When you kayak, little waves of water can splash into your boat. This water is called spray.
To stop spraying, kayakers wear skirts. Skirts fit around the hole where you sit. They make a seal so the water stays out. Skirts for kayaks come in different styles and sizes.
Other names for skirts are spray decks and spray covers.
This article tells you how to pick a good kayak skirt for your boat. We cover:
- Types of skirts
- How to measure your kayak
- Matching skirts to boat size
- Extra skirt features
Why Wear a Skirt?
Kayak skirts keep you drier when paddling. Without one, waves splash right into your lap!
Skirts also let you:
- Paddle in windy weather
- Learn to roll your kayak
- Kayak rough rapids
So they are very useful safety items.
Skirt Materials
Most skirts today use neoprene rubber. Neoprene stretches to fit the hole snugly.
Other common materials are:
- Nylon – cheaper option but less stretch
- GORE-TEX® – waterproof and breathable
Types of Kayak Skirts
There are two main kinds of skirts:
1. Fitted Skirts
Fitted skirts attach firmly to the rim with an elastic cord.
Pros: Very snug fit. Best for rolling practice.
Cons: Only fit one boat. It’s hard to take on and off.
2. Tunnel Skirts
Tunnel skirts work on any boat. Just slide them over the cockpit rim.
Pros: Easy to use. Fit all boats.
Cons: Can leak if loose. It may need adjusting.
Tunnel skirts suit beginners best. But advanced paddlers often have both kinds!
Measuring for a Spray Skirt
To pick the right size skirt, you need to measure your cockpit rim width and depth.
Here is how:
- Turn the kayak upside down
- Use a soft tape measure
- Measure straight across the widest points
- Also, measure top to bottom
This gives the width x depth in inches.
For example:
17 x 32 inches.
Or
43 x 81 cm.
Now, match those numbers to a skirt size. Check the manufacturer’s sizing chart online.
Spray skirts generally come in S, M, and L sizes.
Some also have size codes instead (1, A1, 240, etc).
Key Features of Kayak Skirts
Besides correct fit, look for these useful extras when shopping:
- Adjustable tunnel – cinch cord to tighten loose skirts
- Padded rim – prevents leaks, more comfort
- Hatch access – unzipped pocket for gear
- Reinforced wear points – prevent rips
And there are skirts made for:
- Cold weather – fleece or neoprene-lined
- Hot weather – breathable mesh panels
- Sea kayaking – spray flaps for waves
So think about when and how you will use the skirt most. Then, choose one with the right features.
Most importantly, it fits well and keeps the water out!
Where to Buy Kayak Spray Skirts
You can find skirts at these types of stores:
- Outdoor gear shops
- Paddlesport outfitters
- Kayak specialty dealers
- Online retailers like Amazon
Prices range from $50 for basic skirts to $200 for high-end ones. On average, expect to pay $75 to $125.
Look for reputable brands like:
- Kokatat
- NRS
- Extrasport
- Stohlquist
- Harmony
Avoid no-name brands that may leak or rip easily.
It is smart to try on skirts at the store first whenever possible.
To Sum Up, Choosing a Spray Skirt
The right kayak skirt keeps waves out so you stay dry and safe.
It should fit your body type, boat size, paddle style, and conditions.
Measure your cockpit size correctly. Pick a material and features you like.
Then test some quality skirts to find “the one”!
You can paddle hard with your new spray skirt without worrying about the wet.
