Although winter is setting in, there are still plenty of places where kayaking is still in season. If you’re bound to a snow-covered region, this can actually prove to be one of the best times to purchase kayaking equipment, as most of it is on sale. Check out our list below of the best gear for the kayaking fanatic in your life.

Flatwater kayak: Perception Triumph 13.0 ($719)

This kayak is perfect for the beginner who is looking for something that is easy to learn in and easy to haul. This sit-on-top kayak shows that touring can still be done in something other than a traditional sit-in kayak, without speed or function being compromised. Another plus of this kayak is that although most sit-on-top kayaks prove more challenging to paddle than a sit-in, this problem has been eliminated with the Triumph 13.0. Made for exploration in the ocean, coastal waters, estuaries, lakes, and rivers, this is truly a flexible buy. It also comes equipped with plenty of room for gear, which many sit-on-tops lack.

Sea kayak: Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 ($1,629)

For those who are looking to transition into sea kayaking but are worried about the adjustments that come along with new equipment, then this is the perfect kayak. Not only did it win the Sea Kayaker Magazine Reader’s Choice Award for Best Day/Weekend Touring Kayak, but it’s perfect for beginners because of its stability. This kayak was made for mid-sized paddlers who are looking for additional control as well as durability, both of which were improved with the redesigned TruTrak Skeg System. As for its size, the Tempest 170 is 17 inches long, 22 inches wide, and weighs 57 pounds, which does pose some difficulty for transportation. One of the greatest features about this kayak is its storage capacity, most likely leading to it being named the winner among touring kayaks.

Whitewater kayak: Dagger Mamba 8.1 ($1,099)

The Mamba 8.1 is a good buy for beginners who expect to advance quickly, but don’t want to waste money on a “learning kayak” in addition to a more expensive one down the road that will cater to their new abilities. This is a good mix of both, and at 45 pounds, it’s a pretty easy weight to haul from beginner to advanced locations as you progress. The features with this new model include but are not limited to an adjustable gear storage system, quick-release hip pads, contour ergo outfitting, and security grab handles. Reviewers of the kayak noted that the Mamba 8.1 is a great buy no matter your skill level, and it delivers on everything from Class I to VI rapids.

Inflatable kayak: Advanced Elements AirFusion Elite ($849)

The biggest craze in kayaking at the moment is to go inflatable. Not only does this lessen the price you’ll pay significantly, but it makes traveling to hard-to-reach destinations much easier. One of the best on the market currently is the AirFusion Elite. Although its price is relative to that of traditional beginner kayaks, its durability and function make it worth the money for someone who is mainly focused on transporting their kayak. Although the first model of the AirFusion won a number of awards, it only made sense for the company to advance it even further. The AirFusion Elite is characterized by the same great movement, but with added room to fit a number of paddlers, and additional space for organized storage.

Life jacket: NRS Zen Rescue ($189.95)

This life jacket is great for paddlers and guides who expect to encounter harsh conditions and need a ton of protection, but who don’t want to deal with the bulk of a bigger jacket. The Zen Rescue is complete with a quick-release rescue belt, a large front pocket, PVC-free flotation, and is low-profile. It comes at a higher price than most others on the market, but this is one where the durability will prove itself years down the road. No need to replace in most cases, unless you’re interested in upgrading to the newest version.

Helmet: NRS Chaos Full Cut ($49.95)

This is the best for full coverage, ensuring all parts of your head are protected. But don’t worry, the lower cut covers are ventilated so the large surface space of the helmet won’t interfere with hearing. The helmet comes in a variety of sizes and colors, and is also adjustable so it can be easily customized to each paddler. For those who worry a helmet will be uncomfortable, especially on hot days, the Chaos has eight vents on the top and is lightweight. It has a durable ABS plastic shell and the dual-density EVA foam cushions impacts while providing an ideal amount of protection.

Water shoes: Vibram FiveFingers (price varies)

Do you remember when “toe shoes” first came on the market a few years ago? Remember how everyone thought they were a joke? Well, it turns out they weren’t a joke, and the shoes have surprisingly caught on so well that they’re being favored by not only minimalist runners, but kayakers as well. They’re perfect for water sports and have the same gripping capabilities that are evident in most water shoes, and provide great function for when you’re maneuvering on the edge of the water in preparation to launch your boat. The possibilities seem almost endless, and buyers can choose from something that exposes the top of the foot to something that covers the ankle. Although there’s a huge selection, make sure to take into account those that are geared toward water sports while you’re shopping—don’t get too distracted by the fun colors and designs.

*Paddles were not included on the list because of the wide range of factors such as height, style of paddling, type of water, the paddle material you’re looking for, as well as the model of your kayak. Check back with ActionHub in the spring for a full list of the best kayaking paddles on the market.

Image from Nancy Heise on the Wikimedia Commons