Beijing Calling
The last few years made a pretty strong argument for building paddlecraft right here in North America. First came a trade war ratcheting U.S. import tariffs on kayaks and inflatable boats from China up to as high as 27.4 percent. Then came Covid and a near-total collapse of the global supply chain.
Sticking with the home team was absolutely the right call back then. But how about now?
Beijing Calling
The supply chain is stitched up and seems to be holding together. Shipping is down too. According to the online freight marketplace Freightos, sending a 40-foot container from China to the U.S. west coast this month will cost you less than $1,400, down from a peak of $20,600 in September 2021.
And have you heard about the Chinese economy? It’s gone from bad to worse, meaning Chinese manufacturers are looking to deal like never before.
“The Chinese economy is reeling right now, and that’s going to make those suppliers really sharpen up their pencils,” says Ed Vater, the former Branches president who guided the Wisconsin-based paddlemaker to record profits during the Pandemic, thanks to a relatively short supply chain and an agile homegrown workforce.
When demand shot through the roof in 2020 and 2021 and paddlesports importers could do little more than yell into the phone, Vater walked onto the production floor and started stamping out paddles, alongside his wife and kids. In fact, many Branches employees brought family members on board for what they thought would be a temporary surge in production.
Asian suppliers surged too, but not so quickly. And the products they did manage to produce often sat offshore for weeks in those $20,000 containers. Then, when they finally managed to unload, the taxman was waiting to collect the import duty because nobody has called a truce in the trade war.
All of those factors lined up in favor of domestic manufacturing during the Pandemic, but there are some signs the pendulum is beginning to swing in the other direction.
More than one way to get there
A Made in U.S.A. or Made in Canada badge is good for the brand here in North America, but few consumers choose a boat solely on where it was made. The choice typically comes down to quality and price—factors depending more on a brand’s priorities and management than country of origin.
North America never had a monopoly on quality, and cheap kayaks aren’t only made in Asia. Indeed, the majority of price-point hard-shell kayaks crowding box store shelves are now made on this side of the Pacific. Sun Dolphin molds kayaks in Michigan, Lifetime in Utah and Pelican in Quebec. In our globally integrated world, a better predictor of quality is not where you choose to build, but what you’re willing to pay and how well you manage the process.
Homegrown manufacturing works for Jackson Kayak, which makes whitewater, fishing and recreational kayaks in Sparta, Tennessee, but it may not be the solution for everyone.
Sending a 40-foot container from China to the U.S. west coast this month will cost you less than $1,400, down from a peak of $20,600 in September 2021.
“When it comes down to China versus the U.S., there’s not one right answer or wrong answer,” says Marketing Manager Emily Jackson. Still, having design, production and quality control under one roof can pay dividends in unexpected ways. “We have over 200 people on our team,” Jackson says, and enough of them are boaters that when Jackson Kayak rolls out a new product, someone who punches a clock in the Sparta factory is likely among the first to paddle it. “That really allows us to see the problems faster, not just in the factory but on the water,” Jackson says.
Keeping innovation in-house
There’s also something to be said for keeping an eye on the door, lest your design walk out of it. Or as Vater puts it, “How special is your secret sauce?”
If you’re cooking up something new or different, it may be a good idea to keep a lid on it. That’s more difficult in China, where the culture and law take a more permissive view of intellectual property. Vater offers the hockey stick trade as a cautionary tale.
“Nobody making a hockey stick has really got any technology over anybody else,” says Vater, who in 2002 helped guide Bending Branches out of the hockey business to focus solely on paddles. “When that happens it’s really just marketing and selling a commodity. It’s deadly to brands and nobody invests in the sport anymore,” he says. Two decades on, 75 percent of the hockey sticks used in NHL games are made in China. And the rest? Mexico.
Why I make kayaks in China
“We were producing our Soul Waterman kayaks in China and getting a top-quality product, but a few years ago some of our U.S. customers told us they didn’t want to buy Chinese-made kayaks. They wanted to buy American-made kayaks, and they were vocal enough that we decided to do it.
We found a factory in the U.S. that sold us on their ability to make quality products and shipped all our molds to them—our whole production facility. A month and a half into it, they’re like, “Dude, we can’t make your boats. You either need to drop your standards or redesign them so they’re easier to make.”
I wasn’t about to do either of those things, so I moved to a factory in Canada. Same thing. Then I moved to another factory in the U.S., and then another, and it was the same with them. So finally I just moved everything back to China.
My supplier there said, “Tell us what you want and what your standards are. We’re going to charge you for it, but we’ll make it.”
The days of cheaper manufacturing in China are in the past. It costs me about 20 percent more to produce in China than the U.S. But I get the quality I want, and I get it on time.
Chinese goods have a bad reputation because people have long memories, and the stuff that was coming out of China 30 years ago was absolute rubbish. That’s no longer the case. I know because I’ve been making things in China for three decades and have seen the change in quality over that time.
The second part of that equation is, if you go to a dollar store and buy an item for a dollar and it breaks three days later, the reason it broke was not because it was made in China. It broke because it cost a dollar. What did you expect?
There are still factories in China that make dollar store junk. But your iPhone was made in China, and your laptop was made in China. The computer chips that are in your Maserati are made in China.
You don’t go to China to produce cheap stuff anymore. You go to China because the supply chain is there. Somebody in China makes every widget you need to build whatever you can imagine building, and the entire country is set up to get that widget to you as cheaply and as efficiently as possible. And then the infrastructure is in place to get your finished product onto a boat and on its way to your customers.
In fact most companies producing in North America use components that are made in China. If you’re going to wait for critical parts you need to come from China to build your product, you might as well build the whole thing there, which gives you flexibility as well as quality.”
— by Corran Addison, as told to Jeff Moag
This article was first published in the 2024 issue of Paddling Business. Inside you’ll find the year’s hottest gear for canoeing, kayaking, whitewater and paddleboarding. Plus: how to beat the big box, trends in kayak fishing instruction, building the Paddlesports Trade Coalition and more. READ IT NOW »
Wherever you choose to go, there’s more than one way to get there. | Feature photo: Frank Wolf
Level Six Unveils Loki Drysuit: PFAS-Free and 100% Recycled
Ottawa, ON, April 25, 2024 – Level Six, a leading outdoor gear manufacturer, proudly announces the launch of the Loki Drysuit, a game-changing product that sets new standards for sustainability, performance and user comfort.
Key features include:
PFAS-Free and Recycled: The Loki is the first drysuit on the market to be both PFAS-Free and made from recycled materials. Years of research and development have culminated in this groundbreaking achievement.
Latex and Neoprene Free: This is a game changer for anyone allergic to latex and neoprene products. Made with sensitivities in mind, this suit is ideal for all.
Innovative Gasket System: The Loki is the first latex—and neoprene-free drysuit that utilizes an innovative PU-coated Lycra gasket system. This system allows the user to customize the fit, tightening or loosening the gasket for either more performance or greater comfort on a long day. This suit performs to the highest standard while simultaneously being breathable and comfortable.
Breathable Design: Whether paddling on whitewater or embarking on a canoe trip, the Loki performs to the highest standard while simultaneously being breathable and comfortable.
Environmental Commitment: Sustainability is not a buzzword for Level Six; it’s a core value. While other companies hesitate, Level Six has taken action. The Loki features a fully recycled fabric and a C0 PFAS-Free DWR coating. Level Six’s commitment extends beyond the product itself. All future dry gear production will eliminate these harmful forever chemicals, protecting our waterways, our environment, personal health, and factory workers.
Health Impact Awareness: We were once unaware of the risks posed by PFAS chemicals. Now, Level Six is leading the charge. The staggering health consequences for exposed laborers and surrounding communities drive this mission.
The Loki drysuit isn’t just a product; it’s a beacon of change. Level Six is excited to see the changes industry-wide.
Customer Appreciation: We owe our success to our loyal Level Six customer base. Their support fuels our passion for innovation and sustainability. The Loki Drysuit is more than gear; it’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to a healthier planet.
About Level Six
Level Six is a Canadian-based outdoor gear company dedicated to creating high-performance products that respect the environment and enhance outdoor experiences. Our mission: gear that matters.
How To Win Adventure Photography’s Most Prestigious Prize
Gonzalo Robert Parraguez’s image of paddler Kilian Ivelic sending a waterfall in the Cajon del Maipo, on Chile’s Maipo River, is dreamy for more than just its magical light, billowing water and otherworldly textures of the rocks channeling the cascade. Ivelic, 24, grew up dreaming about paddling the class V Maipo canyon and has been developing his boating skills for years on Chile’s iconic whitewater rivers—tracked and documented by Robert Parraguez’s lens. The duo’s efforts paid off: 25-year-old Robert Parraguez won Red Bull’s prestigious 2023 Illume award for emerging photographers for this photo. Along with producing a remarkable image, the acclaim showcases a tremendous partnership between an extreme athlete and an adventurous lensman poised to take the next step.
“Without him, none of these places would look so amazing,” says Robert Parraguez. “The first time I met Kili was by chance on the river. He’s always so motivated and such a nice person; he’s become a very good partner for these missions.”
How to win adventure photography’s most prestigious prize
Robert Parraguez and Ivelic waited patiently for months for the right water levels to run the Maipo’s rock-clad waterfalls, just south of Santiago in central Chile. Then, in late May 2022, Ivelic gave the photographer a call. The pair drove for two hours, trekked 10 minutes to the canyon and set up anchors for a challenging 15-meter rappel to give Robert Parraguez and a safety boater access to the river. The focus was on helping Ivelic achieve his dream descent, Robert Parraguez recalls. “Honestly, when I was walking to the waterfall, I never thought I would get an award-winning picture.”
Such a harrowing approach puts a premium on compact camera equipment and a versatile zoom lens, Robert Parraguez says. A wide-angle perspective captures the scale of the scene: Reflecting on the day, Robert Parraguez can still hear the deep bass rumble of the falls, taste the misty air, and sense the butterflies he felt in his stomach as his friend planted a forward stroke into frothy water at the apex of the drop.
These experiences give Robert Parraguez all the resolve he needs to continue with his life’s passion to travel the world, camera in hand. Living in Chile gives him access to some of the world’s finest whitewater rivers as well as ocean surf breaks. His recent film, There’s Good In Everything with Spanish whitewater superstar Aniol Serrasolses, won the Best Whitewater Film award at the 2024 Paddling Film Festival.
“I started photography when I was 18, when I left school and didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life,” Robert Parraguez says. “I think what I like most about being an adventure photographer is just what it says: photographing the adventure and always being on adventures with amazing people. One of the biggest difficulties in taking these photos is always the access, but at the same time, it’s also the fun part—when you want something really bad and have to figure out how to get there to make it happen. That’s where the adventure begins.”
Watch Gonzalo Robert Parraguez’s film Origen, starring Kilian Ivelic, and There’s Good In Everything in the 2024 Paddling Film Festival at paddlingfilmfestival.com.
This article was first published in the Spring 2024 issue of Paddling Magazine. “It’s the people you meet, the bonds you form and all the experiences you have together. For me, that’s the most important thing.” | Feature photo: Red Bull Illume // Gonzalo Robert Parraguez
Best REI Kayaks For 2024
Shopping for a new kayak? Whether it’s your first purchase, or you’re looking to upgrade, REI is a great place to start your search. Founded in 1938 by a group of outdoor enthusiasts, REI has remained true to its roots as a dedicated outdoor co-op. Today, you’ll find 181 REI locations across 41 states, with a great variety of quality products and kayak models for recreational paddling, touring, fishing, family kayaking, travel and more. Even better, REI’s experienced staff can answer your questions and guide you to the perfect kayak for your needs and aspirations.
REI sells kayaks manufactured by top brands such as Advanced Elements, Delta Kayaks, Eddyline, Hobie, Old Town, Oru Kayak, Pelican and Wilderness Systems, among others. If you’re wondering how to choose a kayak at REI, you can seek out expert advice from a staff member, join an on-water class, or try an REI kayak rental before you buy.
Kayaks from REI include entry-level recreational, inflatable and fishing kayaks aimed at casual paddlers, as well as more performance-minded kayaks aimed at seasoned paddlers and anglers. REI also stocks a diverse selection of kayak paddles, life vests, safety gear and other accessories.
Read on to discover the best REI kayaks of the year and everything you need to know about buying a kayak at REI.
Paddling Mag’s Top Picks: Best REI kayaks
Kayaks at REI are suited for a range of uses and types of waterways, with the widest selection focused on recreational paddling and fishing. All kayaks from REI are made by reputable brands, ensuring you’re buying a quality product that promises durability, performance and comfort. With more than 70 different kayak models to choose from, the best REI kayak for you really depends on where and how you’ll use it. Here are my top choices for touring, beginners, inflatable and 2-person REI kayaks.
Best touring REI kayak: Delta 16
Delta 16
- Excels in rough seas, surf and wind
- Ideal for paddling enthusiasts looking to advance their skills.
- Enough storage capacity for multi-day exploration
- Press-Lock hatches
- Available with skeg or rudder option
There are a number of superb touring kayaks at REI to suit paddlers of all shapes and sizes. As a small- to mid-sized paddler who enjoys an efficient and rough water capable touring kayak, I love the performance fit and responsive maneuverability of the Delta 16 kayak. Plus, Delta’s lightweight thermoform construction means it’s easier for me to carry and load the kayak onto my roof racks without assistance. Expertly crafted in Canada, Delta Kayaks offer excellent performance, aesthetics and build quality at an outstanding value. Larger paddlers—or those headed out on even longer adventures—can scale up to the Delta 17 kayak for a just-right fit.
Best beginner’s REI kayak: Wilderness Systems Pungo 120
Pungo 120 Recreational Kayak
- Phase 3 air Pro Seat is Fully Adjustable and Offers Ergonomic Support
- Adjustable Foot Rests Accommodate Paddlers of Different Sizes
- Dashboard Offers a Removable Dry box and 2 Cup Holders
- Proudly Designed, Molded and Hand-Assembled in the USA
- Backed by our Limited-Lifetime Warranty
The Wilderness Systems Pungo lives up to its reputation as a top-selling sit-inside recreational kayak, with a design heritage dating back 20 years. It’s easy to see why the Pungo is beloved by beginners—it manages to be both exceptionally stable and faster than many comparable recreational kayaks. The predictable handling allows beginners to feel at ease and develop their skills while exploring winding rivers and sheltered waters. Enjoying a new sport means being comfortable, and Wilderness Systems’ deluxe, fully adjustable outfitting is just that. The Pungo 120 is ideal for small- to medium-sized paddlers; larger paddlers should look at the Pungo 125 for a roomier fit and higher carrying capacity.
Best inflatable REI kayak: Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak with Pump
- Drop-stitch floor enhances rigidity and creates a hull with chine
- Aluminum Rib Frame technology allows the kayak to slice through the water
- 13-foot length provides plenty of space for gear on extended expeditions
For exceptional value and versatility, the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite gets my vote for best REI inflatable kayak. This shape-shifting kayak transforms from travel bag to boat in under 15 minutes, and features a closed-deck design that offers better weather and splash protection than open deck inflatables. My favorite feature is Advanced Elements’ unique hybrid design, which incorporates a lightweight aluminum frame into the hull and deck for enhanced performance. This is an inflatable kayak that feels surprisingly close performance- and comfort-wise to a hard-shell kayak. Investing a bit more up front means you’re getting robust construction with long-lasting durability.
Best 2-person REI kayak: Pelican Argo 136XP Tandem
Argo 136XP Tandem
- Two cup holders and two bottle holders
- Ergofit G2 Seating System™
- Keel extension
- Double-wide quick lock hatch
Offering a stable and relaxing paddling experience, the Pelican Argo 136XP Tandem kayak is the boat I’d grab for casual day tripping with a friend or family member. Sure, there are faster and flashier tandem kayaks, but this REI two-person kayak is a supremely accessible and affordable option for paddling pairs. Both cockpits feature comfortable seating systems with good support and adjustability. Plus, there’s loads of great storage, including cup holders and conveniently placed hatches. Pelican’s high-density polyethylene plastic construction is all but indestructible so you can focus on paddling, not on worrying about scratching your kayak.
More top picks: Best REI kayaks
The following REI kayaks have received the highest star ratings by reviewers in our Paddling Buyer’s Guide. See and review all REI kayaks here.
Best REI Kayaks
Chelan 120
Blackfoot Angler 130
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Kayak with Pump
Inlet
Pungo 120 Recreational Kayak
Tarpon 105
Pike Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Getaway 110 HDII Recreational Pedal Kayak
Targa 100 Recreational Kayak
Shop for REI kayaks
Use the links below to navigate to our Paddling Buyer’s Guide where you can find every REI kayak on the market, including reviews, ratings and where to buy. You can filter kayaks by type and application, such as fishing or lakewater, or by the number of paddlers (one-person or tandem), and so much more.
Shop by type
Shop by number of paddlers
Shop by brand
REI kayak buying guide
REI offers high-quality kayaks from over a dozen respected brands. This makes the outdoor co-op a trusted choice for paddlers seeking their new or next kayak. Buying a kayak from a well-known brand ensures you’re getting a quality product that promises durability, performance and comfort, which combine to create an overall better paddling experience.
REI sells sit-inside, sit-on-top, inflatable and folding kayaks. Many REI kayaks are designed for recreational paddling and fishing, catering to paddlers most interested in wetting a line and enjoying sheltered waters and short adventures. REI also offers a selection of touring kayaks suitable for more experienced paddlers and those looking to undertake longer trips on more exposed waters.
Buyers can choose from 75 different kayak models at REI.com, with a more limited selection on display at brick-and-mortar stores. Whether you purchase a REI kayak in-store or online, buying from a dedicated outdoor retailer means you can take advantage of staff expertise. Explain your needs, ask questions, and read the useful buying advice articles available on REI.com.
The best tip I can offer for how to choose a kayak at REI is to try before you buy. On-the-water experience will allow you to get a real feel for the kayak and appreciate its specific attributes and design elements. Admittedly, this advice is difficult to apply at REI stores located in urban areas, far from the water. However, some REI locations offer kayak rentals, allowing you to paddle prospective designs before making a purchase. Also, many REI stores regularly offer on-water classes and guided tours—another great opportunity to try a variety of kayak designs and get advice from more experienced paddlers. Even if you can’t test the boat before you buy it, kayaks at REI have a liberal return policy. If you don’t like a REI kayak, take it back to the store for a full refund or exchange within one year of purchase (90 days for non-members).
Before you get on the water, don’t forget to stock up on all the other paddling essentials, including life jacket, paddle, buoyant line, pump and pealess whistle. Fortunately, these items are also available at REI, right alongside your kayak.
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Does REI sell kayaks?
Yes, REI carries a wide range of kayaks and over a dozen reputable kayak brands, from premium to bargain. Kayaks sold at REI include recreational and fishing kayaks, sit-inside and sit-on-top kayaks, touring kayaks, tandem kayaks, pedal kayaks, inflatable and folding kayaks. Kayaks from REI are suitable for a variety of skill levels—from beginner to more experienced—as well as paddling environments ranging from lazy rivers and sheltered bays to more exposed coastal waters. Kayak brands at REI include: Advanced Elements, Aquaglide, BOTE, Delta Kayaks, Eddyline, Hobie, Old Town, Oru Kayak, Pelican, Perception, Star Inflatables, TAHE and Wilderness Systems.
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Does REI ship kayaks?
Yes, kayaks at REI can be purchased online and shipped to addresses in many U.S. states (some restrictions apply). With the exception of some inflatable kayaks, an oversize shipping charge applies.
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Does REI rent kayaks?
Yes, kayak rentals are available at some—but not all—REI locations. Visit REI.com to search REI kayak rental by location. Note that kayak rentals are only offered during the paddling season.
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Does REI offer kayak skills courses?
Yes, kayak skills courses are offered at select REI locations across the U.S. Most classes are a half-day and priced from $89 to $219 per person, including kayak rental, safety gear and expert instruction. REI kayak skills courses are suitable for novice to more advanced paddlers. Popular topics include: Learn to Kayak, Kayaking Safety and Rescue Techniques, Introduction to Kayak Touring and Introduction to Coastal Kayaking. Find a kayak skills course location near you at REI.com.
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When do kayaks go on sale at REI?
REI is a cross-country co-operative with 23 million lifetime members, so they offer everyday low prices on all their kayaks and gear. REI co-op does not offer price matching. Instead, as a member-owned cooperative, they focus on providing discounts to their members through coupons, annual rewards and other promotional events throughout the year. Check the promotions page on REI.com for current deals and coupon codes. You’ll find savings of up to 50 percent online at the REI Outlet. Additionally, save 15 percent on full-price paddles and PFDs with any kayak purchase.
REI kayak reviews
Over the years, the editorial staff at Paddling Magazine has reviewed many of the kayaks you’ll find at REI and can give you a clear picture of where these kayaks are meant to be paddled, what skill level they’re suited for and how they perform so you can make a purchase with confidence. Find in-depth reviews for some of the best REI kayaks at the links below.
Feature photo: Sarah Stierch/Wikimedia Commons
Man And Dog Missing In Grand Canyon
The National Park Service (NPS) is searching for a missing man and his dog in the Grand Canyon and believes the pair may have launched on the Colorado River on a homemade raft. On April 21, 2024, the NPS located a presumably abandoned Toyota Tacoma belonging to Thomas Lee Robison of Santa Fe, New Mexico, at Lees Ferry, the launch point used for the majority of paddlers embarking on a Grand Canyon river trip. In a press release, the Park Service published images of Robison, 58, and his 11-year-old Welsh corgi, along with a photo of the homemade wooden raft. Neither have been seen as of this writing on April 29.
Robison and his corgi missing in the Grand Canyon
In an interview with Arizona’s Family (KTVK/KPHO), Grand Canyon National Park Service public affairs officer Joëlle Baird stated Robison did not have a permit to launch on the river. Baird also shared, “This is not a type of watercraft or vessel we would recommend,” in reference to the homemade wooden raft seen in the photo, which appears to be little more than three planks of lumber etched with artistic detail and lashed together with rope.
Along with securing a permit, the Park Service requires all paddlers to carry certain equipment and attend an orientation prior to launching on the river. Other items, including a satellite phone, are recommended by the park. It hasn’t been stated whether it’s believed Robison had any of the required or recommended equipment, or even whether he had adequate technical apparel for the cold water of the Colorado.
In the image, you can see an orange, rectangular Type II life jacket with a single buckle, similar to the type associated with being stowed away on a motorboat. This type of life jacket, while providing ample flotation, does little to stay secure on an individual in the thrashing high-volume rapids of this section of the Colorado River. The Park Service requires paddlers to use a Type I, III or V PFD in the Grand Canyon.
The day Robison’s truck was reported, the Colorado River at Lees Ferry peaked at a volume of 11,400 cubic feet per second (cfs) and has reached over 12,000 cfs each day since—with a water temperature hovering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The river flow is around average if not below its mean flow this time of year.
Difficulties of rescue in the Grand Canyon
Permits, awarded through a lottery, are required to paddle through the Grand Canyon, both as a means of regulating impact in the corridor, as well as allowing the Park Service to monitor who is currently within the remote 280-mile class IV stretch of the Colorado.
The Park Service receives more than 300 rescue calls a year with a third of these being river users. The rugged and remote nature of the Canyon requires most rescues to be made by helicopter.
Up to 10 trips a day launch from Lees Ferry, which amounts to more than 20,000 paddlers a year. The day Robison’s truck was discovered, around 50 people launched. A similar number the day before and in the days since have embarked on the three-week river trip, and yet there has been no sign of the missing man or his dog in the Grand Canyon.
Robison is described as a white male, 5’10” in height and 160 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes.
Anyone who may have seen Thomas Robison are asked to contact Grand Canyon Dispatch at 928-638-7805.
ACA And US Coast Guard Initiative To Boost Kayaker Safety Expands To 7 States
ATLANTA, GA – This year marks a significant expansion of an already successful volunteer-led initiative to offer low-cost kayaking instruction on the Saturday before Memorial Day Weekend. Nationally certified instructor volunteers from the American Canoe Association (ACA) and representatives from the US Coast Guard Auxiliary are joining forces with public lands partners, state agencies, paddling clubs and other local paddlesports leaders to offer 43 simultaneous “Kayaking 101” classes
across seven states on May 18 to kick off National Safe Boating Week. After successful initiatives in Tennessee and North Carolina in 2022 and 2023, this year the ACA partnership will expand to include Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Texas and Missouri. The ACA is the national accrediting body for paddlesports education.
According to the US Coast Guard, 40% of all boaters are engaged in paddlesports. The US saw an estimated 45 million paddlers enjoying kayaking, canoeing and paddle board activities last year. Unfortunately, fatalities are on the increase too, with 26% of all recreational boating fatalities involving paddlers. Kayakers comprise the bulk of paddlesports growth and the majority of paddling fatalities. Surprisingly, accidents happen most often in calm water conditions. Nearly 75% of fatalities involve paddlers with less than 100 hours experience and 35% of those have less than 10 hours experience.
Volunteer organizers of this event are working in collaboration with US Coast Guard and US Coast Guard Auxiliary as a grassroots initiative to change the trajectory of this trend. Specifically, this event aligns with the USCG Strategic Plan for the National Recreational Boating Safety Program (2022-2026): encouraging wear of life jackets; and, employing strategies to address new boaters, including paddlers.
“The US Coast Guard is excited to support “Kayaking 101” as a powerful volunteer-led initiative to share the love of paddlesports and help train newcomers how to do it safely,” said Verne Gifford, Chief, U. S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Division (CG-BSX-2). “It is amazing to see the local ACA instructors, paddling clubs and paddling leaders join forces to address this need in their communities. They saw a chance to make a difference and they stepped up to be part of the solution!”
In April 2024, the National Safe Boating Council recognized this volunteer-led initiative with the 2024 IBWSS Community Impact Award for making such a notable difference with paddling safety in our communities. But in fact, this initiative is winning awards and getting the attention of boating safety specialists everywhere the volunteers take it.
In 2022, ACA Tennessee partnered with Tennessee State Parks and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to offer 12 classes, and was recognized by the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association with the Four Star Innovation Award for Park Programming. In 2023, ACA Tennessee and ACA North Carolina partnered with State Parks and the Wildlife Resource Commissions from both states to offer 24 classes. In 2023, North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation’s Interpretation and Education Council noted this was “likely the single largest education day for kayak safety in North Carolina State Parks’ history.”
“We are thrilled with the success we have seen already as a partner in this initiative, and we are delighted to see the program expand,” said Greer Tidwell, deputy commissioner at the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. “This instruction is an excellent opportunity to learn important safety techniques and make the most of such an enjoyable sport. It is a great way to kick off National Safe Boating Week.”
These classes have demonstrated a remarkable impact on their communities, achieving the following metrics of success in 2023:
- Trained 279 people in one day across 2 states
- 179 volunteers from 46 organizations came together to lead the training
- 36 news stories/earned media was secured reaching 200-500,000 people in the general media market with messages about paddling safety
- 83,000 paddlers reached on social media (conservatively)
- Watch highlights reel from ACA Tennessee 2023 here
“We know that just one day of training can make the difference between setting yourself up for a bad experience that ruins the sport for you versus setting yourself up for a whole lifetime of paddling fun,” said ACA Regional Activity Council Chair and event co-founder, Andrea White.
In each state, the local chapter of ACA partners with a public lands agency to build the foundation for the event and then gathers instructor volunteers and safety boaters, donations for free kayak
rentals and other support from the paddling leaders and stakeholders in those communities.
2024 marks the first time the US Army Corps of Engineers has sponsored the “Kayaking 101” partnership to bring the event to their state.
“We are excited to be able to bring an event of this caliber to Georgia for the benefit of all of the paddlers we see at Allatoona Lake and in other parts of the state,” said Ranger Rusty Simmons, Chief Ranger of Park Operations at Allatoona Lake. “Being able to mobilize this many nationally certified ACA instructors to help beginners is a very powerful way for the community to come together to reinforce safety while we are having fun!”
Participating Marquee Sponsors for this event include:
- American Canoe Association’s Regional Activity Council
- US Coast Guard Auxiliary
- Georgia River Network
- Tennessee State Parks & Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
- North Carolina State Parks and North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
- South Carolina State Parks and South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
- Florida State Parks and Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission
- Missouri State Parks
- US Army Corps of Engineers at Allatoona Lake, GA, Trust for Public Lands/Chattahoochee Riverlands, and Georgia Power Company
Classes cost $15 per person including a free kayak rental for training that often retails for $75-$150. All instructors are local volunteers who are nationally certified by the American Canoe Association to give paddling and rescue training and are supported by experienced paddlesports safety teams.
Each park’s event will be limited to 15 people. In returning states, Tennessee and North Carolina, there are also a few specialized classes for Adaptive Kayaking, Kayak Fishing, and Standup Paddleboard.
Interested parties can register at the registration links provided here for each state. In-person spaces are limited. A free ACA online class is also available; however, in-person training with a certified instructor is strongly encouraged.
These classes are made available by certified instructor volunteers, safety boaters and equipment donations from many organizations coming together to help their fellow paddlers across 6 states. Valued partners joining the American Canoe Association and US Coast Guard Auxiliary in this effort in each state include:
South Carolina: Low Country Paddlers, Augusta Canoe and Kayak Club, America’s Boating Club – Charleston, and Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Commision.
Georgia: Georgia River Network, Georgia Power Company, Trust for Public Lands, Georgia Canoeing Association, The Outdoor Foundation, Savannah Coastal Ecotours, Middle Georgia Kayaking, Miller Kayak Trips and Training, REI Co-op and REI Co-op Experiences, Tennessee Valley Canoe Club, Half Moon Outfitters, Westbrook Supply Co., and Southern Conservation Trust.
Florida: Kaku Kayaks, Tampa Bay Kayak Anglers, Florida Paddling Trails Association, Kayak Adventure Group out of Tampa Bay, St. Augustine Paddle Sports.
Missouri: The Alpine Shop
Texas: Houston Area Sea Kayakers, Texas Outdoor Family
What Tom Petty Taught Me About Kayaking
“I think we can navigate this safely,” one of my friends says. I squint out to sea thinking, “Tom Petty was right.”
On the beach are three loaded sea kayaks. We’re on day six of an 11-day outer West Coast trip and primed for the crux move. Ahead is eight miles of exposed coast, with three jutting points surrounded by shallow reefs, notorious for making gentle swell explode into breaking waves. Then we have to find a narrow slot behind an island before we can take a breather on land. I look at the sea again and shake my head.
What Tom Petty taught me about kayaking
As far as I know, the frontman of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers never sat in a kayak. But now his lyrics echo in my head. We woke to a placid forecast and packed our boats under blue skies and light wind. By the time we were loaded, fog had descended, and we couldn’t see across our small cove. One friend still wants to press on. I don’t. This is where Mr. Petty comes in. He nailed sea kayaking’s biggest dilemma when he wrote, “Waiting is the hardest part.”
The friend who wants to go can’t sit still in the best circumstances, certainly not once his boat is packed and his drysuit is on. My other friend thinks we can do it, but it won’t be fun, and we won’t get to see the cliff-lined coastline and its summer gathering of whales, which is why we came here in the first place. I’m not interested in foggy dead reckoning or squinting at a GPS along a coastline full of boomers in the fog. But the anticipation of movement is still coursing through our veins.
Waiting means wondering. If we wait too long, will the wind come up? What if we get stuck on this beach for days? It seems easier to move, even if it’s foolish, than to sit still and wait for the fog to lift.
All types of paddling take patience
It’s not just in sea kayaking. I’ve felt the same pressure scouting whitewater rapids. Watching the water churn, I fight the urge to hop back in my boat and plunge into my line to get watching, deciding and second-guessing over with. I force myself to methodically assess and apply WORMS (water, obstacles, route, markers, safety) and make sure I’m not missing something. I could get a better run by watching someone else go first, but that means even more waiting with anticipatory adrenaline in my system.
Waiting is even harder and more critical in rock gardens, where timing is everything. Watching a slot to see how it sets up with different swells and getting the timing right can be the difference between a fun run and a tough rescue. But bobbing up and down for those few minutes is mentally taxing.
It’s not just Tom Petty who thinks so. Kate Sweeny, professor of psychology at the University of California Riverside, dissected the stress to find out why waiting is, in fact, the hardest part. In an interview with the American Psychological Association, she said waiting combines two challenging feelings: uncertainty about what will happen and powerlessness from being unable to do anything about the situation and the uncertainty you feel about it.
Sweeny also noted the things we can do while we’re waiting, while useful, can add to the stress.
“Waiting can prompt us to plan out worst-case scenarios and make sure we’re ready for them,” she told the APA. Helpful when not already prepared, but if we are prepared, it can keep us dwelling on what could go wrong, even if we’ve done everything we can. And the longer we have to wait, the worse the worry gets.
“While we’re waiting, our expectations tend to go from very optimistic at the start or before a waiting period, and then plunge into pessimism as time goes on,” says Sweeny. Or, as Petty said with Roy Orbison, George Harrison and Bob Dylan in The Traveling Wilburys, “Every day is Judgment Day.”
What to do when waiting is all that’s left
Sea kayakers are already trained to think in worst-case scenarios. We practice rescues, scour charts for bailout spots and huddle around VHF forecasts. We’ve already done all the planning that needs to be done. Being stuck on the beach wondering what awaits us around the fog-shrouded cape isn’t the same stress as waiting for a biopsy report, but the psychological response is wired the same way.
Since waiting is inevitable, what’s the solution to Tom Petty’s conundrum? According to Sweeny, the best antidote is something kayakers also know well: a flow activity. That’s something mentally absorbing, causing you to block out everything else, including the passage of time. The flow state of surfing a glassy wave or moving with the river is why we paddle. We just need to find one on shore.
So, back to our foggy beach.
I’m in luck because I’m a photographer, and it’s low tide. For me, photography is a flow activity. While my friends try to occupy themselves piling up beach debris, I become absorbed in close-up shots of tidepools. Entranced by close-ups of anemone’s tentacles and hermit crabs, I don’t realize when my friends are waving at me. The fog has cleared. The hardest part is over. It’s time to paddle.
Neil Schulman writes from Portland, Oregon. When Petty’s “The Waiting” was released on the album Hard Promises, Neil was an 11-year-old canoeist.
“Every day you get one more yard, You take it on faith, you take it to the heart, The waiting is the hardest part.” —Tom Petty | Feature photo: Elizabeth Gadd
17 Most Captivating Places To Paddleboard In Québec
The options for places to paddleboard in Québec are virtually endless. From the big waters of the St. Lawrence to gem-like Laurentian lakes, urban waterfronts and crystalline rivers, there’s truly something for everyone. Such a diversity of waters, combined with opportunities to encounter incredible wildlife—including whales, aquatic mammals, birds and more—and the province’s rich culture and unique cuisine, makes paddleboarding in Québec a superlative experience worthy of any traveler’s bucket list.
Here are suggestions for where to paddleboard in Québec, showcasing the many parks and outfitters that make it easy to plan a trip.
1 Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, Laval
Laval’s Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles easily ranks among the best places to paddleboard in Québec. Glide through a peaceful haven of biodiversity, exploring the islands, backwaters and marshes—all part of the largest protected area in Montréal. Several launch sites with SUP rental options are available, including Rue Hubert-Aquin in Boisbriand, Boulevard Sainte-Rose in Laval, 25e Avenue in Saint-Eustache and Rue Charbonneau in Rosemere. KSF is the premier outfitter to help you find great paddling adventures in Montréal, including SUP yoga and surfing.
2 Matapedia River, Bas-Saint-Laurent
The Matapedia is an incredible river that separates Québec’s Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie regions. Its crystalline waters are fringed by lush forests, making it an ideal destination for paddleboarding. Nature Aventure is your go-to outfitter for more information about the Matapedia River and nearby Restigouche River; check them out for rentals and vehicle shuttles for eight- and 10-kilometer-long downriver trips.
- Also in Bas-Saint-Laurent, check out Aventures Archipel in Rimouski to explore Parc National du Bic on the St. Lawrence River
- La Coop Kayaks des Îles offers SUP rentals on the St. Lawrence in Trois-Pistoles
3 Tadoussac, Côte-Nord
Along the St. Lawrence River between Tadoussac and Les Escoumins, paddlers can encounter a multitude of marine mammals in nearshore waters, including fin, blue, minke and humpback whales, and two species of seals. Mer et Monde Écotours offers drive-in campsites, chalets and condos near the water’s edge, as well as SUP rentals and the local knowledge to experience these dynamic waters safely. The outfitter’s launch in Bergeronnes gives you immediate access to the rich biodiversity of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park.
4 Bonaventure River, Gaspésie
Located at the eastern tip of Canada’s mainland, Québec’s Gaspésie region is a world apart in so many ways. The area is renowned for its culture, cuisine and nature; and with plenty of fresh- and saltwater, it easily ranks amongst the best places to paddleboard in Québec. The Bonaventure River features incredible crystalline waters and steep, scenic shores. Rent a paddleboard from Cime Aventures for a downriver day trip and camp at the outfitter’s outdoor resort.
- Based in the small community of Carleton-sur-mer, Écovoile Baie-des-Chaleurs rents paddleboards on the southern coast of the Gaspé Peninsula, where you can explore the relatively warm, sheltered waters of the Baie-des-Chaleurs
- Cap Aventure offers paddleboard rentals and guided tours on the coast in Forillon National Park, where you may see whales and a variety of marine life
- Check out Camp de Base Gaspésie to rent a board to paddle stunning beaches and see the iconic Roche Percé formation. Three-hour rentals and sunset guided tours are available. The company also offers accommodations, a restaurant and a spa.
5 Parc régional Montagne du Diable, Laurentians
Juna Académie is your gateway to discovering yoga and paddleboarding Québec’s Parc régional Montagne du Diable, in the Laurentian region, three hours north of Montréal. The company offers SUP yoga classes on scenic Laurentian lakes, as well as comprehensive yoga instructor training. Montagne du Diable is a fantastic destination for multisport outdoor adventures, with camping, lean-to and tiny home rentals available on Windigo Lake, and paddleboards to rent at Le Village des Bâtisseurs.
- Elsewhere in the Laurentians, Parc régional du Poisson Blanc is your gateway to explore Lac Poisson Blanc, near Notre-Dame-du-Laus, about 90 minutes north of Ottawa. From the launch site at the north end of the lake, experienced paddleboarders can set off on overnight wilderness trips. Be sure to reserve your island campsite in advance of departure.
6 Parc Nature Éco-Odyssée, Outaouais
Between the jewel-like lakes of Gatineau Park, the Gatineau River and so much more, the Outaouais region is hard to beat for paddleboarders in Québec. Check out the wetland maze at Parc Nature Éco-Odyssée for a truly unique paddleboarding experience. The company rents SUPs so you can explore five kilometers of “water labyrinth,” about 30 minutes north of Ottawa, near the picturesque community of Wakefield.
- CarpeDiem Aventures offers distinctive accommodations and paddleboard rentals on Lac Blue Sea, an aptly named expanse of freshwater located about an hour north of Ottawa
- There’s plenty of paddling in Gatineau Park, including Lac Philippe and Lac la Pêche. Start your adventure by renting a paddleboard from Nomades du Parc.
7 Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, Lanaudière
Lac Archambault is an absolute jewel on the doorstep of Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, located about two hours north of Montréal in the Lanaudière region. The quaint community of Saint-Donat is your gateway to paddleboarding on Lac Archambault. Take a guided day trip, sign up for a lesson or try SUP yoga with Time’sup Aventures.
8 Parc des Appalaches, Chaudière-Appalaches
This hidden gem on the south side of the St. Lawrence in the Chaudière-Appalaches region, 150 kilometers east of Québec City, features mountains, rivers, lakes and verdant hardwood forests. You can rent a SUP at the Parc des Appalaches office in Sainte-Lucie-de-Beauregard. The main attraction for paddleboarding is a 14-kilometer flatwater journey on the Rivière Noire Nord-Ouest, starting from Lac-Frontière. This river was once used by log drivers and has since been reclaimed by loons, ducks and many aquatic mammals, making it a great choice for paddlers looking for close encounters with nature.
9 Ville-Marie, Abitibi-Témiscamingue
With vast forests and countless rivers and lakes, Abitibi-Témiscamingue is a fantastic place to encounter true wilderness on a paddleboard in Québec. Ville-Marie is your gateway to explore the elongated lakes at the headwaters of the Ottawa River, including Lake Temiskaming’s east shore, ZEC Kipawa and more. La Coop de l’Arrière-Pays offers SUP rentals and all the local knowledge you need to check out this vast region for yourself.
10 Saguenay Fjord, Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
The Rivière Saguenay flows like a liquid conveyor belt through a rocky gauntlet from Lac Saint-Jean to the St. Lawrence River at Tadoussac. Spectacular scenery, along with the opportunity to see beluga and minke whales, makes the Saguenay Fjord one of the best places to go paddleboarding in Québec. There are plenty of options for experienced paddlers. One suggestion for a day trip is to launch at L’Anse-de-Roche and ride the incoming tide upstream along the fjord’s steep granite walls. You can also plan an overnight backcountry SUP camping trip in Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park. Check out these local outfitters to make your dream a reality:
- Fjord en Kayak offers hourly paddleboard rentals to get out on the water in L’Anse-Saint-Jean
- H20 Expédition provides SUP rentals in Lac Saint-Jean
- Équinox Aventure in Alma provides SUP rentals and training, as well as a unique self-guided package where you paddle to a remote floating cabin for an overnight stay
11 Rivière Croche, Mauricie
Countless rivers spill out of the Laurentian Mountains in Québec’s Mauricie region, north of Trois-Rivières. Among them, the Rivière Croche in the Haute-Mauricie region offers a peaceful downriver paddleboard day trip with stunning natural surroundings and plenty of fine-sand beaches for a picnic lunch. Méandre is based in the town of La Croche, and offers paddleboard rentals as well as accommodations.
12 Lac-Beauport, Québec City
Paddleboarding with La Plage Québec is a perfect way to blend cultural and urban experiences in Québec City with a beautiful day on the water. The company offers plenty of experiences from its base on Lac-Beauport, as well as the St. Lawrence River and other local waterways, ranging from SUP rentals to water-based yoga, day trips and more.
- Experience a quintessential Québec chalet and paddleboard to your heart’s desire with a retreat at Au Chalet en Bois Rond, located in Portneuf, about 45 minutes from Québec City
- Check out Õ Pagaie for a gourmet paddleboarding adventure in Portneuf. The Floating Dinette tour allows you to SUP Lake Sept-Îles before having a picnic on shore, while the Gourmet Morning sees you heading out wit ha tasty sweet and sour snack. The SUP & Werewolf experience is a moonlit paddle followed by indulging in yummy treats by the fire.
13 Baie-Saint-Paul, Charlevoix
Québec’s Charlevoix region has a distinctive “sea to sky” feeling, marked by the intersection of the rich waters of the St. Lawrence River and soaring, forest-clad mountains. It’s hard to beat the Baie-Saint-Paul area for paddleboarding in Québec. Katabatik specializes in year-round outdoor activities in Charlevoix, including paddleboard rentals so you can get out on the water for an adventure. You can launch from the historic wharf at Baie-Saint-Paul or check out the stunning sand beaches of nearby Saint-Irénée.
14 Lac-Saint-Louis, Montérégie
Lac-Saint-Louis in the Montérégie region marks the junction of the Ottawa and St. Lawrence rivers, with plenty of diverse shoreline features to explore by paddleboard. This body of water is renowned for its incredible sunsets and revered amongst naturalists for its excellent bird habitats. Love Sup Shop in Châteauguay is your go-to source for paddleboard adventures in this great destination.
- Prefer smaller water? Contact Kayak Safari for more information to plan a day trip on Rivière Châteauguay and Rivière-à-la-Truite, about an hour’s drive southwest of Montréal.
15 Lac-Mégantic, Eastern Townships
From its base on the east shore of Lac-Mégantic in the town of Frontenac, Surf Évasion provides a unique way to paddleboard in Québec with jetboard rentals. These electric surfboards allow you to effortlessly skim over the surface of Lac-Mégantic, discovering the magical sensation of carving surf turns, with or without waves. Warning: the feeling is thrilling and addictive!
16 Pointe-Claire, Montréal
One glimpse of a map reveals that Montréal is surrounded by water, and as a result it’s hard to find a better place to be a paddleboarder. Pointe-Claire on the West Island of Montréal is a favorite destination with good options for families, naturalists and sunset-seekers, as well as fitness paddlers. Rent a SUP from Locapaq and launch from Lakeshore Road. POP Spirit offers guided paddleboard outings, yoga and Paddle Canada-certified lessons in Pointe-Claire.
- Guepe offers a huge range of outdoor educational tours as well as paddleboard rentals in Montréal
- For an urban paddleboard adventure, rent a SUP from Aventures H2O near the Atwater Market and explore Montréal’s historic Lachine Canal
17 Parc de Gros-Cap, Îles-de-la-Madeleines
Québec’s Îles-de-la-Madeleines is a renowned destination for watersports enthusiasts. Paddleboarders can get a taste of this remote archipelago far off the coast of Gaspésie, north of Prince Edward Island, by exploring the Gulf of St. Lawrence at Parc de Gros-Cap. Here you’ll find a stunning campground by the sea and plenty of opportunities to view the picturesque Madeleines from offshore, atop your SUP.
- CindyHook Sports Aventures offers SUP rentals and guided paddleboard excursions along the Madeleines’ ocean-scoured coastline
- Besides catering to kite sport enthusiasts, Aérosport les Iles also offers paddleboard rentals in the Madeleines
To dive into Québec’s wild beauty and experience thrilling paddling and outdoor escapes, visit Québec Adventure Outdoor‘s website.
Feature photo: courtesy of Québec Adventure Outdoor (c)Parc-Nature Éco-Odyssée
