Our annual spring Paddle KC Pimp My Kayak/SUP/Canoe Clinic in the Kansas City area is always a useful event for those interested in DIY upgrades and repairs to their kayaks, SUPs, canoes, surfskis or gear. We bring our new or old boats and boards out to the park, along with tools and supplies, for a day of accessorizing and DIY upgrades. We share tools, supplies and tips to help everyone get their projects done. It’s a great way to meet members and have a good time while prepping for the upcoming busy season for paddling.
If you’re unsure of which option to choose for a particular upgrade, ask on that April 14th Pimp My Kayak/SUP/Canoe event page for feedback before ordering items to use at the event. Our members have tried a LOT of upgrades, accessories and DIY fixes and can usually tell you which are a better value, and which to avoid and why. You’ll see many examples at our monthly Paddle KC paddling club activities.
Plan Ahead For Your SUP, Canoe and Kayak DIY Upgrades
It does take a little pre-planning to figure out what you want to do and all supplies and tools you’ll need. Inspect your boat or board for wear and tear, including fraying deck lines, missing or damaged parts, leaking bulkheads, etc. Think about how and where you plan to paddle, and what upgrades or accessories will make that easier, more comfortable, or safer. Check out these accessorizing and enhancing ideas and supplies below for ideas.
If you need a specialty repair part or something that you don’t see on one of the sites below, you may need to contact the manufacturer’s support and allow plenty of time (sometimes weeks) for parts delivery.
Examples of DIY Enhancements for Kayaks, SUPs, Canoes
When you paddle a while, you learn what you need to have and what you want to have on your boat or board. Here are a few examples of items that are popular with our members at this annual DIY session.
Mounts For Lights, Gps Devices, Cameras
Mounts for Various Devices
Tiny Mount for Lights, Cups, Cameras (popular!)
9 inch Track for Mounts (popular!)
Tall Light and Flag With Mount Kit (popular!)
Tall Light Repair Kit
Deck Riggings
Deck Rigging Kit, Black Stainless Steel
Large Deck Rigging Kit, Black Stainless Steel (popular!)
D-rings with Bungee Cord for Inflatable SUP or Kayak (popular!)
Customizable Full Deck Pad for SUP
Dog Deck Pad for SUP (popular!)
Handles for Kayaks and Inflatables
Bungee Paddle Holder (popular!)
Drink Holders
Cup for Track Mount Systems
Cup + Phone Holder for Track Mount Systems
Seat and Cockpit Accessories
Always read descriptions and reviews to confirm the seat upgrade fits your kayak model.
Seat Kits, Backs, and Cushions
Pelican Kayak Seat Upgrade
Sit On Top and Inflatable Kayak Seat with Lumbar Support
Hobie Kayak Seat Cushion Upgrade
MR340-Worthy Kayak Seat Pad, Heavy Duty Inflatable Cushion
Delta Kayak Hip Pads Fit Kit
Oru Thigh Brace Kit
Supplies for Repairs, Patching, Leaky Bulkheads, Keel Guards
Marine Grade Sealant
Marine Goop
Keel Guards and Bumpers
Repair Patch for Plastic, Fiberglass, Aluminum Boats (popular!)
Paddleboard Rail Saver Tape (popular!)
Paddleboard Repair Kit for Hard Boards
Repair Kit for Hobie Kayaks
Patch Kit for Inflatable SUPs, kayaks, and rafts
Oru Kayaks Repair Kit (popular!)
Rudders and Skegs
Rudder Kit for Most Wilderness System Kayaks
Hobie Kick Up Turbo Fin Kit
Oru Kayak Skeg Kit
Transport and Load Assist Options
Hobie Pro Angler Kayak Cradles
Load Assist Bar for Yakima Round Crossbars (popular!)
Kayak Wing Carrier with Load Assist
Showdown Boat Loading Assist
Hullivator Boat Loading Assist (popular!)
Bow and Stern Quick Tie Downs (popular!)
Helpful Tools for DIY Projects
Boat or board stand
Seam Grip Waterproof Sealant
Related Info
Useful Paddleboard Accessories and Upgrades
Loading and Transporting Kayaks, Paddleboards and Canoes
5 Great Kayak, Paddleboard and Canoe Lights for Night Paddling
Cleaning and Maintaining Gear for Kayakers, Paddleboarders, Canoeists
Why Join Paddle KC Paddling Club in Kansas City
