What do I need?
Getting started as a paddler can be a bit daunting, but there are a few basic pieces of equipment every paddler should have or may need.
Required gear and reliable brands
PFD - NRS, Stohlquist, Astral, Kokatat
Helmet - NRS, Shred Ready, Sweet Protection, WRSI
Paddle - Werner or Adventure Technology
Skirt - Immersion Research, Snap Dragon, Seals
Boat - Dagger, Liquid Logic, Pyrahna, Jackson
Equipment Reviews & Comparisons
Need help choosing equipment? Check out these resources before you buy!
Aquabatics - Gear Reviews
Headwaters Kayak - Gear Reviews
Paddling Magazine Video Gear Reviews
Used Gear
Highwater Hobbies - WV
Ohio Kayak Buy/Sell/Trade (Facebook Group)
OHIO KAYAK, SUP, CANOE Garage Sale (Facebook Group)
Paddle 4 Less (Facebook Group)
West Pennsylginia White Water Gear Swap (Facebook Group)
Whitewater Gear For Sale (Facebook Group)
Retailers & Manufacturers
Backpackers Shop - OH
Highwater Hobbies - WV
RiverSport - PA
Rocky Mountain Kayak - PA
Whitewater Warehouse - OH
Wiegel on the Water - PA
Wilderness Voyageurs - PA
“Is that it?!” you ask, but the answer is actually NO! Depending on the types of paddling you plan to do, you may need other equipment in the future including:
Anchor
Knife
Tow-Rope
Sponge
GPS/Maps
Compass
Nose Clips
Emergency Flares
Float Bags
Bilge pump
Dry (or semi-dry) suit
Wet suit
Throw Bag
Whistle
Paddle Float
Paddle Shoes
Gloves/Pogies