Keep Yourself Dry and in Control With the Best Kayak Spray Skirts
If you're like most people, the idea of kayaking sounds fun, but the reality of getting all wet while doing so doesn’t exactly float your boat. The water in most rivers can be very cold and leave your teeth chattering when it hits you, but thanks to the premier kayak spray skirts of 2024, that doesn't have to be a problem anymore!
This water-repelling skirt will keep you dry and in control as you paddle through even the roughest of waves. Don't let a little bit of moisture stop you from experiencing all that kayaking has to offer — get yourself a top-rated kayak spray skirt and hit the water today!
Our Top Picks
Comparing the Finest Kayak Spray Skirt of 2024
Best Overall
If you’re looking for a kayak spray skirt to keep you cool and comfortable while you’re out on the water, then the Perception Kayak Spray Skirt is a great choice. This skirt has a built-in spray guard that helps keep water from entering the kayak while you’re paddling, and it’s made from comfortable nylon material and a neoprene chest band that can be adjusted for the perfect fit.
You can easily unzip this kayak spray skirt to release hot air when needed, and its sticky edges help it grip your kayak’s rim for added safety and durability. This kayak spray skirt is super easy to slip into, and it’s our top choice thanks to its durable construction and ease of use.
Pros
- Suitable for all body types
- Sticks to the cockpit for better waterproofing
- Keeps you dry and helps regulate temperature
Cons
- Tight cockpit fit
Most Durable
Pick up the Seals Kayak Spray Skirt to keep yourself comfortable and dry on your next kayaking adventure. This skirt is made of durable fabric and features a two-way zipper closure. Its zipper allows for easy entry and exit, while the adjustable neoprene waistband and removable suspenders provide a custom fit.
This kayak spray skirt’s waterproof, water-resistant construction helps protect both you and it against the elements. It’s designed to fit most types of kayaks and is a great way to stay comfortable while fishing or exploring new waterways. This kayak spray skirt’s rim-grip technology can also keep you safe in fairly strong currents, and it comes with a couple of mesh zipper pockets for storing your belongings.
Pros
- Anti-slip technology keeps the skirt secure
- Features two zippered pockets
- Its suspenders are removable
Cons
- The zipper may start to split eventually
Top Portable Choice
Portable equipment is important when it comes to kayaking (or any outdoor activity, for that matter), so check out the Attwood Kayak Spray Skirt. It’s a great choice thanks to its portable design, and it can reliably keep water out of your vessel thanks to its polyurethane-coated, 210 denier nylon fabric.
This kayak spray skirt boasts dual-sided adjustability and polyvinyl chloride-sealed seams that make it easy to set up and secure in your boat. You can fold it up for easy storage, and it also includes a mesh bag for carrying the folded product. This kayak spray skirt can help you enjoy the water without getting too wet, and it’s available for a fairly low price — what’s not to love?
Pros
- Made from durable, waterproof material
- Easy to pack up and carry
- Can be adjusted for a better fit
Cons
- Doesn’t fit larger kayaks
Impressive Breathability
This Wilderness Systems Kayak Spray Skirt features a neoprene chest band and removable suspenders, and it works to keep you both warm and dry while you’re kayaking. It’s compatible with various cockpit sizes, not just Wilderness Systems kayaks, and has a ton of features that can make for a better experience on the rapids.
This kayak spray skirt includes sticky, rubberized edging at its base that helps keep it in place while you’re out paddling. Its water-resistant tunnel can be unzipped to release hot air, and its double-stitched seams offer you long-lasting, high-quality performance. This kayak spray skirt also includes a mesh storage pocket, and it comes with a clip handle for more convenient transportation.
Pros
- Offers a dry and warm kayaking experience
- Durable neoprene construction
- Won’t fade from sun exposure
Cons
- Velcro straps aren’t very adjustable
Buyer’s Guide for Finding a Kayak Spray Skirt
When it comes to kayak spray skirts, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind before making your purchase. With so many options out there, it can be tough to find the right one for you and your boat. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide to help you learn all there is to know about kayak spray skirts in 2024:
What Are the Different Types Of Kayak Skirts?
A kayak spray skirt is essential, as it helps keep you dry while kayaking. It will also keep water out of your kayak so you remain in control while paddling. There are three main types of kayak spray skirts:
Splash guards — These are the simplest type of kayak spray skirts, typically made from a single layer of fabric. They’re designed to protect you from waves and spray but won’t keep you completely dry.
Spray skirts — These kayak spray skirts are made from two or more layers of fabric and help keep you dry in even the roughest conditions. Water won’t get into your kayak with one of these on, making them a great choice.
Cockpit covers — These are the most comprehensive type of kayak spray skirts, and their primary function is to keep you dry and protect the entire kayak cockpit.
What to Look for in a Kayak Spray Skirt
Material
The material of your kayak spray skirt is important for both durability and comfort. Most skirts are made from either neoprene or nylon, both of which have their advantages. Neoprene is more durable and will last longer, but it can be more expensive. Nylon is less durable but also more affordable, so it’s a good choice for budget-minded shoppers.
Waterproofing
You’ll also want to consider how waterproof your kayak spray skirt is. Skirts with a waterproof rating of at least 3000mm are suitable for light rain and waves, while those with a 5000mm rating can withstand heavier rain and waves.
Taped seams
Another critical factor to consider is whether or not a kayak spray skirt has taped seams. Taped seams help prevent water from seeping through the skirt’s stitching, so it’s a good idea to prioritize those with this feature.
Pockets
Some kayak spray skirts also come with pockets, which can be handy for storing small items like your keys or phone.
Fit
Above all, you’ll want to make sure that your kayak spray skirt fits properly. Most skirts are sized by the cockpit, so measure your kayak’s cockpit before ordering.
Now that you know what to look for in a kayak spray skirt, you’re ready to start shopping!
How To Choose a Suitable Kayak Spray Skirt
One of the most important factors when it comes to choosing a kayak spray skirt is making sure that it’s the right size for your boat — the last thing you want is for your spray skirt to either be too small, not provide the coverage you need, or instead be too large and have excess fabric that could get in the way while paddling.
To find a kayak spray skirt that’s the right size, you need to know the dimensions of your kayak’s cockpit. Once you have those measurements, you can use a size chart to find the right size skirt for your kayak.
When looking at size charts, pay attention to the dimensions for both the length and width of the cockpit. The length is the measurement from the front of the cockpit to the back, and the width is the measurement from one side to the other.
Kayaking Safety Precautions
Wear a life jacket — Even if you’re an experienced swimmer, it’s always a good idea to wear a life jacket while kayaking.
Check the weather — Before heading out on the water, check the weather forecast. If there’s a chance of thunderstorms, it’s better to stay on dry land.
Be aware of your surroundings — When kayaking, be sure to pay attention to your surroundings and watch out for obstacles in the water.
Follow the rules of the road — Just as you would when driving a car, be sure to follow the rules of the “road” when kayaking. This includes staying to the right side of the river and yielding to oncoming traffic.
With the right kayak spray skirt, you can enjoy all that kayaking has to offer without worrying about getting soaked. Just be sure to keep the above factors in mind before making your purchase, and always remember to stay safe on the water!
People Also Asked
Can I pick a kayak spray skirt to match the color of my boat?
Although there isn’t a ton of variety to choose from, you can easily pick a kayak spray skirt to match your kayak's design or color scheme. Just make sure that it meets the other requirements for a good skirt as well.
What do I do if there is a tear in my kayak spray skirt?
If you have a tear in your kayak spray skirt, you need to replace it as soon as possible. A torn skirt can cause water to enter the cockpit and lead to capsizing.
How often should I replace my kayak spray skirt?
The frequency with which you need to replace your kayak spray skirt will depend on how often you use it and how well you take care of it. You should generally expect to replace your kayak spray skirt every few years or so.