Kokatat
The new Poseidon PFD ($159, above) from Kokatat, was designed to meet the needs of every sea kayaker, no matter what kind or how much gear they like to paddle with. Multiple configurations of the PFD allow you to even put your gear where you want to; sky’s the limit. The Poseidon is also as comfortable as Kokatat’s popular Misfit Tour.
The Poseidon comes standard with one chest pocket pack, which is on a quick-release system, mounted on only one side of the PFD, which means it will still be attached, even if your PFD is unzipped. The back of the PFD also features a hydration reservoir sleeve built right in. Spring for the Tactic Pack and store additional gear behind you, with swing around access to essential gear.
Kokatat’s new Idol Drysuit, $1,100, is the first step towards fully modular drysuit designs, and is a fully seperable, two piece drysuit. The top can also double as a stand-alone dry top by folding the rubber gasket at the bottom over the zipper to protect it from wear. The Idol is also part of Kokatat’s custom options program, allowing paddlers to get a custom fit drysuit in four weeks.
Brooks Range
Looking for a windbreaker for chilly morning paddles, but hate feeling clamy and sweaty with your jacket stuck to you? Brooks Range’s new Lt. Breeze wind jacket won the Best New Gear award from the Gear Institute for it’s groundbreaking design that prevents exactly that problem.
The outer shell of the jacket uses 20d lightweight and breathable nylon to protect paddlers from wind, while the interior is line with spongy, fleece dots. These dots move sweat away from your skin, preventing that sticky, clammy feeling. The jacket weighs only 5.5oz, which means it’ll pack down tight into your bow hatch after the sun catches up to you during your early morning paddle.
Pelican International
Building on the popularity of the Intrepid 100x, Pelican International has released a 120x model that is two feet longer. The kayak also features a bow hatch for added storage and extra volume in the rear tankwell for even more gear. The speed and tracking of this boat will be noticeably better than the 100x model, due to the length.
Stohlquist
Stohlquist has released a drysuit intended for all day comfort and breathability. Their new Shift Drysuit, $949, is capable of being fully vented by unzipping the Captive Zip entry system and leaving the jacket top open. This will be great for getting the boats ready to launch, or scouting the next set of rapids. The rampart 3 layer fabric is less porous than other materials, which means salt can’t get in between the fibers and prevent breathability over time.
The Captive Zip entry system allows paddlers to step into the drysuit and pull it up like a pair of pants. Pulling the neck gasket over your head and zipping it up is easy, even if sitting in your kayak. The latex neck and wrist gaskets keep water out and features an integrated spray skirt. There is also an interior phone port, along with multiple splash pockets.
MTI
New color schemes are available throughout the MTI PFD lineup. Sky, Periwinkle, Berry and Coral are eye-catching and sure to stand out on the water. A new print, called Caribe (below), is also available on their Moxie PFD, cut from a single sheet of material, so no PFD design can be the same as another. Daisy Chain Attachment System webbing is introduced in more key spots on the PFDs to allow for more gear storage.
Watson’s Base Layers
Need a super warm, super soft base layer for you and your whole family? Watson’s Base Layers‘ Merino 150 series of tops and bottoms are available in men’s, women’s and both boy and girl. The 100% 18.5 micron Merino wool is great for winter paddles because it’s warm, odor fighting and ultra breathable. The family freindly price point, $55, means you won’t need to break the bank to outfit your whole family for a day on the water.
Onyx
The Movevent PFD series from Onyx are high-backed in design, so they will be comfortable in all types of kayaks, canoes or SUPS. The ability to wear the PFD high on your chest, or set it down low makes it versatile for all paddlers. The Torsion model, the Movevent’s top of the line model, is great for the serious paddles looking for more gear storage and features 400 denier ripstop construction and has lighter foam.
Northside
A great value, the Santa Cruz water shoes, $29.99, from Northside, lets you walk in and out of the water while the closed toe, TPR sole and EVA foot bed keep your feet safe and comfortable. A quick-draw elastic lacing system make these shoes easy on, easy off for when the campfire is calling your name. They are available in Navy or Black color schemes, in Men’s, Women’s and kids sizes.
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