Kayaking and Paddling Gear

As instructors and rough-water kayakers we have spent a lot of time and effort finding, testing and, in some cases, rejecting paddling gear. One of the reasons we started the Virginia Sea Kayak Center is so that other kayakers can learn from our experiences and benefit from gear that has been tested in the real world.

Each piece of gear you'll find on our site and in our catalog has been personally tested and is in active use as part of our on-water "kit." For example, the Expedition Essentials tow rig system has some outstanding features that save time and make rescues easier -- better than any other system we've tried. From the mesh bag that allows water to drain, to the high-quality carabineers, the tow rig is a well thought out piece of gear that we use all-too-often.

Other items in our catalog are Virginia Sea Kayak Center originals -- gear we have developed ourselves when we couldn't find a suitable item in the marketplace. For example, our contact tow rig, which features a quick-release buckle, high-quality carabineers and a quick-adjustable buckle for fast on-water deployment.

If you're an instructor, enthusiast or enjoy paddling in rough water and more advanced conditions, we think, you'll find our gear offerings effective and well-developed additions to your kayaking kit.

Of course we always welcome feedback and suggestions as well.

Storm Shelter deployed on a cold January day (click for larger version):