Whitewater Gear for Fun and Safety

June-July 2001

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.
To download a pdf copy of the magazine click here: > DOWNLOAD

We asked Northwest River Supply to suggest some basic river gear. For more information on this and other great gear, visit www.nrsweb.com or call 800-635-5202. (Prices in US$)


1Pro-tec Ace Helmet

Cutting-edge style and fit. This design features innovative pad inserts to create a top-notch whitewater helmet. Cut over the ear for unrestricted hearing and comfort. Plenty of polyethylene 'hard-shell' to protect your head. Your confidence will soar in an Ace.
Sizes: S/M, L/XL Colors: white, yellow, red, blue
Pro-tec Ace $39.95 (US)
Plus Colors: chrome, carbon
Pro-tec Ace Plus $49.95 (US)


2Gerber Expedition River Knives

Eye-catching yellow or stealth black Kraton® rubber-and-glass reinforced nylon handles are easy to grip when wet, and nearly indestructible. The unique sheath system completely secures the blade, yet allows instant access in an emergency. Featuring high-carbon stainless steel blades, Expedition River Knives are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Size: Length: 3.25" blade, 5" handle, Weight: 8 oz.
Double Edge $54.00
Black Double Edge $58.95
Single Edge $54.00
Black Single Edge $58.95


3Lotus Designs ‚ Rio Grande Type III

A front-zip swimvest for paddlers wanting the ultimate in comfort, zero ride-up and a place for everything. Two big, expandable mesh pockets with internal D-rings, flaps, and buckle closures provide easy access to stashables and rescue equipment. For freedom of movement, this vest has large armholes and Cordura®-covered neoprene shoulders with the Superglide? adjustment system. Short foam torso is perfect for kneeling or sitting paddlers.
S/M (15 lbs. 13 oz.); L/XL (16 lbs. 7 oz.)
Sizes: S/M, L/XL, XX
Colors: black, yellow, red, blue, orange.
Lotus Rio Grande $99.00 (US)


4NRS Black Rock Jacket

You can't get a better jacket at this price. Breathable 420-denier Wave-Tex? fabric and taped seams keep water and wind out while allowing water vapor to escape from the inside. The bottom line: you stay dry and comfortable. Generously patterned for layering and extreme mobility, the Black Rock Jacket has neoprene cuff seals at the wrists and neck, and features NRS's innovative double-pull closure system on a neoprene waist 40% wider than last year's. Roomy zippered front pocket. The Black Rock Plus has an added inner tunnel that works with your spray skirt to keep water out.

Sizes: S-XXL Color: navy/black, orange/navy
2580 NRS Black Rock Jacket $114.95 (US)
Black Rock Plus (navy/black only) $124.95 (US)


5NRS Rescue Bags

An absolute necessity on the water. Made of highly visible and durable Cordura®, NRS throw bags quickly secure to D-rings, boat frames or canoe thwarts with quick-release 1" straps. Internal flotation and floating rescue rope keep our Rescue Bags on top of the water, while polyethylene-sheathed grab loops make for easy grasping. Barrel-lock drawstring closure keeps the rope securely stowed between uses.
Kayak Rescue Bag $35.95, Pro Kayak Rescue Bag $69.95 (US),