12 Holiday Gifts for Rafting & Kayaking Enthusiasts
As the holiday season rolls around, you might be struggling to come up with gift ideas for the adventurers in your life. So to help you out, here are 11 gift ideas that will be a hit with whitewater rafters and kayakers, ensuring they stay warm, hydrated and safe on their next trip.
1. Watershed Personal Dry Bag
A dry bag is an essential part of any kayaking or whitewater rafting packing system and these dry bags by Watershed are among the best. They come in a variety of sizes, styles, and designs to appeal to all tastes, with all of their bags being durable, completely waterproof, and even fully submergable for 100 meters!
2. Chums
Chums have garnered a reputation for their industry-leading eyewear retainers, which are made from a variety of materials and available in a whole host of designs. They’re an essential accessory to ensure sunglasses don’t end up in the water. Their size and price make them the perfect Christmas stocking stuffer.
3. Eqpd Last Bag
Based in Twisp, Washington, along the Methow River, Eqpd specializes in creating durable, simple, and long-lasting bags for everyday life. Their bags are proudly made in the USA using locally sourced recycled plastic and vinyl-coated polyester fabric. The vinyl coating will feel awfully familiar to the raft guide or river lover in your family, as it’s the same material used to make whitewater rafts! Featuring shoulder and crossbody straps and a snap closure system, these bags are perfect for everything from hauling gear to strolling around the farmers market. Explore the full range of Eqpd Last Bags here.
4. Exofficio Fast-Drying Underwear
When you’re on the river, things get wet, which makes quick-dry clothing a “must”. Exofficio’s line of fast-drying underwear is comfortable, lightweight and odor-resistant thanks to hydrophobic fibers in the mesh that push moisture to the surface where it quickly evaporates. Aside from men’s boxers, briefs and undershirts, there are also women’s bras and bikinis available, all of which are made from a soft fabric that stretches to fit the individual.
5. SmartWool Merino Socks
Sustainably sourced, quick-drying and boasting antimicrobial properties, Smartwool socks are designed to keep feet warm, even when wet. They come in a wide variety of designs, from plain black to animal-themed and limited-edition Christmas socks, including their “Ugly Sweater” crew style.
6. The Emerald Mile
For book-loving outdoor adventurers, this is a great read from one of “Outside” magazine’s “Literary All-Stars”, Kevin Fedarko. It documents a thrilling ride down the Colorado River during the legendary flood of 1983. A wooden dory named “The Emerald Mile” was launched at the head of the Grand Canyon, with a mission of securing the all-time record for the fastest boat ever propelled down the waterway.
7. Patagonia Micro Puff Jacket or Vest
Lightweight, compressible and water-resistant, this puff jacket will keep you cozy around the campfire at night. It comes in hooded, hoodless and vest styles designed for both men and women, and offers the warmth of down thanks to its innovative synthetic insulation known as PlumaFill.
8. Fleece from Funluvin Fleece Wear
Idaho based female river guide Kelli O’Keefe has been making fleece goods for river goers since 2017. Funluvin Fleece Wear sells fleece skirts, shorts, beanies, and her signature “Cuddle Buddies”; fleece lined pack pad covers! Her love for the river inspired her small business to supply other river guides with simple creature comforts that added style and comfort to their river lifestyle. All Funluvin Fleece is sourced and stitched in the U.S., so you can feel good about your purchase! Explore fleece goods here.
9. ROW Adventures Gift Voucher
Got hard-to-shop-for friends and family? Why not pick up a gift voucher that can be used towards a trip with ROW Adventures. They can select the kayaking or rafting adventure of their choice and experience a vacation like no other doing what they love to do.
10. Kula Cloth
For the Female water lovers in your life, consider giving them the gift of added comfort when going number one outside. Kula Cloths are reusable antimicrobial pee cloths that discreetly clip onto backpacks, dry bags, kayaks, etc for easy grab-and-go use. Hygiene in the outdoors is important, and Kula Cloths provide a sustainable, Leave-No-Trace alternative to disposable options. Designed with the outdoor adventurer in mind, they help minimize waste while offering a comfortable, eco-friendly solution for managing nature breaks on the trail or water. Explore Kula Clothes here.
11. Whitewater ROWing Course
What better way to support your loved one’s passion for whitewater adventure than with a training course, equipping them with the practical skills to survive and respond in rescue situations. Join the adventure of learning with ROW's comprehensive ROWing school! This program is the ultimate experience for anyone looking to enhance their rowing skills, whether fine-tuning techniques, mastering whitewater navigation, learning expert boat rigging, or preparing for multi-day river trips. With hands-on instruction led by seasoned experts, participants will gain both practical skills and the confidence to tackle any river adventure. It’s more than a class— it’s your loved ones gateway to the next level of boating mastery! See the full course details here.
12. Sun Hoodie
Sun hoodies are a versatile layer that have many benefits. Sun hoodies are often made of lightweight, quick drying, and cooling technology sun protection long sleeve hoodies. Sun hoodies are designed with UPF-rated fabric to provide protection against UV rays. The long sleeves and hood offer additional coverage, helping to shield your skin from prolonged sun exposure during outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting. They provide protection not only from the sun but also from wind and cooler temperatures. This adaptability makes them suitable for various weather conditions often encountered during rafting trips.