Words By:Simon Coward
Money can’t buy happiness…but money can buy kayaking gear, which is almost the same thing! What better way to spread holiday cheer than by giving the gift of happiness to all your paddling partners. Although it may not be prime paddling season, there’s no harm in being prepared and stoked for the upcoming season. Here is a guide to help you find the perfect gift for all the paddlers in your life.
THE BEGINNERS
Has kayaking been something your friends and/or family have talked about getting into for years? Well now’s the time! Make things happen and help your loved ones get into this great sport.
1. NRS VAPOR PFD
This is the perfect PFD for the beginner paddler. Its low-profile, allows for full range of motion in the shoulders, it’s comfortable, and it has a pocket. What more could one ask for?!
$94.95 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
2. LEVEL SIX WOMENS MANITOU PADDLING JACKET
Make paddling warmer and more enjoyable for your friends by giving them the gift of this jacket. With a loose fit in the shoulders, this paddling specific jacket will be comfortable for long days on the water and allows you to wear as many layers as needed underneath.
$159.95 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
3. AQUABATICS COURSES
What better gift to give than and introduction to kayaking. With highly trained instructors, top-quality gear, and endless bodies of water to choose from, this is one of the safest, most convenient ways to get introduced to the sport.
$69.00 - $600.00 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
4. LEVEL SIX BOATER KIT
Safety first! This inclusive kit has all the necessary requirements according to Transport Canada in order to keep you safe out on the water. A must-have for any beginner!
$27.99 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
THE INTERMEDIATES
Do your loved ones have a season or two of paddling under their belts? If so, chances are there’s lots of new gear and/or gear that they want to upgrade!
1. DRY TOPS
A special something for a special someone. Kokatat, NRS, Sweet and IR dry tops will keep you warm and dry in any weather condition. With layering up underneath this top, you’re keen friends will be able to paddle in any weather conditions.
$349.95 - $649.95 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
2. NORTHWATER TURTLEBACK DECK BAG
This deck bag makes gear, snacks, maps, etc. easily accessible and keeps everything dry. A great addition to any paddlers gear inventory.
$79.97 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
3. THULE GLIDE & SET KAYAK CARRIER
Make things simple and give your friends this roof rack attachment. Not only is it better for the kayak to be transported in a carrier like this but it is also easier to load and tie it up on the roof.
$289.99 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW (note, this will take you to our Roof Racks Calgary Website)
4. NRS MAVERICK GLOVES
Help your paddling partners extend their season with these warm gloves. Their grip on the inside ensures a firm grip on the paddle and the titanium outer layer ensures minimal water gets in.
$64.95 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
THE PROS
Are your friends/family obsessed with kayaking? Then here are a few ideas to feed their obsession and make them like you even more.
1. WERNER PADDLES
Lighter. Faster. Stronger. The best paddles for your best friends. Werner makes a variety of paddles from straight shaft to bent shaft, fibreglass to carbon fibre, and any custom length, blade size, and blade offset you could want.
$384.95 - $799.95 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
2. KOKATAT POSEIDON PFD
This is the ultimate sea kayak PFD that can be personally accessorized with belly pockets, hydration packs, quick release belts, and more.
$219.95 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
3. NORTHWATER PADDLE FLOAT
This is a must-have accessory for advanced sea-kayakers. This reliable paddle float will help with deep-water rescues in any condition.
$75.95 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
4. AQUABOUND BILGEMASTER PUMP
A nice complement to the paddle float, this bilge pump is a necessity for advanced sea-kayakers to help with rescue scenarios.
$49.95 + GST – CLICK HERE TO VIEW
Best of luck with all your christmas shopping! If you have any questions about these or other products we have we would love to hear from you. You can get a hold of us by email at paddler@aquabatics.com or by phone at (403) 288 9283.
WE OFFER FREE SHIPPING ON REGULAR SIZED ITEMS OVER $75 ALL ACROSS CANADA
Happy Holidays
From the Aquabatics Team
You can also check out gift buyers guides for SUP HERE and WHITEWATER HERE