When most people are stowing away their kayaks for the year, Vancouver Island’s whitewater paddlers are just getting started. The fall and winter months mark the true beginning of whitewater season here — a time when rain-swollen rivers, misty forests, and a tight-knit community of paddlers come together for some of the best boating in the Pacific Northwest.

If you've ever stood in front of a wall of sprayskirts wondering what 1.7 means—or if “Large” is your kind of large—you’re not alone. At Comox Valley Kayaks & Canoes, we hear it all the time: “How do I know which sprayskirt will fit my kayak?” It’s a fair question, especially since sizing isn’t standardized across brands. So let’s break it down and take the confusion out of finding the right sprayskirt for your boat.

Whether you're heading out for a day paddle at Comox Lake or hitting the highway for a trip to the wild west coast, knowing how to safely transport your kayak or canoe is an essential skill for every paddler.