5 Best Waterproof Speakers for Kayaks: Every Kayak Adventurer’s Must-Have

best waterproof speakers for kayaks

Last updated on January 7, 2023

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Looking for a great audio experience on the water? Check out these five best waterproof speakers for kayaks! Whether you’re an experienced paddler or just starting out, these awesome speakers will enhance your kayaking experience tenfold. And, most importantly, they’ll keep your music safe and sound even when you get wet! So read on to find the perfect waterproof speaker for you.

Our Top Picks ! 

(The Winner After 24 Hours Of Research)

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JBL FLIP 5, Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker, Black
  • Wireless Bluetooth streaming
  • 12 hours of playtime
  • IPX7 waterproof
  • Pair multiple speakers with party boost
  • Premium JBL sound quality

Did you know that according to Outdoor Foundation research, participation in paddle sports has increased by 32% over the past four years? That’s a lot of people enjoying America’s waterways! If you’re one of them, then you know that having the right gear can make all the difference. And if you’re looking for a great audio experience while kayaking, then check out.

There are many reasons why kayakers might want to have a waterproof speaker. First, it is usually difficult for them to hear what their friends or family members are saying while they're on the water. Second, it can be challenging to play music from one's phone because of the lack of space in a kayak and not being able to see where the buttons are. Third, even if you manage to press all the right buttons on your phone with wet fingers, there is no guarantee that your favorite song will start playing.

In this article, we will discuss five best waterproof bluetooth speaker for Kayaks: Reviews, Charts, and Recommendations based on our research so that you don't have to waste time doing extensive research yourself.

The speakers will be divided into three categories: Bluetooth, waterproof or water-resistant, and both. 

The speakers on this list offer great performance at an affordable price point. They're designed to provide you with excellent playback quality without straining your budget or breaking down when they come into contact with water.

The 5 Best Waterproof Speakers for Kayaks | Comparison Table | Features for 2023

Product Name

Preview

Speaker Type

Connectivity Technology

Special Features

Price

Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker - Phantom Black

Outdoor

Bluetooth

1. Surprisingly serious sound

2. Safely play music around water

JBL Clip 3, Steel White - Waterproof, Durable & Portable Bluetooth Speaker - Up to 10 Hours of Play - Includes Noise-Cancelling Speakerphone & Wireless Streaming

Outdoor

Bluetooth

1. Waterproof

2. Ultra-Portable 

3. Built-In Microphone

Sony SRS-XB23 EXTRA BASS Wireless Bluetooth Portable Lightweight Travel Speaker, IP67 Waterproof & Durable for Outdoor, 12 Hour Battery, USB Type-C, Removable Strap and Speakerphone, Light Blue

Outdoor

Bluetooth, USB, NFC

1. EXTRA BASS Technology

2. Up to 12 Hours of Battery Life

3. Dustproof and Waterproof Design

Bluetooth Speaker, DOSS Traveler Wireless Bluetooth Speaker with 20W Stereo Sound and Bold Bass, IPX6 Waterproof, Wireless Pairing, 12H Playtime, 5 Light Modes, Portable Speaker for Outdoor-Black

Outdoor

Bluetooth

1. IPX6 Waterproof

2. 12H Playtime

3. 5 Mode Flashlights, Micro SD

JBL FLIP 5, Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker, Black

Portable Bluetooth Speakers

Bluetooth

1. Waterproof

2. Stereo-Pairing

3. Built-In Microphone

5 Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker for Kayaks | Editor's Choice


Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker - Phantom Black

The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM is the 360-degree portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers surprisingly serious sound in a small package. It's IPX7 rated waterproof, so you can get your party started anywhere and everywhere. The UE WONDERBOOM features a big sound with deep, powerful bass for outdoor adventures or poolside play. It also has an awesome 8 hour battery life so you can keep playing all day. This little wonder even floats!

Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker - Phantom Black

JBL Clip 3, Steel White - Waterproof, Durable & Portable Bluetooth Speaker - Up to 10 Hours of Play - Includes Noise-Cancelling Speakerphone & Wireless Streaming

This product is a portable wireless bluetooth speaker that has an integrated carabiner for easy carrying. It can be used in the shower, at the beach, on your bike or any other place you want to listen to music. The battery lasts for 10 hours and it is waterproof so you won’t have to worry about damaging it if it gets wet. This product is great for anyone who wants to listen to music outdoors and doesn’t want the hassle of wires. This is another lovely best bluetooth speaker for kayaking.

JBL Clip 3, Steel White - Waterproof, Durable & Portable Bluetooth Speaker - Up to 10 Hours of Play - Includes Noise-Cancelling Speakerphone & Wireless Streaming

Sony SRS-XB23 EXTRA BASS Wireless Bluetooth Portable Lightweight Travel Speaker, IP67 Waterproof & Durable for Outdoor, 12 Hour Battery, USB Type-C, Removable Strap and Speakerphone, Light Blue

Sony’s Extra Bass Portable Bluetooth Speaker with Party Connect lets you play your music loud and clear. It has a water resistant design so it can go anywhere you do, even by the pool! It also has a built-in microphone so you can take phone calls easily, without missing a beat. The battery lasts up to 12 hours, so you can enjoy your music all day long.

Sony SRS-XB23 EXTRA BASS Wireless Bluetooth Portable Lightweight Travel Speaker, IP67 Waterproof & Durable for Outdoor, 12 Hour Battery, USB Type-C, Removable Strap and Speakerphone, Light Blue

Bluetooth Speaker, DOSS Traveler Wireless Bluetooth Speaker with 20W Stereo Sound and Bold Bass, IPX6 Waterproof, Wireless Pairing, 12H Playtime, 5 Light Modes, Portable Speaker for Outdoor-Black

The DOSS Traveler is your perfect companion when you travel or when kayaking specially when in sit on top kayak. The IPX6 waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof speaker delivers a crisp sound with intense bass by 2x10W drivers and dual passive radiators. Moreover, the DSP technology ensures that sound in high clarity and less distortion even at high volumes. With its compact size, it fits perfectly into any luggage bag or backpack for easy carrying wherever you go. It’s also an ideal gift for loved ones who enjoy listening to music outdoors!

Bluetooth Speaker, DOSS Traveler Wireless Bluetooth Speaker with 20W Stereo Sound and Bold Bass, IPX6 Waterproof, Wireless Pairing, 12H Playtime, 5 Light Modes, Portable Speaker for Outdoor-Black

JBL FLIP 5, Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker, Black

This is a great speaker for the beach. It's waterproof so you can bring it to the pool or even in the shower! This makes it easy to listen to music while doing chores around the house or even cooking dinner. I love that this speaker has such a long battery life and you can connect multiple speakers together with party boost. The sound quality is amazing too! You won't regret buying this product! It is the best bluetooth waterproof speaker for kayaking.

JBL FLIP 5, Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker, Black

How to choose the best waterproof Bluetooth speaker?- Buying Guide of 2023

Kayaking is already fun enough to spend some quality time with our friends and family. But with some quality music, it can set the rhythm for the day. If you want the perfect budget-oriented middle-ground for music on the water, waterproof Bluetooth speakers can be a great choice.

With the development of wireless technologies, the tons of options on the market. Selecting one from that bunch can be really tricky if you don't know what exactly you are supposed to look for.

So, to help you out, I have prepared a buying guide that points out some key aspects you should look out for in a wireless speaker. This will help you sort out the waterproof speakers on the market. Let's begin.

(a) Form Factor and Portability

Form factor can have a massive impact on your Bluetooth speaker's portability, sound quality, and price. Whether you want a big or small one is totally up to you. But I am going to point out some advantages and disadvantages here.

First of all, bigger speakers are heavier, so portability can be an issue, especially water. But as they are bigger, they usually have bigger drivers that provide higher music volume and a more immersive audio experience.

However, those bigger drivers also come at the cost of limited battery life. As you will use the speakers on water vessels, you should stick to something lightweight and compact.

(b) Battery Backup and Charging

Suppose you are on a fishing trip listening to music and suddenly…..the music stops because of the dead battery. Assuming there will be no power source to charge the audio device, considering how long the battery will last is pretty important.

Depending on the size and power output of the speaker, a runtime of at least 8 to 10 hours is pretty ideal. Although, some high-end models can even go up to 15 hours. Some speakers with bigger batteries can even work as a power bank for other electric devices too.

Check out if the speaker is fast charging supported. A fast-charging supported speaker can deliver enough juice to run the speaker for hours in a matter of minutes.

(c) Connectivity and Pairing

For portable Bluetooth speakers on water, Bluetooth is superior and more convenient in every aspect. So, I am going to discuss only Bluetooth and its different versions. Bluetooth version 5.2 is the latest available version for commercial use, while version 1.0 is the oldest.

Among different versions throughout the year, version 2.1 had the biggest upgrade with a feature called EDR (Enhanced Data Rate). It allowed more data collection through the Bluetooth network resulting in better audio qualities. So, as long as a speaker have anything higher than version 2.1, the sound quality will be decent.

Some portable speakers have both Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and wired connections for versatile use so that you can check that out too.

(d) Driver and Audio Quality

This one is arguably the most crucial factor. At the end of the day, the sound quality of the speaker matters the most. Three basic specifications can help you decide which speaker will sound better without testing them.

The first one is the output power or the wattage of the speaker. For portable Bluetooth speakers, wattage between 15 to 30 should do the job. It mainly indicates the volume a speaker can produce.

Secondly, the driver size is another factor that decides how a speaker will sound. This is the part that converts the wireless audio signals into sound waves. Most portable Bluetooth speakers have drivers between 40-60 mm, and you should always aim for a higher number.

The last feature is the number of audio channels. Most of the songs made these days have stereo sound, which means with the right speakers, they have multi-directional sound.

With a 2.1 channel, you can take advantage of that feature as the sound will come distinctively from the left or right side of the speaker.

(e) Water Protection

Technically, no electric item is entirely resistant to water. With time and enough depth in water, no rating can save your speaker from water.

If you use your Bluetooth speaker on your kayak or fishing board, simple splash resistance should be enough for you. However, high-end models with bigger price tags offer added protections.

Your Bluetooth speaker must have a minimum of 65 IP (Ingression Protection) rating, which is the lower limit for protection against water splashes. If you can afford something better like an IP67, 68, or IPX7, you will be able to submerge the speaker in the water too.

Waterproof vs Water-resistant speakers:

When it comes to audio gear, we're all searching for something better that is a clearer sound, deeper bass, more volume, and so on. And because we want it all without spending a lot of money (or taking up too much space), portable speakers are all the rage these days.

For those who like to spend time by the pool or at the beach, you may have seen waterproof and/or water-resistant speakers available for purchase. But what's the difference and which do you need? Here we examine some of the pros and cons of each:

Waterproof

Most waterproof speakers on the market today are specially designed to protect the speakers from moisture damage. They do this by sealing off internal components and covering external connections with water-resistant materials.

Because they're specially designed for use in wet conditions, waterproof speakers have a higher IP (ingress protection) rating than water-resistant models. The IP rating measures how well devices stand up to various levels of water contamination.

Generally, the higher the number, the better suited it is too dusty or dirty environments. A speaker with an IP rating of 66 for example would be more dust-resistant than a speaker with an IP rating of 55. But both are considered water resistant because neither has an actual waterproof rating.

With an IPX8 waterproof rating, you can submerge the speaker in 3.3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes without causing damage.

Water-resistant

Most manufacturers use rubberized materials to protect the speaker from moisture, but because they're not designed or tested to be fully waterproof, many are only water-resistant. This means that dropping them into a pool or spilling a drink on them can seriously damage your speaker.

Even speakers that claim to be water-resistant should only be used in wet conditions for short periods of time (i.e., no more than 30 minutes) and should not be submerged underwater.

Both styles

Before you head out to purchase a new waterproof or water-resistant speaker, keep in mind that not all waterproof speakers are water-resistant and vice versa. All of the models we carry at Built NY are waterproof, so you can use them on or near the water with no worries.

If you need a speaker for use both indoors and outdoors, it's important to look for one with both IPX7 and IPX8 waterproof ratings. Then you can bring it with you wherever you go without having to worry about what the weather may have in store.

How to listen music while kayaking and some precautions

Kayaking is a great way to get out and enjoy nature while listening to your favorite music. There are a few things you need to take into consideration before hitting the open water with your tunes blasting.

  1. Make sure your phone is properly waterproofed and that the volume is turned down low.
  2. Bring along some headphones so you can listen without disturbing others.
  3. Stick to upbeat music that will keep you motivated during your kayaking journey
  4. Be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards, such as rocks or logs in the water.

Why should you install Waterproof Speakers on your Kayak?

These are great for nonstop entertainment during your trips! Just make sure to get the best waterproof bluetooth speaker that will fit your application.

Here are some reasons why you should consider this upgrade:

1. The first reason is safety. You can listen to music, audiobooks, or other spoken-word media without being distracted from the surrounding environment. This is great for kayaking, canoeing, boating, or fishing!

2. The second reason is fun. You can turn any trip into an exciting experience with your favorite tunes delivered through waterproof speakers powered by the sun. The only other thing you need is portable rechargeable batteries to store solar power - all available on wayfair.com.

3. The third reason is comfort. You can lay back and relax, take a nap or enjoy water sports without worrying about your gadgets getting wet, moisture, or splashes of water! This will also give you the ability to communicate with other boats in your area, as most waterproof speakers are equipped with a microphone as well.

4. The fourth reason is health. It has been proven that listening to music can relieve stress and boost your energy, so this is a great way to make sure you stay on top of your game during kayaking sessions. Also, if you plan on going hiking or walking on a hot summer day, waterproof speakers can help you take a break and cool down without losing the fun.

5. The fifth reason is safety. You can use your device as a signaling tool. If someone or something appears on the horizon, a few quick sounds from your waterproof speaker will make sure that you don't miss anything important!

6. The sixth reason is portability. With a waterproof case for your phone, you can take your device with you virtually everywhere. Also, many cases come with their own charging plugs and they also often include straps and fasteners so that you can attach them to your body.

7. The seventh reason is protection. If you want to protect your gadget from water damage, a waterproof case can be a great way to do so without limiting its functionality. In fact, most of the time having a waterproof case makes it easier for you to operate your phone or tablet while being fully submerged in water!

8. The last reason is fun. It will help you capture moments that might have been lost otherwise. You can look back at your favorite memories whenever you choose, as long as you have a memory card to store them on.

Waterproof speakers are perfect for kayaking. They will make any trip more fun and memorable, so if this is an adventure that interests you or if it's something that your friends would enjoy, make sure to visit best waterproof bluetooth speakers for boat and find the perfect waterproof speaker system for your needs!


Frequently Asked Question:


Q: Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which is the preferable wireless technology for portable speakers?

Answer: As we talk about music streaming on water, you should be better off with a Bluetooth one. Assuming you won't have any network connection like Wi-Fi on water, there is no way for you to connect with a Wi-Fi speaker.

On the other hand, Bluetooth connects the speaker directly to your phone and eliminates the network connection from the equation. Bluetooth speakers also need less power and come cheaper than Wi-Fi ones.

Q: What are the advantages of a waterproof Bluetooth speaker over other music solutions?

Answer: I am assuming you are asking this because you either use your smartphone or a complete sound system to listen to music on the water. Frankly, I have seen people using both, and waterproof Bluetooth speakers are a great middle ground.

Smartphones don't provide enough volume and audio quality, and both the smartphone and the sound system are, for the most part, not waterproof. By using a waterproof Bluetooth speaker, you get a superior sound quality without worrying about accidental splash that can ruin your device.

Q:Can I use a waterproof Bluetooth speaker underwater?

Answer: Generally speaking, waterproofing doesn't mean you can use that speaker underwater. A lot of people have this impression about waterproof speakers, which is wrong. It's more like if you should, instead of you can.

Speakers rated IPX7 or above are officially allowed to be submerged under one meter of water. But speakers with that rating also cost a lot. So with regular water or splash resistance, don't even think about using it underwater.


Final Remarks 

In this article, we've outlined the 5 best waterproof bluetooth speaker for kayaks and given you a brief overview of what to look out for in these products. If you're looking to buy one of these items or want more information on how they work, please follow the review meticulously or follow our face book page or twitter. We have all the knowledge necessary about different types of speakers and can point you towards the right choice that suits your needs today!

So don't dwell in confusion anymore. Just try it out and let us know all about its reactions in the comments section.

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