Paddling Supplies
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just starting out, having the right gear can make all the difference in dragon boating. Our team members have shared their go-to spots for everything from paddles and life jackets to clothing and accessories to help you get ready to be out on the water. Here’s a list of trusted places to find quality equipment.
Buying a Dragon Boat Paddle
While the Ladysmith Dragon Boat Society provides wooden paddles to borrow, they can feel heavy for regular use. Investing in a lighter, carbon fiber paddle is a great choice if you’re joining a team. It's the most expensive piece of gear you’ll need, but it’s absolutely worth it. An adjustable-length paddle is great, especially for newer paddlers, as it will allow you to try different lengths as you hone your technique and find your ideal size. Below is a list of a few places you can buy a paddle.
PADL Zone carries Hornet Paddles. These paddles often have beautiful designs and can be a bit more expensive.
Amazon carries a few brands of paddles, the most popular being Z&J Sport. These tend to be popular paddles for newer paddlers because of their lower price point.
Burnwater carries high performance carbon fibre paddles. A few of our paddlers have them and can’t say enough great things about them.
Waterfront Outfitters, at the Fairway Gorge Paddling Club in Victoria sells paddles in the store if you want to see it before you purchase. They’ll also help you pick the right size for you if you don’t want an adjustable paddle
Other Important Gear
NRS makes a range of PFDs, and this Vapour style is a favourite among paddlers on our boat. It’s designed with comfort and mobility in mind, allowing for a full range of motion
Many of our paddlers opt for minimal waist-style PFDs, as they’re compact and allow a lot of mobility. Just a heads-up: some races won’t permit these, and they aren’t recommended for winter paddling either. In those cases, you’ll need a full PFD for safety and warmth.
These inflatable-style life vests are a popular choice among paddlers because of their low profile and mobility. Like the waist-style PFD’s, some races don’t allow them, and they’re not ideal for winter paddling.
We can’t recommend the NRS HydroSkin Gloves enough for those chilly paddles or rainy winter practices. They keep your hands warm without making them bulky, so you don’t lose any grip on the paddle. These are a ‘must have’ for winter paddling!
the NRS Women's Boater’s Gloves are a game-changer for warm-weather days on the water. They’re lightweight, flexible and protect against blisters while adding grip, perfect for long paddling sessions.
A dragon boat seat pad is a must-have for any paddler. This one is a favorite—you’ll spot it on a lot of seats. Not only does it add a touch of comfort, but it also keeps you from slipping when you’re working on your rotation, helping with stability and control.
The Hornet silicone grip tape is really helpful for adding some grip to carbon fibre paddlers.
Valhalla Pure Outfitters is a solid go-to. They have stores in Nanaimo and Victoria where you can try gear on, or you can shop online if that’s easier. They occasionally carry paddles, but the real gems are their PFDs, base layers, gloves and neoprene boots.
The Last Hunt is a favourite for finding top-notch gear and clothing at steep discounts. They offer a great selection, including life jackets and outdoor clothing. It’s all last season’s products, so you can snag them at a fraction of the price.
Padl Zone is an online store focused on water sports gear and is packed with dragon boat essentials. They have everything from paddles and seat pads to grip tape, making it easy to find specialized equipment in one place.
Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) may not carry specific dragon boat supplies, but they’re a great resource for outdoor and water sport gear. There’s a store in Victoria, or you can order online.