5 favorite finds at REI and REI Co-Op [kayaker edition]

Here are the 5 outdoor and kayaking accessories we’re buying this week, plus 5 bonus recommendations on some of our favorite, tried & true products for flat water kayakers to add to their shopping carts before this sale ends….

5 products I’m buying at REI this week:

As a dedicated kayaker and outdoor enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for gear that enhances my adventures. This week, I’m excited to share a few of my latest finds at REI that are making their way into my shopping cart.

Each item I’ve chosen not only meets my high standards required for outdoor activities but also complements our kayaking lifestyle perfectly. Here are the five items I'm purchasing and why they made the cut.

1. Marmot Tungsten 2P Tent with Footprint

Key Features:

• Lightweight and Durable: This tent strikes a perfect balance between weight and durability, making it ideal for a multi-day kayaking trip like the upcoming Pinot & Paddle event.

• Spacious Design: Despite being a 2-person tent, it offers ample space thanks to its intelligently designed structure. The zone pre-bend construction creates vertical walls, providing more headroom and overall interior volume.

• Weather-Ready: Equipped with a full-coverage rainfly and footprint, this tent is ready for any weather conditions you might encounter on your kayaking journey.

• Easy Setup: The color-coded clips and poles make setting up this tent a breeze, even after a long day on the water.

My current Marmot tent is a 3-person size, which I absolutely love for traveling with my kids and dog. However, for solo or duo adventures, the Marmot Tungsten 2P looks like the perfect choice – I need something that I can easily and quickly set up by myself. This design looks compact, lightweight, and doesn't compromise on the features that make Marmot tents reliable and comfortable... As a big Marmot fan, I can’t wait to try it out at the upcoming Pinot & Paddle multi-day kayaking event in Oregon.

2. REI Co-op Merino Wool Lightweight Hiking Crew Socks

Key Features:

• Superior Comfort: Made from high-quality merino wool, these socks offer exceptional comfort and breathability. They regulate temperature effectively, keeping your feet warm in cold weather and cool in warmer conditions.

• Moisture-Wicking: The natural moisture-wicking properties of merino wool help keep your feet dry, reducing the risk of blisters during long hikes or paddling sessions.

• Durability: Reinforced in high-wear areas, these socks are built to last, providing reliable performance on every trip.

• Odor Resistance: Merino wool’s natural odor-resistant qualities ensure that your feet stay fresh, even after a full day of outdoor activities.

Socks might not be the first thing you think of when gearing up for a kayaking adventure, but trust me, having the right pair can make a world of difference! I LOVE the feeling of putting on cozy, clean, dry socks after a paddling trip and for my drive home from the water.

And whether I'm setting up camp, hiking to a remote paddling spot, or spending the day on the water, these REI Co-op merino wool socks are a must-have.

3. Oru Kayak Gel Seat

Key Features:

• Enhanced Comfort: The Oru Kayak Gel Seat is designed to provide superior comfort with its gel cushioning, reducing pressure points and ensuring a more enjoyable paddling experience.

• Ergonomic Design: Its ergonomic shape offers excellent support for your back and hips, helping to maintain good posture and reduce fatigue during long kayaking sessions.

• Easy Installation: This seat is easy to install and remove, making it convenient to upgrade your kayak’s seating without hassle.

• Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials, this gel seat is built to last, withstanding the rigors of regular use in various water conditions.

After years of testing Oru folding kayaks, I know first-hand that their included basic seat doesn’t provide lasting comfort beyond an hour or two of paddling.

Being comfortable is paramount when spending hours on the water, and the Oru Kayak Gel Seat is a game-changer.

As someone who loves longer paddling trips and my Oru kayaks, this upgraded seat provides the extra comfort and support needed to ensure my outdoor water exercise is as comfortable as it is fun, exciting, and relaxing.

4. Nani Swimwear River Shorts - Women's

Key Features:

• Comfort and Style: These shorts offer a perfect blend of comfort and style, designed specifically for water activities. The lightweight, quick-drying fabric ensures you stay comfortable whether you're paddling or lounging on the shore.

• Functional Design: Featuring a wide waistband and adjustable drawstring, these shorts stay securely in place, providing freedom of movement without compromising on fit.

• Versatile Use: Ideal for summer paddling trips, these shorts are also perfect for swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water.

I bought a Nani swimsuit last year, and I love the way it fits my body – It’s flattering in all the right places, is super comfortable, and has been durable even after tons of use. I’m purchasing these Nani brand River Shorts for my summer paddling wardrobe... They offer the same high-quality performance with a stylish design that transitions seamlessly from the kayak to casual wear.

5. REI Co-op Camp Low Chair

Key Features:

• Compact and Portable: This low-profile chair is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for camping trips, beach outings, and kayaking adventures.

• Comfortable Design: The low seating position and relaxed backrest provide a comfortable spot to unwind after a day on the water.

• Durable Construction: Made with a sturdy steel frame and durable fabric, this chair can withstand the rigors of outdoor use while providing reliable support.

A good camp chair is a must-have for relaxing at the end of a paddling day. The REI Co-op Camp Low Chair looks like a perfect combination of portability, comfort, and durability, making it an excellent addition to my kayaking gear. Plus, as someone who loves going to outdoor concerts at Topaz Farm on Sauvie Island (in Portland) and Edgefield Concerts in Troutdale, Oregon, you always need a good couple of low-back camp chairs to pass security inspection and enjoy the show.

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Bonus: 5 REI products I recommend for flat water kayakers

1. Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 Medical Kit

Everyone kayaker should have a first aid kit in their dry bag, and a waterproof one is even better. After renewing my Red Cross Certification in CPR and First Aid, I’m an even bigger voice box for safety on land and on water. You just never know, and it’s good to be prepared!

Key Features:

• Compact and Lightweight: This kit is easy to pack and carry, making it ideal for kayaking and other outdoor pursuits.

• Comprehensive Contents: Includes a variety of medical supplies to handle common injuries and emergencies, providing peace of mind on your adventures.

• Waterproof Case: Ensures the contents remain dry and ready for use, even in wet conditions.

2. Patagonia Fleetwith Jumpsuit - Women’s - Any color

You absolutely can’t go wrong with this quick-dry, super cute, versatile jumpsuit romper from Patagonia.

I have it in black and green. I’ve been wearing them everywhere, all the time, paddling and beyond, for 3 years now. I might even buy it in the rust color now that I’m thinking about it more. I’ve worn this jumper to dinner, mass, and even horseback riding. You can literally dress it up, down, or sleep in it if you want. I can’t recommend this product highly enough!

Key Features:

• Versatile Design: This jumpsuit is perfect for both casual outings and active adventures, offering a stylish yet functional look.

• Comfortable Fabric: Made from a stretchy, quick-drying fabric, it provides all-day comfort and ease of movement.

• Eco-Friendly: Crafted from recycled materials, this jumpsuit is a great choice for environmentally-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.

3. Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket

Great all-around packable rain jacket! A must-have for anyone living in or visiting the Pacific Northwest.

Key Features:

• Weather Protection: This jacket offers excellent waterproof and windproof protection, keeping you dry and comfortable in harsh weather conditions.

• Breathable Fabric: Despite its robust protection, the fabric remains breathable, preventing overheating during strenuous activities.

• Packable: Lightweight and easy to pack, this jacket is perfect for unpredictable weather on kayaking trips.

4. Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag - 13 L

These great dry bags come in a variety of sizes, so it’s nice to have a large one and a smaller one for shorter paddling trips. Every kayaker needs a dry bag.

Key Features:

• Reliable Waterproofing: Keeps your gear dry in all conditions, making it essential for kayaking and other water-based activities.

• Durable Construction: Made from lightweight yet robust materials, this dry bag can withstand the demands of outdoor adventures.

• Convenient Size: At 13 liters, it offers ample storage space while remaining compact and easy to handle.

5. Chaco Mega Z/Cloud Sandals

When the weather is warm, these are all I wear kayaking. I also love shorter hikes with my Chacos, and they’re one of the first items I pack when I’m headed out camping or in the RV for the weekend.

Key Features:

• Ultimate Comfort: The Z/Cloud cushioning provides exceptional comfort for all-day wear, whether on the water or hiking.

• Adjustable Fit: The adjustable straps ensure a secure and customized fit, perfect for various foot shapes and activities.

• Durability: Built to last, these sandals can handle rugged terrain and water exposure without compromising on comfort.

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And don’t forget, now is a great time to check your life jackets (PFD’s). Do you need a new one? Maybe a different size? REI’s massive anniversary sale is a great time to invest in this #1 safety product for water sports fans.

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About Flatwater Kayak Club

Flatwater Kayak Club is a leading woman-owned online platform dedicated to supporting beginner and intermediate kayakers in the Pacific Northwest. Our company founder, a former writer for The National Geographic Channel and a current ACA member, guides our mission with her passion for kayaking, nature, and storytelling.