Gear For River Guides

Garmin inReach Mini 2 Compact Satellite Communicator

403 reviews

SKU: GRMIM2FR

~~$399.99~~ Save: $150 (38%)

^$249.99

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A compact and lightweight satellite communicator with TracBack routing and digital compass for accurate heading information.

Pros

Good battery life
Compact and lightweight
Reliable messaging and tracking
Provides peace of mind and safety
Versatile and configurable

NRS Havoc Livery Helmet

83 reviews

SKU: NRS42604Y

~~$57.95~~ Save: $11.59 (20%)

^$46.36

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A versatile and comfortable helmet with adjustable fit, ventilation ports, and meets safety standards.

Pros

Feeling of security
Quick-drying
Low profile
Good value for price
Comfortable fit

NRS Ninja PFD Life Jacket

67 reviews

SKU: NRSNPFDMLG

~~$159.95~~ Save: $31.99 (20%)

^$127.96

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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

NRS Standard Rescue Throw Bag

43 reviews

SKU: NRSTBRD

~~$77.95~~ Save: $15.59 (20%)

^$62.36

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A highly visible, durable rescue throw bag made of Cordura nylon with a maximum load of 1900 lbs.

Pros

Provides a feeling of safety and confidence
Easy to use and deploy
Versatile and useful in various situations
High quality materials and construction
Reliable and effective rescue tool

Mustang Survival Khimera Dual Floatation PFD

40 reviews

SKU: MST7183GR

~~$219.99~~ Save: $66.02 (30%)

^$153.97

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A dual flotation PFD with foam and inflatable options, lightweight design, and multiple attachment points.

Pros

Lightweight and low profile design
Reliable and high quality construction
Versatile for multiple sports and activities
Comfortable with freedom of movement
Innovative concept with foam and inflatable options

NRS 70' (21.3m) Compact Rescue Throw Bag

28 reviews

SKU: NRSCRTBOR

~~$69.95~~ Save: $13.99 (20%)

^$55.96

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A compact and lightweight throw bag with high visibility panels and durable polypropylene rope for kayaking and swift-water sports.

Pros

Compact size and easy to store
Durable construction and good value
Accurate and easy to throw
Added safety and versatility
Quick to deploy and repack

Mustang Survival M.I.T. 100 Inflatable PFD Automatic

24 reviews

SKU: MST2016IPG

^$184.99

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A USCG-approved inflatable PFD with Membrane Inflatable Technology, offering 1.5x buoyancy and automatic/manual inflation options.

Pros

Versatile and reliable
Comfortable and well-fitting
High quality and durability
Provides safety and security
Easy to use and wear

NRS Big Water V Personal Floatation Device

21 reviews

SKU: NRSBWVPUPGR

~~$184.95~~ Save: $36.99 (20%)

^$147.96

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A US Coast Guard certified personal flotation device with adjustable straps and contouring foam panels.

Pros

Excellent fit and adjustability
High quality and industry standard
Ideal for whitewater and big water use
Comfortable and non-restrictive for paddling
Provides strong flotation and safety

NRS Pro Compact Rescue Throw Bag, Yellow

17 reviews

SKU: NRSPCRB

~~$149.95~~ Save: $29.99 (20%)

^$119.96

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A compact and lightweight yellow rescue throw bag with 70' of high visibility rope for swift water emergency work.

NRS Star Outlaw II Inflatable Kayak

15 reviews

SKU: STAOIK2GY

~~$1095~~ Save: $219 (20%)

^$876

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

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

Mustang Survival MIT 100 Convertible A/M Inflatable PFD Life Jacket

9 reviews

SKU: MSTM1CPRD

~~$184.99~~ Save: $37.02 (20%)

^$147.97

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A Mustang Survival MIT 100 Convertible A/M Inflatable PFD Life Jacket with 28 lbs of buoyancy and adjustable fit.

NRS Star Raven I Inflatable Kayak

9 reviews

SKU: STASRK1

~~$1195~~ Save: $239 (20%)

^$956

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A versatile inflatable kayak with a stable PVC floor, comfortable seat, and easy inflation/deflation valves.

Aire Tributary Spud Kayak

8 reviews

SKU: ARETSPUDLM

~~$570~~ Save: $57 (10%)

^$513

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A stable and lightweight whitewater kayak with a self-bailing design, perfect for kids and made in the USA.

Aire Tributary Tomcat Tandem Kayak

6 reviews

SKU: ARETTCKBL

~~$1200~~ Save: $120 (10%)

^$1080

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable and affordable tandem kayak for whitewater adventures with versatile solo or duo paddling and ample gear space.

NRS Star Outlaw I Inflatable Kayak

6 reviews

SKU: STAOIKYL

~~$995~~ Save: $199 (20%)

^$796

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A user-friendly and sporty inflatable kayak with a high-pressure drop-stitch floor for stability and superior abrasion resistance.

NRS Pro Rescue Throw Bag, Yellow

6 reviews

SKU: NRSPRTB

~~$249.95~~ Save: $49.99 (20%)

^$199.96

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A highly visible and durable yellow throw bag with 75' of floating rope for swift-water emergency situations.

NRS Vista PFD

5 reviews

SKU: NRSVISBLXL2X

~~$94.95~~ Save: $30.05 (32%)

^$64.90

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

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

Aire Tributary Tater Kayak

5 reviews

SKU: ARETRTKRD

~~$740~~ Save: $74 (10%)

^$666

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable, lightweight kayak with a sporty design and easy inflation/deflation for adult-sized paddlers.

Aire Rocktabomb River Tube

4 reviews

SKU: ARERTBRTBL

~~$265~~ Save: $26.50 (10%)

^$238.50

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A compact and lightweight river tube with reinforced grab handles and a maximum weight capacity of 250 lbs.

Aire Lynx 2 Person Inflatable Kayak

4 reviews

SKU: AREL2KBL

~~$2260~~ Save: $226 (10%)

^$2034

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

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

NRS Rapid Rescuer PFD Life Jacket

3 reviews

SKU: NRSRRPUSY

~~$319.95~~ Save: $63.99 (20%)

^$255.96

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A rescue professional's life jacket with advanced features, enhanced visibility, and customizable fit.

Aire Outfitter 1 Person Kayak

3 reviews

SKU: AREO1KYL

~~$2210~~ Save: $221 (10%)

^$1989

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable and stable 1-person kayak with a comfortable seat and ample storage for gear.

Aire Tributary Tomcat Solo Kayak

3 reviews

SKU: ARETTCSKBL

~~$970~~ Save: $97 (10%)

^$873

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable and affordable whitewater kayak with easy inflation/deflation, adjustable seat, and 375 lbs load capacity.

Aire Outfitter 2 Person Kayak

3 reviews

SKU: AREO2KTL

~~$2310~~ Save: $231 (10%)

^$2079

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable, stable 2-person kayak with adjustable chairs, 17 cargo loops, and self-bailing system.

NRS Ambient PFD Life Jacket

3 reviews

SKU: NRSAPFDMLP

~~$139.95~~ Save: $27.99 (20%)

^$111.96

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A sustainable, adjustable PFD with Orbit Fit System and hydration pack compatibility for safe and comfortable water adventures.

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Gear For River Guides

River guides know that every day on the water brings a new set of challenges, from shifting currents to sudden changes in weather. The right gear isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety, efficiency, and being prepared for whatever the river has in store. Whether you’re a seasoned guide with years of whitewater under your belt or someone gearing up for your first season, choosing equipment that stands up to the demands of the job is essential. Reliable river guide gear is designed to endure the rigors of daily use, with features like reinforced seams, quick-draining materials, and secure closures that keep essentials protected from water and debris. In the heat of August, when river levels are at their peak and the sun beats down relentlessly, breathable, moisture-wicking clothing can make long days more bearable, while sturdy footwear provides the grip needed to scramble over slick rocks or haul rafts ashore. Many river guides swear by modular storage solutions that keep first-aid kits, tools, and personal items organized and within easy reach, saving precious time when every second counts.

For those looking to outfit a friend or loved one who is passionate about guiding, river gear makes for a thoughtful and practical gift. Items like high-visibility dry bags, multi-use knives, or compact safety equipment are always appreciated by guides who value gear that can pull double duty. Even small additions to a guide’s kit—like a durable sun hat or a new set of gloves—can make a noticeable difference after hours spent battling the elements. If you’re shopping for a guide heading into a busy late-summer season, consider gear that enhances comfort and safety during long stretches on the water. The best river guide equipment is built to adapt, offering flexibility for multi-day expeditions, quick day trips, or unexpected overnight stays. It’s not uncommon for guides to develop a deep attachment to their gear, recalling the stories and adventures attached to each piece—the waterproof bag that kept a camera dry through a surprise downpour, or the jacket that warded off an early morning chill on a misty riverbank.

Selecting the right gear is about understanding the unique rhythm of river life. Guides rely on equipment that transitions seamlessly from calm stretches to technical rapids, and from blazing afternoons to cool, starlit evenings. The products featured here have been curated with these needs in mind, focusing on durability, versatility, and user-friendly design. Whether you’re restocking your kit for the final months of the guiding season or searching for a reliable upgrade, you’ll find options tailored to the demands of professional river work. For a broader selection of equipment suited for both guides and recreational paddlers, be sure to visit our Gear For River Trips page, where you’ll discover even more essentials for every type of river adventure. From the thrill of navigating churning rapids to the quiet satisfaction of a well-packed kit, the right gear transforms river guiding from a job into a passion—one that’s as rewarding as the river itself.