Equipment For Small Paddlers

NRS Ninja PFD Life Jacket

67 reviews

SKU: NRSNPFDXXLO

^$159.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A low-profile, eco-conscious life jacket with concentrated flotation and a dynamic fit for active paddling.

Pros

Range of motion
Sturdy construction
Good value for price
Low profile design
Comfortable fit

Zeagle Ranger JR Youth BC

13 reviews

SKU: ZGLRJ

^$499.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A customizable youth BCD with ripcord weight system and BX power inflator.

NRS Vista PFD

5 reviews

SKU: NRSVISBLXL2X

~~$94.95~~ Save: $35.05 (37%)

^$59.90

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A highly rated, USCG approved flotation jacket with a flexible design and reflective accents for enhanced visibility.

Mustang Survival Youth Canyon V Foam Vest

1 reviews

SKU: MSTCYFVYB

^$119.99

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A USCG-approved youth foam vest with adjustable fit and reflective trim for paddling safety.

NRS Aster Packraft

1 reviews

SKU: NRSAPRXLB

^$695

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable and lightweight packraft with fail-proof air retention and secure attachment points for solo packrafting adventures.

Innovative Scuba Deluxe Kids Snorkel Vest Plastic Valve

SKU: AQUDSVK

^$54.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable blue snorkel vest with adjustable straps and easy-to-operate oral inflator for customizable buoyancy.

Connelly Retro Nylon PFD

SKU: CONRENPFDIK

^$29.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A 90s-inspired nylon life vest with adjustable straps, child-specific safety features, and USCG approval.

Solstice Maui Youth Inflatable SUP Kit

SKU: SOTMISUP

^$264.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A lightweight inflatable SUP kit designed for young paddlers with integrated accessory mount system.

Onyx General Purpose Life Jacket for Infant/Child

SKU: ONXGPLAO

^$27.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A USCG-approved, lightweight life jacket with adjustable fit and quick recovery features for infants and children.

Mustang Survival Child Rev Foam Vest

SKU: MSTCRVRD

^$63.50

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A child’s nylon foam vest with segmented panels, moisture-wicking liner, and secure buckle and zipper closure.

Onyx Paddle Life Vest

SKU: ONXUPAOV

^$59.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A transport Canada and USCG approved Onyx Paddle Life Vest, designed for comfort and convenience during boating, fishing, and paddling.

Akona Grand Inflatable 1-Person Kayak with Pump

SKU: AKNG1PIK

^$248.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A portable, durable, and stable 1-person kayak with quick setup and spacious storage.

Blue Reef Valiant Snorkeling Set Small/Medium Black

SKU: PCKBLRVMBK2

~~$99.95~~ Save: $49.96 (50%)

^$49.99

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A lightweight snorkeling set with dry top valve, twin tempered glasses lenses, and dual material fin blades.

NRS cVest Mesh Back Personal Floatation Device

33 reviews

SKU: NRSCVBPXSLI

~~$147.95~~ Save: $48.05 (32%)

^$99.90

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable, USCG-approved PFD with ample storage and personalized fit for paddling.

Pros

Personalized fit
Meets expectations
Durable construction
Comfortable
Ample storage

NRS Star Outlaw II Inflatable Kayak

15 reviews

SKU: STAOIK2BL

^$1095

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable, stable inflatable kayak with high-pressure flooring and comfortable seating for two.

NRS Ninja Pro PFD Life Jacket

13 reviews

SKU: NRSNPPFDXSMR

~~$249.95~~ Save: $25.05 (10%)

^$224.90

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A rescue-ready PFD life jacket designed for professional paddlers with customizable fit and eco-conscious build.

Cressi Palau Long Adjustable Fin (LAF) Package

10 reviews

SKU: CSBPLPBLS

^$109.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A comfortable snorkeling package with adjustable fins, dry top snorkel, and wide lens mask.

Mustang Survival Minimalist Manual Inflatable Belt Pack

8 reviews

SKU: MSTMMIBPAZ

~~$99.99~~ Save: $7.02 (7%)

^$92.97

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A comfortable and versatile manual inflatable belt pack suitable for inshore paddles and skilled swimmers.

NRS Star Outlaw I Inflatable Kayak

6 reviews

SKU: STAOIKBL

^$995

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable and stable inflatable kayak with a comfortable seat, ideal for whitewater adventures.

NRS Tour-Lite SUP Board

4 reviews

SKU: NRSTLSUP11

^$795

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A versatile and lightweight SUP board with an innovative core for easy fin swaps and customizable rigging options.

Solstice Kayak Quick Release Paddle

4 reviews

SKU: SOTKQRP2

^$49.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A lightweight and durable aluminum kayak paddle with a quick release feature for emergency situations.

Solstice Maori Multi-Person SUP Kit

4 reviews

SKU: SOTMMPSUP

^$754.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A versatile, multi-person SUP kit with a 1,000 lbs. capacity and integrated Bow Mount System.

Aire Lynx 2 Person Inflatable Kayak

4 reviews

SKU: AREL2KBL

^$2260

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A sleek and stable 2-person inflatable kayak with enhanced self-bailing system and ample cargo space.

NRS Swig PFD 2L Hydration Pack

4 reviews

SKU: NRSSP15LC

^$109.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A sleek, unisex hydration pack with 2L capacity, designed for paddlers with PFD integration and enhanced visibility.

NRS X-Lite SUP Board

4 reviews

SKU: NRSXLSUP11

~~$895~~ Save: $295.03 (33%)

^$599.97

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A versatile and durable SUP board with Z/Blend Core construction, QuickClick fins, and enhanced traction.

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Equipment For Small Paddlers

For small paddlers, finding the right equipment is more than just a matter of comfort—it's about ensuring safety, building confidence, and maximizing enjoyment on the water. Whether you're shopping for a young adventurer, a petite adult, or someone just getting started with paddling, the right gear can make all the difference. Smaller kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are designed to be lighter and easier to maneuver, which is especially beneficial for those under 5'6" or 140 pounds. Boards and boats in the 8-10 foot range are often a perfect fit, offering the stability and responsiveness needed for learning and exploring. For SUPs, a board under 9 feet provides manageable handling, making transport and storage less of a chore. These thoughtful design choices empower smaller paddlers to take control, whether they're gliding across a calm lake on a crisp autumn morning or navigating the gentle currents of a local river. Paddles are another crucial consideration; a lightweight paddle with a shorter shaft—often around 220cm for those under 5'6"—reduces fatigue and helps maintain proper technique. Materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass are popular for their feather-light feel, which is especially appreciated during longer excursions or for younger paddlers whose arms tire quickly.

Safety is always paramount, especially as the days grow shorter and the water temperatures drop in November. A well-fitted personal flotation device (PFD) is non-negotiable; it should hug the torso securely while allowing for a full range of motion, so paddlers can twist, reach, and brace without restriction. Many families find that gifting a properly sized PFD or paddle to a budding paddler is both practical and thoughtful, encouraging safe habits from the start. Layering is also key in colder months—quick-drying fabrics like nylon or polyester wick moisture away, while snug water shoes keep feet warm and protected from slick rocks or chilly mud. Packing a dry bag ensures that essentials—phones, snacks, extra gloves—stay bone dry, even if an unexpected splash or drizzle rolls in. Essential safety accessories such as a whistle for signaling, a compact bilge pump for bailing out water, and, for those venturing into rougher conditions, a helmet or spray skirt, round out a smart paddler’s kit. These items aren’t just for peace of mind; they’re practical tools that can turn a challenging moment into a minor inconvenience. For those interested in more advanced or challenging environments, resources like Paddling Equipment For Rough Water offer additional guidance on specialized gear and preparation.

Selecting equipment tailored for small paddlers is an investment in memorable experiences—quiet mornings watching mist rise off the water, afternoons spent exploring hidden coves, or even the laughter that comes with a first, inevitable tip into the drink. The right gear means less struggling with heavy or unwieldy equipment and more time enjoying the rhythm of the paddle and the beauty of the outdoors. For families, it can foster independence in children, giving them the tools to safely join in group outings or embark on solo adventures within sight. For adults, it can transform paddling from a daunting prospect into a favorite pastime, one that’s accessible and rewarding. As the season shifts and paddling destinations take on the golden hues of late autumn, having equipment that fits well and performs reliably ensures every outing is safe, comfortable, and filled with the simple joys of being on the water.