The halls were buzzing on opening day of the 2015 Canoecopia Show, presented by Rutabaga Paddlesports. The first paddling show for many in the US, Canoecopia was filled with spectators looking to buy new boats for the season, getting caught up on the latest trends in the world of paddling and canoeing and talking with old friends they were worried about over the long winter. Check out the latest offerings of gear that are sure to start a frenzy once spring hits your local waters:
Nova Craft Canoe
When Nova Craft Canoe released a video of a brutal beatdown of their new material TuffStuff, many were convinced, including me. I couldn’t wait to check out the new boats made from the new material and they didn’t disappoint. Available in any of the composite boats in the Nova Craft lineup, the TuffStuff boats have a large array of benefits over simliar materials, like Royalex. The boats made from the material are stiffer, thus making them perform better on the water and are also lighter, making portages easier. Stay tuned for a full review of the new material from a future issue of Canoeroots, coming soon!
Personally Outdoors
Who doesn’t love a beautiful work of art to hang on their wall, especially if it’s made from a canoe paddle. Personally Outdoors makes beautiful, custom paddles that can be based off a photo that you send in. The decorative, handmade paddles are hand-decorated using a wood burning pen off of the design that you choose with the company. The price depends on how intricate your design is, but the average price of a paddle will run you $1,500. The paddles are available on three different styles of paddle stands and special memorial paddles, with a matching urn are also available.
For more information about Canoecopia, or Rutabaga Paddlesports, check out canoecopia.com.
