THE GOODS
PADDLING GEAR BODY GLOVE PERFORMER 11 INFLATABLE
DIP IN Our picks for the latest, greatest paddling gear will get you out exploring and enjoying those long, sweet summer days. BY D O U G S C H N I T Z S PA H N
Dermatone Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 Don’t mess with the sun when you are out on the water at altitude. The Sport formula (we go with the highest SPF we can) goes on easily and provides moisturizing for your mountain-dry skin and, most importantly, it’s resistant to water and sweat (but reapply frequently). $19; dermatone.com
Dragon Flare LL H2O Polar
With big lenses and frames these polarized shades offer up plenty of protection when you paddle. But the big benefit here is that they float. That means you can confidently wear them without the annoyance of a retainer strap and not lose them if they slip in the drink. $209; dragonalliance.com
Astral The PFD Sandal
Here’s a boating shoe that was specifically designed for the needs of river guides who spend all day standing in the water and navigating random terrain. Webbing straps (the same as Astral’s famed PFDs) batten down for the perfect secure fit and a proprietary rubber sole grips to wet rocks and logs. It’s the technical shoe you need for that big river trip but you will want to wear everywhere. $115; astraldesigns.com
Blackfin Model X
Designed specifically for SUP fishing, this big, stable board (35 inches wide and rated up to 450 pounds) is the perfect deck not just for fighting beefy trout in the middle of the lake but also for taking off on overnight adventures on the far shores. Two cargo areas hold plenty of gear and it’s fully compatible with a fishing rack attachment that will give you the ability to manage multiple rods. Oh, and it’s also just fun to paddle. $800; irockersup.com
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BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS
DRAGON FLARE LL H2O POLAR
Body Glove Performer 11 Inflatable
Thanks to a new wider tail shape, this inflatable tracks easier and provides a lot of stability out on the water, making it a nice option for beginners as well as experienced paddlers looking for a reliable ride. And here’s an upgrade we really appreciate— an electric pump means you won’t feel beat by the time you get on the board. And paddle easy: For each board sold, Body Glove donates a tree to reforestation nonprofit One Tree Planted. Want more? If you are a Costco member, look for it at select stores where you can grab the board for a killer deal at $399. $999; bodyglove.com
ASTRAL THE PFD SANDAL
Kokatat WKNDER
DERMATONE SPORT SUNSCREEN LOTION SPF 50
This front-entry PFD puts comfort foremost. The back works with the high setbacks of many new canoes and kayaks and the wrap-around fit is easy to adjust to any body shape. Bonus: The hand warmer pockets are a simple innovation you will wish were on every PFD. $139; kokatat.com
Werner Nomad Raft Paddle
The tapered blade shape on this one-piece fixed paddle means it can handle a wide range of adventures—from digging into whitewater with your team to high adrenaline creeking. It’s available in a beautiful silhouette pattern of Split Rock on Washington’s Skykomish River or a more basic translucent red. $190; wernerpaddles.com
KOKATAT WKNDER
WERNER NOMAD RAFT PADDLE
BLACKFIN MODEL X
