Make sure it has no tears or parts that have become unstiched. Check to make sure all the zippers, snaps, and adjusting buckles still operate. Check the fabric, adjusting straps and buckles to ensure they still have there orignal strength. Remember your PFD is exposed to the same UV radation that we are but does have the benefit of sunscreen so over time it degrades loosing its structural integrity. Usually this can be seen as the color of the vest isn't as bright, but be sure to pull and tug on the fabric to ensure its strength is still there. Having your vest coming apart in the water would not be the best way to test your vest.
Next your let's take time to examine your spray skirt. Begin on the top surface looking for worn spots, holes, and tears. Also look at the tunnel area (the part that goes around your chest area) for damage. Remember that dirt acts as a grinding agent that slowly destroys your skirt, so a clean skirt will last longer. Flip the skirt over and look at the underside for worn areas, holes, and tears. Be especially mindful of the area that attaches to coaming of your kayak as this area experiences the most stress and wear. Finally check to see that it has the correct tension when pulled over your cockpit. To loose and it won't be able to stay on in choppy and rougher water. To tight and you may struggle trying to get it on and off.
Take time to look at your paddles, both primary and spare. Begin at a blade on one end looking for cracks, chips, anything unusual. Work your way down the blade to were it joins the shaft. Make sure it is still firmly attached, again checking for cracks, splits anything that looks unusual probably needs closer examination. Continue up the shaft looking for the same thing, and continue until you reach the end of the other blade.
Finally take the time to give your kayak a good wash both inside and out. This is the time to check for cracks, dents, God forbid holes. Afterwards start at the bow or stern and slowly work your way to the other end. Check the toggles for wear, ensure the hatchs still seat properly. Look inside each hatch compartment to ensure the bulkheads are still in place and firmily mounted. Check all the deck lines and bungees for wear and replace anything that is worn. Take plenty of time in the cockpit. Check the back band, seat, footbraces, and thigh braces for wear, broken parts. Again TAKE YOUR TIME, this is where you work and play, make sure its functioning properly. This is also a good time to add any padding to make it more comfortable or make it fit better.
Most of this can be done down the basement or in your garage on one of the many rainy days that have been occurring. One of my favorite passages "The sea favors the prepared" comes into mind when I'm examining my gear. Well today is suppose to be sunny and cool but I can't think of a better day to be on the water. Hope to see you there.
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