Because of the nature of the game there are some special requirements for polo equipment.
First time players can usually use their existing kayaking gear with some minor modifications.
The basic requirements are a helmet, pfd and a paddle without sharp or rough edges. This is required to protect yourself and others though injuries occur very rarely.
Helmets. top
Most players use a helmet fitted with a faceguard which helps to prevent injuries from paddles, though these are rare when a faceguard is not used. They are available specially designed for polo at a reasonable price ($20 - $30). The type used on football helmets are unsuitable for kayak polo. The club has some helmets with faceguards available for new players that don't have their own.
At club level we allow play without a faceguard at your own risk.
Paddles. top
It is important that the blades used do not have sharp or abrasive edges. Occasionally a blade will come into contact with another player. This is painful enough as it is. See the photo opposite for an idea of what type of blade to use.
There are specific rules about paddle dimensions for kayak polo. However at club level we don't worry about exact specifications as long as the corners of the blades are rounded, edges are blunt and there are no splinters or jagged edges.
Kayaks. top
As you can see from the photos on this page and others, polo kayaks typically have a rounded bow and stern that is padded and they are also short < 3 meters. The club has some polo kayaks available for new players to try out and we allow the use of short whitewater kayaks as long as they are padded at both ends.
Any type of durable, compressible foam padding can be used and should be firmly attached to the bow and stern with duct tape. This is best done while your boat is dry at home before showing up to the pool. The padding should cover the bow and extend for 6 inches or so down each side of the kayak at bow and stern.
Padding protects you to some extent, should an unintentional collision occur, other kayaks, and the sides of the pool.
Slalom and other kayaks with extremely pointed bows and sterns cannot be used for kayak polo.
Personal flotation devices. top
These are essential and it is important that yours covers the majority of your torso and especially the lower back and sides!
Helmets with faceguards.
Click on photo for larger view.
Paddle edges.
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Padded bow and stern.
Click on photo for larger view.
Side protection in PFD.
Click on photo for larger view.
