Sun, Salt and Sea Kayaks: How I Keep My Sea Kayaking Gear Lasting Longer
If you spend as much time on the water as I do, you will know that the Mediterranean is as tough on sea kayaking gear as it is a beautiful to paddle. Salt, UV exposure, heat and sand work quietly together to wear out kayaking equipment faster than almost anything else. Over the years, I’ve learned that keeping kayaking equipment in good shape doesn’t require expensive products or complicated routines. A few simple habits can make a huge difference in how long your gear lasts and how well it performs.
Salt is Sneaky - Rinse Everything After Every Paddle
Salt is relentless on sea kayaking equipment. Paddles, PFDs, sprayskirts, drysuits, deck lines, rudder systems; everything benefits from a quick fresh water rinse after each session. Salt crystals build up in places you do not notice at first, stiffening moving parts, degrading fabrics and corroding metal components. Two minutes of rinsing can prevent months of wear.
Keep Gear Out of the Sun
Most paddlers worry about scratches. I worry about UV damage. The Mediterranean sun is incredibly strong, especially during summer. Rubber, bungees, hatch covers, deck lines and paddling clothing all deteriorate under constant sun exposure. Store your sea kayaking gear in the shade or under a cover whenever you are not on the water. Think of it this way: your gear enjoys a break from the sun just as much as you do.
Don’t Store Gear Wet
We’ve all done it. You finish a paddle, you’re tired, and everything gets thrown into a corner until the next trip. Moisture causes odours, mildew and shortened lifespan in fabrics and foam. Hang up PFDs, sprayskirts and paddling clothing to dry properly after every trip. It takes minutes and keeps your kayaking gear fresh and ready to go, plus, nobody enjoys putting on a damp PFD that smells like last week’s expedition.
Sand Gets Everywhere
If you’ve paddled from beaches, you already know this. Sand somehow finds its way into hatches, rudder systems, skeg boxes, zippers, and dry bags… I make it a habit to empty sand out as soon as possible. Skeg boxes and rudder systems especially appreciate a little attention. A few minutes of cleaning now can save a lot of frustration later when something suddenly refuses to move.
Check Your Gear Before It Becomes a Problem
One thing guiding has taught me is that equipment rarely fails without warning. Frayed deck lines, worn bungees, loose fittings, damaged buckles, or small cracks usually give you plenty of notice if you’re paying attention.
Every few weeks I spend ten minutes inspecting my gear. It’s much easier to replace a worn deck line at home than discover it during a trip.
Paddles Need Love Too
Whether you use a Greenland paddle or a Euro blade, paddles deserve a little care. I rinse them regularly, check ferrules for grit and salt buildup, and avoid leaving them baking in direct sunlight all day.
A quality paddle can last for many years if you treat it well. Considering how much time it spends in your hands, it’s worth the effort.
The Best Maintenance Routine Is the One You’ll Actually Do
People often ask me for the perfect gear maintenance system.
Honestly, the best routine is a simple one you’ll stick with:
Rinse your gear.
Dry your gear.
Keep it out of the sun when possible.
Check it occasionally.
Dry your gear.
Keep it out of the sun when possible.
Check it occasionally.
That’s really it.
A few minutes after each paddle can add years to the life of your equipment and save you money in the long run.
And let’s be honest, every penny saved on kayaking gear is another that can go toward the next adventure.
See you on the water!
Osi @_osimosi_