It may be an ethereal feeling to walk through the low moonlight with just the sound of paddles hitting the water’s surface to break the quiet. Kayaking at night has an intrinsic calm that will make you appreciate paddling even more than you already do. Paddling in the dark can be both thrilling and terrifying.
If you like to kayak early in the morning before the sun has fully risen or late at night, having a light on your kayak is essential not only for seeing where all your belongings are on your kayak, but also for safety reasons to ensure you’re fully visible to larger vessels and that people can find you in the event of an emergency.
It does, however, come with a level of danger. How are you going to alert other boaters that you’re out there? How will you stand out and avoid unwelcomely – and often hazardous – encounters? We’ll go through some of the top models that we believe are the best kayak lights in this article. We hope it is of use to you.
Best Kayak Lights – Quick Comparison
Product image Product name Editor's rating Price
Kayalu Kayalite 4.9 See pricing details
Attwood 14192-7 4.8 See pricing details
UST See-Me 4.8 See pricing details
YakAttack VISICarbon Pro 4.7 See pricing details
YakAttack VISIPole II 4.7 See pricing details
Attwood 14191-7 4.7 See pricing details
Innovative 4.6 See pricing details
Botepon 4.6 See pricing details
Attwood 14190-7 4.5 See pricing details
Energizer 4.5 See pricing details
Best Kayak Lights Reviews
1. Kayalu Kayalite Portable Bright White Led Kayak Light
Specifications:
- IPX8 white light
- 360º diffusion lens
- Waterproof to 1,000 feet
- 100-hour battery life
Reviews:
The Kayalite kayak light is one of the most popular alternatives for navigation lights in the United States, according to Kayalu. Two LEDs are employed in the brilliant white light, which is diffused by a titanium-infused diffusion lens.
With a 360-degree radius of illumination, this kayak light system is meant to be visible from all sides, making it simple to see from any angle. It will keep you safe and visible all night long, with a battery life of roughly 100 hours (with 3 AA batteries).
The Kayalu Kayalite Kayak Light is waterproof to IPX8 standards and can withstand a 1000-foot submersion in deep water. It attaches to existing D-rings, pad eyes, and other connection points, eliminating the “safety hazards” associated with conventional deck light mounting systems. The kayak light also earns additional marks for its clever mounting technique, which makes use of internal tension wire.
One of the most durable lights on the market, thanks to the robust marine-grade metal utilized for the pole. The bright light is attached to an 18-inch pole with a tension strap that you can tie to your kayak deck. It is significantly less breakable and difficult to lose than a suction cup or drill-mounted light.
The Kayalu Kayalite is one of the best kayak lights available, and it works with both hardshell and inflatable kayaks. It complies with US Coast Guard Rule 25 and can be attached to any eyelet or pad eye on your kayak deck. The steel clip and bungee rope may then be used to secure it.
The only drawback is that you can’t alter the height, but apart from that, it’s an excellent light that we enthusiastically recommend.
Pros:
- The all-around white light that has been certified by the USCG
- Light may be seen from up to 2 kilometers away.
- 1000 feet buoyant and waterproof
- LED bulbs are very long-lasting, with a 10,000-hour lifespan.
- Use 3 AA batteries for a battery life of roughly 100 hours.
Cons:
- If your kayak does not have eyelets, you will need to add them.
- The height of the light is fixed and cannot be adjusted.
2. Attwood 14192-7 Water-Resistant Deck Mount LED Navigation Light Kit
Specifications:
- Combination of red, green, and white
- Mounting options include adhesive and screw-down.
- The stern light is white, while the bow light is green and red.
- Water-resistant
- 150 hours on 3 AAA batteries
- Adhesive or drill-mounted
Reviews:
A mast-mounted white stern light and a shorter bow red/green light are included with this Attwood light package. It meets the safety requirements for boats up to 23 feet, and it’s ideal for kayakers who plan to paddle near a lot of bigger motors and sailboats.
You may also purchase with confidence since Attwood is a well-known company that has been creating high-quality accessories for over a century. Both lights include shock-proof casing and shatterproof polycarbonate lenses, and both come with waterproof electronics. It’s 24 inches long when fully extended, so it shouldn’t interfere with your night vision.
The lights have a 150-hour runtime on the usual setting and are powered by three AAA batteries (one for each device). The electronics are secured by shatterproof polycarbonate glass, and the LED light bulbs are enclosed in a robust shock-proof metal casing.
They’re a very lightweight and user-friendly solution, weighing in at just 6.4 ounces altogether. Both lights come with 3M VHB adhesive pads that stay on your deck even when the weather becomes harsh and wet, or you can opt for a more durable option with a drill-mounted version.
This is a kayak light kit that includes everything you need. The brackets, stern light poles, and hardware are all included in the package. Waterproofing has been added to the light. For attaching the lights, there are two alternatives – screw or use the provided adhesive pad to secure the lights in place.
Another light worth considering is the Attwood Clamp-On Light Kit. Although the name suggests it’s portable, we’d argue it’s more suited to serving as a permanent kayak light. It attaches to your kayak with two sturdy steel C clamps that are simple to install.
The stern light pole is available in parts and is around 24 tall, making it easily visible at night. The glue works well on flat surfaces but struggles on porous or textured surfaces. Most customers advocate utilizing the screws included with the package for added stability. It’s a well-made, shock-resistant, and reasonably priced kit that will fit a variety of kayaks.
Pros:
- Drill or glue them to your deck for a variety of installation choices.
- Hardware that is both sturdy and well-designed
- On three AAA batteries, the device can operate for up to 150 hours.
- Housing is shock-proof and water-resistant, and the lenses are shatter-proof.
- White stern light and a red/green bow light are included.
Cons:
- For porous or rough surfaces, the glue isn’t ideal.
- It’s not waterproof; instead, it’s water-resistant.
- There is no way to stop the parts from being pulled apart.
- If dropped in water, it does not float.
- Drilling holes in the hull may be required for installation.
3. UST See-Me 1.0 Waterproof LED Light
Specifications:
- Waterproofing: IPX7, 1-meter immersion
- 17 hours of battery life
- Lanyard mount style
- Steady-on 360-degree light
- 1.8 ounces
Reviews:
The UST See-Me 1.0 attaches to your PFD and performs all of the functions of an SOS light while weighing next to nothing. It is powered by two AAA batteries (not supplied) and has no low-battery indication. It’s also US Coast Guard-approved!
It’s waterproof up to 1 meter underwater and has an IPX7 certification. It’s just 2 ounces in weight and can operate for up to 17 hours on two AA batteries. On a clear night, the twist-on/off operation is really simple, and it’s visible up to 3.4 miles away.
The UST See-Me 1.0 is a kayak emergency light. This tiny portable kayak light is less than 5 inches long and weighs just 1.8 ounces. It carries a 20-lumen LED that provides 360-degree light viewable for up to 3.4 miles. It’s meant to be worn on your life jacket and utilized in an emergency.
It doesn’t come with any clips, but it’s engineered to remain attached no matter how hard you row. If it does fall out of place, it will just hang from the lanyard, where it will be easily accessible if you need it.
Pros:
- Up to 3.4 miles of 360-degree visibility
- A lanyard string with a hook-and-loop strap
- Extremely lightweight and compact
- Twist On/Off switches are simple to use and very dependable.
- A lanyard string with a hook-and-loop strap
Cons:
- There are no batteries provided, and there is no low-battery indication.
- It’s not bright enough to be utilized as the main light source.
- The batteries are ejected if the cap is turned the incorrect way.
4. YakAttack VISICarbon Pro 360 Degree LED Visibility Flag
Specifications:
- 1.1-pound track mount type
- There are a variety of deck mounting options available.
- Waterproof to 1,000 feet (IPX8)
- AA batteries (three) a hundred hours
Reviews:
The VISICarbon Pro from YakAttack is the most high-end kayak lighting on my list. On the other hand, it’s a 360-degree white light with a high-visibility orange flag. Visicarbon Pro is much better since it is made of carbon fiber tubing rather than plastic.
The YakAttack VISICarbon Pro 360 is an LED kayak light that also functions as a flag for increased visibility when kayaking at night. It’s one of the most durable lights you can purchase while staying ultralight, thanks to the use of carbon fiber for added strength and rigidity. The light is water-resistant, and the SilentSlip base foam keeps it buoyant.
The YakAttack VISICarbon Pro 360 is an LED kayak light that also functions as a flag for increased visibility when kayaking at night. It’s one of the most durable lights you can purchase while staying ultralight, thanks to the use of carbon fiber for added strength and rigidity. The light is water-resistant, and the SilentSlip base foam keeps it buoyant.
The YakAttack VISICarbon Pro 360 is an LED kayak light that also functions as a flag for increased visibility when kayaking at night. It’s one of the most durable lights you can purchase while staying ultralight, thanks to the use of carbon fiber for added strength and rigidity. The light is water-resistant, and the SilentSlip base foam keeps it buoyant.
This light is an LED that is powered by three AA batteries and can last up to 100 hours. The bulb, on the other hand, has a lifespan of up to 10,000 hours. It’s simple to install on your kayak and compatible with most gear mount tracks. This is one of the most secure methods to secure the light to your kayaks so it doesn’t fall off in the middle of a paddle.
A fiberglass mast and a floating base are included with the YakAttack VISIpole. The mast’s entire height is 4’6, ensuring that you are seen from all sides. If you don’t want 360-degree visibility, the flag may be used to diffuse light and keep pests away.
The YakAttack VISIpole is designed to accommodate YakAttack’s track mounting mechanism, the GearTrac. It’s simple to install the light anyplace on the track that works best for you if you’re set up for it. Other track systems may need an adaptor, but the VISI pole is compatible with them.
Pros:
- 360-degree white light and visibility flag
- 1.1 pound
- Waterproof and buoyant
- There are a variety of deck mounting options available.
- Three AA batteries, good LED light, and battery life
Cons:
- On our list, this is the most costly choice.
- In heavy gusts, it’s prone to breaking at the base.
- For hazy circumstances, it may not be bright enough.
- This may or may not work for you, depending on your mounting configuration.
- Some consumers claim that the light isn’t as brilliant as they expected.
5. YakAttack VISIPole II GearTrac Ready Light with Flag
Specifications:
- The mast is made of fiberglass and has a floating base.
- Visibility from every angle
- 3 AAA batteries are required, with a battery life of 100 hours.
- Track kind of mount
- IPX8 water resistance, up to 1,000 feet
Reviews:
A fiberglass mast and a floating base are included with the YakAttack VISIpole. The mast’s entire height is 4’6, ensuring that you are seen from all sides. If you don’t want 360-degree visibility, the flag may be used to diffuse light and keep pests away.
The YakAttack VISIpole is designed to accommodate YakAttack’s track mounting mechanism, the GearTrac. It’s simple to install the light anyplace on the track that works best for you if you’re set up for it. Other track systems may need an adaptor, but the VISI pole is compatible with them.
This flag and light combination is ideal for those who desire something small and light. The super-bright LED light bulb is positioned just above the high-vis orange flag on a 3/8 thick fiberglass pole. The mast can be adjusted to a maximum height of 4 feet, and it is strong enough to bend without cracking.
The LED light kit is only compatible with GearTrac and MightyMount, so you’ll need to purchase and install gear tracks first if you don’t already have them. The power source is 3 AA batteries (not supplied), and the battery life is roughly 100 hours. It has a lifespan of roughly 10,000 hours, but it produces a remarkable amount of light for such a little package.
The light is powered by three AA batteries and the LEDs last roughly 100 hours. It does not feature a strobe or flashing mode. You may rest easy knowing that the kayak light is waterproof up to 1,000 feet. It should still function if you need to recover it from the bottom of the lake.
Pros:
- At 4’6″ tall, it’s light, slender, and extremely visible, and it comes with a flag.
- It’s simple to set up on the appropriate track system.
- The carbon fiberglass mast is very long-lasting.
- 360-degree vision, adjustable mast between 14 and 48 inches
- Excellent LED light and battery life
Cons:
- This may or may not work for you, depending on your mounting configuration.
- Only works with MightyMount and GearTrac mounts.
- Some consumers claim that the light isn’t as brilliant as they expected.
6. Attwood 14191-7 Clamp-On Portable Navigation Light Kit
Specifications:
- Clamp mounting
- White stern light
- Red-and-green bow light
- Battery-powered
- Water-resistant
- 1.2 pound
Reviews:
Attwood’s latest boat comes with its own LED stern light and red-and-green navigation lights for the bow, much like the previous Attwood kit. It’s got it all: a shock-proof composite casing, shatter-proof polycarbonate glass, and circuitry sealed for water resistance. It also comes with height-adjustable white LED stern lights and red/green LED navigation lights on the bow.
C-clamps on this model make installation a breeze, but the clamps aren’t as strong and secure as they should be. The camouflage pattern is a bonus; it makes these kayaks perfect for duck hunting and fishing. The most significant distinction between the Attwood model and the previous model is increasing.
Another light worth considering is the Attwood Clamp-On Light Kit. It’s more suited to serving as a permanent light for your kayak. The kit comes with two robust steel C clamps that are simple to install. It can be adjusted between boats or to various places based on your preferences.
It’s a lighting kit, so you’ll receive the traditional red/green navigation lights for the bow of your boat, and LED white light for the stern. Both are powered by 3xAAA batteries (not supplied), which will last up to 150 hours before they need to be replaced or recharged.
Accessories for kayaks are made by Attwood – a well-known company that has been developing high-quality accessories for over a century. This kit is designed to fit a variety of kayaks and won’t come free in tough conditions.
Pros:
- Shock-proof enclosure with sealed electronics
- Height-adjustable
- White stern light
- Red-and-green bow light
- Shatterproof polycarbonate lens
- C-clamp mounts make installation a breeze
Cons:
- The three AAA batteries are available for purchase individually.
- It’s not a kayak light that’s waterproof.
- I didn’t anticipate the clamp mounts to be as solid or secure as they are.
7. Innovative Lighting LED White Case Stern Light with Suction Cup
Specifications:
- Type of suction mount
- 4 AA batteries are required.
- There is no need to drill.
Reviews:
With a suction cup, this ultra basic white light is simple to install. You are free to place it anywhere you wish. If you don’t want to drill holes in your kayak or don’t have any DIY abilities, this is a wonderful solution. The light is bright enough to see but not so bright that it blinds the paddler.
The kayak light includes a sealed on/off switch and a lanyard or carabiner attachment point. The light’s body attaches to the base via screws. It needs four AA batteries, which is more than most other lights. The light has a lot of rubber suction, according to several users.
If you’re looking for a low-cost white stern light, this one is worth considering. The disadvantage is that the light is not very tall and may not be seen from all angles. On the plus side, it’s simple to set up. Make sure it will cling to the surface of your kayak, just like any other suction cup mount.
This LED stern light from Innovative Lighting Inc, which has been making maritime lighting for over 25 years, is another fantastic kayak light to check out. It’s a lightweight, simple-to-use light that attaches to your kayak, canoe, or boat using suction.
The bright and powerful LED bulb is claimed to last over 100,000 hours before having to be changed, and it is powered by only four AA batteries. Overall, it’s a basic, lightweight (just 11 ounces), and cost-effective light that’s worth looking into.
The manner this light connects to your kayak is the only drawback. It works using a suction cup, which may come free on various surfaces. The light, however, is entirely waterproof and floats if it does fall in. However, if it does go overboard, we suggest connecting a line to it.
Pros:
- Suction cup mount
- Lightweight
- A bright source of light
Cons:
- Not very high
- Suction cups won’t attach to all surfaces.
8. Botepon Battery Operated Navigation Kayak Light Kit
Specifications:
- Lights with three modes
- Mounting on the deck
- Waterproofing is not possible.
- 1.6 ounces
- Battery-operated
Reviews:
Botepon’s red and green navigation lights are very bright LED lights that can be seen up to 0.6 miles away, ensuring that you are seen on the water. We like how simple they are to put together and that they can be fastened on practically anyplace. They also come with a one-year guarantee, have excellent ratings, and are reasonably priced.
They offer three settings that enable you to choose between continual on, quick and slow flashing, or a combination of the two. And they’re also long-lasting, with each one lasting over 160 hours before the batteries need to be replaced – each one is powered by two AA batteries.
The Botepon light kit, which comprises two LED lights (green and red) that may be used as navigation lights for your kayak, comes next. The flexible silicone body with two hooks for easy mounting choices is one of the most amazing aspects of the 1.6-ounce lights.
Its visibility isn’t quite up to pace with other possibilities, but it should be seen at 0.6 miles. The one-touch switch design lets you select between three different types of illumination: steady-on, flashing, and slow flashing. Botepon’s red and green three-mode LEDs might be decent – though not waterproof – solution if you want easy-to-install and extremely adaptable kayak navigation lights. Botepon LED lights, however, are not waterproof — or even water-resistant.
Pros:
- With a one-touch switch, you may choose between three distinct LED light settings.
- The case is made of flexible silicone
- Installation is facilitated by the use of two hooks.
- Portable and lightweight
- Long battery life and batteries included
Cons:
- The lights aren’t even water-resistant, much alone waterproof.
- In comparison to other possibilities, visibility is restricted.
- Not to be utilized as a major source of illumination.
9. Attwood 14190-7 Water-Resistant Portable Clamp-On LED Light Kit
Specifications:
- C-clamp mount
- White stern light
- Red/green bow light
- 3 AAA batteries are required.
Reviews:
The most significant disadvantage of this light kit is the necessity for a location to put the C-clamp. On a kayak, this may be difficult, but once installed, they are rock sturdy. When you’re out on the ocean at night, these are brilliant and apparent. These are good alternatives if you can make them work on your boat.
The Attwood Clamp Mount Kayak Light provides you with everything you need to hit the water at night, keeping you safe and visible. A red/green bow light and a white rear light are also included. The lights are simple to set up and are durable.
Both of these lights are waterproof, and the electronics are protected by a shock-resistant casing. The stern light pole is approximately 24 inches tall, so it stands out from the darkness. Both lights run on three AAA batteries (not supplied) and have 150-hour battery life.
Pros:
- C-clamps are provided to ensure a secure installation.
- Red/green/white lights
- On three AAA batteries, it lasts roughly 150 hours.
Cons:
- You won’t be able to install the C-clamps.
10. Energizer LED Portable Spotlight, Rechargeable Spotlight Flashlight
Specifications:
- Handheld mount
- Waterproofing IPX4-rated
- Battery life of 4 to 9 hours
Reviews:
This is the perfect spotlight to bring along on any boat, kayak, or canoe. It has a beam that spans over 1,000 feet and has a brightness range of 300-6000 lumens. Though it isn’t the most long-lasting, it is well enough to spot any dangers in the water or identify oneself to passing boats.
It’s 3 feet waterproof, impact-resistant, and can glow through fog or rain. A super-durable LED light bulb is employed in the spotlight, which is enclosed in a tough plastic body. It’s simple to use, even with chilly hands or gloves, thanks to the big buttons.
Pros:
- Exceptionally bright and long-lasting spotlight
- Dependable and adaptable
- The waterproofing rating is adequate
- It is very impact resistant.
- It shines even when the weather is poor.
- The spotlight beam length is excellent.
Cons:
- There is no instruction manual included in the package.
- Battery life may be less than advertised (one user said around 2 hours on max output)
How To Choose The Best Kayak Lights? Kayak Light Buying Guide
Types Of Kayak Lights
Handheld Kayak Lights
There are two types of kayak lights – handheld and those that come with a clip to attach them to your kayak, canoe, or even your life jacket. The latter are usually much smaller and may be held in your hand, as the name implies.
Handheld lights are the most commonly used and are usually light and small making them easy to travel and store. The benefit of using a handheld light is that they are adaptable and easy to move about – and don’t get in the way of your paddle.
The key reason to choose a handheld kayak light is that it is compact and won’t get in the way when you paddle. Handheld lights are notably smaller than their deck-mounting cousins, which typically connect to your PFD or come in the shape of headlights. In terms of all-around visibility, they can’t match with deck-mounted lights, although newer versions include built-in strobe features for emergencies.
Combo Kits with Flag and Light
A flag and light combination package may provide increased safety and visibility for paddling at night. You may use the flag and the light together, or the Flag during the day and the Light at Night kit. Typically, these kits may be installed directly to your boat’s mounting point, such as a rod holder or existing mount.
These lights are normally mounted higher on your vessel than your head, so that other boats can see you. An adjustable pole is a useful feature to have since it allows you to vary the height of your light and/or flag based on the weather.
Deck-Mounted Kayak Lights
Deck-mounted kayak lights are installed on the deck of your kayak. They come in a variety of forms and sizes, as well as several mounting choices (which we’ll go over next). The major purpose for using deck-mounted lights is so that other boats and vessels can see you and help you remain safe on the sea.
A stern-mounted kayak light that shines light in all directions is available. Just make sure you don’t block the light and that it’s at a good height. A navigation light is another option. They’re frequently attached to the bow of boats to let others see where you’re going.
The steady-on LED white lights fitted on the stern of your kayak are only for increasing your visibility on the water. Make sure it can be seen from any angle and isn’t obstructed in any way by your body. Use caution while employing red-and-green navigation lights on kayaks with bow mounts, since their use is restricted by law.
Types Of Kayak Navigation Lights
When paddling at night in US waters, kayakers are authorized to use a variety of light combinations. As a consequence, you’ll have a variety of kayak lights to pick from while you’re shopping. These are some of them:
Single All-Around Light
A single all-around light is the most basic kayak light choice. This light of light should be white and visible from all sides. It’s usually put on a mast that’s positioned near the stern of your boat. Advantages: They do not provide any signal of your direction to approaching boats.
Separate Bow & Stern Lights
Separate bow and stern lights are often suggested for kayakers in high-traffic areas. You’ll have white stern light and a separate red/green bow light with this configuration. The green light should be on the ship’s starboard side, while the red light is on the port (left).
Tri-Color Lights
Tri-color masthead lights may also be used on smaller watercraft, such as kayaks. They aren’t as common on kayaks as separate bow and stern light systems, but they are simpler to install. The rear of the boat receives white light, the port side receives red light, and the starboard side receives the green light.
Flag and Light Combo
A flag and light combination is the last sort of light system you’ll see on some kayaks. Technically, this is merely a white stern light with a high-visibility flag wrapped around it. The advantage of the flag is that it increases visibility throughout the day. When kayak fishermen are paddling in fishing places frequented by powerboats, this sort of lighting package is common.
Additionally
Navigation lights are a great addition to any kayak, but they don’t replace the navigation lights mentioned above for all-purpose paddling at night. Other kinds of lights, such as LED fishing light strips and SOS emergency lights, are available and may be useful to have on your kayak. Always double-check your local rules to see which kind of lights are suggested or necessary for your boat.
Kayak Deck Light Mounting Options
Suction Cups
These are the fastest and most straightforward mounting options. The lights may be placed anywhere on the kayak and adjusted – or removed – on the fly. Suction-mounted kayak lights aren’t recognized for being secure or long-lasting. They’re simple to knock out of position, and their suction may wear down with time.
Clamp-On Mounts
However, they’re less adaptable and cumbersome, which may be a problem for long-distance paddling. The Clamp-On kayak lights “bite down” on the hull’s side, guaranteeing a tight hold and attachment no matter how tough the situation.
Gear Track Mounts
Gear tracks are a safe and adaptable method to modify the outfitting of your kayak, allowing you to arrange your equipment as you like. Kayak lights for night fishing with track-based mounting hardware do need drilling, but if you already have them installed, make sure to consider them.
Permanent Screw-Down Mounts
The most secure installation option will be screw-down mounting plates. However, not everyone is comfortable with drilling holes in the kayak, and repositioning the light isn’t an option. Give it a go if you’re okay with a little DIY and permanent installation.
Drill mount
If you’re comfortable drilling holes in your kayak, you may be able to attach a kayak light directly to the underside of the kayak using a track. If you screw a lighting mount to your boat, it is permanently attached to that location. Once a hole is drilled, it cannot be undone, so use care when screwing it in.
Power Source
All of our kayak lights will be powered by batteries, either AA/AAA batteries or a rechargeable battery incorporated inside the light. Built-in batteries are handy and environmentally beneficial, but they may not be sufficient for multi-day travels. They’re also more costly to replace if they’re broken, malfunctioning, or just stop working. There’s a danger opening the battery compartment to replace the batteries would enable water to soak in and ruin the power source.
Battery Life
There are lights available that last 100+ hours and can be simply re-charged between kayaking outings to keep them completely charged. You don’t want to be forced to replace batteries in the middle of a paddle because your light has run out of power. This is certainly an important issue to consider when you’re out on the water.
Most manufacturers provide a battery life estimate for their kayak lights, however, it’s essential to note that these figures are often optimistic. When a firm evaluates the battery life of a gadget, they normally do it under ideal circumstances. Cold conditions, on the other hand, may wreak havoc on a device’s battery life, making the 100-hour estimate seem a little exaggerated.
As a result, although the anticipated battery life of a kayak light should be considered while shopping, it shouldn’t be the determining factor between two distinct models. Oh, and before you go outdoors, always test your kayak light. On all of your trips, bring extra batteries with you. Trust us when we say you you’ll be pleased you did.
Kayak Light Waterproof
It should go without saying that a kayaking light should be waterproof, but there are different levels of waterproofing, and not all kayak lights are made equal. You’ll have a hard time finding a kayak light that isn’t certified to survive submersions of at least one meter. There are, however, several Kayak lights on the market that can endure submersion to extraordinary depths.
IP Waterproof Rating System is a commonly used criterion for determining the degree of ‘Ingress Protection’ for waterproof phone covers, dry bags, and other goods that you may depend on to keep you dry. While you may not be concerned about rescuing a kayak light that has been submerged in more than 100 feet of water, some can.
Kayak lights are intended for use on open water, and most versions are built to meet stringent waterproofing requirements. Many manufacturers may claim that their lights are “waterproof,” but without some context or further information, it’s impossible to know what this implies. As a result, search for kayak lights that have been tested to an IPX8 grade wherever feasible.
IPX8 is one of the highest categories of waterproofing (IEC). Kayak lights with an IPX8 rating are entirely dustproof and may be immersed in more than 3 feet of water for long periods. Hopefully, you’ll never have to put the waterproofing of your kayak light to the test in the real world.
Kayak Light Durability
Each mounting solution has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. LED lights are rather long-lasting, although the remainder of the light may break or deteriorate. Plastic is completely waterproof and light, however, marine-grade metal is significantly more durable and resistant to harm. What you gain in the ease with kayak light attachments usually comes at the expense of security and longevity.
Kayak Lights Height
Paddlers should consider the height of their kayak light’s mast when on the water for two reasons. The mast is the pole that raises a single all-around white stern light or a tri-color light above your kayak as you paddle. You could have a mast for a red/green bow light in exceptional cases, but this isn’t usual.
The higher your kayak light’s mast is, the simpler it is for ships to see you from afar. This is especially true if the other vessels in your neighborhood are tiny powerboats and sailing vessels that are moored close to the water’s edge. Simply, a higher mast on your Kayak light increases your visibility on the sea.
US Coast Guard regulations state that your kayak’s lights should not be concealed for more than a few seconds at a time. There are exceptions to this rule, such as when a fisherman is actively casting lines, but if you can prevent it, it’s best to keep them on display at all times.
Taller masts provide advantages in terms of visibility on the sea, but they also have disadvantages. The higher the mast, the more probable it is to be damaged by strong winds. Before making a purchase, think about the thickness and quality of the mast on any specific kayak light.
Additional Uses Of Kayak Lights
Aside from safety and legal requirements, another reason to use kayak lights is convenience. Your equipment and supplies will be useless if you can’t locate them in the dark. To the rescue, kayak lights! If it’s a portable one, you may take it with you to other locations, like campgrounds, and save a pound or two on your stuff. It might also come in handy if you’re out kayak fishing at night. You’d be foolish not to take advantage of the fact that fish are drawn to light.
FAQs about Kayak Lights
What are the rules and regulations for night kayaking?
If a vessel under oars does not have the lights required by this Rule for sailing boats, she must have an all-round white light or an electric torch or lit lantern with a white light on hand. Yes, it includes kayaks and canoes, as well as any non-motorized “vessels” under 23 feet in length. While state regulations may differ, the US Coast Guard has something to say about federal boating regulations.
The USCG Rule 25 rule should be followed while using kayak lights. If you’re paddling at night, you’ll need at least a white light that can be seen from any direction to let other paddlers and boats know where you’re going. Paddling restrictions differ by location, so check the guidelines in your area before heading out to kayak at night.
To aid night vision, a bright light is often placed on the rear (stern) of a kayak. With a bright white light on the front of your boat, it might be difficult to see. In addition to white light, red and green lights are often employed. The left (port) is represented by red, while the right (starboard) is marked by green.
What Are Some Kayak Light Using Tips?
Extra batteries should be kept in a waterproof bag for when paddling, or a pair of backup batteries if your kayak’s light goes out mid-paddle. Carrying an extra ounce or two of weight is worth it – you’ll never regret it! If you’re heading out on the water, here are some tips to help you make the most of your lighter kit.
Check your kayak light before heading out on the water – any flickering or dimming could suggest a power outage or other problem. Make sure to inspect your gear just like you would your PFD, dry bag, and other equipment. Switch it on to check sure it’s functioning, and keep an eye out for any flickering lights or other signs of trouble.
Fresh water should be used to rinse the light after each use. Salt may corrode the power source if it gets into it. A short washing will remove any salt residue and considerably improve the life of the light. Pull the batteries or battery pack out of the kayak light after you’ve returned home and store them separately.
Charge the light on your kayak head every time you use it. Don’t wait until your batteries or power supply are fully depleted. Make it a habit to recharge once a week during peak paddling season and once a month during the off-season. That way, you’ll always know your light is turned on and ready for a night adventure.
What Is the Best Way to Kayak at Night?
Make sure you know your route, your estimated travel time, and how to get back to your car if you can’t make it. Make certain that people are aware of your strategy. I can’t emphasize enough the necessity of thoroughly inspecting all of your kayaking gear before stepping out on the water.
Check the weather forecast throughout the day and again just before you leave in case of any unexpected last-minute changes. Make sure to know whether the cloud cover will convert to rain or a genuine thunderstorm while you’re out on the lake, or if the temperature will drop.
Bring extra warm clothes and waterproof shoes if the weather forecast calls for a sudden drop in temperature. If there are any clouds in the forecast, consider packing an extra flashlight or spotlight in addition to your usual kayak lights. Prepare yourself for the cold and the darkness by taking extra blankets, extra pillows, and extra drinking water.
Make yourself noticeable. When out on the water, visibility is critical, particularly if you’re sharing the water with other vessels and boats. Consider using a flag, high-visibility clothes, a high-visibility PFD, and even extra flashing lights in addition to a tiny kayak light to ensure that everyone can see you.
Keep to the known waters. It’s not the time to take chances and try anything new when kayaking at night. You may encounter unanticipated difficulties or collide with risks that would be straightforward to see and avoid during the day. At night, stick to safe, known waters and save your exploration until the light comes up.
Keep an eye out for ships and boats with motors – these are the most probable threats you’ll encounter when paddling at night. Make sure they can see you, but also keep an eye and ear out for them, and stay away from locations where boats and ships visit.
When embarking on a nighttime kayaking journey, securing an optimal lighting system for your kayak is paramount for safe navigation. But there’s more to safety than just illumination. Think of the unpredictability of the water and the sudden obstacles that might come your way. That’s where a well-constructed kayak helmet comes into play. Just as a lighthouse guides ships through darkness and storms, the best kayak helmet acts as a shield against unforeseen challenges. It’s not just about survival; it’s about thriving in your aquatic adventure.
What is the purpose of a kayak light?
If you’re going to be out on a lake after dark, you’ll almost certainly require light on your kayak. It’s a good idea to have a kayak light with you – on the sea, a decent light will make you much more noticeable. Even if it means storing one in your backpack or a hatch until you need it.
You will be easier to spot in an emergency if you have a light on your kayak. As the environment changes, so do the demands of paddlers. It’s not necessary to use a kayak light when it’s dark. If you’re paddling in a group, a Kayak light may assist your companions to see you.
What is the best way to keep the light in your kayak?
It’s critical to maintain your kayak light in excellent working order and ready to use at all times. Before you go out on a trip, double-check that your light is in working order and that you have new batteries. If you wish to keep the light for a long time, remove the batteries. Also, if you paddle in salt water, be sure to clean your light before storing it.
Is it possible for kayak lights to become wet?
There’s a strong chance your kayak light may come into contact with some moisture – whether it’s rain, splashing from your paddle, or if you capsize. Many kayak lights are water-resistant or waterproof in some way. Certain lights are more water-resistant than others but they can still withstand a significant quantity of water.
Is it okay if I use a headlamp?
When kayaking at night, a light may be quite useful. You don’t have to have the light on all of the time, but it should always be on your head. To ensure that another vessel sees you, flash your light at them. A headlight may also be used to illuminate navigational aids like buoys or channel markers.
