Kayak Pump
 

If you're a sea kayaker, you should never hit the water without a good kayak pump (or two). Even if you're an experienced paddler heading out on calm water on a perfect day, have a bilge pump on board. After all, a capsize and wet exit is not the only way for your boat to get swamped -- a touring kayak has several compartments, any one of which can leak without warning. And don't forget the possibility of sudden squalls or rogue waves. The last thing you want it to be out on an open stretch of water, with one of your hatch covers leaking or missing, and no way to expel the excess water.

There are several options available when considering a good kayak pump. If you go with a hand pump, make sure it has an intake tube that's long and narrow enough to fit down the tunnel of your spray skirt without having to remove the skirt from the coaming. Many paddlers prefer a foot mounted pump that's attached to the bulkhead. The advantage of a foot pump is that it can be operated while leaving the paddler's hands free--a real advantage in rough seas. Another option is a battery-operated pump, some of which will even begin pumping automatically when a pre-set amount of water enters the cockpit. The disadvantage of an electric kayak pump is the fact that like all electro-mechanical devices, it has the potential of breaking down at the worst possible moment.

Which brings up the point that just with every other piece of equipment on your touring kayak, your pump will need regular inspection and maintenance -- especially if your boat's been in storage all winter. Always test a bilge pump before every excursion. And if you do have a battery-powered model, make sure you've stowed away a good set of replacement batteries.

Whatever your choice, purchase the best pump you can afford, and consider buying a spare and lashing it within easy reach on the foredeck. One of the advantages of a hand-held pump is that it can be passed from boat to boat in an emergency.

Got Gear?

Is that PFD of yours getting a little frayed around the edges? Is that spray skirt springing a few leaks? Well check out one of our featured merchants for great online deals on kayaking accessories.

Retail sporting goods stores are great, but most only carry a limited selection of kayaking gear, and expect to pay the full retail price. Online merchants, on the other hand, offer a wide selection of name-brand kayaks and paddling accessories, and at discounted prices. And online shopping offers a convenient, comfortable alternative to driving all over town looking for that hard to find item.