This fall, brands came under fire for designs that felt a little too familiar. While far from the first (or last) time a “copy cat” call sounded, it raises the question, where do we draw the line between inspiration and imitation? How can we, as an industry, support innovation and unique design? 
Too Close for Comfort

Drawing the line between Inspiration and Imitation This fall, brands came under fire for designs [...]

14
Feb
The Hobie name has long been synonymous with water sports, bringing to mind bright California beaches and sun-kissed surfing or sailing enthusiasts. With the advent of the MirageDrive, a pedal propulsion system, Hobie burst into the paddlesports market in the late ’90s and soon became a major player and influence. We caught up with Gero Priebe, Hobie Kayak Europe Sales and Marketing Manager, to learn more about this iconic brand and its goals for the future. 
Interview: Gero Priebe

The Hobie name has long been synonymous with water sports, bringing to mind bright California [...]

14
Feb
From June 2020 to March 2022, paddleboard sales surged as COVID lockdown measures and travel restrictions affected lives on a global scale. Stand-up paddling, with its accessibility, versatility, and gentle learning curve, became a go-to for fitness and leisure while maintaining social distance. 
Rising Above the Rest

“Move over SUP. There’s a new board in town.” Since the beginning of the SUP [...]

14
Feb
For years now, it has been widely agreed that prices need to increase for the industry (and our dealers!) to survive. Those prices are now up, but are they the answer to the initial problem?  
Closing the Diversity Gap

For years now, it has been widely agreed that prices need to increase for the [...]

14
Feb
The past three years have seen continued growth in paddlesports and solidified our position as an industry capable of overcoming challenge after challenge. The uncertainties of Covid were met with ongoing global turbulence. Zero Covid regulations continued in China even as the rest of the world returned to pre-pandemic norms. Russia invaded Ukraine, contributing to rising prices and energy and labor shortages, driving production costs up and straining finances. The United Kingdom cycled through prime ministers and left the European Union while American politics became increasingly divisive. When the industry saw its biggest increase in popularity in nearly two decades, retailers around the globe faced the surge in demand with empty shelves. We enter 2023 with fully stocked shelves, yet demand for paddlesport products is decreasing from pandemic highs, and production costs and inflation remain high. Nevertheless, a hesitant optimism for the future continues to buoy the industry. 
What’s Around the Corner?

A look at what fully stocked shelves and rising production costs might mean for paddlesports.  [...]

14
Feb
"The 2023 International Canoe Federation Stand Up Paddling World Championships will be held in Pattaya, Thailand, from November 15-19".
ICF announces Date for Stand Up Paddling World Championships | INDUSTRY NEWS

“The 2023 International Canoe Federation Stand Up Paddling World Championships will be held in Pattaya, [...]

13
Feb
The Blue Zone's second SUP Surf Camp retreat of the year saw amazing conditions for the entire week! Clients enjoyed offshore winds, chest/head high uncrowded waves and Pura Vida life in Costa Rica.
SUP Surfing in Costa Rica with Blue Zone

The Blue Zone’s second SUP Surf Camp retreat of the year saw amazing conditions for [...]

10
Feb
Check out this great kayaking technique tutorial by the Kayak Hipster: "Here's 3 things to try next time you're working on your bow rudder. The bow rudder is a great way to turn the kayak without losing momentum, so I like working on ways for making my bow rudder as efficient and safe as possible."
The Bow Rudder – 3 Things to Try | Paddling Tips

Check out this great kayaking technique tutorial by the Kayak Hipster: “Here’s 3 things to [...]

08
Feb
Follow Sea Kayaking fanatic Mike McHolm on a fun paddle in the harsh Vancouver winter with Guthrie Schweers, David Campion and Troy Horne.
Sea Kayaking from Whytecliff Park to the Point Atkinson Lighthouse in West Vancouver | Destination

Follow Sea Kayaking fanatic Mike McHolm on a fun paddle in the harsh Vancouver winter [...]

06
Feb
Follow kayak fishing enthusiate Kristine Fischer on her first ever kayak fishing tournament! Exciting stuff with some good catches!
First Tournament | Kissimmee Chain! (BIG BASS)

Follow kayak fishing enthusiate Kristine Fischer on her first ever kayak fishing tournament! Exciting stuff [...]

02
Feb