Ready to hit the water and capture those unforgettable moments from your kayak? Whether you’re navigating challenging rapids, exploring serene lakes, or just enjoying a peaceful paddle, having your action camera securely mounted to your helmet can provide an incredible first-person perspective. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best action camera for your kayak helmet mount?
It’s not just about attaching your camera; it’s about stability, ease of use, durability against the elements, and ensuring you get that perfect shot without worrying about your gear. We’ve paddled through the options to bring you a comprehensive guide to the top action camera mounts suitable for your kayak helmet, highlighting what makes each one stand out. Let’s dive in!
1. Action Camera Chin Mount for Motorcycle and Dirt Bike Helmets
While primarily marketed for motorcycles, this versatile chin mount offers a flexible and secure way to attach your action camera to various helmet types, including many full-face kayaking helmets. Its 180-degree adjustment means you can dial in the perfect angle for your water adventures, ensuring you capture every splash and stroke. The tool-free installation and anti-slip silicone pad make it a breeze to set up without damaging your helmet, providing a reliable grip even in wet conditions.
-
Key Features:
- Flexible 180° adjustment for optimal camera angles.
- Universal helmet fit, including circular road and angular racing helmets.
- Wide compatibility with GoPro, DJI Osmo, Insta360, AKASO, and more.
- Tool-free secure installation with durable knob screws.
- Anti-slip silicone pad for extra grip and helmet protection.
- Lightweight & durable ABS with a quick-release design.
-
Pros:
- Highly adjustable for precise shot framing.
- Broad camera compatibility.
- Easy and quick installation/removal.
- No sticky residue or helmet damage.
- Provides a stable POV from the chin.
-
Cons:
- Designed with motorcycles in mind, so fit might vary on specific kayak helmets.
- Chin mount may not be preferred by all kayakers.
-
User Impressions: Users praise this mount for its solid build, ease of adjustment, and secure hold on various helmets. Many moto-vloggers find it indispensable for stable, immersive footage, suggesting its potential for similar stability on a kayaking helmet. Its universal fit is a big plus for those with diverse helmet styles.
2. VVHOOY Action Camera Accessories Head Strap Mount Chest Harness Kit
This comprehensive accessory kit provides versatile mounting options for your action camera, including a dedicated head strap. While not a direct “helmet mount” in the adhesive or clip sense, the adjustable elastic head strap with non-slip rubber inserts can be worn over some helmets (or directly on your head) to capture an immersive point-of-view. It’s an excellent multi-purpose kit for adventurers looking for flexibility beyond just one mounting style, especially for capturing hands-free footage during various outdoor sports.
-
Key Features:
- Universal Action Camera Accessories Kits (includes head strap and chest harness).
- Head mount with screw for POV filming.
- Adjustable elastic nylon head straps with non-slip rubber inserts.
- Chest strap harness with J-Hook and screw (adjustable sizing).
- Compatible with a wide range of action cameras (GoPro, AKASO, Dragon Touch, etc.).
-
Pros:
- Offers multiple mounting perspectives (head & chest).
- Adjustable for various head/body sizes.
- Great value as a universal accessory kit.
- Non-slip design helps keep the camera stable.
-
Cons:
- Head strap might not be as secure as a dedicated adhesive or clip-on helmet mount for vigorous activity.
- May not fit snugly over all kayak helmet designs.
- Doesn’t include a waterproof case.
-
User Impressions: Customers love the versatility and value of this kit, finding it perfect for various activities like hiking, skiing, and cycling. The head strap is noted for being comfortable and providing a great first-person perspective, making it a good, flexible alternative for light kayaking or paddle boarding.
3. HSU Adhesive Mounts Helmet Adhesive Sticky Mounts Flat & Curved
For a no-fuss, super-secure attachment directly to your kayak helmet, these HSU adhesive mounts are a go-to choice. Designed with strong, waterproof 3M sticky pads, they come in both curved and flat base options to conform perfectly to your helmet’s contours. Whether you want to mount your camera on the top, side, or front of your helmet, these mounts provide a rock-solid foundation, ideal for intense water sports where stability is paramount. Plus, they can be cleanly removed with heat, so you’re not stuck permanently.
-
Key Features:
- Wide compatibility with all GoPro cameras (Hero 13-1), Session, Fusion Max, AKASO, Campark, and more.
- Includes both flat and curved mount bases for diverse surfaces.
- Strength waterproof 3M adhesive sticky pads for reliable attachment.
- Cleanly removable when heat (e.g., from a hairdryer) is applied.
- Perfect for helmets, ski/skate/surf boards, kayaks, and other action sports.
-
Pros:
- Extremely strong and waterproof adhesion.
- Versatile for different helmet shapes.
- Wide camera compatibility.
- Simple and low-profile installation.
-
Cons:
- Adhesive is generally a one-time use per pad.
- Requires a clean, smooth surface for best adhesion.
- Cannot be easily repositioned once applied without new pads.
-
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the incredible sticking power of these mounts, even in challenging conditions like extreme sports. They are considered highly reliable for keeping cameras secure, with many appreciating the inclusion of both flat and curved options for different mounting surfaces.
4. DJI Osmo Helmet Chin Mount Clip
If you’re a proud owner of a DJI Osmo Action camera, this dedicated chin mount clip is tailor-made for you. It offers a secure and stable way to attach your Osmo camera to the chin of your helmet, providing that coveted low-angle, forward-facing POV footage. Its ease of attachment and detachment, combined with adjustable tilt angles, makes it super convenient for getting just the right shot, even during dynamic paddling.
-
Key Features:
- Securely mounts camera to the chin of a helmet.
- Easy to attach and detach.
- Adjustable tilt angles for forward-facing camera positioning.
- Compatible with DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, Osmo Action 4, Osmo Action 3, and DJI Action 2.
- Includes Osmo Locking Screw, Wrist Strap, and Anti-Scratch Pad.
-
Pros:
- Specifically designed for optimal fit and function with DJI Osmo cameras.
- Secure and stable chin mount.
- Simple installation and removal.
- Adjustable angle for varied shooting needs.
-
Cons:
- Limited compatibility only to DJI Osmo Action cameras.
- Requires at least 2 cm of space between your chin and helmet for proper fit.
-
User Impressions: DJI Osmo users highly recommend this mount for its perfect fit and stable performance. They appreciate its robust design and the ability to capture immersive, shake-free footage, confirming it’s a solid choice for those committed to the DJI ecosystem.
5. PellKing Universal Motorcycle Helmet Chin Action Camera Phone Mount
This PellKing mount, while primarily for motorcycle helmets, boasts universal compatibility that makes it a strong contender for your kayak helmet, especially if you want the first-person view. It uses industrial-strength waterproof adhesive pads for a super stable hold, even on helmets with slightly uneven surfaces. What’s unique is its ability to securely mount not just action cameras but also smartphones (with a width of 5-10cm), giving you incredible versatility for capturing VLOGs or epic moments from your perspective.
-
Key Features:
- Super stable helmet stand with industrial strength waterproof adhesive pad.
- New large 3M tape for added stability, even on uneven surfaces.
- Provides first-person view (FPV) for immersive VLOGs and action shots.
- Perfect for sports like skiing, skateboarding, cycling, and motorbiking.
- Compatible with GoPro (13-2), Max, Session, SJCAM, AKASO, DJI OSMO Action (5-2), Insta360 (X4-R), and iPhones/Samsung phones (5-10cm width).
-
Pros:
- Exceptional stability with strong adhesive.
- Mounts both action cameras and smartphones.
- Excellent for capturing true first-person perspective.
- Wide compatibility across various camera brands and phone models.
-
Cons:
- Adhesive-based, so not easily repositionable.
- Primarily branded for motorcycle use, though its universal design fits others.
-
User Impressions: Users report excellent stability and a strong hold, even at high speeds, which translates well to dynamic water sports. The ability to mount both action cameras and phones is a huge bonus, offering flexibility for different recording needs.
6. Akeipho Motorcycle Helmet Chin Mount for Action Cameras
Here’s another chin mount designed with motorcycles in mind, but its “Solid and Firm” grip and wide compatibility make it a viable option for kayaking helmets. It features soft, bendable sides and high-strength waterproof adhesive pads that conform well to helmet shapes without blocking the visor or air intake. A standout feature is its “Dual Base,” offering both a fixed and a 360° rotatable J-type base, allowing for incredibly flexible vertical and horizontal shooting angles – perfect for capturing dynamic paddling footage.
-
Key Features:
- Solid and firm hold with soft, bendable sides and high-strength waterproof adhesive pads.
- Dual Base: includes fixed and 360° rotatable J-type bases for versatile shooting.
- Supports vertical and horizontal shooting with 200° vertical adjustment.
- Widely compatible with GoPro (12-5), AKASO, DJI OSMO ACTION, Insta360 (X2, X3, ONE R), etc.
- Extra protection: buckle safety base, adhesive pads, and lanyards to prevent camera drops.
-
Pros:
- Extremely secure and stable.
- Highly flexible with dual base and extensive adjustability.
- Broad action camera compatibility.
- Added safety features for peace of mind.
- Conforms well to helmet contours.
-
Cons:
- Adhesive application requires cleaning and drying the helmet surface, and waiting 1-2 hours before use.
- Mainly advertised for motorcycles.
-
User Impressions: Customers love the robust construction and the multiple adjustment options this mount provides. The added safety lanyard is a frequently praised feature, giving users confidence that their valuable camera won’t fall off during intense activities.
7. KUNPENG New Upgrade 360 Degree Kayak Action Camera Mount
Please note: While this mount is explicitly for “Kayak Action Camera,” its design is for mounting to the kayak or boat itself (slide rails, M6 holes), not directly to a helmet. However, for a kayaker looking for diverse camera angles, this is an excellent, specialized option to complement your helmet mount. It offers a super stable 360-degree rotation with an upgraded metal ball head, ensuring your camera stays firmly in place while you paddle, providing fantastic shots from the kayak’s perspective.
-
Key Features:
- Compatible with a wide range of action cameras (GoPro 12-2, Arlo, and all cameras with 1/4 nut).
- Upgraded metal ball head clamp for superior stability and 360° rotation.
- Designed for mounting on kayak/boat slide rails and fixed M6 holes.
- Very simple and convenient installation and removal.
- Includes complete bracket set, slide rail screw, M6 hole screw, and fastening tool.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty.
-
Pros:
- Specifically designed for kayak/boat mounting, offering unique angles.
- Extremely stable and robust with metal components.
- Full 360° rotation for versatile shots.
- Wide camera compatibility.
- Easy to install and remove from the kayak.
- Excellent 2-year warranty.
-
Cons:
- Not a helmet mount; cannot be attached to your helmet.
- Requires compatible slide rails or M6 holes on your kayak.
-
User Impressions: Kayak and boat enthusiasts rave about the stability and versatility of this mount, especially for capturing footage from their vessel. Its robust construction and ease of adjustment are frequently highlighted as key benefits. While not for your helmet, it’s a stellar addition to any kayaker’s gear.
8. MotoRadds Flexible Adhesive Action Camera Mount
If your kayak helmet has an unusual curve or texture, this flexible adhesive mount from MotoRadds could be your perfect match. Unlike rigid mounts, it can be bent into convex or concave shapes to precisely conform to any curvature. Built with premium materials including cold rolled steel, soft silicone, and genuine 3M VHB adhesive, it creates a 5mm thick silicone coating that also acts as a vibration-dampening cushion for exceptionally smooth footage – a huge plus for water sports where vibrations can be common.
-
Key Features:
- Bends into convex or concave shapes to match any surface curvature.
- Built with premium materials: cold rolled steel, soft silicone, injection molded polycarbonate, stainless steel alloy, and authentic 3M VHB adhesive.
- 5mm thick silicone coating provides vibration-dampening for smoother footage.
- Versatile for various mounts: dashboard, windshield, kayak, roll cage, handlebar, jetski, and more.
- Compatible with most action cameras including Insta360, GoPro, DJI, and others.
-
Pros:
- Unique flexible design for perfect fit on irregular surfaces.
- Excellent vibration dampening for smoother video.
- Extremely durable with premium materials.
- Strong and reliable 3M VHB adhesive.
- Explicitly mentions “kayak mounts” as a use case.
-
Cons:
- Adhesive-based, so placement is somewhat permanent.
- Might be slightly bulkier than thin adhesive pads.
-
User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the MotoRadds mount’s ability to stick to challenging, curved surfaces and its remarkable vibration dampening. Many consider it a game-changer for capturing stable footage where other mounts fail, making it a top choice for dynamic environments like kayaking.
9. Dango Design Gripper Mount for GoPro/Osmo/Insta360
For kayakers who value flexibility and quick adjustments, the Dango Design Gripper Mount is a standout. This isn’t your typical adhesive mount; it’s a robust clamp with a gripper jaw that conforms to irregular shapes like your helmet, backpack strap, or even a paddle shaft. Its strong dual torsion spring provides immense clamping force, ensuring your camera stays put. Plus, with 2-axis rotation, you can quickly reposition your camera on the fly for that perfect shot, making it incredibly versatile for all sorts of water adventures.
-
Key Features:
- Gripper jaw with flexible front web clamps and conforms to irregular shapes (helmet, backpack, vehicle).
- Robust dual torsion spring for strong clamping force.
- Easily movable, functions as a quick-attach fixed mount, handheld stabilizer, or mini tripod.
- 2-axis rotation for quick and easy camera repositioning.
- Commonly used for powersports and action sports, including kayaking, motocross, and skiing.
- All hardware included, with a short extension for more flexibility.
-
Pros:
- Unmatched versatility – clamp, handheld, tripod.
- Strong and secure grip on various surfaces.
- Quick and easy to attach, detach, and reposition.
- Excellent for dynamic adjustments during a paddle.
- Explicitly mentions kayaking as a use case.
-
Cons:
- Might add a bit more bulk to the helmet compared to low-profile adhesive mounts.
- Clamping mechanism may not be ideal for all helmet designs (e.g., very smooth, rounded helmets without edges to grip).
-
User Impressions: Users rave about the Dango Gripper’s robust build quality and incredible versatility. They particularly love its strong clamp and the ability to quickly move it between different mounting points, making it a favorite for multi-sport enthusiasts who need a reliable, adaptable mount.
10. EEEKit Motorcycle Helmet Chin Mount Kit for GoPro Hero 13
Rounding out our list is another chin mount kit that, despite its “Motorcycle Helmet” branding, explicitly lists “kayaks” among its wide applications. This EEEKit provides a flexible and comprehensive solution for attaching your action camera. It features four 180-degree adjustable joints connected by screws, allowing for incredibly precise angle adjustments. The kit includes both curved and flat adhesive mounts, a safety rope for extra security, and all the tools you need for quick and easy installation, giving you double-layered protection for your valuable camera on the water.
-
Key Features:
- Universal Compatibility: Fits GoPro Hero 13-8 and other action cameras.
- Flexible Adjustment: 4 x 180-degree adjustable joints for perfect angles.
- Wide Application: Ideal for helmets, skateboards, surfboards, dashcams, and kayaks.
- Easy Installation: Includes wrench for adjusting screws and a safety rope.
- Package includes multiple mounts (curved, flat, J-hook buckle), adhesive pads, and a safety tether.
-
Pros:
- Highly flexible and adjustable for diverse shooting angles.
- Explicitly mentions kayaks as an application.
- Universal compatibility with many action cameras.
- Includes multiple adhesive mounts and a safety tether for extra security.
- Good value with a comprehensive kit.
-
Cons:
- Primarily marketed for motorcycles, so styling might not be optimized for kayak helmets.
- Adhesive-based, requires clean surface for application.
-
User Impressions: Customers appreciate the comprehensive nature of this kit and its excellent adjustability. The inclusion of a safety tether is a frequently praised feature, offering peace of mind, especially for users engaging in more rigorous activities. It’s seen as a reliable and flexible mounting solution.
Choosing the Best Action Camera for Your Kayak Helmet Mount
Selecting the best action camera for your kayak helmet mount often comes down to balancing stability, versatility, and the specific type of helmet you wear. Whether you opt for a rigid adhesive mount, a flexible gripper, or a chin-specific solution, the goal is always clear: capture incredible POV footage of your kayaking adventures without a second thought.
Consider your helmet type (full-face, half-shell, climbing helmet), how often you need to attach/detach your camera, and your preferred shooting angle. Each mount on our list offers unique benefits, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every paddler looking to document their time on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kayak Helmet Camera Mounts
Q1: What makes a good kayak helmet mount different from other helmet mounts?
A1: While many helmet mounts are universal, a good kayak helmet mount should prioritize strong, waterproof adhesion or clamping, corrosion resistance (if metal parts are exposed), and stability against water splashes and paddle vibrations. Chin mounts are often preferred for kayaking as they offer a natural, unobstructed POV, while adhesive mounts provide a very secure, low-profile fit.
Q2: Are chin mounts suitable for kayaking helmets?
A2: Yes, chin mounts can be excellent for kayaking helmets, especially full-face models. They provide a realistic first-person perspective that’s great for vlogging or capturing your line down a river. Just ensure your helmet has enough space at the chin area for a secure fit and that the mount is compatible with its contours.
Q3: Can I use adhesive mounts on any kayak helmet material?
A3: Adhesive mounts typically work best on smooth, clean, and non-porous surfaces like polished plastic or fiberglass. Some helmets might have textured or porous surfaces that reduce the effectiveness of adhesive pads. Always clean the helmet surface thoroughly and ensure it’s dry before applying adhesive for the strongest bond.
Q4: What kind of action camera is best to pair with a kayak helmet mount?
A4: The “best” camera often depends on your budget and needs. For kayaking, look for cameras that are inherently waterproof (or come with a robust waterproof case), have good image stabilization, and offer wide-angle recording. GoPro Hero series, DJI Osmo Action, and Insta360 models are popular choices due to their ruggedness and video quality in action settings.
Q5: How do I ensure my camera stays secure on my helmet during intense kayaking?
A5: First, choose a high-quality mount with strong adhesion or clamping force. For adhesive mounts, proper surface preparation is crucial. Many mounts also come with safety tethers or lanyards; always use them as an extra layer of security. Periodically check your mount for wear and tear, especially after heavy use or exposure to harsh conditions.
Q6: What’s the difference between head strap mounts and helmet-specific mounts?
A6: Head strap mounts (like the VVHOOY kit) are worn directly on your head or over some helmets, offering flexibility but potentially less stability depending on helmet shape. Helmet-specific mounts (like adhesive or chin mounts) are designed to attach directly and securely to the helmet structure itself, often providing a more stable and permanent fixture for your camera.
Q7: Do these helmet mounts work with all action cameras?
A7: Most of the mounts listed use the standard GoPro-style two-prong mounting system or a 1/4″-20 tripod screw, making them broadly compatible with popular action camera brands like GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, Insta360 (with adapter), AKASO, and others. Always double-check the product’s compatibility list before purchasing to ensure it matches your specific camera model.
