// PADDLING //
WELCOME TO
VAIKOBI'S PADDLING HUB
Information, gear and expert guides for Surfski, Kayak, SUP, Outrigger and Dragonboat paddlers of all levels.
Whether you're new to paddling or chasing your next PB, you've come to the right place.
Welcome to Vaikobi's paddling hub, where you'll find expert advice, practical guides, training tips and performance gear recommendations to help you enjoy every session on the water. Explore our resources covering surfski paddling, kayaking, SUP paddling, dragonboat paddling and outrigger canoe (OC) paddling, with information tailored to beginners through to elite athletes.
From choosing the right equipment and improving your technique to staying safe, comfortable and performing at your best, Vaikobi’s team of experienced paddlers has created this hub so you can get more out of this truly awesome sport.
Let us help you find what you need. Are you:
// NEW TO PADDLING //
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO.
If you’re just getting started or still finding your feet, here’s the info we wish we knew when we started out!
What to Wear Paddling: The Beginner's Guide →
How to Choose the Right PFD for Paddling →
The Best Paddling Tops for Every Condition →
// PADDLING REGULARLY//
GET THE MOST OUT OF EVERY PADDLE.
Whether you're out there socially or gearing up for an event, check out this information to help you stay comfortable, protected and on the water longer.
Hydration on the Water - Why It Matters →
Cross Training for Paddlers – With Michael Booth →
Vaikobi's Guide to Winter Paddling →
// ADVANCED PADDLER //
TRAIN SMARTER. RACE FASTER. PUSH THE LIMITS.
Whether you're racing, building paddling fitness or refining your downwind technique, check out this information written by our team of paddling pros.
How to Manage Pre-Race Jitters - With Jackson Borg →
Guide to Mastering Downwinds For Paddlers →
Mastering the Surfski Remount – With Luke Chaffer →
Improve Your Paddling Stroke – With Jackson Borg →
PADDLING IN COLD CONDITIONS (WINTER)
Cold weather doesn't have to mean the end of your paddling season. With the right clothing setup, winter can offer some of the most enjoyable conditions on the water, from glassy morning paddles to crisp downwind runs. The key to staying comfortable is choosing technical apparel that's designed specifically for paddling.
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Recommended Tops For Cold WeatherRecommended Tops For Cold WeatherExplore cozy base layers through to insulating wetsuit tops that hug the body but allow the arms to paddle freely.
Choose between the Base Layer Top (Warm), Hydroflex Top (Warmer), or Flex Top (Warmest) depending on conditions. -
Recommended Pants For Cold WeatherRecommended Pants For Cold WeatherExplore our range of pants for winter paddling, that protect the seat and lower back from the cold, without overheating.
Choose between the Hydroflex Pant (Warm), Flex Pants (Warmer), GBS 3mm Paddle Pant or FlexForce 2mm Pants (Warmest) depending on conditions. -
Recommended Outer Layers For Cold WeatherRecommended Outer Layers For Cold WeatherBlock cold wind out by wearing an extra top layer like a vest or jacket for paddling.
Our VDRY smock or 1/2 zip vest blocks wind and water spray, keeping your core dry throughout the session. -
Recommended Accessories For Cold WeatherRecommended Accessories For Cold WeatherExplore the accessories you need for winter paddling, to protect your hands, feet and head from cold exposure.
PADDLING IN WARM WEATHER (SUMMER)
Warm weather and long summer days means more time you can spend paddling - but heat, intense UV exposure and prolonged time on the water can quickly take their toll if you're not wearing the right gear.
Protecting yourself from the sun while staying cool is essential for both comfort and performance. Vaikobi’s UV paddling apparel is designed to help regulate your body temperature, reduce sun exposure and keep you comfortable, even during the hottest sessions.
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Recommended Tops For Warm WeatherRecommended Tops For Warm WeatherExplore our range of UPF50+ tops that keep the sun off your skin and allow heat and moisture to escape so you can keep your cool.
Choose between the Tech Tee (Short Sleeve, Long Sleeve or Hooded) or the Rashie (Long Sleeve or Hooded) depending on conditions. -
Recommended Shorts And Pants For Warm WeatherRecommended Shorts And Pants For Warm WeatherExplore our range of shorts and pants designed for Summer paddling, sun protection and lightweight comfort.
Choose between UV Paddle Shorts (men's and women's), UV Paddle Pants (unisex) or Ergo Leggings (women's) depending on conditions. -
Recommended Eyewear For Warm WeatherRecommended Eyewear For Warm WeatherExplore our range of polarized eyewear that blocks harmful rays from above and glare from the water.
Choose between Garda (full wrap, max coverage), Molokai (larger fit for fuller faces), Viento (classic style, medium to smaller faces) or Sorrento (sleek sports wrap) depending on your fit and style. -
Recommended Accessories For Warm WeatherRecommended Accessories For Warm WeatherExplore the accessories you need for Summer paddling, to protect your face and neck from sun exposure.
PADDLING ALL YEAR ROUND (4 SEASONS)
Vaikobi's all-season paddling apparel has been designed to adapt as conditions change.
For many paddlers, the best conditions are found in the in-between seasons, where cool mornings turn into warm afternoons, the wind picks up unexpectedly or the weather shifts throughout a long session. That's why versatile paddling gear is such an important part of any kit. Clothing that performs across a wide range of conditions allows you to spend more time on the water without constantly changing what you wear, making it ideal for training, racing and recreational paddling throughout the year.
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Recommended Tops For Moderate ConditionsRecommended Tops For Moderate ConditionsExplore our range tops that thermally insulate, allow the body to breathe, and protect from the sun.
Choose between UV Tops (warm conditions), Base Layers (cool), or Thermal Tops (cold) depending on the season. -
Recommended Pants And Shorts For Moderate ConditionsRecommended Pants And Shorts For Moderate ConditionsExplore our range of shorts and pants designed for comfortable paddling all year round.
Choose between UV styles (shorts, pants and Ergo leggings) for warm conditions or thermal styles (Hydrofleece leggings and thermal pants) for cold, depending on the season. -
Recommended Hats And Caps For Moderate ConditionsRecommended Hats And Caps For Moderate ConditionsExplore our headwear range, built to protect your head, neck and face on the water with quick-dry fabric and glare-cutting black brim undersides.
Choose between the Performance Visor (open-top, minimal), the Lightweight Ocean Cap (lightweight, breathable), or the Downwind Surf Hat (full face and neck coverage) depending on conditions. -
Recommended Accessories For Moderate ConditionsRecommended Accessories For Moderate ConditionsExplore the most highly rated accessories you need to stay comfortable and safe while paddling.
// V4 OCEAN RACING PFD LIFE JACKET //
OUR BEST SELLING
PFD FOR PADDLERS.
Built for paddlers who demand comfort, safety and practicality. The V4 Ocean Racing PFD packs generous storage for hydration and essentials
into lightweight, form-fitting foam and a streamlined front-zip fit. You won't even notice you're wearing it.