Why Kayak Padding is Important

Comfort is key when it comes to Kayaking, find out why Kayak Padding is Important.

Comfort is key

It’s hard to enjoy yourself when you’re uncomfortable. Whether you’re sitting on hard metal bleachers at a ballgame, or wearing ill-fitting shoes at a festival, when you’re uncomfortable, your focus is always going to be on what’s bothering you, rather than what you’re doing or where you are.

One activity that people don’t consider might be uncomfortable is kayaking. Many think, “Oh, you’re sitting down, relaxing, bobbing along in the water. What’s the issue?” While in an ideal situation that’s true, there is also the chance for pressure issues and discomfort that can cut short any voyage.

There are a few reasons for this. The first is that kayaks are simple molded forms that not everyone will fit perfectly into. This means your hips, knees, feet, and back will hit the shell in different places than someone else. That, and molded plastic isn’t the softest thing in the world.

Kayak Padding for comfort

To combat this, foam kayak padding offers a way to customize your kayak to your body, increasing your comfort as well as the amount of time you can spend on the water.

Closed-cell cross-linked polyethylene foam is a popular material for kayak seats, as it can be cut to fit your body type and kayak. This type can even be sanded down, giving you the ability to make gentle, custom contours that take your mind off your seat and put it on the water.

It is non-absorbent, great for use in a marine environment. It is available in a wide range of thicknesses, great for both seats and comfort pads. Thinner sections can be used for hip, knee, and leg padding. In addition to making the kayak more comfortable, being in a comfortable contact also gives you more control as well. You can help navigate with your body in addition to the paddle. Ultimately, foam padding makes the kayaking experience much more enjoyable.