Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Sawyer Venom WW SUP paddle

I just want to say, " Sawyer knows how to make an amazing SUP paddle!" 
The Venom is not only a beautiful paddle, its functional, durable and stable.  I have tried many different blade designs and materials for whitewater over the years.
  As a kayaker I love my AT paddle with the Dynel edging.  Sawyer has brought that material to SUP.  Its tougher than Kevlar and makes it virtually impossible to wear down the edges on your paddle blade.



I use a one piece 80 inch paddle, it has good flex and allows for a big brace due to the blade size, roughly 142 inches square.   
Many times in WW SUP we need to use a brace to stay on the board.  The Venom has a powerful bite that allows for a big brace. 
Its a multi purpose paddle that works well for river surf too.  It has a good turnover allowing you to get back up and surf even the smallest river waves. 

If you are looking for and economical, well built and american made paddle, look no further.  The Venom is one of those paddles that will give you many years of service.  Its a reliable tool for getting you into the harder whitewater.

  I recently heard someone say they break 15 paddles a year!  I think maybe they should be looking for a different paddle brand!  

Check out Sawyer paddles at   http://www.paddlesandoars.com/VENOM-WW-SUP/  

Thursday, April 9, 2015

Stand up Paddling inland Mexico.

Just about everyone is familiar with Mexico's beaches.  Gulf, Caribbean and Pacific sides all offer opportunities for great SUP surfing.  My annual pilgrimage takes me to the Rivers of this amazing country.

I explore the endless beautiful rivers that Mexico has to offer.  If you’re familiar with rivers, you know that where there are mountains, there must be rivers and rapids. 

 For the past nine years I have been traveling to the  Sierra Madre Orientals on the eastern side of Mexico.  All of the rivers in the Huasteca region are spring fed, clean, and crisp with a deep turquoise blue color.


  This particular part of the Huasteca is known for its Waterfalls.  Some can be run on a SUP.  

           
One of our newest sections of river is the the headwaters of the Rio Santa Maria.  All rapids are below class 3 and perfect to paddle standing up. The wildlife is incredible, herons, turtles, eagles and migratory shore birds can be seen daily.  This is freshwater paddling at its finest.  
Santa Maria

The river takes us through green canyons, past hot water springs, beaches, ancient trees and even a 400 year old Franciscan Mision!   85 percent of the population of Mexico live in the cities.  Many days we don't see another person the entire river trip!  Other times we find a volleyball game in progress or surrounded by children and our boards kidnapped!
Fun times!


River SUP has rarely been seen here in Mexico, so sometimes we draw a lot of attention when close to civilization.  Everyone is stoked to get a chance to try out a board.  
If you are looking for a warm water winter getaway and you have an addiction to SUP (like I do).  Mexico can be a great option.  Inflatable board, good pair of shoes, PFD and Stoke are all you need.  


  

   Come on down and share the Stoke.  See you on the river.  Aaron