Here’s a run down of a few of the things that kayakers, canoeists and SUP paddlers may like as a pressie from Father Christmas. All could be useful and all are items that I either own or have tested.
I am assuming that other large bits of kit are already on the list!
Present Ideas for Paddlers
GoPro
The GoPro range is pretty much what most paddlers would be after if they were in the market for a POV action camera. More cash = more features but the GoPro Hero 3 White and GoPro Silver 3+ cover the majority of bases and have the best middle ground of features.
The world is full of GoPro accessories. Some good, some not so good (or even that useful!). Below are a few of the accessories that I would have no hesitation in buying again.
Books
Canoe & Kayak Guide to North West England: 2nd edition of White Water Lake District
Kayaking Manual: The essential guide to all kinds of Kayaking
The Complete Guide to Rope Techniques
Basic Rope Skills For Climbers
Kayak – the New Frontier: The Animated Manual of Intermediate and Advanced Whitewater Technique
Scottish White Water: The SCA Guidebook (Scottish Canoe Association)
English White Water: The British Canoe Union Guidebook (Bcu Guidebook)
Climbing Self Rescue: Improvising Solutions for Serious Situations (Mountaineers Outdoor Expert)
DVD
White Water Safety Movie form Eddyline Films
Warm Gear
A great deal of paddling time is spent in cold (and wet) environments. Keeping warm and dry makes the whole experience far more enjoyable.
One the hardest areas to keep warm are your hands. Paddle Mitts (aka Pogies) are a great way of keeping hands warm even when wet.
Booicore produce a great full length changing hoodie for want of a better a description. Great for keeping your modesty intact.
Thermals are key for any boater. Wet and warm is fine, wet and cold is pretty miserable. You can go for wool, synthetic or a blend of the two.
Helly Hansen Lifa Dry Stripe Crew (Men’s) – Long Sleeve
Helly Hansen Lifa Dry Stripe Crew (Women’s) – Long Sleeve
Helly Hansen Lifa Dry Stripe – Short Sleeve
Sub Zero Factor 1 Top – Long Sleeve
Icebreaker Anatomica Crew (Men’s) – Long Sleeve
Palm Malalu Rash Vest (Womens)
Storage
Exped Waterproof Fold Drybag – Clearsight (4 pack)
Safety Gear
Having a small LED light is always a great idea. Keep it in the car or even better in your PFD or boat.
Fenix E12 – 130 Lumen LED torch
DMM Boa HMS Screwgate Carabiner
DMM Dyneema Sewn Slings, 240 Centimetres
HF Safety Equipment – Weasel 18M Throwbag [Red]
HF Safety Equipment – Rescue Pro Compact Alpin 20M Throw Bag – Safety Line
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