hatch covers, pedals, and rudder systems, as well as lines and bungees. Ensure your emergency paddling kit is stocked, and your roof rack and straps are in working order.

Before you head out on your maiden paddling voyage of the year you have to give your paddling vessel a thorough inspection. In addition to checking the hull, you need to ensure all your gear is fully functional as well. Below is a list of the essential accessories you must scrutinize and test before paddling out this spring.

Eight Accessories You Need To Check Before Your First Paddle

1. Your Paddle

There is no paddling accessory more important than the paddle itself. After a long winter in storage you have to give your paddles a careful inspection. All paddles are susceptible to damage in the off-season, but two and three-piece paddles are particularly vulnerable.

Confirm there is no rust or damage at connection points, and when you connect the paddle, ensure it is tight and secure. If there is rust or a loose connection you should address the issue before using it on the water.

Check all your paddles for cracks and other visual damage. Temperature fluctuations and improper storage can easily damage just about any paddle. If you notice these problems it might be a sign it’s time for a new paddle.

2. All PFDs

Since your PFD is what keeps you alive in times of crisis on the water, you’d better ensure it functions properly before paddling this spring. When you take out your paddling gear from storage, lay all your PFDs out for inspection.

First, check all the clasps, buckles, and straps. Ensure they function properly and there are no cracks or other issues. Next, check the rest of the PFD for rips, holes, or other red flags.

Lastly, try on your PFD. This will confirm that it still fits you properly after a long winter of holiday feasts. It’s important you try it on, as sometimes you only notice an issue with a PFD when you wear it.

3. Foot Pedals, Cables, And Rudder

If your kayak has foot pedals, a rudder, and cables connecting them, you must give them a thorough test. It’s very easy for something to go wrong with your pedal steering system when your kayak has been stored away for months.

Test the pedals and ensure they move the rudder/skeg properly. Check the cables for any rust or other potential issues. Your rudder should be easy to control and turn without much resistance. If it’s stiff, it may require some lubrication or adjusting.

4. Hatch Covers

Hatch covers help keep your gear and paddling essentials safe, secure, and dry. Since they are often made of either plastic, rubber, or other materials susceptible to weather damage, they should be checked before you paddle this spring.

Check for cracks, and ensure they still work properly. It’s a good idea to keep removable hatch covers in a climate-controlled environment in the winter, as extreme temperature fluctuations can cause them to break down over time.

5. Emergency Paddling Kit

Ensure your emergency kit, including first aid, is both complete and up to date. Several products in an emergency kit have expiration dates, so check everything in it and see what’s too old to use. Band-Aids and bandages can lose their effectiveness as well, so give them a quick inspection.

If anything is missing or partially used, replace it so you have a complete emergency kit to start the season.

6. Water Shoes And Waterproof Gear

Just as street shoes and sneakers need replacing after a few seasons, so do paddling shoes. After a long winter, check out your boat shoes and waterproof paddling clothing. See what is still in great shape, and what needs to be repaired or thrown away.

Since paddling in the spring often involves cold waters and unique risk factors, you must inspect and test out your waterproof gear before venturing out so you are properly protected from the elements. This will help keep you safe and healthy when paddling at the start of the season.

7. Deck Lines And Bungees

Deck lines and bungees on kayaks, canoes, and SUP boards don’t last forever. Some are better than others, but over time, both lines and bungees fray and lose their effectiveness. Check lines for fraying and vulnerabilities.

Give your bungees a good tug and test them out by placing a full dry bag under them. See if they keep your gear as secure as they did last season. If they are sagging and losing their resilience, replace the old bungees with new ones.

8. Roof Rack, Straps, And Paddling Bags

If you transport your paddling vessel on top of your automobile, then you likely have a roof rack and a specialized bag and straps to get it from your home to your launch point. These accessories must function perfectly or you can risk seriously damaging your paddling vessel.

Check your straps and bag for vulnerabilities, and ensure your roof rack is fully functional before hoisting a boat on top of your vehicle.