Question 1

What is Kaayko Paddling Out?

Accepted Answer

Kaayko Paddling Out is a free AI-powered paddle conditions tool that gives real-time safety scores for 100+ kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding lakes across the US. It combines wind speed, water temperature, UV index, cloud cover, and precipitation data into a single Paddle Score from 1 (Danger) to 5 (Excellent).

Question 2

How is the paddle score calculated?

Accepted Answer

The Paddle Score (1–5) is generated by a machine learning model trained on historical paddle conditions. It weighs wind speed, water temperature, air temperature, UV index, cloud cover, and precipitation probability. A score of 5 means excellent conditions; 1 means dangerous — not recommended for paddling.

Question 3

What wind speed is safe for kayaking?

Accepted Answer

Generally, wind speeds under 10 mph (9 knots) are considered safe for recreational kayaking. Winds above 15 mph can create challenging conditions for beginners. Kaayko's paddle score automatically factors wind speed into the overall safety rating — any score below 2 indicates winds or conditions that could be dangerous.

Question 4

Which lakes and rivers are covered?

Accepted Answer

Kaayko covers 100+ kayaking and paddleboarding destinations across the United States, including lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. You can browse all spots on the main Paddling Out page or use the search to find spots near any city or zip code.

Question 5

How often is the paddle forecast updated?

Accepted Answer

Paddle conditions and scores are updated in real time using live weather data. The 3-day hourly heatmap refreshes each time you load the forecast so you always see the most current conditions.

Question 6

Is Kaayko Paddling Out free?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Kaayko Paddling Out is completely free to use on the web with no account or sign-up required.