Gear for when getting wet is mandatory or for when getting gear wet is not an option.
1. Outdoor Research Sensor Dry Pocket
Packing portable electronics on a paddling trip can be great, even essential, but getting them wet is a disaster. The Sensor Dry Pocket features a zip top and roll closure for double protection, even when submerged. A clear front and waterproof headphone jack allows you full access to your smart phone or tablet, and with the Velcro straps, you can anchor it anywhere with no anxiety.
$35; outdoorresearch.com
2. DryCASE DryBUDS Sport
Whether you are rocking in the whitewater or jamming on the SUP, you can keep the tunes flowing if you take a swim with these waterproof ear buds. An over-the-ear clip keeps them secure during even the most active water pursuits and an extra long 54-inch cord gives you freedom on or in the water. Three size options are included and submersible up to 10 feet, so there is no fear of drowning out the sound of your favorite jams.
$35; drycase.com
3. Astral Buoyancy The Linda
Local buoyancy experts Astral designed The Linda for the female recreational kayaker. Environmentally friendly, durable foam is preformed for the perfect fit and the vest back features mesh ventilation for those hot days on the water. The mesh back also allows a full recline in high-seat-back recreational kayaks. Throw in large front pockets and you have the perfect PFD for all your paddling adventures.
$90; astralbuoyancy.com
4. Pyranha Shiva
Lacking a true creek boat in the prodigious quiver of boats, Pyranha set out to make the fastest, most nimble boat to run the hardest whitewater and biggest drops on the planet; they may have succeeded. A wider stern, large volume, and progressive rocker make this boat incredibly fast and maneuverable in the water. It’s designed to push the boundaries with the best kayakers in the sport.
$1,199; pyranha.com
5. Native Watercraft Ultimate 12 Basic
This boat is built for stability, whether sitting or standing and casting. The open design provides comfort and support from flatwater up to Class II, and what it lacks in bells and whistles, it makes up for in a low price. It can also be tricked out with virtually any accessory you can think of so no fish can hide.
$799, nativewatercraft.com
6. Howler Bros. Loggerhead Longsleeve
Save “Sun’s out, guns out” for the frat guys; protection from the elements is the name of the game when spending a day on the water. Stay covered up without overheating in the Loggerhead. Certified SPF 45 and made from quick wicking and drying material, you can spend all day and night in this shirt. But it’s not all fun and games; you also get handy thumb loops at the cuffs and a stash pocket in the back lined with sunglass cleaning microfiber. From summer spring creeks to beach bonfires, this shirt has your back.
$65; howlerbros.com
7. TEVA Fuse-ion
TEVA tapped into the mind of their paddling athletes for their latest round of water centric shoes, and the Fuse-ion reflects a return to the soul of water sports – mainly a high performance water shoe you can wear to the bar. The Fuse-ion features an upper that sheds water at a molecular level while TEVA claims its Spider Rubber outsole “will stick to a grease-covered aluminum ramp.” Not bad for a sneaker clone with retro styling out of the 50s. Feeling more casual? The heel folds down so you can slip them on and off with ease so you’ll be ready for drinks in no time.
$90; teva.com
8. Julbo Dolphin Sunglasses
No more need for duct tape straps to prevent your shades from ending up at the bottom of the river, lake, or (gulp!) ocean. If you drop these sunglasses in the drink, they’ll stay afloat until you can get your hands back on them. The Dolphins are made from a low-density material that provides buoyancy and is also super lightweight, so you can rock them all day in comfort. They also feature polarized lenses and a snug, wrap-around style so you can stay cool while spotting fish or running rapids.
$100; julbousa.com
