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Personal paddling kit

paddlekeys
Oct 9, 2014
2 min read

Here is a picture of the kit that I wear when I go paddling. This kit has carried me through some sketchy situations.

From Left: I use the Onyx Inflatable PFD. I truly believe that a pfd is no good on your board so an inflatable is the best choice for me. I like the Onyx in particular because of it's wrap around fit.

Next we have the NRS titanium co-pilot knife. This was my white water knife and it has been by my side for many adventures. Having the built in bottle opener is handy. Being made of titanium, it has absolutely zero rust spots which is pretty cool considering what salt water does to steel knives.

Then we have the SPOT device. Working on global satellite technology, I can set this to ping the satellite every 10 minutes with my position and then anyone who I have given the web address to can follow me on my adventures. It also has 4 other buttons that are customizable via a web browser. I can send messages to people who I have set up to receive them as well as summon the Coast Guard. Spot, being a global device is supposed to work anywhere in the world. I also pay extra for their evacuation insurance which would theoretically cover me in case I need to be airlifted out. I don't always use the SPOT but when I'm alone or on longer paddles, I do and it is reassuring to know that I can be found.

Next up are the whistle and flashlight. For a whistle, I use the FOX 40 which has been my whistle of choice for years because of it's piercing noise. Beware though, whistles don't carry as far as you think especially if it is windy. This isn't a very valuable signaling device but is does keep your requirement with the Coast Guard. My flashlight is called a splash flash. It will alternate between a flashlight and a SOS beacon. It is waterproof and one aaa battery powers it for a long time. This is also a Coast Guard required safety device when paddling at night.

All of these items are available at PADDLE the Florida Keys.

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