Keiki Paddling on Oahu: A Parent’s Guide on What to Pack for Practice

If you are reading this, your child likely just signed up for a youth paddling program. Whether you are at a club in Kailua, watching them launch from the sandy shores of Waikiki, or navigating the waters of Kaneohe Bay, welcome to the ʻohana. As a parent living here in the islands, I know sending your keiki out into the open ocean brings a unique mix of pride and nerves. Standing on the shoreline, clutching a towel and squinting into the sun, that first week of practice can feel a little overwhelming. You want them to respect the ocean, connect with Hawaiian culture, and honestly, just have a great time without getting sunburned or dehydrated. Outrigger canoe paddling is more than just Hawaii’s official team sport; it’s a rite of passage. But to make sure your child loves it (and you don't stress out), they need the right gear. Take a deep breath—I’ve got you covered. Here is everything you need to know to pack their bag like a pro. ## 1. Sun Protection: The First Line of Defense Let’s be real—the Hawaiian sun hits differently when you are on the water. Between direct sunlight and the reflection off the ocean, your child is getting a double dose of UV rays. * **Reef-Safe Sunscreen:** This is non-negotiable. Did you know studies estimate that nearly **412 pounds of sunscreen** are deposited daily on reefs in popular spots like Hanauma Bay? To protect your child and our ocean, look for mineral-based, zinc oxide formulas (SPF 30+). Apply it **15 minutes before** they hit the water. * **UPF 50+ Rash Guards:** Sunscreen wears off, but a long-sleeve rash guard works as long as they are wearing it. This also prevents chafing from the canoe gunnels. * **The Right Hat:** A visor or a hat with a stiff brim is crucial. Just make sure it floats or has a clip! * **Polarized Sunglasses:** The glare can be brutal on young eyes. Get a pair with a strap so they don’t end up as a donation to the ocean floor. ## 2. Hydration: Beat the Heat Before It Starts Here is the "parent-to-parent" secret: if your child tells you they are thirsty during practice, they are already dehydrated. In our humid island climate, active keiki lose fluids fast. * **The Volume Rule:** The Hawaii High School Athletic Association suggests that water access should never be restricted. A good rule of thumb for active youth is drinking **6 to 8 ounces of fluid every 15 to 20 minutes** of intense activity. * **Electrolytes are Key:** When they sweat, they lose sodium and magnesium. I always throw an electrolyte packet or chews into their bag. Coconut water is also a fantastic, local natural option. * **Pro-Tip:** Freeze a half-full water bottle the night before and top it off with water in the morning. It keeps the water ice-cold and acts as an ice pack for their snacks! ## 3. Clothing: Comfort in the Canoe Your child is going to get wet—whether it’s from the splash of the paddle, a deliberate jump in the ocean to cool off, or the occasional *huli* (flip). * **Bottoms:** Avoid board shorts with heavy seams, rivets, or zippers—they can scratch the canoe and irritate your child’s skin. Neoprene shorts or compression shorts are the gold standard for youth paddling; they provide a little cushion on the hard seats and prevent the dreaded "paddler’s rash." * **Footwear:** Getting the canoe from the halau to the water often means walking over hot asphalt, sharp coral, or rocks. Slippers (flip-flops) get lost easily. Opt for water shoes or reef walkers that stay on their feet until they hop in the boat. * **The "Drive Home" Outfit:** Always pack a full change of dry clothes, including underwear. Even on a warm Oahu afternoon, a wet, tired kid shivering in the backseat is a recipe for a meltdown. ## 4. The "Organized Chaos" Gear Bag Organization is your sanity. I recommend a waterproof dry bag or a mesh tote that breathes. Here is what needs to be inside: * **Microfiber Towel:** Leave the heavy cotton beach towels at home. Microfiber dries your keiki off instantly and doesn't take up much space. * **High-Energy Snacks:** Paddling burns serious calories. A hungry paddler is a grumpy paddler. Pack items that won’t melt into a goo: granola bars, trail mix, or fruit. * **The Detangler:** If you have a daughter (or son) with long hair, listen to me closely: salt water + wind = knots that will make you cry. Pack a wide-tooth comb and a leave-in conditioner spray. You will thank me later. ## 5. Safety & Essentials Safety is the number one priority for every canoe club in Hawaii. * **PFDs (Life Jackets):** Most clubs provide these for youth practices, but double-check. If you buy your own, ensure it is U.S. Coast Guard approved and fits snugly. * **Waterproof Phone Pouch:** If your teen brings a phone, it needs to be in a floating waterproof pouch. * **Mini First-Aid Kit:** A few waterproof bandages and antiseptic wipes are great for minor reef scratches or blisters. ## 6. What to Leave at Home This is a hard lesson learned: **If you can’t afford to lose it, don’t bring it.** The ocean is unpredictable. Expensive jewelry, high-end electronics, and favorite toys have no place in a canoe. I’ve seen GoPros sink and sunglasses float away. Keep it simple. ## The Payoff Paddling season—whether it’s the regatta season in summer or distance training in winter—is a commitment. But watching your child learn the rhythm of the ocean, the value of teamwork (laulima), and the history of Hawaii is worth every sandy car seat and early morning drop-off. Get their bag packed right so they can focus on the fun. See you at the beach!