Top 5 Providers for Kayaking Equipment

Choosing the best provider for kayaking equipment is important, as it plays a significant role in your paddling journey. Whether you are a beginner just starting out and trying the sport, or an experienced paddler competing or going on different trips for fun, a kayaking provider matters. With the countless fabulous places in Scotland to paddle, having the right equipment could make your trip all the better. 

It’s important to choose a provider who has experience in kayaking, so they are able to provide advice and help to match a kayak and the necessary equipment to suit your needs. Many providers also allow you to try before you buy, to ensure you make the correct decision and have the best equipment to benefit your experience. This article covers the top 5 providers in the UK for kayaking equipment, and some of their key benefits. 

1. Flow Kayaks
Overview:
Flow Kayaks was formed after they felt that European brands were not represented in the UK watersports market properly. They now cater to multiple sports, including stand-up paddleboarding, whitewater kayaking, canoe and kayak slalom, and more.

Key benefits:

• Staff are top-level paddlers, so they have the knowledge and understanding of the industry and are able to help you in-store and online. 
• Have a well-stocked shop in Nottingham, where you are free to pop in and get advice and try equipment before you purchase.
• Specialising in kayaking, followed by canoeing and paddleboarding, catering to all uses, from experts to beginners.
• Deliver in person within England to ensure your products are safely delivered
  

​2. Canoe Shops

Overview: 
Canoe Shops UK has been running for 25 years, through a chain of family-owned independent stores. Their staff have an understanding of the paddling industry because they participate or have participated in paddle sports before. 

Key benefits:

• Offer a range of kayaks and canoes to suit different paddlers' needs. 
• Most of their staff have strong knowledge of paddle sports and have experience in this area, so they can provide guidance in their stores.
• Provide clothing, equipment, and tools to transport your paddle gear wherever you need. 

3. Whitewater The Canoe Centre
Overview:
Whitewater The Canoe Centre is an independent kayak and canoe retailer located in Shepperton, with experience in the industry as the founders are paddlers. They cater to paddle sports on white water, flat water, saltwater, and river water. 

Key benefits:

• Provide kayaks for all scenarios, from leisurely touring to competitive paddling and freestyling. 
• Offer a range of paddle and safety equipment, including throwlines, karabiners, and safety kits.
• Have a second-hand selection of kayaks still in great condition. 

4. Escape Watersports
Overview:
Escape Watersports is a versatile watersports company that sells a range of kayaks, equipment, safety gear, and accessories to help you get ready for your next adventure. Due to the location of their HQ, they try and test the new kit themselves to ensure it is fit for purpose, choosing to stock and sell the best equipment. 

Key benefits:

• Stock a range of paddle gear and clothing 
• Supply a wide range of brands you can select from on their website, including Alder, Dagger Kayaks, TNP, Vision, and Perception Kayaks.
• Constantly improving their customer service and efficiency of their delivery operations. 
  

5. North Shore Watersports
Overview:
North Shore Watersports is a kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing company set up for the North East of England. Their large range of equipment is available both in-store and online. 

Key benefits:

• Due to the location of their shop, you can try products before you buy them, with their demo kayaks on the flat water lake. 
• Offer a range of kayaks, from whitewater and sea kayaks to recreational ones, along with kayaking accessories. 
• They support both beginner and expert paddlers on their kayaking journey. 

From beginners to expert paddlers, it's important to choose the right provider for your kayaking adventures. This article has provided a short summary of the top 5 brands for kayakers, with some of their key benefits to help guide your kayaking journey. 

​​