BOATS, GEAR and GIFTS

BORÉALDESIGN DRYTOP

Did you know that in addition to designing and manufacturing quality kayaks and paddles, BORÉALDESIGN also designs and manufactures its own line of paddling jackets and clothing? Made in Canada, the BD collection is gaining a reputation for innovative, high quality and affordable clothing. One of their more popular paddling jackets is the Expedition Breathable Semi Drytop. Made from 3-ply breathable ripstop nylon, this jacket incorporates an ergonomic hood, a double skirt tunnel, and many other features. This jacket is cut to allow freedom of movement while paddling. Although designed specifically for paddling, this jacket is versatile and would also function as rainwear. To see more of the BD collection, visit www.borealdesign.com.

NATURAL WEST COAST ADVENTURE GEAR

The paddle float self- rescue is an effective way for paddlers of all skill levels to get back into a kayak after capsizing. Natural West Coast Adventure Gear’s hook and loop buckle system makes it easy to secure the paddle float to the paddle, especially in cold water conditions. The addition of reflective piping helps to increase visibly on the water in low light conditions. Two sizes: 8” wide or 9” wide. Made in Victoria, BC. nwca@shaw.ca, www.bckayaks.com.

WILDWASSER ZIPPERED SPRAYDECKS

Wildwasser Sport (USA) has just introduced two new zippered spraydecks for touring kayakers, and one for whitewater k ayakers. These new spraydecks focus on a zippered entry with easy access to the cockpit, which also increases the overall safety for paddlers in the roughest paddling conditions. You can unzip the skirt with one hand to access something inside your boat, while holding onto the paddle with your other hand for stability. The 2006 touring line- up includes the Monterey Zip Deck and the Big Sur Deck, both constructed with 4mm neoprene and a waterproof zipper. Both have an adjustable grip top tunnel and twin external deck pockets. The new whitewater spraydeck is the Zipster, made of 5 mm neoprene for more advanced kayakers. For more information on the new zippered spraydeck line-up, see www.wildnet.com.

NORTH WATER TOW LINES

North Water Paddle Sports reports increasing sales of their sea kayak tow systems. Their boat-mounted tow systems are up over 45% from 2004, while the waist-mounted systems are up almost 60%. North Water introduced its Sea Tec Tow Line in 2005, with a new kernmantle cored H2pro Line with a 3000 lb break strength. North Water specializes in accessories for canoeing, ww kayaking, sea/tour kayaking, outrigger paddling, dragon boating and ww rafting. www.northwater.com.

ORIGINAL RACK N’ ROLLER SYSTEM

The Original Rack N’ Roller Loading System makes the loading and unloading of canoes, ladders and building materials an easy and safe task. This multipurpose, lightweight, portable, maintenance-free system can be used with either the OEM or aftermarket roof racks of most SUVs and vans. $229 Cdn. For more information: Lorne Preston: 416-281-7628 / 0838, paddlesolo@rogers.com or Glenn Fallis: 705-932-2131, voyageur@nexicom.net.