Within the UK, participation in water sports is currently the highest it’s been in years, and interest is continuing to grow.
If you’re one of the many lovers of water activities out there, you’ll be aware of the importance of investing in the right water sports equipment.
For every water sport, you can think of, from kayaking to surfing, you can find a plethora of impressive tech pieces and gadgets that can help make your activities a lot more enjoyable, and at times, easier.
So other than a giant inflatable unicorn (of course), how do you decide which water sports equipment to get for your next water-based adventure?
So here is our round-up of the best essential water sports equipment to take your water activity experience up a notch, as well as some unique water gadgets to try and get your hands on in 2019.
Much of this equipment can be used across different water sports and is useful for both group and individual adventures.
Essential Water Sports Gadgets
Let’s kick off with some of the essential items that can enhance your watersports experience:
Palm Peyto Personal Flotation Device
Whether you’re planning activity in a river, the ocean, or a lake, taking the right measures for your safety and protection is the first (and the most important) element to think about investing in.
In terms of safety-related water sports equipment, a sturdy buoyancy aid is of the utmost importance.
Suitable for a wide range of water-based activities, the Palm Peyto PFD is the perfect combination of comfort and functionality. Thanks to its easily adjustable straps and supple fabric, it’s sure to fit your body well, whether you decide to wear it over your wetsuit, your skin, or your jacket.
Bonus: you can keep your fingers nice and toasty using the hidden hand warmers, and the large pockets are sure to come in handy for any smaller water sports gadgets you’ll be carrying.
OverBoard Pro-light Waterproof Backpack
As much as you love the waters, you don’t want it to seep into your bag and your belongings.
The main way to ensure that your valuables stay nice and dry is by investing in a sturdy waterproof bag.
This Overboard waterproof backpack comes in a variety of sizes (12 litres, 20 litres and 30 litres), and is suitable for a range of water (and land) activities.
Keep your belongings bone dry with this highly robust backpack that is likely to last you for years and is usable across the water and regular sports, making it great value for money.
Verve Source Water Sports Hydration Pack
Remaining hydrated is key when you’re out on the waters.
With most water sports, you’ll be sweating more than you even realise.
This Verve Water Pack can help keep you nice and hydrated without deterring your movements or adding too much weight. With its low-profile design, this durable pack stays perfectly close to your back and won’t budge no matter what. It also slips on easily over most life vests.
Want a little extra storage space for small items like energy bars and keys?
There are easily accessible pockets inbuilt within this pack too.
Typhoon Folding Knife
Much loved by avid kayakers, this handy folding knife may not be one of the most unique water gadgets out there, but it is certainly one of the most essential pieces of kit for most water sports.
Why pick this one?
The edge of the Typhoon Folding Knife blade is half straight and half serrated, and it folds easily into the handle. You can grip it easily even when it’s wet, and there’s a rope cutter too. Sorted.
Snugs Aqua Waterproof Earphones
A good set of waterproof earphones can be your best friend and offer some much needed musical motivation when you’re spending a lot of time out on the water.
We absolutely adore the Snugs Aqua earphones for their completely waterproof and personalised nature.
How are they personalised, you ask?
Well, they’ll arrange a ‘fitting’ of your ear to create an impression for a truly snug fit. You can be sure that no sound will leak out, and no water will leak in.
The Waterproof Camera
There are a ton of Instagram-worthy moments that you don’t want to miss while you’re out on the waters. Capture them using one of the following fantastic water-resistant cameras:
Nikon CoolPIX W300
This 16-megapixel camera is water resistant up to 30 metres, which makes it a great choice for any paddle boarders.
Oh, and there’s a built-in GPS system which means you can track exactly where you get your shot.
GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition
One of the most advanced models released by beloved camera brand GoPro, the Black Edition can capture extremely high-resolution video, despite its tiny size and lightweight nature.
The still photo quality is not quite as impressive at 12MP photos up to 30 frames per second, but extra features such as the inbuilt WIFI and Super View mode for wide angle videos make this a serious contender for the best camera for water sports filming.
Already own a high-quality camera that’s just not waterproof?
Use it on the waters by getting yourself a good waterproof case that’s compatible with your camera model.
Unique Water Gadgets
Lampuga Boost Electric Surfboard
Looking for new water sports ideas?
Consider trying this electric surfboard when it becomes available for purchase in 2019.
Let’s face it, it’s not easy to catch waves everywhere. But the Lampuga Boost means you can surf with skill even on still waters.
According to Forbes, electric surfboarding is the next big thing in water sports. And this is a trend worth exploring with the right piece of tech.
The Lampuga Boost is made of the light but highly durable carbon fibre material, and has a compact motor built into it. It’s bound to offer an exhilarating experience worth attempting if you want to try something new in the waters!
Zapata Flyboard
Adventure junkies, this one is for you. Another new water sports idea that tech will enable us to experience in 2019 is ‘hydroflying’.
The Zapata Flyboard is a seriously impressive looking piece of tech that could make for the most awesome holiday selfie, and exciting new experience.
The inbuilt water propulsion system means you can use it to either fly up into the air (49 ft) or dive down into the water (8ft).
Cayago SeaBob F5
Speaking of exciting new experiences - have you ever heard of underwater jet-skiing?
Yup, you read that right. If you have the inclination (and the budget) for this new water sports adventure, the Cayago SeaBob F5 takes the jet ski experience underwater.
With a propulsive force of 480 newtons, you’ll get a chance to really whizz around within the waters and explore tons of marine life in a short period of time. Warning - simply snorkelling will never give you the same thrill again!