Are you thinking about starting white water kayaking? Surfing the waves in the rapids and plunging in and out of holes is loads of fun. However, when you’re submerging the boat, you’ll need to keep the water out of the cockpit.
Sinking the front of the boat without a skirt means that you’re not coming back to the surface. The spray skirt keeps the water out of the cockpit. As a result, the air in the cockpit adds volume to the boat, increasing its performance on the water. The spray skirt also helps keep you warm and dry when you’re out on the water.
You’ll need to select the right skirt based on your boat design and needs. This guide gives you everything you need to know about choosing the right spray skirt for your kayak. We’ll make our recommendations on top models and give you a buyer’s guide to help you narrow down the ultimate model for your kayak.
Contents
Our Top Picks
- The Best Overall Kayak Skirts – NRS Drylander Shock Cord Sprayskirt
We recommend this model from NRS for the best overall kayak skirt. If you’re into playboating and creek boating, you understand the need for solid neoprene skirting. This skirt from NRS gives you a combination of high-quality design and materials and plenty of functionality in the water. - The Best Premium Kayak Skirts – Dagger Outbound Spray Skirt
Kayakers demanding the best equipment will love the Dagger Outbound. This skirt gives you an excellent balance of warmth, breathability, and water protection. It comes with onboard storage and internal suspenders for a customized fit that doesn’t create any sag in the deck. - The Best Budget Kayak Skirts – Kunpeng Kayak Skirt
If you’re looking for the most affordable kayak skirt, we recommend using this model from Kunpeng. It might not look fancy and attractive like the other top picks. However, it’s highly functional, easy to fit, and very affordable.
Kayak Spray Skirts Reviews
Best Overall Kayak Spray Skirt- NRS Drylander Shock Cord Sprayskirt
If you’re practicing blunts and rollovers in eddies or surfing in your favorite play spot, you need to stay dry while having fun in your kayak. Even if you’re out on a river run on high-volume rapids in the early spring, you need the NRS Drylander Shock Cord Sprayskirt to keep the water out of your boat.
This model wins our award for the best overall kayak spray skirt. You get a durable, thick, neoprene design allowing you to take on the coldest water conditions and stay warm and dry. The 4-mm neoprene skirt deck creates an extra-tight hold around the cockpit, giving you a waterproof skirting ideal for the most intense river rapids.
- 4mm Terraprene neoprene deck and tunnel
- Stretches easily and fits drum tight, shock cord rand, pre curved deck
- Infinity coating at front and side deck edges, 2mm Extend material with 4-way stretch Superspan tunnel
- Rubberized inner deck coating, fixed tunnel adjustment
- Nylon webbing with rubber grab loop
The tunnel on the skirt features design and construction with 2mm neoprene for an ergonomic, form-fitting, and nonrestrictive fit around your torso. NRS reinforces the edges of the skirt to improve its service life, ensuring that it lasts for years with no leaks or seal fails. The Infinity coating on the edges of the skirt protects against paddle wear and abrasions.
The inner deck of the NRS Drylander Shock Cord Sprayskirt features reinforcement with a rubberized coating providing extra grip of the skirt to the kayak coaming to prevent slipping. The shock cord offers a tight fit around the cockpit, and the oversized grad handle provides a quick release from the coaming.
Overall, this skirt is ideal for cooler climates and waters where you need additional protection from the elements. It’s a great choice, and while it’s in the upper price range for kayak skirts, we feel it’s worth the investment in your gear.
What We Liked
- 4-mm and 2-mm neoprene design for dryness and warmth.
- Ideal for cold water playboating.
- Front grab handle for quick release and fitting.
- Shock cord adjustment.
Best Premium Kayak Spray Skirt- Dagger Outbound Spray Skirt
We recommend the Dagger Outbound Spray Skirt if you’re looking for the best premium kayak skirt. This model is a collaboration between Palm and Dagger Equipment, bringing you the Outbound as its flagship. This model is ideal for adventurers that want to get out into the wilderness for a scenic tour on the water.
Thanks to the neoprene deck design, you get protection from the cold and the sun. You also have a breathable waist, keeping you dry and preventing overheating. The reinforced deck features neoprene for abrasion resistance and a secure fit, with enough stretch to make for an easy foment to your kayak.
- Reinforced neoprene in the deck and rim provide superior protection against abrasion without compromising stretch.
- A durable coating underneath provides excellent grip and a watertight seal on your kayak’s Cockpit.
- Shock cord is easy to put on and take off.
- The waist Features a waterproof, breathable 3-layer fabric that has a soft feel and is highly durable.
- The front of the waist Features a water-resistant Zippered pocket for small items.
The Outbound comes with a durable undercoating providing outstanding grip and a watertight seal for your boat. A shock cord system makes the skirt easy to fit and remove. While the breathable waist is airy, it features waterproof materials to keep you dry.
The breathable tri-layer fabric used in the torso of the Outdoor provides a comfortable fit with no irritation and a highly durable finish for long service life. This skirt comes with a waterproof zippered pocket in the front of the skirt for storing your gear.
You get internal adjustable suspenders and a Velcro strap system on the top of the torso for a snug fit. The Outdoor features a bungee cord storage system on the neoprene deck for tying down your wet gear or tackle box.
You have your choice of cockpit sizing, and there’s a size to fit any kayak model. We like the grey colors and bright red/orange accents on the skirt, providing better visibility of the kayak from the shore. Overall, this model is the best choice for any kayaking adventure, and it suits cool to moderate water temperatures.
What We Liked
- Internal suspenders and Velcro strap for a secure fit.
- Waterproof pocket and bungee storage.
- Sizes for all kayaks are available.
- Front quick-grab handles for easy fitment and removal.
Best Budget Kayak Spray Skirt- Kunpeng Kayak Skirt
Suppose you’re on a budget and looking for the most affordable kayak skirt available. In that case, we recommend going with the Kunpeng Kayak Skirt. If you run a kayaking school or you’re looking for a skirt for recreational kayaking once or twice a year, this skirt is the best choice.
You get everything you need in a skirt. This model is entirely waterproof, featuring design and construction from 300D Oxford fabric. It might not have the attractive look of the other top picks in this review, but it’s highly functional.
- SIZE:L,This waterproof apron has a fully extended pull-up circumference of 8 feet and is suitable for marine boats and canoes with a cabin circumference of 4 feet to 8 feet.Fits sit-in style kayak cockpits up to 92CM/36" long； 54CM/18" wide.Need to pay attention to the size, kayaks that are too large will not work.
- The product adopts waterproof cloth to effectively waterproof into the cockpit.
- This product is suitable for most ocean boat cabins.
- The waist Velcro design of this product can be adjusted according to the waist circumference.
- The fitting has an elastic band that can be adjusted for tightness to ensure a complete fit to the kayak cockpit.
This skirt is thin, lightweight, and waterproof. It’s the ideal choice for kayaking in warm weather. However, you don’t get any warmth from the skirt, so you’ll have to layer up. There’s also no internal suspender system, so it might reposition itself during your tour.
However, for the price, we’re not complaining. This skirt is affordable and a great choice for recreational kayakers who don’t get out on the water a lot and don’t want to spend a fortune on their gear. You get a full adjustment of the skirt and a front grab handle for easy fitment and removal of the skirt to the kayak.
This waterproof kayak apron features a fully extended pull-up circumference measuring eight feet. It will fit kayaks with a cockpit circumference of four to eight feet. The waistband features a Velcro strap for a customizable fit for the kayaker.
What We Liked
- Quick-release grab tab for easy fitment and removal.
- Waterproof protection with 300D Oxford nylon.
- Universal fit to any kayak.
Immersion Research Lucky Charm Kayak Spray Skirt
The Immersion Research Lucky Charm Rubber Rand Kayak Spray Skirt is another top choice for playboats and creek boating enthusiasts. This model comes with a thick neoprene design for warmth and waterproofing.
The IR Lucky Charm Whitewater Spray Skirt is the first model from the manufacturing brand to introduce the innovative three-fin rand style that fits to many different rim shapes. The new rand design ensures the best implosion resistance from any kayak skirt and a secure fit that’s easy to fit and remove from the kayak, thanks to the front pull tab.
- 3mm neoprene tunnel and 4mm Supratex 2 neoprene deck
- 3-fin style rubber rand (specially-formulated to stretch in cold weather)
- 3.5mm neoprene front casing w/ abrasion-resistant high-density polyester and 4mm Supratex 2 neoprene rear casing
- Anti-implosion super stick silicone patches
- Glued, taped & blind-stitched seams
The model is a great choice for river runners that demand the best equipment. You get a 3-mm neoprene tunnel and a 4-mm Supratex 2 neoprene skirt deck. The updated rand design makes this skirt ideal for cold water kayaking and playboating. The new neoprene formulation stretches in the cold without breaking or deforming.
The Lucky Charm has a 3.5-mm front neoprene casing and a highly abrasion-resistant 4-mm Supratex 2 neoprene and polyester rear casing. The sides feature super-slick silicone padding for easy fitment and no hang-ups.
You get total waterproofing thanks to the skirt’s glued, taped, and blind-stitched seams. This premium model is a top choice for professional kayakers or advanced recreational enthusiasts who want the best cold-water gear available.
What We Liked
- Innovative three-fin rand design.
- Excellent waterproofing.
- Supratex 2 neoprene construction.
- Oversize pull tab for easy fitment and removal.
Seals Extreme Tour Spray Skirt 2.0
If you’re looking for skirting for serious kayak touring trips, we recommend the Seals Extreme Tour Spray Skirt 2.0. the second version of this skirt comes with some interesting and innovative updates for the paddler.
This Seals model features a hybrid neoprene and nylon construction with a bungee attachment that makes it easy to fit into the kayak’s coaming. You get an underside rim grip for a secure fit and a topside Sealtex edge guard to prevent water from entering the boat.
- Abrasion-resistant Sealtex neoprene deck for rugged durability
- Rim grip safety slip technology keeps your skirt in place
- Waterproof/breathable tunnel with an adjustable no-slip neoprene waistband and removable suspenders
- Webbing grabloop with an integrated safety whistle
- All seams are double-stitched and sealed to keep water where it belongs
The Extreme Tour 2.0 is a great choice for moderate to extreme kayaking conditions. You get a tri-ply waterproof tunnel featuring construction from breathable fabrics to keep you dry. The adjustable neoprene chest band comes with a Velcro strap for a custom fit. The internal suspender system ensures the skirt stays in place.
The suspenders also feature quick-release buckles for a fast exit underwater when you need to escape the boat. The deck of the Extreme Tour 2.0 features design and construction with premium 4mm neoprene materials.
You get a Sealtex edge guard with a 3″ neoprene tunnel transition for a watertight fit that keeps you dry and warm on the water. The skirt fits your kayak using an E-Z stretch 3/8″ bungee cord attachment. You get easy removal and fitment thanks to the oversized pull tab at the front.
The grab loop also includes an integrated safety whistle for emergencies. You get double-stitched and sealed seams, ensuring no water leaks and long service life for this skirt. This skirt is a top choice for coldwater kayak touring, and it’s available in several sizes to suit any touring kayak.
What We Liked
- Updated design.
- Internal suspenders.
- 4-mm neoprene.
- Grab loop with emergency whistle.
Perception P13 Truefit Spray Skirt
The Perception P13 series Truefit spray skirt is another great choice for touring kayaks. This model features the “Truefit” system that provides a perfect fit for your Perception kayak. Perception is one of the leading brands in touring kayaks, and you’ll find them in waterways and out in oceans all around the globe.
The P13 Truefit skirt comes with sticky gripping on the edges for a secure, watertight fit to your Perception kayak. There is a storage pocket in the deck featuring a high-quality zipper. The bungee rand design makes it easy to fit and remove the skirt from the kayak, giving you a secure, custom fit to your boat.
- Keeps water out of your Perception sit-inside kayak
- P13 size fits Joyride, Swifty, Odyssey and Sound models or other kayak cockpits measuring 53-56" (length) x 22-24" (width)
- Ultra durable nylon and adjustable neoprene chest band with removable suspenders
- A water-resistant tunnel zipper allows hot air to vent out when unzipped and keeps you dry when zipped closed
- Sticky edging grips the cockpit rim tightly and adds extra durability
The deck and tunnel feature design and construction with durable urethane-coated Oxford nylon. The result is an incredibly durable and rugged skirt that’s abrasion-resistant, with long service life. The waterproof deck ensures that you stay dry inside the kayak.
The P13 model will fit the Joyride, Odyssey, Swifty, and Sound models or any other kayak cockpit measuring 53″ to 56″ in length and 22″ to 24″ in width. The tunnel features a Velcro strap for a secure custom fit and adjustable suspenders to prevent sagging.
The tunnel zipper on the deck allows you to vent warm air when you’re feeling hot on your tour. Fit the skirt in seconds, thanks to the front pull tab.
What We Liked
- A great choice for warm water kayaking.
- Ideal for Perception kayak owners.
- Internal suspenders.
- Waterproof Oxford fabrics.
- Sticky edging for a secure fit.
Wilderness Systems TrueFit Spray Skirt
This Wilderness systems model gives you a similar skirt design to the Perception Truefit. However, you get a shorter deck length making it ideal for creek and playboats. This model features sticky edging providing a watertight seal to the kayak coaming.
The deck and tunnel feature design and construction with durable urethane-coated Oxford nylon. There’s a vent zipper on the deck to open the tri-layer surface to allow heat to escape on hot days without letting in water.
- High quality spray skirt keeps you dry and warm while paddling
- Compatible with these Wilderness Systems kayaks: Pungo 105/120/125
- Also fits other kayaks with Cockpit dimensions: Length 56-58" X width 21-23"
- Sticky edging grips the cockpit rim tightly and adds extra durability
- A water-resistant tunnel zipper allows hot air to vent out when unzipped and keeps you dry when zipped closed.
You get a front storage pouch for your wet gear with a breathable mesh to ensure nothing goes moldy and dries properly. The front comes with a grab handle for easy fitment and removal and a quick-release clip for hanging it in your garage when not in use.
We like the grey color with the bright orange accents improving your visibility out on the water. The tunnel features design and construction with a Velcro neoprene strap for a custom fit. The internal adjustable suspenders prevent any sagging in the deck while kayaking.
The Wilderness comes with double-stitched and taped seams for a watertight fit to the kayak. You get compatibility with Wilderness kayak models like the Tsunami 120/135/160/165/170 and the Tempest 165/170.
It also fits earlier versions of the Tsunami and 140/145, the Focus 145/150, and the Zephyr 150/155. This skirt also offers a universal fit to any kayak cockpits measuring 33″ to 35″ and widths of 18″ to 29″. Overall, it’s a great choice for playboats and creek boats and ideal for warmer waters.
What We Liked
- Suitable for Wilderness model kayaks.
- Internal suspenders with Velcro strap for a secure fit.
- Sticky edges and grab handle for easy fitment and removal.
- Vented deck and storage pocket.
Level Six Club Bungee Spray Skirt
The Club spray skirt from Level Six is another great example of a purpose-built skirt for playboats and creek boats. This model features a sealed skirt design with super-stretchy neoprene used on the deck and a bungee seal providing a watertight fit to your boat.
This model fits universally on a range of cockpit sizes, and you’re sure to find the right model for your boat. You have a choice of three tunnel sizes to suit your body type, and the flange features urethane glue on the underside to improve the seal of your boat.
- Internal silicone grip
- Safety top mounted pull strap
- Bungee cord rand
- Nylon pull loop
- Superstretch 2mm neoprene tunnel with adjustable velcro waist
This skirt is ideal for beginners and intermediate kayakers that enjoy playing in the waves and holes. The 2mm neoprene tunnel comes with a Velcro strap for easy positioning and a secure fit of the skirt to your waist. This model is ideal for coldwater kayaking, keeping you warm and dry.
The bungee cord rand provides an additional secure fit to the kayak. You get a deck-mounted safety strap for pulling on an escape. The internal silicone grip of the skirt offers a snug and waterproof fit. We like the 4-mm diamond-grid neoprene decking providing a durable and abrasion-resistant platform.
What We Liked
- Fits many creek and playboats.
- Oversized front tab for easy fitment and removal.
- 2mm Super-stretch neoprene tunnel for a secure fit.
- Super sticky sides for a watertight seal.
SEALS Coastal Tour Sprayskirt
We recommend the SEALS Coastal Tour Sprayskirt if you’re into touring on your sea kayak. This model is ideal for use in moderate conditions, featuring an adjustable no-slip waist closure with a neoprene tunnel. You get a form-fitting design and a secure fit, thanks to the Velcro strap on the top of the tunnel.
The Coastal Tour skirt has adjustable internal suspenders to prevent the deck from sagging. You get design and construction with premium mid-weight coated nylon featuring ballistic nylon wear guards and lash loops.
- Spray protection for moderate paddling conditions
- Medium-weight coated nylon packcloth with Ballistic nylon wear guards with lash loops
- Zippered mesh deck pocket
- Tensioned deck stay
- Adjustable neoprene waistband with removable suspenders
The Coastal spray skirt hugs your waist for warmth while keeping you dry. You get a zipper pocket on the top for your sensitive gear and a front mesh pocket for your wet gear, featuring a bungee cord to keep everything secure on the water.
The tensioned deck stay keeps the deck in shape, preventing sagging or taking on water. You get a choice of black or yellow colors to match your kayak. Overall, this model is a great choice for adventure kayakers looking for a skirt for warm to moderate weather conditions.
The front of the skirt features an oversized pull tab with a rubberized grip for easy fitment and removal of the skirt from the kayak. It’s a high-quality skirt with blind-stitched seals for added waterproofing and long service life.
What We Liked
- Internal suspenders and neoprene tunnel for a secure fit.
- Top pocket and a mesh wet storage area.
- Rubberized front tab for easy fitment and removal.
- Mid-weight coated nylon with ballistic nylon wear guards and lash loops.
Other Best Selling Options
- Keeps water out of your Perception sit-inside kayak
- P13 size fits Joyride, Swifty, Odyssey and Sound models or other kayak cockpits measuring 53-56" (length) x 22-24" (width)
- Ultra durable nylon and adjustable neoprene chest band with removable suspenders
- A water-resistant tunnel zipper allows hot air to vent out when unzipped and keeps you dry when zipped closed
- Sticky edging grips the cockpit rim tightly and adds extra durability
- Fits sit-in style kayak cockpits up to 40" long by 22" wide
- Constructed from durable 210 denier nylon
- Dual side adjustability for tight fit
- PVC sealed seams for water tightness
- Mesh storage bag included
- SIZE:L,This waterproof apron has a fully extended pull-up circumference of 8 feet and is suitable for marine boats and canoes with a cabin circumference of 4 feet to 8 feet.Fits sit-in style kayak cockpits up to 92CM/36" long； 54CM/18" wide.Need to pay attention to the size, kayaks that are too large will not work.
- The product adopts waterproof cloth to effectively waterproof into the cockpit.
- This product is suitable for most ocean boat cabins.
- The waist Velcro design of this product can be adjusted according to the waist circumference.
- The fitting has an elastic band that can be adjusted for tightness to ensure a complete fit to the kayak cockpit.
Kayak Spray Skirt Buyer’s Guide
Now that you have a kayak and you want to start playboating, it’s time to think about the rest of your gear. The paddle and safety gear like your helmet are critical considerations.
However, the kayak skirt is one of the most important pieces of kit you’ll buy. The skirt keeps water out of the boat. That’s vital for anyone that’s sinking the boat into the water to perform tricks.
The skirt adds volume to the boat, letting you pop out of holes and launch airs. You’ll need to choose the right skirt to match the water conditions and activity.
If you’re hitting the waves to surf or plunging through holes and drop-offs, you’ll have different requirements than someone doing a river run tour. Let’s unpack everything you need to know about choosing the right kayak skirt.
Why Use a Kayak Spray Skirt?
The kayak skirt keeps water out of the boat. That’s a vital consideration when you’re kayaking in cold water temperatures. Spray landing on your clothing and in the kayak will leave you feeling cold quickly, increasing your chances of developing hypothermia.
Don’t let the cold ruin your kayaking experience. A kayak skirt keeps the water out of the boat, enclosing the cockpit. Your body heat warms the air inside the cockpit, keeping things toasty on the water.
The skirt keeps your lower body warm and dry, exposing the upper body to the elements. The result is a longer session on the water and the ability to do things with the kayak that aren’t possible without a skirt.
While the skirt sounds amazing and a must-have item for kayakers, there are a few downsides to this piece of equipment. The neoprene models may get too warm in warmer water and air temperatures. As a result, you’ll need to look for models offering a vented design to allow for the heat to escape.
Some skirts can be challenging to fit and remove. Look for models offering you a pull-tab on the front of the skirt. If you need to make a quick escape after a capsize, pull the tab, and you’ll float to the surface.
It can take some time and practice to get used to wearing the kayak skirt. It’s important to practice a few wet escapes before heading into the rapids and holes. Understand how to get out of the skirt in an emergency and drill the procedure a few times to get familiar with escaping.
The Components of a Kayak Spray Skirt
We can break down the kayak skirt into the following components.
Grab Loop
The loop in the front of the skirt assists with fitting and removal of the skirt to the kayak. Most models come with bright colors for the loop for easy identification underwater.
Deck
The portion of the skirt covers the front part of the cockpit. Some decks are solid, while others are soft.
Rand
The out rim of the spray skirt attaches to the coaming around the cockpit. Typically, the rand is a stretchy material providing a snug and secure fit to the coaming.
Tunnel
This is the part of the skirt that you pull over your upper body. It secures the skirt in position. Some tunnels have adjustable suspender straps to prevent sagging in less sturdy decks.
What are the Materials Used in Kayak Spray Skirts?
Kayak skirts are available in three different materials. Coated or laminated fabrics and neoprene. Each of the materials has its pros and cons.
Most spray skirts feature design and construction with laminated nylon material or neoprene or a combination of both materials. Neoprene is the warmer option, and it’s a common choice for cold water conditions in the northern hemisphere, such as the fjords around Norway.
They are the better choice for creek and playboating, providing a sturdy deck and a watertight seal. The neoprene is form-fitting, meaning there’s no chance of water entry when submerging the boat to do tricks.
Nylon-based fabrics are lighter, but they offer almost no warmth in cold water conditions. However, they are ideal for warmer kayaking locations, giving the cockpit a watertight seal.
Some nylon decks might not have the same support as neoprene decks. So, many models come with an adjustable suspender system for customizing the fit and preventing sag in the deck.
Coated materials are ideal for boaters on a budget who need an affordable skirt for their kayak. They are suitable for flat-water environments and less expensive than nylon or neoprene skirts. However, they aren’t as durable and don’t offer the same performance as creek boating and playboating.
What are the Types of Kayak Skirts?
Kayak skirts come in different variations to suit your activities. For instance, the needs of a touring kayaker are very different from someone enjoying a playboating session. The height and style of the tunnel around your torso can vary depending on the model.
Some kayak skirts feature design and construction with neoprene tunnels creating a tight fit around the waist and below the chest. Other models feature adjustable suspender straps allowing you to customize the fit to your body type and height.
Most nylon skirts come with a one-size-fits-all design that’s fully adjustable thanks to the suspenders and the elasticated waistband and Velcro strap to secure it in place.
If you’re getting a neoprene tunnel, you’ll have to pay more attention to the size curve offered by the manufacturing brand. Measure your midriff below the diaphragm of the chest to get the right tunnel size.
How Environmental Factors Affect Skirt Choice
The deck and the tunnel material make a huge difference in kayak performance. You can go with coated material skirts when kayaking in flat water conditions near the shoreline. These skirts are easy to fit most boats, with a universal design that suits all leading brands of kayaks.
Skirts using coated materials are the most affordable option. You get a custom fit around the coaming and an adjustable midriff on the tunnel. However, they lack the sturdy deck and ergonomic fit of nylon and neoprene models.
However, you get protection from water splash, and that’s all you need if you’re touring the lakes and flat water. When you head towards the rapids and want to start surfing the waves in your playboat, that’s where things begin to change.
Neoprene decks are the ideal choice for playboating in cooler waters. The neoprene keeps you warm, with some decks and tunnels featuring 2-mm or 4-mm neoprene materials. However, neoprene models aren’t the best choice for warm climates. They tend to get hot, and the decks don’t offer you any venting.
Go for the nylon variety if you are kayaking in cooler climates but need more utility and protection than you get with coated material skirts. These models usually come with stiff decks, extra storage, a custom fit at the waist, and venting systems for releasing heat from the cockpit on warm days.
So, if you’re kayaking down the warm waters of the Grand Canyon in the summer, the vented design helps you stay cool on hot days.
Neoprene decks also stretch, allowing the kayaker to perform tricks and maneuver the boat in creek boating or playboating scenarios. The material absorbs impact from smaller waves, and it comes in several different “weights.”
The weight determines the stretch and tension in the deck. As the kayaker enters challenging environments, forces act on the skirt to pull it off or implode it into the cockpit. Therefore, the amount of stretch on the neoprene deck decreases while the tension on the rand bungee around the coaming increases.
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fit a Kayak Spray Skirt
Now that you know everything there is to know about the design of spray skirts let’s look at how to fit one of them into your kayak.
Step 1 – Slide Your Legs through the Skirt Tunnel
Slide your legs through the tunnel and check that the grab loop is at the front, or you’re wearing it the wrong way around.
Don’t place the skirt on the ground when stepping into it. You won’t see if you pick up any debris that could land in the boat or affect the seal with the coaming.
Step 2 – Pull the Kayak Skirt Around Your Waist
Pull the kayak skirt so the tunnel fastens along your waist. Position the bottom of the tunnel to meet the beginning of the deck and your waistline.
As a rule of thumb, pull the spray skirt just enough so the juncture positions directly above the hips. This positioning prevents the skirt from riding up later down the rapid, requiring you to adjust it on the go.
Step 3 – Attach the Rand to the Rear of the Cockpit
Sit in the seat and fix the rand around the cockpit coaming. Start from the back and work your way around to the front of the boat.
You can try going from front to back, but you’ll probably find you don’t have the leverage to pull the rand over the cockpit coaming.
Step 4 – Attach the Rand to the Front of the Cockpit
To finish fitting the kayak skirt, pull the rand over the coaming until it covers all the exposed area around the boat’s interior. Ensure that the grab loop is outside and within reach when fitting the skirt around the front.
If the grab loop is on the inside, it may all0ow splash inside the front of the boat. It also presents a hazard if you reach down to pull the tab and find that it’s not there during a life-threatening scenario that could be a big problem.
Make sure you get into the habit of checking for the grab loop before launching the boat.
Kayak Spray Skirt FAQs
Q: How do I stretch my kayak spray skirt to fit my boat?
A: We recommend leaning back to secure the back of the skirt around the cockpit coaming. Grab the sides of the skirt next to your hips and stretch your skirt as far forward as possible. Press the silicone ridging against the sides of the cockpit using your forearms. The skirt should have a secure, watertight fit. When you’re ready to remove it, pull the tab at the front of the skirt for a fast escape.
Q: What’s the difference between a spray deck and a spray skirt?
A: A spray deck usually offers less protection from water entry into the boat than a spray skirt. However, many kayakers use this term interchangeably. A skirt is a lightweight covering, while a deck is a solid, firm piece of neoprene. Both have their advantages and disadvantages in the water. Spray decks don’t usually cover the entire deck, or they might not have a tunnel system as you get with the spray skirt.
Q: What is the service life of a kayak sprayskirt?
A: With the right care and maintenance, your kayak skirt should last around five to ten years for a neoprene model and longer for skirts featuring construction with nylon materials like Oxford and ripstop. However, the service life of the skirt depends on how often you use it, the kind of abuse it takes in the water, and how you clean and store it when not in use.
Q: Where can I buy the best kayak Skirt?
A: We recommend ordering the best kayak skirt from Amazon. Amazon has the best range of skirts from leading manufacturing brands. They offer the best prices, and Prime members get fast free shipping. All orders come with buyer protection, so you’re guaranteed to receive your order. Why go to the hassle of finding a kayaking specialist shop when you can order everything you need for the sport from the comfort of home?
The Best Kayak Skirt Reviews – The Verdict
A kayak skirt is an essential piece of gear for playboating and creek boating. Without a skirt, water will enter the boat, presenting a sinking risk when you’re busting out tricks. The skirt helps to keep the interior dry and warm, which helps a lot when you’re doing river runs in freezing cold temperatures.
Our review of the best kayak skirts gives you options for a skirt for any kayak, water conditions, and climate. We have models to suit your boat and your budget. However, we get it if you’re struggling to settle on one skirt from all of the great options in this review. If that’s the case, why not go with one of our top picks?
- The Best Overall Kayak Skirts – NRS Drylander Shock Cord Sprayskirt
- The Best Premium Kayak Skirts – Dagger Outbound Spray Skirt
- The Best Budget Kayak Skirts – Kunpeng Kayak Skirt
