Our Vision
The sea kayaking industry -- designers, builders, distributors, retailers -- is still wonderfully decentralized. The goal of this site is to help keep it that way by promoting independent kayak shops and outfitters.

Some of today's biggest companies got their start with a couple of people working part-time out of a garage. Even today, there are hundreds of manufacturers, distributors, and dealers, many of them small "mom and pop" operations. This has meant that the industry has stayed fresh and has made room for healthy competition, variety, and innovation.This has also ensured the presence of local support-systems promoting safe and enjoyable paddling.

Yet there are forces at work that favor the large corporation over the small business. The internet and print advertising increasingly favor the big market companies that have big bucks to spend. The vision behind this website is that by banding together, local independent kayak shops can remain visible and thus viable.

Characteristics of Our Member Shops:
Our shops tend to be independent local shops. Many started as small part time businesses driven by a passion for paddling. They have grown -- and are still in business today -- because they refuse to compromise when it comes to quality and service.

Very often, the owner is in the store -- and you can talk to him or her. Chances are the person who greets you at the door, answers the phone, or responds to your email . . .
. . . paddles the boats and uses the gear
. . . is a paddler first and a salesperson second
. . . can recommend equipment that is best suited for local conditions
. . . paddles local waterways and is source of local knowledge
. . . will help ensure that you are safe out on the water

Test paddles are often provided.
Instruction is often available.

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