Kayak Shade
Our favorite kayak shades hand picked by The Captain | Updated: 05/20/22 Our favorite kayak shades hand picked by The Captain | Updated: 05/20/22Kayaks are great fun to paddle around lakes, rivers, ponds, and oceans. However, there are many dangers associated with being out on the water. One danger that most paddlers face is sunburn. If you're going to be spending long hours outdoors, you must take precautions to avoid getting burned. Sunscreen lotions are available, but they aren't always effective. There are other ways to protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun. One way is by using a kayak shade.
There are several benefits to using a kayak shade. UV light causes skin cancer and premature aging. Second, it shields you from insects and biting bugs. Third, it prevents glare from reflecting off the water. Fourth, it reduces wind resistance while you're paddling. Fifth, it makes you more comfortable because it blocks out the heat of the sun. Sixth, it gives you a sense of security knowing that you're protected from the elements. Finally, it increases visibility so that you can see where you're going.
Choosing a good kayak shade isn't difficult. All you really need to know is what kind of material the shade is made of and whether or not it has holes. Most shades are made of vinyl, which is durable and easy to care for. Some shades have mesh screens that allow air flow, making them cooler. Others have solid panels that block out sunlight completely.
There are two types of kayak shades: folding and non-folding. Folding shades fold into themselves when not in use. Non-folding shades stay flat and open. Both kinds of shades are designed to fit onto the top of a kayak.
Most kayak shades are either round or rectangular. Round shades are easier to store and transport. Rectangular shades are easier to carry and install.
Shades are typically made of plastic, canvas, or nylon. Plastic shades are lightweight and inexpensive. Canvas shades are heavier and stronger. Nylon shades are the strongest and last longer.
Installing a foldable shade is fairly simple. Simply unfold the shape and slide it down over the top edge of the kayak. Make sure the edges of the shade line up perfectly with the sides of the kayak. Then, secure the shade with tape or velcro strips.
Non-foldable shades require a bit more effort to install. First, remove the old shade. Next, cut the shade to size. Slide the shade onto the top edge of the kayak. Secure the shade with tape or velcro strips.
The best way to choose which kayak shade is right for you is by considering its features. The following list includes several important characteristics to look for when shopping around for a kayak shade.
Kayaks vary greatly in size. Some are small enough to fit into most boats while others are large enough to be carried onto land. If you plan to store your kayak inside your boat, you'll probably want to purchase a smaller model. Larger models are more suitable for storage outside your boat.
Most kayak shades weigh between two pounds and five pounds. However, there are larger models available. Most kayak shades are designed with a weight capacity of three to four hundred pounds.
There are many different materials used to manufacture kayak shades. Each material has unique properties and benefits. Plastic is lightweight and durable, yet flexible. Fiberglass is strong and resistant to corrosion. Aluminum is light-weight and easy to transport. Wood is heavy and sturdy. Steel is very hardy and long lasting.
Each type of material has strengths and weaknesses. While plastic is lightweight and inexpensive, it tends to crack and break down quickly. Fiberglass is extremely durable, however, it does require maintenance. Metal is very durable and resists rusting, but it weighs too much to carry around. Wooden kayak shades are typically heavier than other types of shades because wood is naturally rot-resistant.
Many manufacturers offer a wide variety of colors to select from. Colors range from bright primary hues to muted earth tones. There are also options for custom color combinations.
Some kayak shades are shaped like traditional umbrellas. Others resemble tents or parasols. Still others are flat sheets of fabric. All designs have advantages and disadvantages. Flat shades are easier to fold and pack away. Umbrella styles provide maximum coverage. Tent style shades allow air circulation underneath. Parasol style shades are great for protecting your kayak from rain.
Shade prices vary widely depending upon design, quality, and quantity ordered. Higher priced units are generally constructed using higher grade materials.
There are many different kinds of shades available for kayaks. The most common type of shade is called a "canopy". Canopies are designed to cover the entire cockpit of the boat so that there is no direct sunlight entering into the cockpit. There are several other styles of shades that are available. Some are specifically designed for kayaking while others are more general in nature. Here we discuss the different types of shades available and which ones might be best suited for your needs.
The most popular style of shade is the canopy. Canopies are typically constructed with vinyl coated fabric and are attached to the top of the cockpit using velcro straps. Canopies are very easy to install and remove. However, they require constant maintenance because they must be cleaned regularly. If left uncleaned, algae will build up inside the canopy causing the canvas to rot. Also, the canopy itself becomes stained by salt water and dirt. Therefore, it is important to wash the canopy frequently.
Another option is a shelter. Shelter shades are generally smaller than canopies and are only large enough to provide partial coverage. Because shelters are small, they are easier to store and transport. In addition, they are lighter weight and therefore cheaper to ship. However, they are not nearly as durable as canopies. As a result, they are prone to tearing and ripping. Also, they cannot withstand heavy winds. Finally, they are not suitable for boats that travel long distances because they are too light weight.
Finally, folding shades are another option. Folding shades are ideal for those who plan to take their kayak camping. They fold down flat during transportation and storage. Once unfolded, they form a tent-like structure that completely covers the cockpit. Like shelters, these shades are lightweight and inexpensive. However, they are not weatherproof and are susceptible to wind damage. Furthermore, they are difficult to set up and take down.
