DIY Upgrades for Kayaks, Paddleboards, Canoes, Surfskis at Pimp My Kayak Clinic

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.

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 Sit Inside Kayak Seat with Detachable Storage Bag

Hobie Kayak Seats, Cushions, and Seat Accessories

MR340-Worthy Kayak Seat Pad, Heavy Duty Inflatable Cushion

Kayak Hip Pads Kits

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

Hobie Kayaks Plastic Welder and Hull Repair Kit

Patch Kit for Inflatable SUPs, kayaks, and rafts

Oru Kayaks Repair Kit (popular!)

Rudders and Skegs

Rudder Kit for Most Wilderness System Kayaks

Hobie Fin Kits and Parts

4″ River Fins

Transport and Load Assist Options

Hobie Pro Angler Kayak Cradles

Load Assist Bar for Yakima Round Crossbars (popular!)

Kayak Wing Carrier with Load Assist

Roof Mounted Boat Loading Assist (not a good option for short people)

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

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

Learn Tips While Having Fun

If you're in the Kansas City area, come out to Paddle KC paddling club kayaking, paddleboard and canoe events to have fun, learn paddling skills and safety, and make friends over shared experiences. If you aren't already a member of Paddle KC, sign up to receive invitations to frequent activities for all experience levels!

Join Us On The Water

Gear

Pimp My Kayak Easy DIY Upgrades

DIY Upgrades for Kayaks, Paddleboards, Canoes, Surfskis at Pimp My Kayak Clinic

Plan Ahead For Your SUP, Canoe and Kayak DIY Upgrades

Examples of DIY Enhancements for Kayaks, SUPs, Canoes

Mounts For Lights, Gps Devices, Cameras

Deck Riggings

Drink Holders