Rapid Media is pleased to announce the winners of the sixth annual Paddling Magazine Industry Awards, presented by the Safer Paddling Campaign. These awards recognize significant and innovative achievements in the development of products introduced to the paddlesports market this year.
The Paddling Magazine Industry Awards categories represent every aspect of the sport across all disciplines. The awards present brands with the outstanding opportunity to introduce new products to the largest audience of paddling enthusiasts and the industry.
Congratulations to this year’s winners, chosen by over 22,000 voters who cast their support for the best in paddlesports innovation and excellence.
- Best Sea/Touring Kayak: Composite Virgo by P&H Sea Kayaks
- Best Recreational Kayak: Inlet Sport by Oru Kayak
- Best Whitewater Boat: ReactR by Pyranha
- Best Fishing Kayak: XTR130 by Bonafide Fishing
- Best Canoe: Prospector 14 Solo by Nova Craft Canoe
- Best SUP: Cubera 125 Lite by Vibe Kayaks
- Best Paddle: Ultralight Tetra by Aqua Bound
- Best Safety & Rescue: Indus by Astral
- Best Clothing/Apparel: Loki Dry Suit by Level Six
- Best Rigging & Outfitting: NK180PRO Kayak Motor by Newport
- Best Paddling Accessory: Photic Knife by NRS
- Best Fishing Gear/Accessory: RotoGrip Phone Holder Pro by YakAttack
Best Sea/Touring Kayak
Composite Virgo by P&H Sea Kayaks
P&H’s best-selling sea kayak is now available in composite. The Composite Virgo takes P&H’s best-seller of the last three years running and makes it even better; more responsive on the water, more efficient, and weighing as little as 35 pounds (16 kilograms), meaning it’s an easy choice for anyone who wants to upgrade from a plastic Virgo, or jump straight into composite in a design they can be sure of.
Best Recreational Kayak
Inlet Sport by Oru Kayak
The Inlet Sport is taking all of best components of the bigger Beach LT Sport kayak and adding some too. The only Inlet model that is compatible with Oru Kayak’s skeg and a sleek black-on-black colorway. Pair that with the rail track and gel cushion and you are set for long day on the water. At just 23 pounds and a compact size, you can take the Inlet Sport on your next big adventure with ease.
Best Whitewater Boat
ReactR by Pyranha
In the design of the ReactR, Pyranha spent significant time developing an entirely new style of hull, with a perfectly positioned pivot point and two planing surfaces, one in front and another behind, which the paddler can switch between with ease. This means the boat is stable both when landing a drop on the bow and when planing out of features on the tail. You want that skip and Pyranha delivers.
Best Fishing Kayak
XTR130 by Bonafide Fishing
The XTR130 combines kayak agility with bass boat features, it offers an open deck design, elevated platform and walkable deck for optimal fishing. Fully customizable with PowerLink ports for easy rigging, multiple motor configurations and battery storage options. It include a comfortable swivel seat, optional tandem seating and extensive gear tracks. The XTR130 delivers power, electronics integration, versatility, ample space, exceptional stability and meticulous fishing-focused design.
Best Canoe
Prospector 14 Solo by Nova Craft Canoe
Nova Craft’s most multipurpose solo model yet, this scaled-down version of the brand’s best-selling Prospector design is best suited for independent backcountry adventurers. Featuring a symmetrical hull with moderate rocker for responsive performance, the Prospector 14 Solo is more efficient on flatwater than its tandem counterparts, while maintaining the capacity you expect from a Prospector. For backcountry tripping, Nova Craft recommends adding its new removeable yoke option for ease of use on the portage trail. Available in a full range of composite materials.
Best SUP
Cubera 125 Lite by Vibe Kayaks
The Cubera 125 Lite is the latest inflatable standup paddleboard blending durability, stability and customization. At 12.5 feet long, it’s ideal for adventures with a child or dog up front. Tailored for adventurers with compact vehicles or limited storage, its storage bag accommodates all components and rolls for convenient transport. The package includes the Vibe Switchback Seat, a four-piece Roamer Hybrid Paddle, a paddle leash, a removable fin, a patch kit, and a high-pressure pump.
Best Paddle
Ultralight Tetra by Aqua Bound
Unbelievably lightweight and surprisingly durable. Aqua Bound’s premium, ultralight touring paddle maximizes weight reduction and durability with a full foam core and patent-pending Lam-Lok technology, protecting blade edges and dramatically extending the life of the paddle. Choose the Posi-Lok ferrule for smooth offset angle adjustments or Versa-Lok adjustable length ferrule (10 centimeters) to size more paddlers and conditions. The Tetra surpasses offers excellent construction and price.
Best Safety & Rescue
Indus by Astral
With 22 pounds of flotation sculpted into Astral’s industry-leading FoamTectonics architecture, the Indus is the world’s first freestyle-inspired high float life jacket. That’s a 33 percent increase in flotation over the legendary GreenJacket for those drawn to big water.
Best Clothing/Apparel
Loki Dry Suit by Level Six
The Loki is the world’s first PFAS-free and recycled drysuit. This is a groundbreaking shift in the industry, leaving behind toxic chemicals that negatively affect the world. It is also a latex and neoprene-free version of the Cronos. For those with latex and/or neoprene allergies or those seeking comfort this drysuit is for you. Featuring adjustable PU-coated Lycra gaskets, this suit’s adjustable closures make it perfect for your next long canoe or SUP adventure.
Best Rigging & Outfitting
NK180PRO Kayak Motor by Newport
Introducing the upgraded NK180PRO, meticulously designed to set a new standard for your angling pursuits. Navigate quickly and effortlessly to your favorite fishing spots, experiencing remarkable performance, silence and efficiency through the entire throttle range. Immerse yourself in the NK180PRO’s 16 percent increase in speed, 25 percent decrease in noise, 25 percent increase in efficiency and an upgraded IP67-rated throttle controller.
Best Paddling Accessory
Photic Knife by NRS
An everyday carry knife that can go where you go, from pocket to PFD, Europe to Canada, the NRS Photic Knife adapts the versatile fan-favorite features of the Pilot Access to a smaller, easier-to-carry and stow design you can still open with one hand or when wearing gloves. Features a stainless steel blade for use in freshwater, four-position carry clip, liner-lock blade locking technology, and textured all-weather G10 handle.
Best Fishing Gear/Accessory
RotoGrip Phone Holder Pro by YakAttack
The YakAttack RotoGrip Phone Holder Pro boasts a revolutionary design that elevates functionality, security, and easy one-handed operation. Featuring a one-inch ball for easy positioning and YakAttack’s LockNLoad track base for endless adjustment possibilities. Secure your phone in place with adjustable arms and YakAttack’s RotoGrip rubber wheels, ensuring a snug fit for all modern smartphones. Complete with a steel cable tether for added security, the RotoGrip is the perfect companion for your aquatic adventures.
Congratulations to all the 2025 Paddling Magazine Industry Award winners!
About Paddling Magazine
Paddling Magazine is the flagship title of Rapid Media, the world’s largest paddlesports media company. Rapid Media’s mission is to inspire and empower paddlers by leading as the sport’s definitive advocate and resource. Alongside Paddling Magazine, the brand produces Kayak Angler, Paddling Business, the Paddling Industry Awards and the Paddling Film Festival. Rapid Media celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2023.
