Paddling
We test the top paddling brands from Bluefin, Isle, NRS, Yeti, Sea to Summit, and Outdoor Research, among others, so you don't have to
Though it's not versatile enough for every kind of paddler, its combination of performance and low storage space is just right for certain paddlers ready to tackle big waves.
Credit: Jason Peters
If you need it on a river—or a lake—chances are we've reviewed it. Every year we buy hundreds of new items—from kayaks to SUP boards to inflatable SUP boards to dry bags—and run em' through the ringer. It takes months. Our expert testers love their job, and it's easy to understand why. Our side-by-side, 100% unbiased reviews cover the gamut. As always, be safe out there…and as for that old tattered life jacket in the garage? See what's new out there in flotation.
Most Popular
Best Pick Reviews in Paddling
Best Water Shoes of 2022
After combing through 60 of the best water shoes on the market, we purchased and rigorously tested the top 7 to find the best.
Best Water Shoes for Women of 2022
Our lady testers took these models on rafting trips down the Grand Canyon, Arkansas River, and muddy rivers of southeastern Minnesota to find out which ones stand out among the heap.
Best Inflatable Paddle Board of 2022
We bought some of the best inflatable SUPs and paddled them in a variety of conditions to find out which offer the best stability, glide, and value. We also investigated how easily they...
Best SUP Paddle Boards of 2022
Looking for the best SUP board of them all? We extensively tested all the best SUPs side-by-side to help you find the perfect board for your needs and budget.
Best SUP Paddles of 2022
After comparing over 125 different SUP paddles, we purchased the 14 most compelling paddles currently available and tested them side-by-side to help you find a superior SUP paddle.
Best Kayaks of 2022
In the market for a new kayak this season? We're here to help you make the most educated choice to suit your needs and paddling style. We studied 35+ options before buying the very best to...
Best Inflatable Kayaks of 2022
Sick of being the only one without a kayak, but you have no room to keep it? Check out one of these inflatable kayaks and finally join your friends out on the river.
Best Kayak Paddle of 2022
Want to get your kayak out on the water? Not sure which paddle to buy? Let us share our extensive hands-on research with you, to help you find the best touring paddle to suit your kayaking...
Best PFD of 2022
Searching for the right safety equipment for your aquatic adventures? After researching over 90 top contenders, we tested the best...
Best Dry Bags of 2022
Unless you are willing to risk it for the biscuit, transporting water-phobic gear safely across a body of water requires adequate protection. We tested the top 14 dry bag models...
Best Life Jackets
Be legal and stay safer by wearing the right life jacket on the water. We researched 40+ of the best models, then selected 14 to test side-by-side...Recent Gear Reviews in Paddling
Editors' Choice
Water Shoes - Women's
Chaco Torrent Pro - Women's Review
For all-around water activities, this shoe hits every target. The comfiest model we've tested, it also boasts traction and sensitivity
Best Buy
Water Shoes - Men's
NRS Kicker Remix Review
While they don't work great on land, this shoe is a solid low-profile bootie for paddling. Great traction and warmth are along for the ride here, and our
Editors' Choice
Water Shoes - Men's
Astral TR1 Junction Review
With a super comfortable and adjustable design and an excellent balance of proprioception and foot protection, Astral has made a well-rounded, high performing water shoe.
Best Buy
Dry Bags
NRS Ether HydroLock Review
This uniquely designed dry bag is the best we could ask for, combining top-notch water protection with a fairly reasonable price. It keeps water at bay...
Best Buy
Dry Bags
Osprey Ultralight Drysack Review
Offers just the right amount of bonus protection for your clothes as a water-resistant packing cube. Its lightweight rectangular design makes it perfect for packing clothes with minimal...
Editors' Choice
SUP Paddles
Aqua Bound Malta Fiberglass 2-Piece Review
The fiberglass version of the Malta holds its own against its all-carbon counterparts, all while costing quite a bit less.Paddling Learning Center
How To Choose an Inflatable Paddle Board
The paddle board marketplace has lots of different shapes, styles, and terminology that can be very confusing! We break it all down for you to help you get ready to find the right board.
How to Choose an Inflatable Kayak
As the number of paddlers continues to grow, kayaking remains the most popular paddle sport, making up over half of all paddlers. With a growing number of kayak options on the market, why...
How to Choose Water Shoes
Water sports are tough on feet and footwear. We provide the key information you need to understand water shoes and pick a pair that work great for you.
How to Choose a Recreational Kayak Paddle
We have all heard that proverb warning us about being without a paddle. A paddle is an essential tool for any kayaker who wants to be in control of their boat. Let us guide you on how to...
How to Choose a Stand Up Paddle Board
Stumped by SUP’s? We analyze the pros and cons of each board to help you find the perfect match, whether you are just starting out or an experienced paddler.
How to Choose a PFD
Though it seems like choosing a life jacket may be nothing more than selecting your favorite color, there’s so much more to it. Over hundreds of hours, we tested the best PFDs available...Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by Testing.
GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. No sponsored content. No ads. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison.
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