Is it recommended to have an air bag in a kayak?

Question

Is it recommended to have an air bag in a kayak?

Answer 1

Always. Many whitewater boaters won't chase your boat after a wet exit if there is no flotation. Having flotation reduces the amount of water inside the boat and makes it much easier to corral and empty. Also makes it much safer to unpin if it gets stuck.

Answer 2

Always.  Many whitewater boaters won't chase your boat after a wet exit if there is no flotation.  Having flotation reduces the amount of water inside the boat and makes it much easier to corral and empty.  Also makes it much safer to unpin if it gets stuck.

For flatwater boats, it reduces the water to remove after a wet exit or a wet re-entry.

Answer 3

only if you're kayaking in a storm drain or off the hoover dam

Answer 4

Yes, if you're in a recreational kayak that does not have sealed bulkheads, then you should have flotation bags inside.   Even in mellow water, if you accidentally flip, the entire cockpit will fill with water, and the boat will be really difficult to right, and very challenging to paddle to shore when swamped.  See the two articles below.

Answer 5

It is recommended that you have flotation. If you do not have sealed areas, take an air bag.