DRKC compulsory gear

We require you to bring the following gear with you on all club trips: 

  • Suitable dry bag(s)

    • Waterproof /seam sealed and capable of keeping gear dry when immersed in water.

  • Clothing & Thermal Layers

    • Long-sleeve thermal base layer top (our DRKC thermals are excellent for this!) 

      • next-to-skin

    • Long-sleeve mid-layer top

      • light fleece, ~220gsm+

    • Waterproof, long-sleeved paddle-specific jacket 

      • seam-sealed, neoprene cuffs/neck

    • Thermal gloves

    • Full-length thermal base layer pants

    • Waterproof pants 

      • seam-sealed

    • Thermal hat

    • Thermal socks 

      • synthetic, neoprene, merino, etc.

  • Kayak & Safety Equipment

    • Kayak - ​​​​​​suited to Grade 2 level

      • grab-loop/toggle at bow

      • no restrictive foot straps

    • Buoyancy vest (PFD)

      • ≥50N buoyancy, NZS-approved, webbing cinch strap. 

      • Check out the PFD buoyancy test tab for a video on how to check your PFD is up to scratch.

    • Kayak-specific helmet

    • Paddle

    • Spray skirt

      • neoprene/waterproof, correct size

    • Floatation/air bags 

      • kayak pillars with two 20 L rear bags or watertight compartments; no wine bladders

    • Repair/duct tape

      • at least 10 m

      • plus towel for adhesion

  • First aid kit (minimum)

    • 4 m crepe bandage

      • min. 7.5 cm wide

    • 7.5 m strapping tape

      • min. 3.5 cm wide

    • 10 x adhesive bandaids

      • the material ones tend to stick better when you're a bit damp

    • 5 x butterfly strips

    • 2 x dressing pads

      • min. 9 cm x 70 cm

    • 1 x triangular bandage

    • 1 x pair of scissors

    • 4 x pain-relief tablets

      • e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen

    • Any personal medication

    • 💡Note: All of this must be packed in your dry bag and kept fully waterproofed.

  • Food and water

  • Recommendations

    • We recommend you have a laminated card attached to the inside of your boat with the following information

      • Your full name and contact phone number 

      • At least one emergancy contact name and phone number 

        • remember to tell this person the intentions of your trip 

      • Any medical conditions