Top 5 Kayak Lights: Comprehensive Review & Buyer’s Guide

Unlike public roads, public waters are not that well regulated. Indeed, there are some rules out there, but there are no lanes, traffic lights, you name it. And as unusual as it may seem, accidents do happen and can be quite dangerous, especially for someone who’s bad at swimming.

Finding the best kayak lights for your canoe or kayak is quite important, especially in certain environments. For example, you’ll be more visible in high traffic areas, but you’ll also increase safety standards when paddling at dusk or dawn.

These being said, how do you choose the right kayak lights for your boat, and what options do you have?

Short Answer: Best Kayak Lights

1. Botepon Battery Operated Kayak Navigation Lights – Best for value for money
2. GearLight S1 LED Safety Lights – Best for portability
3. Amzonly Store 4pcs Navigation Lights for Boats – Best for a full package
4. Boao Store 12 Pieces Navigation Lights – Best for families or groups
5. Keing 10 Pack Waterproof Marine Boat LED Lights – Best for underwater use

Types of kayak lights

Lights can be split into more categories, but generally, kayak lights are categorized by their installation and mounting type.

From this point of view, there are handheld lights, which are more about versatility, as well as deck mounted lights, which are more convenient.

Handheld lights 

These lights are self explanatory, and they’re meant to be held. They’re relatively small and can be attached to yourself, such as your life jacket. They usually come with clips and can go anywhere. Their main role is to make you more visible.

Deck mounted lights 

Deck-mounted lights go on to your kayak. They can be much larger and powerful, so they’re more suitable for open waters, rather than small rivers. They’re more convenient because they’re fixed onto the boat, so you don’t have to worry about them.

At the same time, they’re not as versatile since they can’t be too easily moved.

Obviously, kayak lights can be split into other categories, too, such as the type of light. Some of them use classic lights, while others rely on more powerful LED lights, which will obviously last longer.

Then, there are lights that can be enhanced with all kinds of features, such as intensity focus and different light patterns.

Some lights come with suction features. They’re ergonomic and super simple to install but not extremely secure. Track mounted lights are more secure, but they’re considered premium, and you need a track. They’ll never fall, though.

Clamps are also common, not to mention tension cables.

Top 5 Kayak Lights Reviews

Here are the best-rated kayak lights on the market, as well as the features you should expect.

Botepon Battery Operated Kayak Navigation Lights – Best for value for money

GearLight S1 LED Safety Lights – Best for portability

Amzonly Store 4pcs Navigation Lights for Boats – Best Package Deal

Boao Store 12 Pieces Navigation Lights – Best for families or groups

Keing 10 Pack Waterproof Marine Boat LED Lights – Best for underwater use

What factors to consider when choosing kayak lights

There are quite a few things to take into consideration when looking for kayak lights.

Installation type

What kind of kayak do you have, and what do you prefer in terms of installation? Would you like a handheld set? How about a deck mounted one? Even deck mounted lights can be categorized by the installation type, such as clamps or tension cables.

Your activities on water and how intense they are should help you make a better decision.

Build

Different lights come with different standards. Many kayak lights are built similarly though. You’ll find plastic, which is quite resistant to water, as well as marine treated metallic builds. Both options are alright, but each of them has its pros and cons.

Plastic is lightweight and has excellent waterproofing features. Metallic lights are tougher and sturdier.

Water resistance

Kayak lights will obviously get splashed a lot, so water resistance is a serious consideration in the process. In fact, you need a waterproof set. The waterproof profile is given by the IP rating, and that’s what you need to pay attention to.

Of course, a few reviews should also give you some hints about how durable and water resistant certain lights are.

Size and weight

Sizing is a bit of an issue, and that’s where most people make mistakes. Bigger is not necessarily better because big lights can get in the way. Moreover, some of them can obstruct views, not to mention the installation, which is more difficult.

At the same time, if they’re too small, they’re useless because no one can see you from a long distance.

Ideally, you should get the biggest lights for the size of your kayak that won’t obstruct your movement or vision.

As for the weight, you’ll need to find a balance with the size. People opt for lighter versions because they won’t put too much strain on the kayak. They won’t slow you down either.

Power and operation

Solar lights represent a popular and modern choice, but they come with a drawback. While you’re less likely to go kayaking on a bad rainy day, a cloudy day may also reduce the charging capacity of their batteries.

From this point of view, most people choose kayak lights running with batteries. Built-in rechargeable batteries are not that convenient because you’ll have to uninstall the lights to charge them. Besides, what do you do if you run out of power on water?

Those running with batteries are more convenient because they can be easily replaced, which is likely to happen when you go on long trips.

Talking about batteries, the battery life is just as important when making a decision.

Direction

Finally, some of the best kayak lights out there allow lighting in more directions. A 360 degree display is ideal because you have some light inside the kayak too, not to mention being seen from all angles and directions.

How to install and use kayak lights for maximum efficiency

The installation depends on the design you purchase. Most lights are versatile and easy to go anywhere. What truly matters is the location you pick. Obviously, they need to go above the water, but keep them at a relatively low level, too. If they’re in your eyes, the glare will ruin your visibility.

An unwritten rule among navigators suggests installing red lights on the left, green lights on the right, and white lights at the back.

Different lights have different installation systems. You don’t usually require anything, since they come with clips, clamps, or hanging holes.

In terms of tips and tricks, make sure you always have some spare batteries with you and store them in a waterproof bag. You never know when batteries go, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. The last thing you want is to be stranded in the middle of water with no lights.

Those who use rechargeable batteries should fully recharge them before going out. Simply keep them in charge the night before going out. Store lights accordingly and give them a rinse first. Even if they’re resistant to corrosion, you want them to last even longer. Take the batteries out, too.

As for common sense, make sure you try out the lights before going out on water, especially if you go out during the day and you expect to come back at night.

FAQs

Still undecided about kayak lights?

1. Where do you put lights on a kayak?

Just make sure they’re not underwater, but not at eye level either, or they’ll ruin your visibility in the distance.

2. Do you need nav lights on a kayak?

Normally, boats with no motors don’t require lights. However, based on where you live, you may be required to have at least one white light with a 360 degree range.

3. What is the difference between anchor lights and nav lights?

Anchor lights are displayed when you’re anchored. Navigation lights are for when you move. Kayak requirements are lower when compared to motor boats, though.

Bottom line

Deciding on the best kayak lights obviously depends on what you need. At the same time, it’s just as important to consider what your kayak can take. Luckily, many kayak lights can be installed anywhere, including your own vest.

People these days choose versatility and convenience rather than the sturdiness of deck mounted lights, especially since they’re likely to use these lights for other activities, too. That explains their increasing popularity over the past few years.