How to Protect Your Plastic Kayak

The plastic used in kayak construction is extremely durable. In addition to using it in recreational and touring boats, kayak manufacturers use it in the whitewater kayaks that paddlers take down fast-moving rivers, beating the kayak against rocks the entire way. Although it's durable, taking simple actions will protect your kayak, keeping it strong and in good shape. With maintenance, care and proper protection, your plastic kayak should last years.

Things You'll Need

  • 303 Protectant
  • Rag
  • Soap
  • Foam
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Spray your kayak with 303 Protectant and use a rag to evenly spread the spray across the kayak's surface. Add another coat when the water stops beading on the kayak's surface -- about once a month during the kayaking season. Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight degrades plastic; the more sunlight the kayak receives, the more brittle the kayak becomes.

    • 2

      Wash your boat with fresh water after every salt-water paddle. Salt won't hurt the plastic, but it will rust metal hardware, degrade rubber washers and rot foam seats and back bands. Wash your boat once a year with mild soap to remove grime.

    • 3

      Protect your plastic kayak from deformation by storing it in sideways against the wall. Storing it sideways puts the strain on the stiff, curved seam instead of the flat flexible bottom. Protect the boat further by storing it on foam. Put your kayak outside under a hot sun during the day if it does deform. It should return to its natural shape.