Pro Tips: Gear Upgrades for 2025
When I find a pice of gear I like I usually stick with it until it can no longer be used. I will even buy multiples of that gear so I have a back up. However, some times you just need to upgrade your gear. Here are a few gear upgrades I have made for 2025.
Shirts
I have been paddling in the same two old fleece tops for about 10 years. This year I decided to upgrade my top layers a little bit. There are three that have really stood out to me so far. The first one being Immersion Research Everyday Sweater. Being a stinky person the Polar Tech Power Wool fabric is huge is keeping my gear from needing to live outside. Wear this under a dry top or suit, wear it everyday as its namesake, or over a button up shirt and be fancy.
Everyday Sweater, Perfect Paddling, Fleece, and Alpha Hoodie
The Perfect Paddling Fleece is in fact perfect. Similar to the Everyday Sweater this thing is perfect for a long day paddling or as a more casual piece for Aprés kayaking needs.
Lastly the Alpha Hoodie has become an instant favorite. Soft and cozy but really light weight and breathable. A really great layer for cold days that require a long walk to put-in or take-out or just in your day bag for a layer in an emergency.
Shoe Laces
This one is a bit odd but I have recently switched from regular shoe laces to elastic/shock/bungee cord shoe laces in my river shoes. Really just makes getting your river shoes on and off easier. It's also nice after a cold day on the river to quickly be able to get your shoes off.
shockcord laces for easy on and off
Water Filter
Back in December we looked at a few water filter options and I want to make sure everyone knows how awesome the HydraPak Filter Cap is. Pair this cap with so many different size bottles for a solid light weight filter on the go.
HydraPak Filter Cap is a great way to filter water while on the go
Jackson Clutch
After paddling an Antix 1 and Nirvana since they came out I decided it was time for a boat upgrade. I decided to go with a mix of those two and got a Jackson Clutch. My first impressions was "oh wow not really what I was expecting" and after lap number 4 I was hooked. It really is the best of a half slice and a creek boat. I can surf, splat, and rock spin with the confidence, stability, and speed of a creek boat. If you get one, or try one out, give it more than just a quick lap on your local run before deciding it isn't for you.
