by: Jakob Jelling
Paddle floats can save your life, so make sure that you get an easy to use paddle float.
If you're going to be kayaking in deep water (whether this is the ocean or a lake) you may not always be able to go to shore if your kayak flips.Paddle floats provide a great tool for you to recover your boat and get back inside if needed. As a result, you should always make sure that you have a paddle float on hand when you are at sea.
There are many different types of paddle floats that are sold at various stores. However, it's understandably hard to tell which floats work better than others. You should always look for floats that are easier to inflate than others. There are two ways to do this. First, you should read the instructions for use of whatever paddle floats you're thinking about buying. If you do not think that you'll be able to use the paddle float then it is probably not your best bet.
You should also check and see how long the manufacturer says that it should take you to right your boat while you're using. You can also read the recommendations of people who have tried that particular paddle float in the past. If they say that it was difficult to use, then that may mean that you're better off looking for a different paddle float.
Most paddle floats are made out of nylon and are brightly colored. That way, if the paddle float is lost, or if it comes free of the paddle, it will be easily found. Considering the types of locations where you will need to use the paddle float, this is very important.
Paddle floats are used to right your kayak after it has tipped over. Essentially, the paddle float turns your kayak paddle into an important tool. Since one end of the kayak paddle will float, you'll be able to use the kayak paddle to push against the water on the other side of the kayak. The direct result is that the kayak will not flip over again, and you'll be able to get back inside.
Since it is not particularly easy to use paddle floats, it's recommended that you go somewhere relatively safe and practice using them before you get out on the open water and need to know how.