Water sports gear: SUP, kayak, wetsuit
Start with the activity
Surfing, SUP, kayaking, snorkelling and diving all need different gear, even though they sit in one category. So first write what exactly you will do: paddle on a lake on a board, go down a river in a kayak, or swim with a mask and fins. The type, the size and the budget all depend on it. Also think about the season: in the cooler months, or in cold mountain water, you will not stay out long without a wetsuit.
SUP board
An inflatable all-round board of about 10’6” suits most beginners. Look at the load capacity and the set: paddle, pump, leash, bag. For paddling with a friend or a child, take a wider board with a margin on weight: it is more stable.
Wetsuit, mask, fins
A wetsuit is chosen by neoprene thickness and size: thinner for warm water, thicker for cool water. It should fit snugly but not squeeze. Test a mask for a seal: press it to your face without the strap and breathe in through your nose, and it should stay on. Fins come with a closed heel, like shoes, and with an open heel and a strap, which are worn with neoprene socks or boots. For diving, discuss the set and servicing separately with professionals.
What to put in your request
- what exactly — SUP, surfboard, kayak, wetsuit, mask, fins, scuba set, wakeboard;
- specs — length or volume, load capacity, number of seats, wetsuit thickness and size;
- model, for example Aqua Marina Beast;
- level — beginner, child, casual user;
- what is in the set — paddle, pump, leash, bag;
- condition, budget, delivery city.
Example: “Looking for an inflatable SUP, 10’6”, for a beginner, up to 120 kg, with a paddle and a pump. One season used is fine. Courier delivery to Central, budget up to HK$2,700.”
How to compare offers
The same type of gear from different sellers often differs in what is in the set. For inflatables, ask about seasons, patches and the warranty on the glue. For a wetsuit, the exact size by height and weight matters more than the price. For used gear, ask for photos and a video of a check, and ask where and how it was stored: strong sun and heat spoil rubber and glue.
On BlaBlaPrice you write one request, and sellers reply in the chat with a price, the set and delivery. The platform shows the offer that is best on the merits first, and you can see reviews next to each seller. Sellers can see where they stand among the others and compete for your request. Contacts are hidden. It is all explained in detail on the “How it works” page.
For time by the water, also have a look at trekking and camping, and for fishing from a boat, at hunting and fishing.
