Key Takeaways
- Get real-time tracking and safety features with Paddle Logger app. It's easy to use and offers detailed data on your paddling journey.
- Find the perfect paddling spot with the Go Paddling app, which has over 25,000 locations on its map. Create a shareable itinerary too.
- Track your distance, speed, and duration with Watersports Tracker. Get detailed analytics and customizable map options to enhance your experience.
Sports like kayaking and stand up paddleboarding (SUP) are excellent ways to enjoy your local waterways while getting some exercise. Here’s a roundup of apps designed to make your next trip around the lake or river even more enjoyable.
1. Paddle Logger
CloseLive location tracking, as well as a digital logbook and Apple Watch integration, make this a choice app for any kayaker, SUP enthusiast, or canoe fan. In addition, the paid subscription of the app offers the PaddleLIVE service, a safety feature that can alert your contacts in case you need assistance.
Using the app is simple: on the Paddle screen, tap the large Go button and start paddling. Its simple interface makes the app a cinch to use when you're trying to juggle a paddle or two without dropping your smartphone.
As you're moving, the screen displays your time and the number of kilometers covered. Afterward, review a map of your journey, as well as data on your max and average speed, pace, and even heart rate.
The Logbook covers your past journeys, while the Account screen lets you set session, time, and distance goals. Under the Manage Craft section, you can select what kind of boat you used for each journey.
As the YouTube channel Hi, I'm Steph explains, the Paddle Logger app is a solid choice for avid kayakers who need a way to track their paddling adventures. The Apple Watch integration allows you to get more detailed information on your heart rate and similar metrics. And because models like the Apple Watch Ultra can offer water resistance up to 100 meters, they are great companions for your boating excursions, too.
With plenty of paddling data and safety features, Paddle Logger is a great choice for casual and more experienced paddlers alike.
Download: Paddle Logger for iOS (Free, subscription available)
2. Go Paddling
CloseWith over 25,000 paddling locations, the free Go Paddling app can help you find a place to enjoy the water just about anywhere. Check the Paddling Locations screen to scroll through a giant map of boat launches, beaches, and more spots.
Whether you're exploring coastlines, rivers, or lakes, there's likely a mapped location nearby. In addition, you can add a string of spots to the Trip Plans screen to create a shareable itinerary.
Download: Go Paddling for iOS | Android (Free)
3. Watersports Tracker - Paddling
CloseWhether you’re kitesurfing, windsurfing, or using a stand-up paddleboard, there’s a way to track plenty of aquatic activities with this app. Track distance, duration, and speed with the app's simple Start screen.
During the trip, check your distance covered, time elapsed, and even speed in miles per hour. Tap the Map button to check out your location, while the Settings screen lets you decide whether to use the audio statistics and keep your display on indefinitely. This option is great if you don't want to keep touching your phone to check your progress, but it will run down the battery more quickly.
Afterward, check your overall distance and duration, as well as your average pace, average speed, and maximum speed. High speeds and splits get displayed on their own screen, while your three fastest speeds appear on the map with a fire icon. If you're someone who wants to get faster out on the water, this might be the most motivating (and detailed) app choice.
The Map Studio, meanwhile, displays your journey on a huge variety of customizable map styles, including vintage and X-ray options. (Consider choosing one of the fun options if you're planning to share your journey on social media—some can be quite eye-catching.)
Lastly, check the Map Analytics screen for a more detailed breakdown of your speed, pace, and splits throughout the journey. Even casual paddlers will enjoy reviewing these detailed and data-heavy breakdowns.
If you're planning to use your phone for tracking these journeys, then investing in one of the best waterproof phone pouches is a smart move. If your phone happens to take a dive overboard, then it won't ruin your trip.
Download: Watersports Tracker for iOS | Android (Free, subscription available)
4. Tides Near Me
CloseKeep an eye on tidal and current conditions in your area. Check nearby tides on the Home screen or view tidal conditions just about anywhere on the large Map.
Tap a location to view the last tide, as well as the time until the next tidal change. It also displays the time until sunset and moonset, which is helpful for paddlers who are trying to make the most of the daylight hours.
For a simple, free way to keep an eye on whether it's high or low tide at your favorite paddling spot, the Tides Near Me app is a handy resource.
Download: Tides Near Me for iOS | Android (Free)
5. Windfinder
CloseMonitor current wind conditions and watch out for popup showers with this incredibly detailed weather forecast app. Check the wind speed measured in knots at three-hour intervals throughout the day, so you don't get surprised by sudden shifts when you're far from the dock.
In addition to the wind speed, air temperature, wave height, and tidal conditions on the Forecast screen, you can also check webcams and get directions to your chosen spot. It's among the best weather apps for iPhone, and anyone who spends time on the water is sure to get a lot of use out of its many features.
Although the free version of the app offers plenty of features, the Windfinder Plus version of the app provides alerts and an even more detailed hourly forecast.
Download: Windfinder for iOS | Android (Free, subscription available)
Power Up Your Paddling Trip With These Handy Apps
Keep track of your routes, speed, and weather conditions the next time you head out for a kayaking, SUP, or other adventure on the water. For plenty of people, there isn't a better way to enjoy some time outdoors, check out the local wildlife, and get in some exercise. These apps help you focus on the most important part of any paddling outing: having a fun and safe time out on the water.
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