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.
Our featured merchants are all well-established
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For some great deals on new kayaking gear, click
on one of the following links:
Backcountry.com
Shop Backcountry.com for a great selection
of name brand
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and others.
