Top 10 Best Kayak Compass – Tested & Reviewed in 2024
For anyone who wants to paddle like a free spirit should be concerned with the possibility of getting lost someday without a compass.
Having the best kayak compass can be a savior when your GPS device is not working because of dead battery or other issues. Nobody wants to go roaming around in the waterways, because that will have been the roughest experience ever.
A kayak compass offers the best direction for navigation and can be used on both land and in the seas. A kayaking ride has to incorporate the best equipment, beginning from the kayak to the paddle, to the gear you have on and a compass.
I believe that for any moment to be epic, you have to feel on top of your game with reliable tools at hand.
We are here to give you a hand in finding compatible compass. Know what are some of the winning points and the turn offs. You will realize that to paddle in the water like a pro, you don’t need any add-ons.
Just carry with you your spirit for adventure and a reliable compass. Go through our guide and reviews so that you can choose the most suitable kayak compass.
10 Best Kayak Compass in 2024 - Comparison
Picture | Product Name | Weight | Dimension | Latest Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.12 Ounces | 5.51 x 3.94 x 1.18 inches | ||
| 4.0oz | 2.6x2.6x1.6 inches | ||
| 4 ounces | 2 x 5 x 7 inches | ||
| 5.6 ounces | 6.5 x 2.8 x 6.3 inches | ||
| 12 ounces | 6.2 x 7 x 6.9 inches | ||
| 8.8 ounces | 4.1 x 1 x 2.9 inches | ||
 | 9.6 ounces | 11 x 8 x 2 inches | ||
| 6.4 ounces | 10 x 7 x 2 inches | ||
 | 0.32 ounces | 3.9 x 3.5 x 3.9 inches | ||
| 13.4 ounces | 8 x 7 x 0.8 inches |
Top 10 Best Kayak Compass in 2024 - Reviews
Maybe you have the best kayak gps and don’t see the need of having a kayak compass. The truth is, GPS devices can fail you when you are in the water. I could be dead batteries, weak signals among other malfunctions. This is why you need to get a reliable kayak compass to avoid getting lost. Go through reviews of our top tem models on the market today.
1. Silva Ranger S Compass, Clear, One Size
Silva ranger S compass is upgraded from its previous version; it features a dry flex-grip to make it easy to handle. It also comes with a convenient declination scale inside the capsule which can be used anywhere. Moreover, is economical since it can be moved from one kayak to another.
The compass also features colors green and black to match the outdoor surroundings. The distinct ranger, with large fonts and magnifier, will ensure easier readability especially, at night. It also has 45-degree angle assistance on the mirror sighting functions to ensure the correct direction of travel for accurate navigation.
Unlike other navigational gadgets which mostly use a cellular signal to determine the location, this compass uses its magnetic fields to determine the direction of North. This is especially helpful in case you are in an area with no cellular service. Silva ranger mirror can be folded down for easier, compact packaging.
You can rely on Silva ranger S compass because it ensures a high degree of accuracy. Mirror sighting enables the user to look into the terrain without having to look up from the compass. The direction of travel is usually determined with the SILVA system hence is more accurate.
It features a soft and bendable distance lanyard that you can place directly on the route of your map. It also has an attached base plate map which measures in mm. Furthermore, Silva ranger is not just a Kayak deck compass it can be used in water or the sky.
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Conclusion : There are probably many types of kayak compasses but Silva ranger is the best it is super easy to mount and operate. The compass can be used anytime and anywhere. Most importantly it can be moved from one kayak to another in case you use more than one kayak.
2. AOFAR Dive Compass AF-Q60 Waterproof, Durable, Compact. Wrist Strap Type Compass
This is a wrist strap type of compass mainly used for sailing, diving, hiking, and many other activities. It’s a light eight compass with a durable wrist band hence suitable for people of all ages and sizes. Most efficiently it is easy to use due to its advanced and non-complex features.
This sea kayak compass is designed with fluorescent properties therefore the scale can be read clearly underwater or in the dark. It has been tested and passed the 50-meter-deep water test. It is a professional diving compass usually worn on the wrist of the diver or a way-finder.
This full-size marine compass has a unique design that enables it to avoid the occurrence of pins and errors. This makes it one of the most accurate kayak compasses. The compass also features a side reading window to help a diver to read data from the side while diving.
AOFAR diving compass is durable and compact. Its adaptability makes it to be able to be used in the northern hemisphere because it can withstand sub-zero temperatures. It can also be used as an Orienteering compass. A sportsperson can trust this conventional compass since it’s highly accurate and lightweight.
This heavy-duty compass is designed with a direct reading dial which makes it easy to see the readings even in foggy weather. Moreover, it is made with high-quality materials which are waterproof and shock-resistant for the durability of your compass. Furthermore, the compass can survive cold weather and accidental knocks.
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Conclusion : While choosing a compass for kayaking accuracy is one of the key features that matters a lot. Luckily AOFAR Dive compass is perfect for you. It’s reliable and can be used in the navigation of difficult areas. Its fluorescent properties will enable you to read clearly from your compass easily.
3. X-11Y Ritchie Navigation 2-Inch Dial Sport Kayak Compass
The Ritchie navigation 2-inch reading dial sport about is a handheld compass mainly used during sports like Kayaking. It is easy to read and direct to the eyes with a large clear dial. The built-in roller diaphragm enables the working of the compass at extreme temperatures. The safety of the x-11 Ritchie 2 inch dial compass is ensured by a silicon impact-resistant casing.
The international safety yellow case also helps in keeping the compass safe. It has a compact size which makes it easy to handle and portable. It can be used even in camping and sports driving. Has a quick sight v-shaped notch and rubber for easy and efficient placement of the heading. The non- electric chemical sticks give you long hours of night vision of 18 hours.
They have developed a new amazing holder that is ideal for mounting on your x-11 Ritchie 2 inch dial sport about compass on kayaks deck and small boats. The holders come in black and white colors to give you a variety to choose from. Easy to install when the need is to mount on the decks. It measures 10 inches by 8 inches by 6 inches.
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Conclusion : Are you looking for a small-sized compact and portable compass? A compass you can easily carry along in your bag while going to camp? The x-11 Ritchie 2 inch dial sport about the compass is a solution to this. It is easy to read the 2 inches dial at a glance. It is made to work in all temperatures even the extreme high and low.
4. Silva 58 Kayak Compass
The Silva 58 Kayak compass is lightweight. It has a very unique technique for attaching it. It uses rubber straps fitted with clippers at the ends for an improved attachment. The Silva 58 compass does not require a deck to be mounted on. They easily attach to the deck lines and erase the need to drill the deck to mount the compass.
It is possible to place the compass in a favorable position where reading the bearings is very easy. You read the bearings without releasing the paddle. It eliminates the need to change gaze. The Silva 58 kayak is waterproof to help it endure harsh conditions. The graduated disk is protected with a glass window that cannot be scratched easily. That becomes an added security feature.
Silva 58 Kayak Compass has a height of 55 mm and a wide diameter of 76mm. it can function at a range of – 10 degrees Celsius to 70 degrees Celsius. This makes it suitable for use during all weathers, summer and winter temperatures can be easily accommodated. It can be stored at very high temperatures of – 30 degrees Celsius, high temperatures of 80 degrees Celsius.
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Conclusion : If you are looking for a lightweight, easy to use and durable kayak compass, this one is the best for you. Silva 58 Kayak is a compass made of light durable materials. This ensures it serves you over a long period. Mounting the compass is very easy. The need to drill the deck is eliminated by the rubber straps with clippers fitted.
5. Kayaker by Ritchie Navigation XP-99 - Black with
The Ritchie compass is one of the most accurate compasses. It is accurate from the inside to the outside. The compass does not require any form of power to operate. It functions even in the foulest conditions. A large dial with easily readable graduations to enhance reading it easily. In modern technologies, the Ritchie compasses are the best to use for bearing in marine habitats.
Has a courseminder movable bezel which contains a memory indicator to show you wherever that you might be going. It is mounted in a low height suitable for reading the bearings at a glance. Mounted on the surface of the kayak's deck. It is very possible to mount the Ritchie XP-99 compass on a sit on top kayak by easily screwing it on the surface.
Ritchie XP-99 compass is designed to work in extreme temperatures effectively. This makes it suitable for use in all seasons and weather conditions. It has high-quality band exclusive magnets for directions. Has a hard steel pivot. It is fitted with a jewel sapphire. Easy to switch on and off to ensure the security of the compass. This makes it possible for use in different vessels.
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Conclusion : The Ritchie x-99 compass is among the most accurate compass you will come across. Accurate from the inside to the outside. The compass is easy to mount and can also be installed on the sit on top kayaks. Has a dial that is large enough for an easy glance. They are designed to function effectively in very high or low temperatures and weather conditions.
6. Sun Company SeaTurtl Kayak Compass - Full-Size
The Sea Turtl kayak compass is a heavy-duty made marine compass. It has an easy to read dial and has very accurate bearings. The compass has a protection mechanism when not in use that is an adjustable hood that is stretched to cover the glass dial. It is made to function in the harshest conditions in the waters. It can function in very extreme temperatures.
Installing the compass is very easy. It has adjustable cords fitted with nylon clips for attaching the compass. The cords could be shortened to fit perfectly on your kayak. The mounting area is rubber fitted to ensure a tight-fitting grip. Has a liquid-filled cv-shaped compass housing to fit the curved and straight hulls. Measures 4.1 inches in diameter that gives a nice view.
The Sea Turtl kayak compass can be easily shifted from one kayak for another one for use while sailing. It is made using high quality and durable materials to ensure it serves you for long. This quality previewed above makes the compass a great choice for you as an aspiring kayaker. It is suitable for leisure sailing and sport sailing. Quality is what you deserve.
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Conclusion : It is a heavy-duty designed marine kayak. Made using durable and high-quality materials to ensure that it serves the user over a long time. It is easy to fit kayak with adjustable chords which can be shortened for a nice fit. When not in use, the compass is covered using an adjustable hood. The clips attached to the straps are UV resistant.
7. E.S. Ritchie Ritchie SportAbout Compass w/Kayak
The E.S Ritchie Sport About Compass Kayaker holder is designed to mount the X- 11Y compass. This holder comes with a compass included. This holder does not require you to drill holes on your kayak deck for you to fit it. This ensures that the deck’s finishing is not tampered with and remains intact. It will save on the screws you might need for replacement.
The Sport About holder is flexible. This is to ensure that the holder conforms to the shape of the deck. It has a foam ring which also helps it easily conform to the varying shapes of the decks. It uses bungee holders to attach to the surface. The bungee holders have clips at the end to clip the sport about kayaker for a tight grip.
The Sport About Ritchie compass holder for kayaks does not have a specific mounting style. Any style that makes you happy is the one you can mount using. It does not have a backlight. It has a large diameter to fit in a large compass that is easy to ride. The E.S Ritchie Sport About holder is durable and suitable for use in all conditions.
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Conclusion : This is another best holder for kayak’s compasses. Built using durable and resistant materials to suit all weathers while kayaking. It does not have a specific method for mounting on the deck. It is flexible to ensure that it takes the shape of the deck. It is attached to the deck using bungee cords with clipping ends for a tight grip. Made using durable materials.
8. Ritchie K-TD.2 Kayaker Tie Down
Ritchie is a brand manufacturer of some of the best Kayaker compasses and mounts for compasses. The Ritchie Kayaker tie down does not come with a compass included. This tie-down holder does not require you to drill holes on your kayak deck for you to fit. This ensures that the deck’s finishing is not tampered with and remains intact. It saves on screws for replacements.
The tie-down holder is flexible. This ensures that the holder conforms to the shape of the deck. It has a foam ring which also helps it easily conform to the varying shapes of the decks. It uses bungee holders to attach to the surface. The bungee holders have clips at the end to clip the Ritchie kayaker tie down to the surface for a tight grip.
Are you looking for the best kayak compass holders? Tie-down holders, that do not need drilling holes to attach? The Ritchie K- TD-2 Kayaker Tie Down is a great choice for your kayak. It is made using durable and high-quality materials. You are capable of using it on different kayaks. It is resistant to harsh conditions that arise in the waters while kayaking.
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Conclusion : One of the best holders you will come across in the market. It is meant to keep your compass secure even with the harshest conditions in the waters. Built using durable and resistant materials to suit all weathers. The material used is flexible to ensure that it conforms to the shape of the kayak's deck. With this tie-down holder, you have the best holder.
9. Suunto Orca/Pioneer - Yellow/White/NH Compass
The Suunto Orca Pioneer is a compact compass meant for kayaks. It has several mounting capabilities on the decks. They require some handy task to attach them. The compass has an easily readable dial. It is easily readable in low light using a luminescent card. It is constructed to resist harsh conditions in the waters. In case it falls in water it easily floats on.
It is set and balanced for use in the Northern hemisphere waters. It has two possible mounting systems. The Bungy cord with hooks and the mounting bracket method. This makes you choose the one that suits you and the design of the kayak. The material used to construct the compass has a buoyancy effect which makes it float on water in case it falls off.
It comes along with a mesh pouch for easy and secure storage of the compass. Has a tilting angle for up to + and _ 25 degrees for the effectiveness of the compass. It is built to operate at a -30 degrees Celsius to + 60 degrees Celsius making it suitable for use in all seasons. It is stored at -30 degrees Celsius, + 60 degrees Celsius.
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Conclusion : This compass is mainly suitable for the northern hemisphere kayakers. In case the compass falls in water it will float. It comes along with a mesh pouch for easy and secure storage of the compass. It has two methods for mounting it which makes it suit different shapes of the kayak decks. It is made to work effectively under very extreme temperatures.
10. RITCHIE XP-99 KAYAKER SURFACE MOUNT COMPASS
Ritchie XP-99 compass is designed to work in extreme temperatures effectively. This makes it suitable for use in all seasons and weather conditions. It has high-quality band exclusive magnets for directions. Has a hard steel pivot. It is fitted with a jewel sapphire. Easy to switch on and off to ensure the security of the compass. This makes it possible for use in different vessels.
The Ritchie compass is one of the most accurate compasses. It is accurate from the inside to the outside. The compass does not require any form of power to operate. It functions even in the foulest conditions. A large dial with easily readable graduations to enhance reading it easily. In modern technologies, the Ritchie compasses are the best to use for bearing in marine habitats
Has a courseminder movable bezel which contains a memory indicator to show you wherever that you might be going. It is mounted in a low height suitable for reading the bearings at a glance. Mounted on the surface of the kayak's deck. It is very possible to mount the Ritchie XP-99 compass on a sit on top kayak by easily screwing it on the surface.
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Conclusion : The Ritchie XP-99 Kayaker surface Mount Compass Black has an easy twist on and off which enables easy removal of the compass for security purposes. It is easy to install the compass on your kayak deck. It is made to adapt and work correctly even under low and very high temperatures. The Ritchie x-99 compass is among the most accurate compass you can ever buy.
Watch The Video Review of Seattle Sports Sea Rover Deck Compass
Video Transcript
Credit for this Video - awenzl
How To Choose The Best Kayak Compass
GPS navigation is so popular nowadays that one might wonder why consider using an analog compass. The truth of the matter is such things can and may fail due to dead batteries, malfunctions and weak signals.
As a paddler some knowledge on compasses is highly important. One of the best compasses is Kayak compass which comes in different models to suit different activities like fishing, sea diving and others.
Durability
You definitely want a highly durable compass to cope with the ruggedness and stress that might be encountered. For unconducive conditions you need a compass that can withstand all.
High quality materials are key to ensuring the compass remains durable for long. Such materials could be like a Silicone casing which ensures a great level of durability. Lasts for many years so you don’t have to go to the mall more often to buy the same item over and over again.
Ease of Use
Everyone likes something that won’t be too hectic or cumbersome using. This aspect is well taken care of by the Kayak compasses. Two varieties are available where you can either mount or tie down. The tie down formula is easiest to use and install. The easier the ability to use the more convenient the compass becomes and vice versa.
Accuracy
It is so obvious and mandatory that a compass maintain a very high degree of accuracy for it to be effective. For Kayaking a slight inaccuracy could not hurt much but a major one can be so disruptive. Every Kayak compass user wants to exactly know their positions and directions for their activities to be successful lest suffer greatly.
Size
The bigger the size of the compass the more it is easier to read it even at a glance since the directions are clearly mapped out boldly. Basically every compass user wants a compass which is easy to read and the dial itself to have an enhanced level of readability with the best angle and clearly marked for correct readings al through.
Protecting your compass
Several mounting options are available for use by marine compasses. For Kayaks there is Deck mount- this style uses screws directly or indirectly using mounting bracket.
Pros:>>Improves its ruggedness
Tie Downs- Enables the compass to be connected to the rigging mounted on the Kayak.
Pros:>>Easy to attach and to remove
Cons>>Easy to break
Removability
If you are to use more than one boat/vessel a removable compass is a key to consider while selecting the Kayak compass. It will save on cost you might incur while buying several compasses to fit into your various vessels that you paddle.
Declination Adjustment
The knowledge that there are two North’s is important where we have the True North and the Magnetic North. This aspect is brought about by the earth being slightly inclined.
The position of the two North’s vary depending on the latitude and hence you don’t want to get lost by using the Magnetic North while navigating.
The best way to handle this is by using nautical charts which maps out the two North’s hence no need to adjust your compass while using the nautical charts as readings from your compass will definitely match with those ones on the nautical charts.
FAQs
Q: How does a compass work?
Answer: All compasses are accompanied with a pointer. The pointer is attached to the magnetic flow of the earth, which causes the thin strip if metal- pointer to rotate, float or swing freely and ordinate with the earth’s axis.
The thin strip of metal comes to a halt when it points to the true north pole of the earth.
Q: Why would I use a compass if I have a smart phone?
Answer: I agree that compasses have lost their popularity overtime reason being the rise of smart phones. However voyaging on a kayak needs tools that are water friendly, that’s a losing point for the phone.
Second electronic gadgets have short battery life and you don’t want to lose direction in the middle of your paddling session.
Q: What are the maximum number of people a kayak can hold?
Answer: There are two types of kayaks, a solo kayak and a multi person kayak. A solo kayak accommodates one person, a person on a soul searching experience, away from people needs to purchase one of this. One the other hand a multi-person kayak is available for three or two people, for four passengers is quite rare. This kayak is suitable for group trips for adventurous spirit.
Q: Is kayaking fit for me?
Answer: Yes. Kayaking is a sport and a recreational activity. If you are looking for an energizing, tranquil and awesome experience this is what you need. Paddling serves as a vacation from the hustle of noisy towns, you will have time to yourself in the tranquility.
Additionally, it gives a work out on your shoulders, abdomen and glut muscles. Adventure is guaranteed with this sport.
Q: Do I need to go to boat navigation school to learn kayaking?
Answer: Not really. To know the ropes around kayaking, there are several options you could choose from. One you can decide to go to group kayaking regularly and observe the paddlers skills. Second you could learn through guides and articles like this and apply what you learn practically.
Another option could be reading kayaking specialized books that are published found online or in public libraries
How to Install a Compass
Tools needed.
Stainless nuts
Steel flat washer
Rubber washer.
Nut driver.
Drill bit set.
Screws
Drill holes on the fascia plate
Take out the compass and see if it fits into the deck recess.
Lay the fascia plate on the recess and straighten it.
Drill the corner hole large enough to accommodate the bolts you are using.
Fit a bolt through the hole.
Ordinate the fascia plate as you drill the hole.
Repeat the process of drilling and fitting the bolts for the next hole.
Remove the fascia plate and bolts and putting them aside.
The mounting plate is made of brass and contains undersized holes that are fit to hold the included screws, therefore it has to be drilled larger.
Attach all plates to the deck recess.
Slowly remove the plate from the compass globe.
Flatten the protruding tabs on the holes in the plate using pliers.
Enlarge the holes using a similar bit.
Return the plate to the compass globe.
Drop the assembly of tools on top of the recess of the deck.
Lay the fascia plate on top of the whole working piece.
Fit all the bolts through the fascia plate, brass plate and the deck recess.
Slip a rubber washer then a flat stainless washer into the bolt.
Tighten the NY lock nut with a nut driver in order to hold everything in place.
Repeat this for all four bolts.
With this, you have completed the installation process.
Final Verdict
Getting lost when you are in the waters can be a frustrating experience for anglers. It is important to carry the right navigation devices so that you can find your way back when you get lost. Apart from having the best folding kayaks, you should also get a quality kayak compass. While GPS devices are common among many anglers, it is not always right to depend entirely on these devices. They can end up messing you up when the battery dies or problems with poor connection. But if you have the best kayak compass, you don’t have to worry about getting lost.
Getting the right kayak compass is important because it keeps you safe. You can find your way with ease without worrying about batteries and other problems associated with GPS devices. You should also have the right information so that you can determine if you want a kayak compass that attaches permanently on your kayak or one that you can take off. A good kayak compass should also be durable and easy to read to give you an easy time when you are on the waters.
We understand there are a wide range of kayak compasses that you can find on the market today. However, selecting the right one can be problematic especially if you are buying for the first time. We have provided you with essential things that you need to consider when buying a kayak compass. We have also provided you with recommended products so that it can be easy to make the right decision when buying. Go through our top ten products and I believe you will have an easy time picking the right one to suit your needs. All these are quality compasses that will help you with navigation to prevent you from getting lost.
Moreover, if you want to know about related product then you can check these products are kayak deck compass, brunton kayak compass, brunton 70p kayak compass, sea rover deck compass, sea kayak compass, suunto orca kayak compass, deck compass kayak, sea kayak deck compass, etc. indeed !!
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