Open Canoeing

The Watershed Chattooga Duffel Dry Bag is a mid-size, fully submersible gear bag built for serious adventures. With a waterproof ZipDry® seal, military-grade construction, and 22L of protected storage, it’s the go-to choice for outdoor professionals and everyday explorers who need trusted performance in wet and rugged environments.

The Venture Afon Cruiser CL is a Canadian Canoe for for river trips, from gentle flat water to easy moving water. This open canoe features a 3 layer plastic construction known as Corelite (CL).  The construction techniques used in the production of the Afon (moulded in Gunwales and End Deck), help reduce weight while keeping the boat stiff so it handles predictably.

Protect your canoe from scrapes, knocks, and abrasion with the Hou Canoes Skid Plate Kit. This complete kit fits any make of canoe and comes with pre-cut 90 cm Kevlar felt strips, resin, mixing tools, masking tape, and full instructions. Designed for easy installation, it provides durable, long-lasting protection for both ends of your canoe.

The Bending Branches Java ST is a traditional wooden open canoe paddle that's suitable for most types of the sport, whether you're cruising around a lake or exploring your local river, this paddle will do the job. It features a solid basswood shaft that has a comfortable freestyle palm grip, whilst the blade has been constructed from a combination of basswood and roasted basswood. The blade has a 2oz fibreglass coating on both sides and full RockGard protection for added durability.

The Bending Branches Java 11 is a premium white water canoe paddle that's been hand-crafted in Wisconsin, USA. It features a strong solid basswood shaft and an eye catching pinstriped blade that's been made from a combination of basswood and dark roasted basswood. The blade is coated with a 2oz fibreglass wrap for added protection and has a full Rockgard edge to further protect the blade. The Java is easy to hold, thanks to its classic palm grip that's comfortable and warm to hold.

The Bending Branches Explorer Plus is a white water canoe paddle that offers maximum performance levels. The shaft has been constructed from an 18 layer laminate of basswood, finished with a freestyle palm grip, whilst the blade is made from a combination of basswood and roasted basswood. Both sides of the blade are coated with a 4oz layer of fibreglass for protection, as well as featuring a full rock guard wrap to protect against wear.

The Bending Branches Expedition Plus is a white water canoe paddle that perfectly combines performance and durability. It features an 18 layer laminated basswood paddle shaft which is finished off with an Ultimate T Grip for comfort. The blade itself has been made from a combination of basswood, red alder and roasted basswood, whilst the edges have been coated with a full rock guard for enhanced protection. Further protection is provided by a 4oz fibreglass coating.

The Bending Branches Beavertail is a classic deep water paddle for open canoeing. It features a long and slender blade that easily moves through the water and works well with all types of paddle stroke. The beavertail has a solid basswood paddle shaft that features a freestyle palm grip, whilst the blade has been made with a combination of basswood and red alder. It also comes fitted with a partial rock guard which provides added protection to the blade should the waters become shallower.

The Bending Branches BB Special is a bestseller among everyday canoeists looking to save a few ounces with a comfortable paddle. It offers flat water cruising performance for paddlers looking to take the next step up.

The Bending Branches Arrow is a highly versatile wooden canoe paddle. It features a shorter blade than some of its alternatives, making it great for use in deeper water, whilst still performing fine in shallow waters. The Arrow has a laminated basswood shaft which is topped off with a classic palm grip, whilst the blade has been made with a blend of basswood, red alder and maple. The bottom and lower edges of the blade are protected by the Rockgard system that helps keep the wood protected.

The Bending Branches Traveller is a great entry-level canoe paddle that's perfect for exploring local lakes or canals. Great for use in deep water, the Traveller paddle features a straight solid basswood shaft that features a freestyle palm grip and is ovalized for added comfort. The blade has been constructed from a combination of laminated basswood and red alder. The tip of the blade is protected by a partial Rockgard which offers additional protection from any rocks and stones in shallow waters.

The Bending Branches Sunburst ST is a premium canoe touring paddle that's comfortable to hold and very aesthetic to look at. It features a T-700 carbon shaft that has a symmetric Palm T-Grip and ovalized design for optimum comfort. The blade has been constructed from a combination of red alder, basswood and roasted basswood which has 2oz fibreglass coating to protect from any bumps and scratches. Further protection from rocks is provided by a full Rockgard around the blade.

Given the critical importance of paddles, it's essential to take care of them during transport and storage. Composite shafts are particularly susceptible to damage, which could result in sudden failure while on the water. HF Equipment Paddle bags offer reliable protection and come in two sizes: one for single-piece paddles up to 205cm and the other for split touring paddles, measuring 135cm.

The Ortlieb X-Tremer Sack is a sturdy dry bag that comes available in two huge sizes that are a great alternative to rigid boxes and bulky barrels. They feature adjustable shoulder straps for ease of transport and when empty they easily fold flat into a small, neat package. The roll-snap closure ensures that these bags stay 100% waterproof, it is recommended that you roll at least four times and close the buckles prior to any immersion in water.

The Palm River Trek Drybag is a highly versatile canoe rucksack that comes available in four different size options. These are great for keeping gear dry on canoe expeditions and will protect your equipment from the water. They feature a roll-top closure, heavy-duty padded shoulder harness and an adjustable chest strap to aid stability. When loaded they are easy and comfortable to carry and have side grab handles for transportation. Made with 420 denier nylon, these bags are tough and durable which helps towards them having a long happy life.