Rapid Media is pleased to announce the winners of the seventh annual Paddling Magazine Industry Awards. 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 17,500 voters who cast their support for the best in paddlesports innovation and excellence.
- Best Sea/Touring Kayak: Kaholo 125 by NRS
- Best Recreational Kayak: Ace by Mocean Kayaks and Canoes
- Best Whitewater Boat: Antix 3.0 by Jackson Kayak
- Best SUP: SOLrey With Switchblade Retractable Fin System by SOL Paddle Boards
- Best Canoe: Avalon by Esquif
- Best Paddle: Pack-Tour M by Werner Paddles
- Best Paddling Gear/Accessory: SlackSeat by SlackSeat
- Best Paddling Transport/Storage: MicroSport Overland Trailer by Malone Auto Racks
- Best Fishing Kayak: Smallie by Crescent Kayaks
- Best Fishing Gear/Accessory: Angler Pro Posi-Lok by Bending Branches
- Best Fishing Transport/Storage: Overland Angler Trailer by Malone Auto Racks
Best Sea/Touring Kayak
Kaholo 125 by NRS
Set course for open-water freedom. Explore the distant shoreline, weave through island chains or claim that elusive paddle-in campsite with the Kaholo 125. Ample storage space and a customizable cockpit give paddlers versatility, whether loading up for an overnight epic or simply cruising the lake. Wherever the current takes you, the Kaholo is an efficient, comfortable inflatable touring kayak that’s as durable as it is lightweight. Available in three sizes: 110, 125 and the tandem 145.
Best Recreational Kayak
Ace by Mocean Kayaks and Canoes
Adventure starts with the 12-foot Mocean Ace. Lightweight at just 42 pounds, it’s easy to carry yet built tough for any water. Stable without sacrificing speed, the Ace is perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. Enjoy all-day comfort with adjustable foot pedals and a custom-formed seat, plus space for gear in two large hatches, deck bungees, gear tracks and a paddle clip. Wherever you’re headed, the Ace is ready to launch your adventure.
Best Whitewater Boat
Antix 3.0 by Jackson Kayak
The Antix 3.0 revolutionizes half-slice design with higher-floating bow geometry, integrated Rockstar V double rails, and optimized planing surfaces. Strategic volume distribution enables effortless vertical moves while enhanced buoyancy provides confident downriver performance. From beginner surfs to expert playboating, this “one boat to rule them all” delivers versatility across all whitewater disciplines through precision-engineered innovation.
Best SUP
SOLrey With Switchblade Retractable Fin System by SOL Paddle Boards
The SOLrey is the most versatile all-around paddleboard on the market. Whether you’re charging through whitewater rapids or cruising on serene flat water, the SOLrey is ready to take on any adventure you throw its way. Equipped with SOL’s Switchblade Retractable Fin System, the fin naturally rests in a fully extended position by gravity, then retracts when it hits any obstacle. It’s built to carry paddlers of all sizes and has plenty of room for extra passengers or your four-legged friend.
Best Canoe
Avalon by Esquif
A perfect canoe for the cottage, the Avalon is extremely quick, light and easy to maneuver. It is built for those paddlers who occasionally face rapids. Its design ensures straight tracking and allows for excellent glide between paddle strokes. Features two standard web seats and comfortable contoured yoke. Now available in T-Formex Lite and weighs just 55 pounds.
Best Paddle
Pack-Tour M by Werner Paddles
Werner’s breakthrough Canyon graphic captures the stunning perspective of floating through narrow canyons, gazing skyward. This four-piece packraft paddle breaks down for easy stowage when transitioning from river to foot. The field-adjustable shaft adapts to conditions on-the-go. Handcrafted in Tennessee, combining bold artistry with innovative function, setting the standard for packraft paddles.
Best Paddling Gear/Accessory
SlackSeat by SlackSeat
SlackSeat is a fresh solution to the age-old challenge of kneeling in a canoe: it hurts. SlackSeat allows the solo paddler to comfortably kneel in the canoe while maintaining a low center of gravity. The adjustable cam buckle system provides natural shifts in paddling positions, so you can paddle the way you want, without sacrificing your knees and ankles. A portable solution for style paddlers and trippers who want to vary their paddling positions, SlackSeat doubles as a center seat.
Best Paddling Transport/Storage
MicroSport Overland Trailer by Malone Auto Racks
Malone is introducing a series of trailers that allow you to carry your rooftop tent, along with other gear like kayaks and bikes on the trailer platform. Key advantages of the trailer versus the cartop are the ability to use your vehicle without breaking camp and ease of entry and exit as you are closer to the ground. Perfect for solo or family camping.
Best Fishing Kayak
Smallie by Crescent Kayaks
Crescent returns to the origin of kayak fishing while integrating next-gen features. The Smallie combines portability with exceptional performance. Built for anglers, it features motor-ready platforms, plus smart management systems for rods, tackle and electronics, which bring innovation to this lightweight class. This modern day throw-and-go kayak is lightweight enough to easily access all waterways and performs brilliantly whether paddling or powering.
Best Fishing Gear/Accessory
Angler Pro Posi-Lok by Bending Branches
The Angler Pro, now with Lam-Lok edge protection in the Bruiser pattern and new Posi-Lok ferrule, is an ultimate kayak fishing paddle. Compression-molded fiberglass blades deliver smooth, flutter-free strokes with long-haul durability. At just 30 ounces, it’s lightweight yet powerful—built for big water, wide kayaks and serious anglers. Handcrafted in Osceola, Wisconsin, by paddlers and for paddlers.
Best Fishing Storage/Transport
Overland Angler Trailer by Malone Auto Racks
Malone is introducing a series of trailers that allow you to carry your rooftop tent, along with kayaks and fishing gear on the trailer platform. Key advantages of the trailer versus the cartop are the ability to use your vehicle without breaking camp and ease of entry and exit as you are closer to the ground. This trailer is configured with two bunk kits, a diamond plate storage drawer, and a wet storage gear basket. Tent not included.
Congratulations to all the 2026 Paddling Magazine & Kayak Angler 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 Magazine & Kayak Angler Industry Awards and the Paddling Film Festival. Rapid Media celebrated its 26th anniversary in 2025.
I just wanted to leave a thought with the team.
The Dilution of the term SEA Kayak needs to be halted so paddlers will identify a Sea Kayak with long boats on the roof and NOT a 12 foot inflatable.
The novice is easily confused and so aiding and abetting the down turn of higher respect for Sea Kayaks should be a priority.
Historically there would only be 10 percent short recreational boats out there, now there is only 10% long boats given the reduction of private kayak retail shops.
Time to change that trajectory.
Regards
Mark Hall 🙂