Everything Canadians need to know about paddleboarding and kayaking this summer

As the temperatures rise across the country, your desire to jump in a cold lake might rise along with it!

Good news: with an abundance of lakes, rivers, and other swimmable bodies of water across Canada, there’s no shortage of opportunities to do just that.

Better news: Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) is hosting a Mountain Days Sale full of sweet deals on paddleboards, kayaks, and other outdoor equipment. We’re talking up to 50% off!

If you’re new to the world of paddling, that’s great! There are just a few things to know before you go to ensure a safe and fun adventure.

Choosing the Right Stand-Up Paddleboard

In case you aren’t familiar, a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) blends paddling with surfing for a unique full-body workout that still allows you to take in the beauty of being on the water.

There are different paddleboarding scenarios, and these should influence the type of SUP you purchase.

• If you’re drawn to calm bodies of water, opt for an all-around or touring SUP.
• If you’re into touring or racing, a longer board with a pointed nose can help achieve speed and efficiency.
• For floating yoga, you’ll want a wider board for stability, balance, and comfort.
• And, if you’re a white-water paddling thrill-seeker, you’ll want a board with reinforced edges to navigate rugged conditions.

You’ll also have the choice between an inflatable or hard SUP. Inflatable SUPs are portable, easy to store, and generally more durable against impacts, while hard SUPs provide a faster and more rigid ride, which is ideal for performance paddling.

Did we mention that paddleboards are up to 50% off during the MEC Mountain Days Sale?

The Essential Accessories

So, you’ve got the board. Now you’ll need a paddle, and at MEC you have plenty of options.

When choosing a paddle, it’s important to think about the height and width of your watercraft. Most paddles are adjustable, so there’s a bit of wiggle room for sitting and standing. There are even options for kids!

And let’s just face it: if you’re on a paddleboard or kayak, there’s a fairly decent chance you’ll get wet. There’s also a chance your stuff will get wet… and the last thing you want is a soggy meal or a broken cell phone. Fortunately, MEC has deals on dry bags and waterproof storage bags so you can keep your essentials clean and tidy.

Safety First

There’s always the risk of hazards like drowning when you’re out on the water, no matter how great a swimmer you might be. Wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) is one way to reduce this risk. Belt-style PFDs offer more mobility, while traditional vests have more buoyancy. PFDs are also on for 50% off during the MEC Mountain Days Sale.

Other safety measures should include carrying a whistle on you, checking the weather conditions before you head out, paddling with a buddy, and always letting someone know where you’re going and what your plans are.

With the MEC Mountain Days Sale, there’s never been a better time to upgrade your water equipment or try something new! Dive into summer with confidence and make the most of your time on the water. Happy paddling!

MEC MOUNTAIN DAYS SALE