Equipment Guide
A complete guide to sea kayak equipment. From kayak and paddle to clothing and safety gear — everything you need for safe and enjoyable paddling trips.
Kayak types
There are many types of kayaks. For paddling in Norwegian waters, the sea kayak is the natural choice.
Sea kayak
Long (4.5–5.5 m), narrow and fast. Designed for open water, waves and longer trips. Has watertight hatches for luggage. This is the kayak I use on all courses and trips.
- Seaworthy and stable in waves
- Space for luggage
- Efficient over longer distances
For those who want to paddle on the sea and fjord
Touring kayak
Shorter and wider than a sea kayak. More stable but less seaworthy. Well suited for lakes and sheltered waters.
- Good stability
- Easy to get started with
- Easier to transport
For calm waters and lakes
Sit-on-top kayak
Open kayak where you sit on top. Easy to use, but poorly suited for Norwegian conditions with cold water. No protection from waves and spray.
- Easy to use
- Easy to get on and off
Only for calm, warm days close to shore
Paddle, PFD and spray skirt
The three things you always bring in the kayak. Together with the kayak, they make up the basic package.
Paddle
The paddle is just as important as the kayak. A good paddle makes an enormous difference for the paddling experience and strain on your body.
- Length: Depends on height and kayak width, typically 210–220 cm for sea kayak
- Blade shape: Narrower blades put less strain, wider gives more power
- Material: Glass or carbon fibre is lighter and better than plastic/aluminium
- Weight matters more than you think — you take thousands of paddle strokes on a trip
- Wing paddles are used in sprint kayaking, not sea kayaking
PFD (buoyancy aid)
The PFD is the most important piece of safety equipment. It should always be worn — no exceptions.
- Use a vest designed for paddling, not a regular life jacket
- Paddle vests have a shorter cut that doesn't restrict paddling movement
- Buoyancy: Minimum 50N, preferably 60–70N for sea kayaking
- Good fit is essential — it should be snug without restricting movement
- Pockets are handy for VHF, snacks and safety gear
Spray skirt
The spray skirt seals the cockpit and keeps water out. Essential for sea kayaking.
- Neoprene gives the best fit and waterproofing, recommended for sea kayaking
- Nylon is lighter and cheaper, but less waterproof
- Must fit your kayak's cockpit — sizes vary between models
- Practice removing the spray skirt in water before you need to do it for real
- The grab handle should always be on the outside and easily accessible
Drysuit vs. wetsuit
In Norwegian waters, a paddle suit is almost always necessary. Here is the difference between the two types.
Drysuit
Keeps you completely dry. Has latex gaskets at wrists, ankles and neck that seal against water. You wear regular clothes underneath.
Essential in spring, autumn and winter. Also recommended in summer in Norwegian waters.
- Keeps you dry and warm when capsizing
- Flexible — adjust with wool layers underneath
- Long lifespan with proper maintenance
Wetsuit
Lets water in which your body heat warms up. Provides insulation, but you get wet.
Alternative to drysuit in summer, and for surf kayaking.
- Cheaper than a drysuit
- Robust and durable
- Good for active paddling in waves
Layer up — always wool innermost
The layering principle gives you flexibility. Wool is your best friend — it keeps you warm even when wet. Cotton is strictly forbidden.
Base layer
- Merino wool or synthetic underwear — NEVER cotton
- Wool retains warmth even when wet
- Long sleeve top and long underwear
Mid layer
- Fleece or wool — depending on temperature
- Thin fleece in summer, thick in winter
- Under a drysuit you can adjust as needed
Outer layer
- Drysuit or paddle jacket
- Paddle jacket keeps wind and spray out
- Don't use a regular rain jacket — it's not made for paddling movements
Why never cotton?
Cotton absorbs water and loses all thermal insulation when wet. It dries extremely slowly and draws heat from the body. In cold water, cotton can literally be life-threatening. Always use wool or synthetic materials.
The right footwear
What you should bring
Bilge pump
For emptying water from the cockpit after capsizing or wave spray. Manual pump attached to the deck.
Paddle float
Inflatable bag attached to the paddle blade to provide support during self-rescue. Important backup.
Tow line
For towing a paddler who is tired or in trouble. Worn on the belt or on deck.
VHF radio / Mobile phone
VHF for communication with other boats and the rescue centre (channel 16 is the emergency channel). Alternatively: mobile phone in a waterproof pocket.
Signalling devices
Reflectors, whistle (on the PFD), and possibly emergency flares. Make yourself visible to others.
First aid kit
A small waterproof first aid kit suited for marine use. Bring on all trips.
Packing and dry bag tips
Good packing makes the difference between a comfortable trip and a frustrating one. Here are my best tips.
What should you buy first — and what can you rent?
You don't need to buy everything at once. Start smart and build up your gear over time.
Buy first
PFD
The most important safety equipment. Must fit your body perfectly.
Drysuit
The most expensive investment, but absolutely necessary in Norwegian waters. Buy it before you buy a kayak.
Wool underwear
Cheap, versatile, and you use it for everything from paddling to hiking.
Paddle shoes
Relatively affordable and makes a big difference for comfort.
Rent until you know what you want
Kajakkguiden offers rental
Kajakkguiden rents out sea kayaks from renowned brands. Drysuits and complete equipment can be rented separately or as a package. Requires Paddle Certificate or equivalent competence.
View rental pricesThe best way to learn about equipment? Take a course.
On my courses you get to try professional equipment and learn what works for you. You don't need to own anything to get started.