There are a whole ton of accessories that make kayaking a thrilling activity. While scupper plugs might not sound like the most exciting kayaking accessory, they sure are indispensable to your kayaking gear. Whether you’re a professional or a novice kayaker, you know that water seeping into the cabin of the kayak is one of the most pressing problems you face. While little water sometimes isn’t an issue, larger amounts of water entering can not only be irritating but also get your gear wet. Whether you have a kayak from Lifetime, Ocean Kayak, Pelican, or any other brands, scupper plugs are what will get you out of hot water – pun unintended. They’re basically small plugs that fit into the kayak’s scupper drain holes at the bottom. Thus, they ensure that no water from the outside gets into the kayak in the first place.
Since scupper drain holes exist as it is, not many kayakers think about getting good scupper plugs. However, there are many benefits of good quality scupper plugs, starting with the fact that they’re easy to carry and store thanks to the short cable attached to them. They help water to not enter the kayak at all, thus ensuring that everything stays bone-dry, especially in flatwater paddling. To that end, here are the 13 best scupper plusg for your Lifetime, Ocean Kayak, Pelican and other kayak brands.
How To Choose The Best Kayak Scupper Plugs?
Sometimes, the smallest of kayaking accessories offer the most amount of advantages and benefits. Think about it – scupper plugs, the Best Kayaking Rudders, the Best Kayaking Paddle-Floats, the Best Kayaking GPS Watches, and even the Best Kayaking Compasses! So, what should you look for while buying a scupper plug for your kayak? Read on.
Types
There are many different kinds of scupper plugs available in the market, each differing in material, brand, size, and what-not. For instance, scupper plugs can be made from foam, silicone, and even rubber. Most of the popular ones are made from rubber as it helps the plugs fit more easily into the hole. Secondly, some brands are of higher quality as compared to others. Additionally, some plugs are smaller, while others are larger, depending on the size of your kayak. Given all these factors, the kind of plug you choose depends entirely on your personal preference. All you need to do is make sure that it’s compatible with and fits inside your kayak.
Water draining systems
Generally, scupper plugs are paired with either sponges or bilge pumps for completely draining the water out of your kayak, especially when you’re kayaking in whitewater. If you plug the holes mid-adventure, you can drain the water out of the kayak using a sponge if the amount of water is lesser. If a lot of water has entered your kayak, then go for either electrical or manual bilge pumps. Notwithstanding which one you choose, if you’re headed out to the sea or in whitewater, then you should carry one for removing larger amounts of water in severe cases.
When should you use scupper plugs?
Generally, scupper plugs should be used in situations when there is more than one person on the kayak, that is if it’s a tandem kayak with a lot of loads. Even if you’re on a single-person kayak and are bringing a lot of loads, then such heavy kayaks tend to sink more. When that happens, the kayak’s scupper holes will be submerged in the water. That’s when you’ll require your scupper plugs.
Essential Marine Products Kayak Scupper Plug Kit
13
These royal blue-colored Essential Marine Products Kayak Scupper Plugs Kit is one of the best universal products on this list, and will thus fit the scupper holes of your Lifetime kayak as well. What’s more, these scupper plugs are also perfect for Pelican kayaks, Ocean Kayak boats, Hobie ones, and more. Available in a set of four, these plugs feature a durable rubber build that allows you to easily push them through the drain holes of any canoe or boat. Since they’re cylindrical in shape and design with a smaller diameter near the plug’s bottom, it makes them stronger when they’re installed. But, that’s not all. It also makes them easier to operate. This plug set comes with attached cords and fits holes less than 1.5 inches in diameter.
Pros:
- Easy to work the cord.
- Cylindrical plugs keep the hole completely covered.
- Universal plugs.
Cons:
- Slightly pricey.
Seattle Sports Kayak Scupper Plugs
12
Yet another set of universal plugs come in the form of the Seattle Sports Kayak Scupper Plugs and thus fit the scupper holes of any Lifetime, Pelican, Hobie, or Ocean Kayak. Available in three eye-popping colors of black and white, neon green, and bright red, these plugs are excellent because they shine bright during the day as well as at night. So, if you’re floating around in low-light conditions, then you don’t need to flail around to look for the scupper hole; it’s right there, visible due to the color of the plug. Thanks to their tiered design, these plugs fit a wide variety of drain hole plugs on different brands of kayaks.
What’s more, these scupper plugs are made from a solid silicone material that is durable and lasts long. Despite getting just two plugs in a pack, you will absolutely love that the overall user-friendly and unievsral design.
Pros:
- Solid silicone build.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Tiered design.
- Glow-in-the-dark colors.
Cons:
- Pack of two, rather than four like other products.
Essential Marine Products Neon Green Kayak Scupper Plug
11
Why kayakers love plugs from Essential Marine Products is because they’re universal, and this Essential Marine Products Neon Green Kayak Scupper Plug is no different. Since they offer a universal fit, these scupper plugs fit all kayaks, right from Lifetime and Pelican to Hobie, Ocean Kayak, and more. Since it can be very easy to lose them, the brand makes these not just with a durable rubber construction but in bright neon green color. So, not only are they visible during daytime, but they also grow brightly at night or in low-light conditions and can be easily spotted anywhere.
Thanks to the cylindrical cone-like structure, the plug’s pressure is tight when it’s plugged into the drain hole. Thus, it prevents water from entering in, allowing you to drain excess water from the boat. And did we mention that it costs only $8? Yes, indeed!
Pros:
- Long attached cord for easy use.
- Suitable for all brands of kayaks.
- An easy-to-spot neon green color.
Cons:
- Slightly smaller in size as compared to other plugs.
Pelican Boats Sit-On-Top Kayak 4-Pack Scupper Plugs
10
It might say Pelican Boats Sit-On-Top Kayak 4-Pack Scupper Plugs, but it sure fits scupper holes of other major brands such as Hobie, Ocean Kayak, and more. Offering one of the best values in the kayaking world, these scupper plugs are ideal for sit-on-top kayaks with scupper holes less than 1.25 inches in diameter. The plugs are crafted from a durable EVA foam material. So, they not only last longer but can withstand pressure for longer periods of time without requiring replacing.
Not just that, but these scupper plugs even feature a cord attached to them, so you never have to worry about losing them. Available in a set of four, the overall design of these plugs makes it easy to push them into the holes. Moreover, the attached cord even allows you to pull them out easily.
Pros:
- Universal fit.
- Cylindrical design for easy use.
- Durable foam material.
Cons:
- The black color is slightly difficult to spot at night.
XtremeAmazing Marine Kayak Scupper Plugs
9
One of the most universal designs on this list is the XtremeAmazing Marine Kayak Scupper Plugs which go into every kayak right from Lifetime to Hobie to Ocean Kayak ones. The best part? They come in a pack of a whopping 10 plugs, which is more than any other item on this list. Hence, you can easily plug all and any drain holes that your kayak might have. In addition, the tiered design of these plugs not only helps prevent water from entering the boat but also removes any excess water that’s already in the boat.
Moreover, these plugs even come with a small hook design near their top. It’s what helps you to easily remove the plug when you’re done for the day and have come back to the shore.
Pros:
- Rubber material makes them easy to put into the hole
- Works in practically any boat
- Hooked design for easy removal
Cons:
- Black color makes them difficult to find
Lifetime Kayak 90364 Scupper Plugs
8
Do you have a sit-on-top kayak from Lifetime? Then you need the Lifetime Kayak 90364 Kayak Scupper Plugs in your life! These scupper plugs are perfect for the entire range of Lifetime kayaks such as Triton, Hydros, Temptation, Manta, and even the Stealth Angler, Spitfire, Tamarack, and more. Featuring six pieces in a single pack, these Lifetime kayak scupper plugs are made from easy molding foam that makes it a breeze for fitting them into the scupper holes. Besides being easy to install and remove, they make your ride a drier one.
Costing just $20, these scupper plugs stay firmly in place even when the kayak is transported just like that atop a car. Overall, they’re excellent value for money if you own Lifetime kayaks.
Pros:
- Perfect for Lifetime kayaks.
- Made from easy molding foam.
- Easy to plug and use.
Cons:
- Some users mentioned that it didn’t fit certain Lifetime kayaks such as Daylite and certain versions of the angler kayaks.
Ocean Kayak Scupper Plugs/Stoppers
7
Are you on a budget and yet want to invest in highly visible scupper plugs? Then go for the Ocean Kayak Scupper Stoppers. Available in three highly visible colors of bright green, bright red, and bright blue, this is one scupper plug that you cannot miss. They’re made from a soft material that makes it very easy to simply plug them in with ease even when the holes lie right beneath your seat. Thanks to the multi-ribbed design, these plugs ensure a tighter fit into the holes. Add to that the easy-to-remove nylon tab on the top, and you have one versatile kayaking accessory in your hand.
Since they can be used by all Ocean Kayak models, the scupper stoppers are color-coded by size. So, it’s extremely obvious as to which scupper holes they go back into once you’ve finished draining the craft.
Pros:
- Made from a comfortable material.
- Easy to plug in and remove.
- Multi-ribbed design.
- Highly visible.
Cons:
- Only come in packs of two.
Harmony Gear Scupper Hole Plugs
6
Do you have a kayak from the Wilderness Systems Tarpon range? Then behold the Harmony Gear Scupper Hole Plugs that are also perfect for all Ride kayak models that were manufactured after 2007. These plugs fit all and any kayak scupper holes measuring anywhere between 1 to 1.38 inches in width. Made from hard-wearing rubber, these plugs are resistant to both abrasions as well as the cold, making them perfect for winter kayaking. Available in a pack of four in grey color, these plugs ensure a drier ride and also keep your gear dry.
Costing just $19, these plugs are a must-have accessory for any kayaker who wants to enjoy sit-on-top kayaking throughout the year, no matter where they are.
Pros:
- Made from hard-wearing rubber.
- Resistant to abrasions.
Cons:
- The grey color can be slightly hard to spot.
Sumind Universal Kayak Scupper Plug Kit
5
Yet another set of universal plugs is the Sumind Universal Kayak Scupper Plug Kit which can be used for every kayak from Pelican to Hobie to Ocean Kayaks. They come in a pack of eight black colored plugs, each of which comes with a lanyard. So, not only is it easy to operate and use, but you won’t lose it either. They’re made from durable silicone material, which is sturdy and won’t rot when soaked with water. Each supper is approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, with the tapering end measuring around 0.7 inches. Moreover, they fit scupper holes ranging from 0.75 to 1.5 inches.
The easy-to-use plugs can also be easily installed, besides preventing water from getting into the kayak. Finally, the lanyard design allows you to easily pull it out and replace it too.
Pros:
- Comes in four colors.
- Easy to install, use, and remove.
- Lanyard makes it easy to pull out and store without getting lost.
Cons:
- Some users found the rubber to be slightly hard.
Sumind Universal Kayak Scupper Plug Kit
4
Available in a whopping pack of 12 plugs is this Sumind Universal Kayak Scupper Plug Kit, which will fit everything from Lifetime to Ocean to Pelican kayaks. So, you can rest assured that these pieces will last you for a long time and across multiple kayaking expeditions. These plugs fit holes that range from 0.75 inches to 1.5 inches, making them versatile for a wide range of boats. They’re portable, compact, and small. What’s more, they’re attached to a lanyard, so you won’t lose them.
Besides the above, they’re easy to install and remove as well. They help not only you stay dry, but even keep your kit dry. Finally, the nylon drawstring connectors on the rubber plug are perfect for pulling them out easily.
Pros:
- Durable.
- Lightweight, portable, and compact.
- Easy to install and remove.
- Come in three colors.
Cons:
- None.
NovelBee Universal Kayak Scupper Plug
3
The NovelBee Universal Kayak Scupper Plug will fit into the scupper holes of any kayak, which is what makes it so popular with newbie kayakers. Made from durable yet lightweight silicone rubber, these plugs fit the scupper holes that measure between 0.75 inches and 1.5 inches. Since they’re so compact and lightweight, they’re easy to carry and transport as well. however, what makes them all the more useful si that they’re attached to lanyards which not only makes them easy to install and remove from the holes but ensures that you don’t lose them.
All-in-all, this is an excellent set of eight scupper plugs that prevent water from entering the craft. The best part? They cost just $14!
Pros:
- Attached to a lanyard for easy carry and removal.
- Universal.
- Affordable.
Cons:
- The black color makes it slightly difficult to see them at night.
DCH Marine Universal Scupper Plugs
2
What can be better than a set of kayak scupper plugs that are available in not just packs of two, but also four, six, and eight? That’s what the DCH Marine Universal Scupper Plugs have to offer, which fit all brands of kayaks rather than just one or two. Available in a bright blue color, the design makes it easy to see these plugs even in low-light and darker conditions, besides making them nice and visible during the day. These plugs act as sealants to your kayak’s self-bailing scupper holes, thus keeping all the extra water out of your sit-on-top kayak’s cockpit.
These plugs easily fit holes with circumferences that range between 0.75 inches and 1.5 inches. They offer a tapered fit, thus sealing the cockpit nicely and keeping you and your gear dry.
Pros:
- Come in packs of 2, 4, 6, and 8 plugs.
- Easy to install and remove.
Cons:
- Virtually none.
Generic Universal Kayak Scupper Plugs Kit
1
Finally, we come to the top of the list, a spot that is occupied by the Generic Universal Kayak Scupper Plugs Kit. Featuring a set of six, bright blue plugs, this kit is everything you need for a long kayaking expedition. The plugs are made from high-quality thermo-plastic-rubber (TPR) material. Not only is it environmentally-friendly, but it’s also resistant to wear and tear and skids. Moreover, it also absorbs shocks very well, plugging in the hols and sealing them well.
The multi-layered structure of the plugs ensures that you’re dry while kayaking and that your gear remains dry too. Finally, it’s easy to install and remove, without you having to worry that it’ll fall off.
Pros:
- Comes in two bright colors – blue and green.
- Easy to install and tightly sealed.
- High quality build.
Cons:
- None!
