(click image to order from Altrec)
approx $46
Simply put, the Seattle Sombrero from Outdoor Research is an absolutely essential piece of kayaking gear. I've been through a variety of hats ranging from canvas to nylon, and I have never had one that is so comfortable, breathable, and downright ideal for a life outdoors (especially here in the rainy Pacific Northwest). I used to think these were too expensive, but that's a relative term... now that I've been living with one for a couple of years, I simply would not consider a kayak trip without it.
The fabric is Gore-Tex, so it sheds the rain while allowing the steaming vapors of your sweating scalp to escape. There's a wicking headband, which not only prevents stinging eyes but also feels nice against the skin. There's an adjustment they call the "Cinch-Band" to get the fit just right, along with a chin strap with cord lock. And the brim is stiffened with foam, not only helping it hold its shape but also making it float if you, um, get a little careless.
The Sombrero is good-looking, reliable, and one of the most important pieces of personal gear you'll ever own. Available in various colors (I have a black one and a blue/black one... both very sharp). Highly recommended!
(new link coming; REI disabled all direct product links after affiliates integrated them into pages... I'm trying to find alternate vendors for everything.)
These are wonderful! Like the Sombrero above, I consider the Chotas to be essential pieces of kayak gear... they are by far the warmest and most comfortable footwear I have ever taken on a boat.
The thing that makes them great is simple: they keep your feet completely dry and comfy, yet are great for walking in or out of the water. A gasket seals around your calf, the closed-cell neoprene itself is waterproof, and they have decent tread. They're roomy enough for thick socks, and they don't start to stink immediately like wetsuit booties. The photo shows my feet aboard Bubba, clad in the Mukluk "Light" version (about $56 from REI); Jeannie spent more ($95) and got the "QuickLace" version which has considerably better support for clambering around on rocky beaches.
I love them both, and as soon as the season becomes too cold for bare feet and sandals, I move straight to these. There is nothing in between.