Two founders happily kayaking on a clear lake at sunset, high-fiving each other.
Our Co-founders, Alex & Taylor, on Lake Superior, where it all began.

Our Journey Began on the Water

Born from a passion for pristine waters and the thrill of adventure, Paddle Pro's story began where all great kayaking stories do – on the water. It was during a multi-day expedition through the remote waters of the Pacific Northwest that co-founders Alex and Taylor realized a gap in the market: high-quality, reliable, and expertly vetted gear for serious North American kayakers.

Frustrated by unreliable equipment and generic advice, they envisioned a company that not only sold gear but also shared genuine passion and real-world experience. From humble beginnings sourcing specialized paddles from independent craftsmen to personally testing every waterproof bag through torrential downpours, our mission has always been to equip fellow enthusiasts with the confidence to explore further.

  • Over 20 years combined experience on diverse waterways
  • Every product personally tested in real-world conditions
  • Committed to fostering a vibrant kayaking community

What Drives Us Forward

Unwavering Safety

Your safety on the water is paramount. We advocate for best practices and supply gear that meets the highest safety standards, giving you peace of mind.

Premium Quality

We meticulously select every item, partnering with manufacturers who share our dedication to durability, performance, and craftsmanship engineered for the aquatic environment.

Environmental Stewardship

We believe in protecting the waters we love. Our practices prioritize sustainable sourcing and support conservation efforts to preserve natural paddling habitats.

Expertise You Can Trust

Our team isn't just selling gear; we're using it. Meet the passionate paddlers behind Paddle Pro.

Headshot of Alex, a kayaking expert.

Alex "The River Guide" Chen

Co-founder & Head of Product Vetting. Over 15 years as a certified white-water guide. Expert in paddle dynamics and bag waterproofing.

Headshot of Taylor, a kayaking enthusiast.

Taylor "The Explorer" Smith

Co-founder & Customer Experience Lead. Specializes in long-distance touring, life jacket comfort, and hat sun protection technologies.

Headshot of Jamie, a logistics specialist.

Jamie "The Navigator" Davis

Logistics and Operations Manager. Known for optimizing gear for various expeditions and providing unparalleled customer support.

Our team collectively boasts hundreds of thousands of paddling miles across diverse waterways, ensuring that every product listed has faced real-world tests.

Our Promise to You

Hands inspecting a durable waterproof zipper on a kayak bag.
Rigorous testing ensures uncompromising quality.

At Paddle Pro, our commitment extends beyond the sale. We guarantee that every product you purchase has undergone stringent selection processes and real-world performance testing.

  • Hand-picked from leading global manufacturers
  • Subjected to our proprietary 7-point Paddle Pro field test
  • Backed by a responsive customer support team
  • Industry-leading warranties on all major gear

We stand behind the durability, performance, and reliability of our kayak paddles, waterproof bags, life jackets, and hats. Your satisfaction is our unwavering promise.

Beyond Business: Our Community

Local Initiatives

Proud sponsors of local river clean-up days and youth kayaking programs, fostering the next generation of paddlers.

Conservation Partners

Contributing a portion of every sale to organizations dedicated to preserving sensitive aquatic ecosystems across North America.

Paddler Network

Building a thriving online community where paddlers can share tips, routes, and experiences, fostering connection and adventure.

Why Kayakers Choose Us

Curated Selection, Not Overload

Unlike big box stores, we don't stock hundreds of mediocre options. We meticulously select a refined range of the best kayak paddles, waterproof bags, life jackets, and hats, ensuring every item lives up to our high standards.

  • Hand-picked, high-performance gear
  • Avoid analysis paralysis with our expert recommendations

Real-World Advice & Support

Our team isn't just theory-smart; we're water-tested. We offer personalized advice based on years of hands-on experience, helping you choose exactly what you need for your next adventure.

  • Direct access to seasoned kayakers
  • Tips for various water conditions and types of paddling

Fast & Reliable Delivery

We know waiting for gear when adventure calls is tough. Our streamlined logistics ensure your order is processed quickly and shipped safely, getting you on the water faster.

  • Expedited processing for keen adventurers
  • Secure packaging to protect your investment

Join a Community of Passion

When you choose Paddle Pro, you're not just buying gear; you're joining a growing community of passionate paddlers who share your love for aquatic exploration. From shared stories to group events, your adventure is amplified.

  • Connect with like-minded individuals
  • Discover new paddling destinations and techniques

Experience the difference that passion-driven expertise makes in your gear selection.

Explore Our Gear