In today’s newsletter, we’re highlighting the tested and true paddling gear that stands the test of time, breaking down how to master the C stroke for better control on the water, and exploring why sea kayakers deserve their own Triple Crown, and plenty more to inspire your next adventure. — Paddling Magazine Newsletter Editors

Tested And True Paddling Gear, Because If It Isn’t Broken Why Fix It

Every year, new paddling gear hits the market with bells and whistles, but the best gear lies in classic designs proven season after season.

NRS Tuff Sack

If you’ve ever been on a guided trip or worked for an outfitter, you’re likely familiar with the sturdy little number that is the NRS Tuff Sack.

Cooke Custom Sewing Portage Packs

For classic packs from a small and local business, Cooke Custom Sewing has been making the same packs for years on years with few modifications.

Mustang Survival Khimera PFD

Mustang Survival’s Khimera Dual Flotation PFD is one of the most unique, low-profile and popular PFDs on the market.

Kokatat Meridian Drysuit

The Kokatat Meridian is a popular drysuit with a dropseat that’s been in use for generations.

Stellar Kayaks USA
3rd Generation S16 Touring Kayak

Retaining many features of the S16 G2, the S16 G3 continues to evolve. One centimeter more beam increases stability, and a deeper keel improves tracking without the rudder. Slender ends retain the efficiency of this hull while keeping its stability.

The Story Of Kayaking’s Big Wave Progression (Video)

Each spring, a flock of whitewater athletes migrate to the rivers of Eastern Canada, in pursuit of the massive water flooding Ontario and Quebec as snow and ice thaw. What started as an unofficial gathering has morphed into an annual expectation known as the Stakeout. Dane Jackson's short film, Stakeout is an ode to what the world's elite big wave kayakers await in anticipation each spring.

Why Sea Kayakers Deserve Their Own Triple Crown

These three epic routes could redefine sea kayaking as the next great long-distance challenge.

Learn The C Stroke

The handy technique to track straight and make swift onside turns

The canoe C stroke is a good start-up stroke for soloists to get their craft moving forward in a straight line. It’s so-named because it’s a combination in which a bow draw, forward stroke and J stroke come together so the path the canoe paddle travels resembles the letter C.

How To Buy The Best Paddleboard For You

There is more to SUP design than meets the eye. Read on to find the right board for you.

Greatest Whitewater Descents Of The Century (So Far)

The Amazon (2013)

As co-owner of Small World Adventures, Darcy Gaechter leads kayaking trips throughout Ecuador and the world. However, her most challenging expedition came in 2013, when she kayaked the 4,300-mile Amazon River, from its source to the Atlantic Ocean, becoming the first woman to do so. The expedition built on previous descents by Piotr Chmielinski and Joe Kane (1987), West Hansen (2012) and Rocky Contos (2012), who championed the Rio Mantaro as its new source.…

Get Paddling Magazine In Print

There’s nothing like flipping through a beautifully printed issue with a coffee in hand and your next adventure on your mind. Upgrade to a print subscription and get expert tips, unforgettable expeditions and in-depth gear reviews delivered straight to your door for just $20 per year.

Keep Reading