How to kayak and prevent blisters

Getting blisters on your hands is a frequent issue when kayaking. If you kayak, chances are you’ll deal with these blisters. Here’s how to prevent and treat them.

Key Points

• Blisters are often caused by your hand rubbing against the paddle. If not taken care of, they can get infected.
• To stop blisters, use a paddle that fits, hold it right, and wear gloves for paddling.
• If you get blisters, cover them and maybe pop them with a clean needle.
• Go to a doctor if the blister looks infected or you feel unwell.

Why Do Kayakers Get Blisters? Blisters mostly happen because of rubbing and heat. When you’re kayaking, your hands can rub against the paddle, causing blisters.

How to Avoid Blisters Here are some easy tips to lessen the chance of getting blisters:

Remember, even if you do everything right, you might still get blisters, especially if you’re new to kayaking.

If you’re a beginner and get blisters, there’s advice at the end of this guide. If you kayak a lot and keep getting blisters, you might need a better paddle, change how you hold it, or get good gloves.

Picking the Right Paddle

Your paddle should match your height. If it’s too long, you might grip it too hard and cause blisters. A short paddle can also lead to blisters because you have to grip it harder.

Learn more about choosing the right paddle in our guide.

Proper Way to Hold the Paddle Holding your paddle correctly is crucial. A good grip reduces rubbing.

A good grip usually looks like this:

• Hold your paddle in front of you.
• Place your hands a bit wider than your shoulders.
• If the paddle has a round part, it should face you.

Wearing Paddling Gloves

Use gloves made for kayaking. They come in various styles and can prevent blisters by keeping your hands dry and reducing rubbing.

Treating Blisters from Kayaking Blisters can still happen, no matter how careful you are. Here’s how to treat them:

1. Check – Blisters can be just red skin, filled with fluid, or popped.
2. Care – Cover developing blisters and keep them dry. For intact blisters, make a donut-shaped pad. To pop a blister, use a clean needle. Wash and cover broken blisters.
3. Doctor’s Help – If the blister looks bad or you feel sick, see a doctor.

Conclusion Any kayaker can get blisters, but following these tips should help you avoid them most of the time. Treating blisters is important, but remember, they’re common and usually heal on their own.

If this guide was useful, feel free to share it with others who might benefit.