I thought I’d start a holiday gift guide for the canoe gear. You can refer your significant others to this list so they know what to get you for the holidays.
The first item is something every paddler needs. It’s also my favorite new piece of kit. The Werner Bandit Carbon Paddle. I’ve got a review started here.
Werner Bandit Carbon Canoe Paddle – $190.00
The Bandit is Werner’s aggressive spooned canoe paddle for technical river runners and slalom canoeists. The spooned power face and sharp symmetrical blade have a powerful catch and immediate responsiveness. Fiberglass shaft with oval index adds comfort and control.
The next item is a new PFD. Most of us have old worn out PFDs that probably don’t float as well as they should.
Astral Greenjacket Life Jacket (PFD) $209.95
The Greenjacket™ introduces a new level of comfort and fit into the world of whitewater rescue. Making a perfect PFD for any rescue, guiding or expedition setting.
Next on the list is an NRS throw bag. When your buddy decides to take a swim then quickly changes his mind it’s nice to throw him a rope.
NRS Pro Rescue Throw Bag (75ft) – $84.49
Made of highly visible and durable Cordura®, NRS throw bags quickly secure to D-rings, boat frames or canoe thwarts with quick-release 1″ straps. Internal flotation and floating rescue rope keep our Rescue Bags on top of the water, while polyethylene sheathed grab loops make for easy grasping. 2″ mesh panel for better drainage and reduced dry time. Barrel-lock drawstring incorporated in a flared nylon top for smoother throws, plus easy reloading and closure. Pro models include 1″ reflective tape for increased visibility.
Most paddlers have plenty of Sea-Line bags laying around. What they really need to keep their camera and other electronics safe is a Pelican Case
Pelican 1300 Dry Box – $69.97
The best waterproof, dustproof, and airtight case on the market today. Pluck-N-Fit foam lets you make a custom fit for your precious cargo.
You don’t want your paddler to get cold if they fall out of the boat. A nice wetsuit will help keep them warm when they miss that low brace.
NRS Ultra Farmer John Wetsuit – $114.49
We took the solid tradition of the Farmer John and added innovative features, making the Ultra John the ultimate 3mm wetsuit. Titanium insulation makes it warmer, ThermalPlush lining makes it more comfortable, and PowerSpan&$153; panels give you extra freedom of movement. All the seams are glued and blind-stitched, and the seat and knees are armored with rugged TuffTex material. Ankle zippers make slipping the suit over your booties a breeze. The Ultra John also features a YKK extra-long, double-pull front relief zipper for convenience.
I currently have 3 pairs of Chacos…So one more is sure to please.
Chaco Z/1 Unaweep2 Sandals – $94.95
The Chaco original and still the preferred sandal for river-guides and outdoor professionals, the Chaco Z/1 Unaweep2 Sandals for Men are durable, supportive and comfortable. Built with soft polyester webbing, the Z/1 is fully adjustable, ensuring the perfect fit and with an open-toe design, is sock friendly. Chaco’s BioCentric® footbed supports your arch in and out of the water and a Virbram® Unaweep Outsole provides excellent traction, slip- resistance and thanks to angled lugs, is virtually self cleaning. So whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a first time kayaker, the Z/1® will meet your needs and outperform your expectations.
Here’s a list of some other great gift ideas.
Brunton Bantam Liquid Fuel Stove – $106.95
The Brunton Bantam™ Liquid Fuel Stove isn’t just easy on the eyes; it’s also a snap to operate. Lighter, hotter and sturdier, Bantam takes the title for the best liquid fuel buy in backpacking.
NRS Attack Shoe – $63.49
With an improved HyperGrip™ sole and integrated heel-to-arch strap, the NRS Attack Shoe is one of the premier pieces of our footwear line. From put-in to take-out, NRS Attack Shoes will take …
NRS Fusion Glove – $33.49
Full 2.5mm RawHide neoprene boating glove is flexible, grippy, windproof and warm! The outer coating of the Fusion Glove sheds water and stays warmer, while also providing superior grip.
Snow Peak GigaPower Stove, Titanium – $64.95
The Snow Peak GigaPower Titanium Stove Is the absolute lightest choice that a backpacker can make when choosing a Stove for his adventures. Weighing in at only 2.5 oz the Titanium Stove is small
Spyderco Atlantic Salt Knife – $119.95
Spyderco’s Rescue knives are long favored by seafarers and the design has since been embraced by rescue workers, EMT’s and ranchers – anyone cutting around flesh in an emergency.
Chaco Sandals Dog Collar – $11.95
The Chaco Dog Collars are made from a super durable webbing and a beefy, indestructable Pet-Snap buckle. Accessorize your pup with style.
Everything on this list is something I own and have used extensively. It’s all good gear. The only thing on here that I don’t have is the Astral PFD…this is a hint for Cate.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
James,
My buddy Sam might write you a review of the Green Jacket. He used to wear a Lotus like yours but got the new Astral primo jacket last spring. Dale might write one for you, too. I’ve had the Green Jacket on, but not in the water. It rides up high on your chest and is really comfortable with the padded shoulders. It cinches down with ease and allows for the utmost mobility. If I didn’t already have a rescue vest, I think I’d upgrade, too!