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Whileboat tripswith friends are a favorite weekend pastime, Im most frequently navigating the waters by paddle board andkayak.
Most kayaks andpaddle boardshave sufficient weight capacity and storage to accommodate extra items.
Credit:Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland
I find that it tracks well for an inflatable board due to its three fin setup.
Or in simpler terms, its not difficult to paddle in a straight line.
The ability to use it as either a kayak and paddle board is a big value-adder for me.
REI
The cushy removable seat and included four-piece paddle make it seamless to reconfigure for kayaking.
I also find the deck to be more forgiving on the feet than traditional stand up paddle boards.
On a budget or just starting out?
Amazon
Thishighly-rated inflatable paddle boardfrom Amazon has more than 8,000 five-star ratings and is nearly a fourth of the price.
Many customers also reported that itaccommodates their dogsfor a day out on the water.
I love the mobility afforded by this low-profile lifejacket.
Amazon
My complaint with conventional lifejacket designs is that they restrict movement while paddling and rub against the skin.
But the Ninja avoids this by concentrating flotation in the abdomen and mid-back.
Im a fan of the clean and sleek silhouette to reduce the risk of getting snagged.
Orvis
This tapered fit doesnt come at the cost of mobility thanks to the fabrics four-way stretch.
The UPF 50+ protection is another major selling point to safely spend hours on the water.
The shorts have a nine-inch inseam and come in waist sizes 30-42.
Bearbottom
Theyre quick-drying and stretchy for staying comfortable and nimble while paddling.
Im a fan of the bolder patterns, though there are some classic designs in the mix.
The stretch waistband keeps the shorts in place without feeling too tight.
REI
The colors are vivid and the quality of material is outstanding, another chimed in.
I appreciate the effectiveness of the odor control an issue Ive had with other quick-dry shirts.
The shirt is available in five sizes (S-XXL) and multiple colors.
Amazon
The lightweight fabric wicks away sweat and provides UPF 50+ protection against the sun.
Im a fan of the thumbholes on the cuffs, which keep my sleeves from rolling up while paddling.
I also appreciate that theres ample stretch in the hoodie material for unrestricted movement while paddling.
Amazon
The brim is wide enough to offer shade without obstructing vision.
The quick-drying materials also boast UPF 50+ sun protection.
For a more relaxed look off the water, the removable side shields easily pop off.
Pit Viper
The rubber on the nose and earpieces deliver a snug fit without any pinching or pressure points.
The glasses come with both soft and hard carry cases, plus a drawstring for added security while wearing.
I love having a cold beverage at the ready and the assurance that it wont tip over while paddling.
Amazon
The sliding lid and straw make it easy to grab a drink with just one hand.
I have the citron yellow version and the stainless steel exterior doesnt get overheated in the sun.
I love the retro design options and how packable it is.
Amazon
Ive had no issue rinsing off dirt after using it to sit or lie along the shoreline.
Theres also a discrete loop to hang the towel on a hook or branch to let it air dry.
The functionality was praised by many customers.
Amazon
Absorbent, dries quick, and takes up so little room,summarized one shopper.
It was easy to shake the sand off and very absorbable,added another.
This dry bag is a trusted companion for getting clothing and equipment safely to shore.
Amazon
Aside from its waterproof protecting, the roll-top closure makes for easy loading and unloading.
Its compact design also helps save space in the boat.
The bag comes in a variety of sizes, ranging from 5 liters to 65 liters.
Amazon
The durability and waterproof protection have earned it a 4.7-star average rating from nearly 100 shoppers.
While these materials arent breathable, the EVA back panel helps with airflow so I dont overheat.
The backpack has a 4.6-star average rating from hundreds of customers, with many praising its comfort and reliability.
Amazon
The waterproof speaker has a 4.6-star average rating from more than 2,000 customers.
The packable design and performance are top of mind for many customers.
Its small enough to fit in the cockpit or secure with bungees.
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