Paddle float

A paddle float is an inflatable or solid foam float that slides or clips onto one blade of a kayak paddle, turning the paddle into a temporary outrigger. It is a core piece of self-rescue equipment for sit-inside kayaking, used after a capsize and wet exit to help a solo paddler climb back into the cockpit without the boat immediately rolling back over.

In use, the paddle with the float attached is laid across the back deck behind the cockpit, perpendicular to the kayak, with the paddle shaft resting under a deck line or against the paddler's body for support. That outrigger arm gives enough extra stability for the paddler to pull themselves up onto the back deck and slide into the cockpit, a maneuver that takes real practice to do smoothly, especially in any wind or waves.

Inflatable paddle floats pack down small but take a bit of time to blow up in the moment, while foam floats are ready instantly but bulkier to stow, which is why some paddlers carry one of each style depending on the trip. Like any rescue skill, a paddle float self-rescue should be practiced in calm, controlled conditions, ideally with instruction, before it is ever needed for real.