When first starting out with kayaking, there is a lot of kit to get to grips with. From the kayak itself through to paddles and safety equipment, not only do you have to learn how to use it, but you also have to ensure that you have somewhere safe and secure to store it all. Many of our customers come to us and ask what the best way to store their sit on top kayak is.

Throughout the different seasons, it’s important to understand the best way to store your sit on kayak to protect it from different weather conditions and elements. Many kayakers will put their vessels into storage over the Winter months to protect the materials that the kayak is made from. So what can you do to ensure your kayak is kept in tip top condition year after year? The team at Cambridge Kayaks have pulled together their top tips for storing your sit on top kayak.

What material is your kayak made from?

Before considering how best to store your kayak, you should take into account the materials your kayak is made from. Most hard shell kayaks are made from a very durable plastic, but they can also be made from fibre glass, carbon or even wood. Depending on the material, you should ensure that the storage location is water tight, protected from strong ultraviolet rays and sunshine, and also doesn’t get too hot. All of the above can cause damage to your kayak if left for long periods of time.

Should I store my kayak inside or outside?

Kayaks can be quite large and bulky, therefore it is not always feasible to store your vessel inside – however a garage or a shed can work really well to protect it when it is not in use.

Kayaking is an outside activity, and as a result it is perfectly safe to store your kayak outside throughout the year. If you don’t have the space inside and you are planning on keeping it outside, we would always recommend that you cover the kayak to protect it from the elements. We’d also suggest that you find a shaded spot for your sit on top kayak and keep it out of strong sunlight. Additionally ensure that snow and rain can’t accumulate within the hull – you could use a sheet of tarpaulin over the top to prevent this from happening.

Do I need any special storage equipment?

Storing your kayak on a rack is the most ideal storage method. Keeping it on a rack prevents it from being damaged on the floor. You can also look at an option to suspend the kayak from a ceiling or an outdoor structure. Both options will prevent the vessel from getting damp from the ground and will also help keep your kayak clean throughout the year.

Finally, it’s important to ensure your kayak is protected against theft. We recommend that you keep the kayak out of sight and hidden as much as possible whilst you could thread a security cable through a sturdy part of the boat and lock it into place via a fence post.