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Best Water Gear of 2024

Find the best water gear for all your water adventures
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Best Water Gear Review
Credit: Cheyenne Summers
By Sara James, Marissa Fox, & Maggie Nichols  ⋅  May 21, 2024

With the right gear, staying active and enjoying warm, sunny days on the water is easy. Our gear list features only the best water gear that can help you prepare for any water adventure that comes your way. It's safe to say that no one else in the review industry extensively tests outdoor gear as we do. We constantly update this list, so it is always fresh as new and exciting products come on the market and undergo our detailed review and testing.

Are you having a multi-sport day? Some energized outdoor enthusiasts can bike, hit the ski slopes, and paddle all in one day. Of course, this entirely depends on the season and weather. Our expert testers can help you gear up for these activities.

Editor's Note: We updated this article on May 21, 2024, to incorporate our latest picks for Water Bottles.


All the Water Gear


Investing in the right paddling gear can positively impact your adventure and level of fun. That's where our expertise comes in handy. We've tested a wide selection of water gear over the years and have the inside knowledge and details to help you select the best.

best water gear - the progressive nose rocker, carbon stringer, and 3 fin design make...
The progressive nose rocker, carbon stringer, and 3 fin design make this board a smooth and quick ride across glassy water.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman

Stand Up Paddle Gear


In the world of watersports, stand up paddle boarding (also known as SUP) is relatively new, and it's rapidly growing in popularity. Let's face it; the SUP vibe is undeniably cool. Several perks keep people paddling with the best SUP gear. Compared to sitting in a kayak or canoe, paddling a SUP provides an excellent vantage point and a full-body workout.

best water gear - we tested and logged dozens of hours on different stand up paddle...
We tested and logged dozens of hours on different stand up paddle boards to rank their performance and find the best.
Credit: David Wise

SUP Boards


From exploring lakes or rivers or leisurely cruising with friends, paddling the best stand up paddle boards is thrilling. Our recommendations can help you select the right option for you and your budget. Some even have enough room to fit an extra guest or a water-loving dog.

Best Overall Stand Up Paddle Board

Surftech Catalyst Tuflite V-Tech

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Best Overall Inflatable SUP

Bote Breeze Aero

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best water gear - our paddling experts have extensively tested several inflatable...
Our paddling experts have extensively tested several inflatable stand-up paddle boards while exploring lakes, rivers, and oceans.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer

Inflatable SUP


Our favorite inflatable SUPs are ready to roam, providing more portability and taking up less space than a rigid SUP board. Many options include a carrying case to help store and transport the rolled-up SUP board and accessories.

Best Overall Inflatable SUP

Bote Breeze Aero

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Best Bang for the Buck

FunWater 11

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best water gear - testing the best sup paddles side by side.
Testing the best SUP Paddles side by side.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman

SUP Paddle


Achieve some powerful strokes with the best SUP paddles. Whether you're a beginner or an expert paddler looking for a top-tier high-performance paddle, we have the insider details and our favorites. See all our picks for the best paddles for kayaking and SUPing.

Best Overall SUP Paddle

Aqua Bound Malta Carbon 2-Piece

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Outstanding Performance for a Reasonable Price

Werner Vibe

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best water gear - our paddlers of all sizes and experience levels tested each of these...
Our paddlers of all sizes and experience levels tested each of these kayaks side-by-side in a variety of conditions and bodies of water.
Credit: Cheyenne Summer

Kayak Gear


One of the best ways to explore beautiful and scenic lakes and rivers is by kayaking; the right kayaking gear can make a big difference. Some paddlers enjoy combining kayaking with camping, allowing you to select a more remote campsite in some beautiful locations.

best water gear - the overall performance of the  dagger stratos was impressive in all...
The overall performance of the Dagger Stratos was impressive in all kinds of environments.
Credit: Scott Blankenfeld

Kayak


The best kayaks can provide stability, speed, and quick maneuverability. Some even offer more comfort and storage for long-distance paddling.

Best Overall Kayak

Wilderness Systems Pungo 120

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Best Sit-on-Top Kayak

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105

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best water gear - though it's a tight fit, we paddled this kayak-loving 80+ pound dog...
Though it's a tight fit, we paddled this kayak-loving 80+ pound dog around in the Oru Lake, much to her delight.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Inflatable Kayak


Select a top-ranked inflatable kayak for easier transport and more portability than a traditional kayak. Inflatable kayaks can deflate and fold into a convenient carrying bag, making it easier to pack in your car trunk.

Best Overall Kayak, No Inflating Required

Oru Beach LT

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Best Bang for Your Buck

Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame

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best water gear - the nylon plastic blades on the carlisle magic plus kayak paddle...
The nylon plastic blades on the Carlisle Magic Plus kayak paddle stand out for their ability to perform and also withstand a beating - this is a paddle that you can lend your clumsy friends.
Credit: Sara James

Kayak Paddle


Different styles of kayaking will favor different styles of kayak paddles. Our best kayak paddles review focuses on touring kayak paddles, and many options differ in material and construction. Once you know what type of kayak you will use, we can help guide you to the right choice. You can also check out our round-up of the top paddles for all water disciplines.

Best Overall Kayak Paddle

Aqua-Bound Sting Ray Carbon

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Best Bang for your Buck

Werner Skagit FG

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best water gear - gearing up for pfd testing.
Gearing up for PFD testing.
Credit: Sara James

Life Jacket


Don't forget to wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while on the water. A top-ranked life jacket should be snug and comfortable. Since some options differ in design, we provide insight into which is best for different water activities. Is your child joining in on the fun? A kid-friendly life jacket can offer peace of mind when enjoying any activity near the water. We've tested several options and can help you select the best one for your family.

Best Overall PFD

Astral YTV

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Best PFD for Pocket Lovers

Astral E-Ronny

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best water gear - wearing protective clothing and accessories can help protect your...
Wearing protective clothing and accessories can help protect your skin and eyes from the sun's powerful rays.
Credit: Sara James

Sun Protection Apparel


Having fun outdoors requires sun-protective clothing and accessories, regardless of sunny skies or cloud cover. We've reviewed various apparel for men and women.

best water gear - lining up the sun shirts for testing.
Lining up the sun shirts for testing.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Sun Shirt


We think wearing a sun shirt is a wise choice. This type of clothing is well-suited for water activities because it's quick drying and uses UPF-rated fabric to protect skin against the sun's powerful UV rays. We've tested the best sun shirts for men and top-ranked women's sun protection shirts.

Best Overall Hooded Sun Shirt for Women

Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Long Sleeve Hoody - Women's

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Best Overall Button-up Sun Shirt for Women

REI Co-op Sahara Long-Sleeve - Women's

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Best Overall Hooded Sun Shirt

REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie

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Best Overall Button-Up Sun Shirt

Mountain Hardwear Canyon Long Sleeve

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best water gear - testing all types of sunglasses in all kinds of conditions.
Testing all types of sunglasses in all kinds of conditions.
Credit: Jason Peters

Sunglasses


Keep the sun out of your eyes with the best sunglasses, which offer flawless polarization that reduces glare. We've reviewed a range of sunglasses, outlining our favorite men's sunglasses and the top women's specific sunglasses.

Best Sunglasses for Women

Ray-Ban Erika

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Best Sunglasses for Men

Kaenon Burnet Mid

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best water gear - we appreciate a hat that provides sun protection with a brim.
We appreciate a hat that provides sun protection with a brim.
Credit: Jason Peters

Sun Hat


A wide-brim sun hat can bring coverage from the sun's powerful rays. We appreciate one that has a chin strap for windy days on the water.

Best Sun Hat for Technical Use

Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure

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Best All-Around Sun Hat

Filson Summer Packer

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best water gear - the katavi is comfortable for casual walks and rugged adventures...
The Katavi is comfortable for casual walks and rugged adventures alike.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer

Footwear


Water-friendly footwear can make a big difference in your water adventures, providing good grip and support for walking around on rocks, slippery shores, and unknown objects lurking in the water.

best water gear - a good sandal choice for town-to-trail. this is not a highly...
A good sandal choice for town-to-trail. This is not a highly technical sandal but shines in comfort and style.
Credit: Miya Tsudome

Sandals


Convenience may be the driving factor behind choosing the best sandals. They're easier to slip on and off, and you can wear them for everyday activities to water adventures. We suggest selecting a contender with a back strap so they don't come off too easily.

We have the inside details on top-ranked women's sandals.

Best All-Around Sandals for Women

Chaco Bodhi - Women's

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Best Adventure Ready Sandals

Chaco Z/Cloud 2 - Women's

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Plus, we cover the top sandals for men too.

Best Overall Sandals

Bedrock Cairn Adventure

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Best Bang for the Buck

Teva Katavi 2

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best water gear - even on the sand, the sensitivity of these booties is noticeable.
Even on the sand, the sensitivity of these booties is noticeable.
Credit: Jacob Clark

Water Shoes


Our favorite water shoes are closed-toe for more protection. This style won't collect sand or muck underfoot and can work on more terrain types.

Check out our write-ups on the top-ranked women's water shoes.

Best Overall Women's Water Shoes

Xtratuf Riptide - Women's

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Best Bang for the Buck

DLGJPA Lightweight Quick Drying - Women's

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And our picks for the best men's water shoes.

Best Overall Water Shoes

Astral Brewer 2.0

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Best Value in a Water Shoe

Speedo Surf Knit Pro

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best water gear - the bags were tested on a variety of crafts and lashed in multiple...
The bags were tested on a variety of crafts and lashed in multiple creative ways in order for us to tease out which were most suitable for particular activities.
Credit: Sara James

Dry Bag


Protect your precious gear and essentials by using the best dry bag. Our favorite options provide versatility, durability, and the waterproofing you need to keep sensitive objects dry inside.

Best Overall Dry Bag

YETI Panga Backpack 28

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Best Bang for Your Buck

SealLine Discovery View

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best water gear - the side pockets are barely large enough for this 1l insulated water...
The side pockets are barely large enough for this 1L insulated water bottle -- and only works when the pack isn't over-stuffed.
Credit: Maggie Brandenburg

Hydration


Staying hydrated is incredibly important. While away from shore, pack one of our favorite water bottles to quench your thirst. Insulated options can help keep contents cool, delivering a much-needed energy boost while on the go.

Best Overall Water Bottle

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth with Straw

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Best Bang for Buck

Iron Flask Insulated

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Water Bottles for Kids
Help keep your child stay hydrated with a kid-friendly water bottle. Our review of kids' water bottles can help you pick the perfect option that meets your needs and lifestyle.

best water gear - the daiwa bg2500 helped us control our line, leading to fewer...
The Daiwa BG2500 helped us control our line, leading to fewer tangled messes.
Credit: Stephanie Chavez

Fishing


Warm weather usually means it's time for fishing. Whether you're out to a river, lake, or ocean or trekking backcountry, we've rounded up all the essentials you need to get you catching fish.

best water gear - while it excelled in its intended environment (freshwater), the...
While it excelled in its intended environment (freshwater), the Berkley Vanish Fluorocarbon didn't score high in the versatility metric.
Credit: Kit Smith

Fishing Line


Despite being frequently overlooked, using a top-rated fishing line can make a big difference in your angling equipment and fishing performance. Opt for a strong fishing line that's also great for casting.

Best Overall Fishing Line

SpiderWire Stealth Blue Camo-Braid

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Best for Sneaking Up on Fish

Berkley Vanish

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best water gear - if quality construction is an important factor to you, look no...
If quality construction is an important factor to you, look no further than the Abu Garcia Revo SX. Of course, a reel this well made doesn't come cheap.
Credit: Kit Smith

Fishing Reel


Delivering an incredible feel and fighting power, one of the best fishing reels can give you the upper hand while fishing.

Best Overall Fishing Reel

Okuma Ceymar C-30

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Best for Saltwater

Daiwa BG2500

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best water gear - we fished for weeks with these poles to decipher the best from the...
We fished for weeks with these poles to decipher the best from the rest.
Credit: Kit Smith

Fishing Rod


Select a top-ranked fishing rod that's high-quality and well-built, helping you haul in the best catch of the day.

Best Overall Fishing Rod

St. Croix Triumph Travel

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Best Telescoping Rod

PLUSINNO Carbon Fiber Telescopic

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best water gear - sf fly fishing net looking down at fish in net
SF Fly Fishing Net looking down at fish in net
Credit: Kit Smith

Fishing Net


Ensure that the catch of the day won't escape by using one of our favorite fishing nets.

Best Overall Fishing Net

EGO S1 Slider

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Best Bang for Your Buck

PLUSINNO Foldable Nylon

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Fishing Poles for Kids
Are you looking for child-friendly fishing gear? We've tested popular kids' fishing poles and can help guide you to the perfect option for your child.

best water gear - our testing team took to the depths of canyons to see how different...
Our testing team took to the depths of canyons to see how different water shoes performed in some of the most extreme of conditions.
Credit: Ellen Daugherty

Why Trust GearLab


At Outdoor Gear Lab, we've been testing the best water gear on the market for over a decade. From stand-up paddle boards and kayaks, to fishing gear and sun shirts, our team of experts has spent hundreds of hours putting the latest and greatest gear to the test. After choosing the best new products on the market, we put each item through rigorous side-by-side testing, and rated them on a series of metrics. We want you to have all the information, including pros and cons, so you can make an informed purchase and get outside with your new gear.

Our review and testing process for the best water gear out there is led by Marissa Fox. Marissa is a Master Scuba Diver Trainer and freediver who spends much of her time on or below the water. She has traveled the world working for various non-profits and on marine conservation projects such as protecting turtle habitat in the Caribbean and monitoring Minke Whale behavior in Iceland. Sara James has over 20 years of experience in various paddle sports, including touring kayaking, Class V whitewater kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and squirt boating. She has kayaked thousands of miles on rivers across the globe and when she's not dropping waterfalls, she teaches others to paddle and is an educator for California Waterworks Collective. Last but not least is Maggie Nichols. Maggie is not only our Senior Review Editor, but also an avid paddler and adventure guide. She has kayaked thousands of miles from raging rivers in South Africa, to cruising on quiet waters in the Everglades. She has been testing gear for Outdoor Gear Lab since 2016. Together, this team of water sports enthusiasts researched and tested these top-rated products.

best water gear - there's much we love about paddling the oru lake (pictured with the...
There's much we love about paddling the Oru Lake (pictured with the Oru Beach in the background).
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Conclusion


As the weather warms, it's easy for our minds to dream of different water adventures and activities. Some water gear can be an investment, so why settle for anything but the best? Let our lineup and recommendations help your decision-making process. We've streamlined the process so you can find the right option for your needs and budget and get back to what you enjoy doing most.

Sara James, Marissa Fox, & Maggie Nichols