Looking for the best gifts for kayakers? We’ve got you covered!

Whether the person you’re buying for is new to paddling or a seasoned pro, you’ll easily find a thoughtful, practical, or fun gift to suit!

Here are some great kayaking gifts and the reasons why we love them!

girl kayaking

Atomic Bear Paracord Bracelet

The perfect survival tool for all outdoor adventurers, this compact bracelet contains everything needed to cope in an emergency.

Adjustable to fit wrists from 8″ (20 cm) to 10.5″ (27 cm), it features five different essentials. These include a reliable compass, a loud emergency whistle for long-range signaling, a ferro rod and striker, and a fire starter. 

It also comes with 12 feet (3.7 meters) of military-grade paracord, which is ideal for securing a shelter outdoors.

Stevenca Metal Tin Sign

Ideal for a man-cave and guaranteed to raise a smile among kayaking enthusiasts, this fun parking sign is made from high-quality, eco-friendly aluminum. 

Although it is lightweight, it is resistant to both water and fading, so you can be confident it will stand up well to the elements. 

Featuring a cool, retro design, it comes with pre-drilled holes to make it easy to hang in a favorite spot. 

Palmyth UV Protection Fingerless Gloves

One of the most thoughtful gift ideas for kayakers, these gloves can help prevent blisters, bug bites, and calluses. 

They also have certified UPF 50+ and SPF UV protection is woven into the fabric. This means the protection against the sun cannot be rubbed or washed off, even when the gloves are wet!

Available in different colors and sizes, they have lots of cool features including long cuffs to protect the wrists and two fingertip pull-tabs to make them easier to take off. 

The fabric is stretchy and breathable for comfort and the palm is partially reinforced with synthetic leather to provide a better grip. The gloves are machine-washable too, so keeping them clean is a breeze!

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeping gear and valuables dry is always a challenge for kayakers – so this awesome dry bag made from fully waterproof PVC is guaranteed to be a hit. 

Available in a range of bright colors, it comes in 5 different sizes, ranging from 3.7 gals (10L) up to 14.5 gals (55L). Compact and lightweight, it features comfortable carrying straps and a waterproof phone case suitable for all types of phones.

Durable and designed to last, this bag has a roll-top closure and floats when full of air, making it easy to spot on the water.

KATYDID Kayak Hair Don’t Care Baseball Cap

Any kayaker will adore this fun baseball capWith a snap closure and made from 100% cotton, it has a high-quality curved bill design. 

This means that it doesn’t just look good but it also effectively keeps the sun out of your eyes. This makes it ideal for kayaking and any other outdoor activity.

Made with a high-visibility, distressed design, and fully embroidered, it has a neutral look that pairs well with any outfit. 

There is an adjustable velcro strap so that it can be loosened or tightened with ease, so one size will be suitable for everyone. 

The mesh at the back is soft and breathable, keeping your kayaking buddy feeling comfortable all day long.

SKWOOSH Classic Kayak Paddling Gel Seat Pad

One of the most thoughtful kayaking gifts in our guide, this gel seat pad will show just how much you care!

The fluidized gel is designed to relieve pressure points, keeping the kayaker comfortable as they paddle. 

The top layer is permeable to liquid and breathable, whilst the spacer layer transports liquid and heat away from the top and allows air to flow.

The bottom layer provides stable support and has a non-skid base, so it won’t slip at all – even in the wettest conditions. Absolutely no installation is required and this comfy pad is designed to fit most kayaks and factory seats.

Skywin Kayak Cooler

One of the best gifts for kayakers who like to spend as much time as possible out on the water, this spacious cooler is designed for kayaks with lawn-chair-style seats.

It comes in 5 different vibrant colors and has bungee ball cords that fasten on the cooler and attach securely to the kayak seat. 

Although it is easy to fit in all the food, drinks, and ice needed for a day trip, the design is narrow enough to leave space in the kayak’s storage area for other gear and accessories.

The strong water-resistant zipper and waterproof outer materials protect the contents from splashes and rain. What’s more, the convenient position of the zipper at the top makes it easy to access drinks, even when seated!

Ayaport Kayak Paddle Grips

Designed for take-apart paddles with a diameter of around 30mm, these grips are a great accessory that any kayaker will appreciate!  

They come in lots of different colors and are made from non-slip silicone. Silicone is an excellent material for these grips, being both eco-friendly and durable.

With a spiral construction and unique texture, they are designed to provide a perfect grip without making the diameter of the shaft feel too thick. 

A better grip will make it much easier to paddle efficiently and protect against the development of blisters and calluses.

Installation is easy and an installation instruction guide is included with tips for a perfect fit.

LINGVUM Paddle Leash

As all kayakers will tell you, watching your paddle fall into the water and drift away is no fun. This cool and lightweight paddle leash is the solution, making it a popular choice as a kayaking gift!

It features a coiled design but is very stretchy, capable of extending from 49 inches to 75 inches (124- 191 cm) – more than enough for most users. It is also extremely strong and is made from 6mm super-strong elastic rubber. 

This will ensure that it is durable – lasting well throughout many trips – and it won’t overstretch, which would cause it to lose elasticity over time. The nylon outer increases its durability even more by preventing the elastic from corroding.

It is very simple to use, with one end tied to the paddle and another to either a life jacket or boat, using the carabiner. 

This is a very versatile gift that can be alternatively used like a rod or gear leash. It could also double up as a safety strap when on a boat.

Sun Company SeaTurtl Kayak Compass

From a name you can trust in outdoor gear, this full-size marine compass makes the perfect kayak gift! 

Easy to read and standard-sized, it can be conveniently mounted right on the kayak deck. This is thanks to the four high-strength elastic cords that are adjustable and allow for a snug fit wherever they are attached.

In fact, it is this versatility that makes this compass such a thoughtful gift, as it could easily be used on a paddleboard too, or for any other kind of watersport,

Made from rugged ABS material it weighs just 8.8 ounces (.25 kg) and has foam pads on the base to prevent surface damage to any area it is attached to. 

It also features an adjustable hood, designed to protect the compass when you are not using it or to prevent glare whilst in use. 

Final Thoughts On Kayaking Gifts

This awesome list of gift ideas for kayakers contains something to suit every budget. I hope it has helped you find that perfect accessory to enhance the kayaking experience for a special someone.

If you have a lot of adventurous people in your life here are some more gift guides:

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015. She is been living abroad since 2014. Originally Canadian, she has been living and working online in many destinations around the world. She is passionate about traveling, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit.

She has traveled extensively in Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. She is now living in Thailand.


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