Looking for a simple, affordable accessory to keep our drinks, phones, and paddle grips secure when we paddle?
Product Overview
We tested the Paddle Board and Kayak Cup Holder, Paddle Grips, Paddle Board and Kayak Accessories Kit (Blue) to see how it performs as a small-but-essential add-on for paddleboarding and kayaking. This kit promises a compact cup holder that doubles as a phone and bottle holder plus two paddle grips, and it aims to keep our hands and refreshments secure without complicated installation.
What’s Included
We received one paddle board and kayak cup holder and a 2-pack of paddle grips. The kit is offered in several colors, but our unit arrived in blue. Having both the holder and the grips in a single kit aims to cover two common needs: a place for drinks/phones and improved paddle comfort.
Key Specifications
We like quick-reference information, so we summarized the core specs in the table below. This gives us a snapshot of size, materials, and compatibility so we can judge whether the kit matches our boards and paddles.
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Included pieces | 1 cup holder, 2 paddle grips |
| Cup holder dimensions | Approximately 4.65 x 5.12 inches |
| Materials | Silicone cup holder; soft fabric paddle grips |
| Fixing method | Thickened suction cup at bottom + tether rope |
| Compatibility | Fits most water bottles, cups, phones; suitable for SUPs, kayaks, canoes, windsurfers |
| Color options | Blue (our unit), black, red |
| Primary functions | Hold drinks, phones, fishing gear; improve paddle grip/comfort |
| Suitability | Freshwater lakes, calm coastal use, fishing trips; usable in moderate chop with proper securing |
We found the table helpful when deciding where we’d mount the holder and whether the grips would fit our paddles.
Paddle Board and Kayak Cup Holder, Paddle Grips, Paddle Board and Kayak Accessories Kit (Blue)
Design and Materials
The kit’s visual and tactile design emphasizes simplicity and practicality. The cup holder is made from soft yet sturdy silicone that offers a little stretch and a non-slip contact surface, while the paddle grips are constructed from soft fabric designed to protect our hands and improve comfort during longer paddling sessions.
We appreciated the thickened suction cup base and a tether rope, which together aim to prevent the holder from detaching in choppy conditions. The fabric grips are stitched to provide a snug wrap around the paddle shaft without adding bulk.
Form and Function
The silicone cup holder has a tapered interior to accommodate a range of bottle diameters and typical travel cups. The flexible material helps secure different shapes while cushioning impacts. The paddle grips are basic sleeves that slide onto the shaft and fasten with Velcro or elastic, depending on the design, increasing grip and reducing blisters.
Because the materials are soft, they reduce the risk of scratching composite paddle shafts or board decks. However, soft materials can absorb dirt and may require periodic cleaning.
Installation and Setup
Installing the cup holder and grips is straightforward and takes only a few minutes. For the cup holder, we place the suction cup on a clean, flat area of the board or kayak, press firmly, and secure the rope to a nearby tie-down or D-ring for redundancy. The paddle grips slide onto the paddle shaft and are adjusted for position and tightness.
We recommend cleaning the surface where we plan to attach the suction cup, ensuring it’s free of grime, salt, or wax. A wet surface can sometimes improve suction initially, but a clean, dry surface ensures the tether can serve as a reliable secondary attachment.
Step-by-Step Cup Holder Mount
- Choose a flat location within reach, usually on the deck near our seat or standing position. We prefer the non-slip deck pad area.
- Clean the area with mild soap and water; dry thoroughly.
- Press the suction cup firmly against the surface to remove air pockets.
- Loop the provided rope around a nearby anchor point or D-ring and secure it with a knot or carabiner.
- Test by placing a bottle and giving the board a gentle shake to confirm stability.
We found that leaving the tether slack allows some movement without pulling on the suction bond; too-tight tethering can pry the suction cup.
Usability and Performance
When we used the cup holder for everyday paddling and casual fishing, it handled typical drinks and phones well. The silicone interior grips bottles and insulated tumblers up to a certain diameter, and the cushioning helps keep items from rattling. The paddle grips improved comfort during multi-hour paddles, reducing blisters and hand fatigue.
The suction + rope design is an effective compromise between easy removability and security. For calm to moderate water, the holder stayed put. In rough conditions it performed OK so long as the tether was properly anchored. The holder is not a permanent or welded bracket, so we treat it as a semi-permanent convenience item rather than heavy-duty hardware.
Holding Drinks and Phones
We tested the holder with:
- Standard 12–20 oz insulated tumblers
- Plastic sports bottles
- A mid-sized smartphone in a slim waterproof case
All items fit securely, though very wide mugs or bulky phone cases may be a tight fit. We suggest using slim profiles if phone storage is expected. For phones, using a waterproof pouch adds protection and increases friction inside the silicone cavity.
Paddle Grip Comfort
The paddle grips reduced vibration feedback and provided a softer contact surface. On longer outings, our hands felt less fatigued, and we noticed fewer hot spots. The grips fit most shafts but can be slightly loose on very small-diameter paddles, where an additional wrapping or tighter fastening is helpful.
Compatibility and Fit
We liked that the kit is designed to be broadly compatible. The manufacturer claims it fits most water bottles and phones, and in practice it does for mainstream shapes. It’s suitable for stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, and even some windsurfers where a flat deck area exists.
We always recommend measuring our bottles and paddles before purchase if we have unusually wide drinkware or very slim paddle shafts. The product is not universal for all oversized tumblers or ultra-slim carbon shafts without a small adapter or additional tape.
Best Use Cases
- Casual paddleboarding sessions where we want a quick place for a water bottle or phone
- Kayaking trips where a removable holder reduces gear weight when not needed
- Fishing on calm lakes for holding small tackle boxes or lures
- Long paddles where paddle grips reduce hand fatigue
We avoid relying on the suction cup for heavy or valuable items in rough offshore conditions; the tether helps but doesn’t make it a fail-safe attachment in severe waves.
Durability and Maintenance
The silicone holder is resistant to light UV and salt exposure, but long-term exposure to UV and harsh saltwater can degrade soft materials over years. The fabric grips are comfortable but will collect sweat, sand, and salt; periodic washing will extend their life.
We recommend rinsing both components with fresh water after saltwater use, and occasionally using mild soap for a deeper clean. Inspect the suction cup and rope for cracks or fraying; replace the rope if it starts to show wear.
Care Tips
- Rinse with fresh water after each saltwater outing to prevent salt buildup.
- Allow the silicone holder to air-dry thoroughly before storage to avoid mildew.
- Hand-wash the paddle grips with mild detergent, then air-dry.
- Store in a cool, shaded place to minimize UV degradation.
Regular maintenance kept our kit functional for many months of weekend paddling.
Pros and Cons
We like to weigh benefits and trade-offs before recommending a product. Below are the most important positives and negatives we noted.
Pros:
- Affordable and simple to install.
- Versatile: holds drinks, phones, and small gear.
- Soft silicone minimizes scratching and reduces noise.
- Tether rope provides additional security on rough water.
- Paddle grips improve comfort and reduce blisters.
Cons:
- Suction cup is not as permanent or secure as bolted holders for extreme conditions.
- Very large tumblers or bulky phone cases may not fit.
- Fabric grips may retain moisture and require regular cleaning.
- Not ideal as a primary mount for expensive electronics without extra protection.
We found the pros outweighed the cons for casual paddlers and anglers who want convenience without modifying their boards.
Real-world Testing and Scenarios
We spent a few weekends testing the kit on calm lakes, a windy bay with small chop, and one light surf launch. The holder handled calm and choppy situations when we used the tether correctly. On one occasion, a hard hit from a wake loosened the suction cup until we re-seated it and tightened the rope, confirming that the rope is essential for security in anything beyond mild chop.
The paddle grips were especially appreciated when we did longer tours. On a four-hour paddle, hand fatigue and hotspots were noticeably reduced. For short sessions, the grips were a comfort upgrade but not a game-changer.
Fishing and Use with Lures
We used the holder to store a small tackle box and a drink while fishing. The silicone interior kept a small tackle box from rattling, but we avoided placing hooks near the silicone to prevent punctures. If fishing frequently, we’d recommend adding a small foam insert or using a dedicated fishing cup holder with rod-holding features.
Comparison with Alternatives
We compared the kit to a few other options: adhesive-mounted cup holders, bolted cup holders, and inflatable or clip-on cup holders. Each approach has pros and cons.
- Suction + rope (this kit): Removable, inexpensive, less permanent, moderate security.
- Adhesive cup holders: More secure than suction alone but can leave residues and are semi-permanent.
- Bolted holders: Most secure for rough conditions or offshore use, but require drill-through installation and are more costly.
- Clip-on/inflatable holders: Good for temporary use, vary widely in quality.
For casual paddlers who want minimal modification, the suction + rope approach offers a practical balance. For heavy-duty ocean work or long offshore trips, bolted or integrated hardware is preferable.
Installation Tips and Common Mistakes
We learned some practical tips that make setup and everyday use better. Avoiding a few common mistakes goes a long way to improving reliability.
Tips:
- Clean and dry the surface before applying the suction cup for best adhesion.
- Anchor the rope to a strong point and leave slight slack to avoid prying the suction from the surface.
- Avoid placing the holder directly in a high-traffic area where paddles or feet might knock it.
- Test with the heaviest item you intend to use before heading out onto the water.
Common mistakes:
- Trusting suction alone in rough conditions without using the tether.
- Applying the suction cup to convex or highly textured surfaces; the suction needs a flat area.
- Over-tightening the tether so it acts as a lever and lifts the suction cup under load.
When we followed these tips, the accessory behaved reliably on multiple outings.
Value for Money
We view the Paddle Board and Kayak Cup Holder, Paddle Grips, Paddle Board and Kayak Accessories Kit (Blue) as a value-oriented accessory. It combines two useful items into a single inexpensive kit and avoids the need for permanent hardware. Given the ease of use and the functional materials, it’s a cost-effective addition for paddlers who want modest improvements without significant investment.
If we compare cost against convenience, the kit rates well for weekend users and beginners. Serious expedition paddlers or those who require maximum security might prefer a bolted holder despite the higher cost.
Who Is This Best For?
We recommend the kit for:
- Casual paddleboarders and kayakers who want a removable, non-invasive cup holder.
- Recreational anglers who need a temporary spot for small tackle and drinks.
- Beginners who don’t want to modify their boards permanently.
- Anyone looking for a comfort upgrade via paddle grips without expensive accessories.
We would not recommend this as the primary mounting solution for expensive gear in rough offshore conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
We addressed the most common questions we had while testing and using the product. These short Q&As reflect the practical things we often want to know before buying.
Q: Will the holder fit a tall insulated travel mug? A: It fits many travel mugs up to moderate diameters, but very wide tumblers may not fit. If our mug has a large base, we test it before leaving shore.
Q: Can the suction cup be used on textured deck pads? A: Suction works best on smooth, flat surfaces. Textured deck pads may not provide a tight seal, so try to find a smooth spot or use the tether as primary security.
Q: Is the paddle grip suitable for carbon shafts? A: The soft fabric should be safe for carbon shafts, but we recommend ensuring the grip doesn’t slide. If we worry about movement, we add a thin wrap of tape underneath for extra friction.
Q: How weather-resistant are the materials? A: Silicone and synthetic fabric resist water and salt reasonably well, but we rinse and dry after saltwater exposure to extend life.
Q: Will the tether prevent the holder from being lost? A: The tether is a great backup and will usually prevent total loss. However, any tether can fail if it’s not properly secured or becomes damaged.
Q: Can we carry phones safely in the holder without a case? A: We prefer using a waterproof pouch for phones. The silicone gives some grip, but it’s not a sealed protective case.
Final Verdict
We think the Paddle Board and Kayak Cup Holder, Paddle Grips, Paddle Board and Kayak Accessories Kit (Blue) is a practical, budget-friendly accessory for recreational paddlers. It provides convenience without permanent modifications, improves paddle comfort, and gives a reliable space for drinks and small gear when used correctly.
For our weekend outings, calm-lake excursions, and casual fishing trips, this kit struck a nice balance between price, performance, and ease of use. If we need permanent, heavy-duty solutions for open-ocean or expedition paddling, we’d invest in bolted hardware. For everyday recreation, this kit is a solid, friendly upgrade that makes paddling more comfortable and convenient.
If we can answer any specific questions about fit for our gear, setup on a particular board model, or maintenance routines, we’re happy to help further.
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