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Water Sports Whiz

The leading resource for advice on Kayaking, Canoeing, Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) and all things water sports related. With tips & tricks, how-tos, product reviews, and detailed buying guides.

Whether you are a beginner or an expert we have the information to help you excel

Hot off the press…

Man paddling kayak with deck mount compass on bow
Avatar for Sam OBrien

Best Kayak Compass – Top 6 Picks For When GPS Technology Fails

Don’t let losing battery power or GPS signal turn your paddle into disaster by getting lost far offshore. Always carry a reliable backup compass tailored for kayaking – it could save your life! We have reviewed the top-rated kayak compasses of 2024, covering specialized features like illumination, declination adjustment, and durability so you can find the perfect match to keep paddling confidently when GPS fails.

Night time falls on the lake, a kayak laying by the shore
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How To Plan A Kayak Camping Trip – Planning, Packing And Gear Tips!

The combination of kayaking and camping unlocks a paddling adventure like no other – imagine waking up to misty mornings on secluded shores after nights under the stars! But pulling off the perfect kayak camping trip requires thoughtful prep work. Learn how to plan a hassle-free, fun camping getaway with pro tips on packing gear, route planning, campsite selection, weather watch, and more!

Graphic of sit-on vs sit-in kayaks
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Sit-On-Top Vs. Sit-In Kayak: Which Is The Better Kayak Type For You?

Kayaks are categorized in many ways, but the first – and most important – is based on hull style. It’s also the one that sparked the age-old debate in the paddling community: Which is better, sit-on-tops or sit-ins? Both sides have some valid arguments – and, in a way, both sides are right. You see, the question isn’t which type is inherently better. Instead, which one’s better for you.

Image of a kayak shark encounter on a sunny day at sea
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Do Sharks Attack Kayaks: Attack Statistics, Managing Encounters & Safety Precautions

Paddling over deep ocean waters, I’ll admit those Jaws scenes sometimes creep into my mind. Spotting a dorsal fin my heart skips a beat. While shark attacks on kayaks are extremely rare, understanding statistics, encounters, and best safety precautions puts my mind at ease. After researching expert insights on shark behaviour, I’m sharing practical tips to safely enjoy ocean kayaking, even where great whites roam!

Group of kayaker sitting on the water listen to thier teacher
Avatar for Nessa Hopkins

Learn How to Kayak For Beginners – Everything You Need to Know

Ready to try kayaking but don’t know where to start? This guide is your ticket to mastering the basics with confidence on your very first time on the water! Learn how to pick the right starter kayak, perfect your paddling technique, understand safety essentials, and grasp key terminology to look and sound like a pro. Paddling is easier than you think – become a kayaking whiz now!

how many calories does paddle boarding burn
Avatar for Sam OBrien

How Many Calories Does Paddle Boarding Burn?

Paddle boarding’s growing popularity comes not just from its fun factor – it also provides an incredible full body workout! But exactly how many calories can you burn paddle boarding? We break down paddle boarding’s calorie burn potential by your weight, paddle boarding type, pace, and session duration. You’ll learn how to maximize fat burning during every paddle for accelerated results!

Who Are WaterSportsWhiz?

Created by Enthusiasts, for Enthusiasts

WaterSportsWhiz exists to be the trusted source that paddling enthusiasts can turn to for reliable insights. When starting out on this paddling journey, our founder Sam struggled to find accurate information, he decided that if no reliable source existed for beginners – he’d build it himself.

We remain committed to overcoming obstacles in order to provide quality recommendations without bias or hidden agendas.

Our philosophy: equip fellow water lovers with the transparent guidance needed to safely enjoy their sport.

Real expertise from real experience, not just to make sales but to serve our community.

If the path doesn’t exist, we’ll forge ahead until we make one.

Meet Our Team

The WaterSportsWhiz crew brings together over 120 collective years of water sports experience and expertise. From professional athletes and coaches to recreational weekend warriors, our team offers well-rounded perspectives bonded by a genuine love of the water.

Sam - Water Sports Whiz

Sam

Founder, Kayak & Paddle Boarding Expert

Nessa Senior Writer WaterSportsWhiz

Nessa

Senior Writer & Kayaking Expert

James Stevens - Water Sports Whiz

James

Writer and Globetrotting Adventurer

Tim WaterSportWhiz

Tim

Writer, Diving and Kite Surfing Expert

Simon Taylor WaterSportsWhiz 300 x 300

Simon

Writer and Fishing Expert

Kayleigh Ellis Outreach manager WaterSportsWhiz

Kayleigh

Outreach Manager

Meet The Teeam

Boats & Boards

best inflatable fishing kayaks

Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak: Merging Convenience and Durability

Hauling bulky fishing kayaks around used to feel like the price I had to pay for access to the best fishing spots, until I discovered the game-changing world of inflatable models. At first, I was skeptical, but after I took my buddy’s surprisingly durable portable ‘yak out for a spin, I was hooked. Now, I’m excited to share my “Ah-ha!” moment with you. After reviewing and testing numerous top-rated inflatables over the past year, I have compiled a guide to the latest high-function models that outperform traditional kayaks.

Equipment & Accessories

Best Kayak Shoes

10 Best Kayak Shoes – Keep Your Feet Warm And Dry In 2023

Whether you’re hiking, diving, or boating, every outdoor activity is a lot more enjoyable and safe when you have the right gear to match the occasion. The same goes for kayaking. You already have a kayak, a paddle, and a well-fitting PFD. But what about your feet, though? Have you …

Knowledge & Know-How

Man In wetsuit holding kayak paddle

Wetsuit Vs Drysuit For Kayaking – Which Is Best And Why?

When you’re kayaking during the warmer months, what you wear isn’t that big of a concern – as long as it’s comfortable, moisture-wicking, and protects you from UV rays, you’re all set. But when colder weather rolls around, you generally have two options: Put your kayak in storage – or …

Trust In Our Expertise

At WaterSportsWhiz, we take accuracy and integrity seriously. Our writers have decades of first-hand experience and active participation across every water sport we discuss on this site.

We thoroughly research, test, and fact-check all our recommendations. We never accept paid sponsorships or placements, and we detail any potential biases openly and honestly.

Our goal is not to promote products, but to provide ethical, comprehensive, and unbiased advice to help you make informed decisions. You can trust that we have your back as a fellow water sports enthusiast.

Our commitment to transparency, honesty, and rigorously vetted information means you can have confidence in the guidance we provide. Let us help you make the most of your time on the water!