Paddling Guides, Gear Advice & How-To Articles

How to Do the SUP Forward Stroke

In this short instructional video we show you how to do the SUP forward paddle stroke to help you move ahead more quickly, more efficiently and more smoothly.

How to Practice the Kayak Wet Exit

How to practice the kayak wet exit, your back-up plan for when your roll doesn't work.

How Much Risk Should Boaters Take?

Life is about balancing risk and reward, and so is boating.

How to Choose a Stand Up Paddle

The right paddle makes a world of difference in your stand up paddling experience. This video helps you choose a stand up paddle thats just right for you.

How to Safely Fall Off a SUP Board

This video shows the best way to safely fall off your SUP, techniques for climbing back on, how to rescue your paddle and stand back up on the SUP board.

Kayak Outfitting Tips for Playboating

Proper kayak outfitting is essential to getting the most comfort and performance out of your playboat.

Rescue Film Series: Ep. 8: Boat Extractions

This video demonstrates how to retrieve a pinned kayak or canoe using methods ranging from pushing and pulling to setting up a mechanical advantage system.

Rescue Film Series: Ep. 9: Self Rescue

Whitewater kayakers and canoeists should learn the basic techniques for self rescue. Watch how to swim to safety and avoid dangerous foot entrapment.

SUP Workout

SUP instructor Nikki Gregg gives you four easy-to-learn exercises you can add to your SUP workout to help make you a stronger and healthier paddler.

Winter Rolling Tune-Up

Your local swimming pool is a great place for perfecting your kayak roll. Team NRS kayaker Devon Barker-Hicks gives valuable tips for getting it dialed in.

How to Fit an Adjustable Bungee Sprayskirt

This video gives tips on how fit an adjustable bungee sprayskirt for a snug fit, while still allowing the skirt to be removed safely in a wet exit.

Rescue Film Series: Ep. 7: Live Bait Rescue

This video shows several different live bait techniques and describes the best ways to do them safely

SUP Board Flip Rescue with Nikki Gregg

This SUP Board flip rescue technique allows you to rescue an unconscious, unresponsive or physically compromised victim using your SUP as an aid.

Winter Paddling at its Warmest

Team NRS kayaker Devon Barker-Hicks gives gear recommendations for staying warm while paddling in icy waters.

Four Golden Rules of Stand Up Paddling

Watch to learn the four Golden Rules of SUP: good paddle technique, proper body position, use of core muscles and efficient SUP board propulsion.

Basic Gear for Kayak Fishing Safety

NRS ambassador Isaac Miller discusses the equipment and apparel that can improve our level of comfort and kayak fishing safety.

How to Clean and Deodorize Neoprene Wetshoes

This video shows how to clean and dry water shoes to head off odor. And if stinky shoes happen, we show how to eliminate it.

How to Fold an Inflatable Boat for Storage

Learn the tips and techniques to minimize stress on seams and materials by folding an inflatable boat for storage correctly.

How to Hand Roll a Kayak Without a Paddle

Learn how to execute the hand-roll in a kayak—a technique for when you lose your paddle or want a challenge. Instructor Ken Whiting walks through setup, catch, recovery and key body positions.

How to Install D-Rings and Footcups

NRS Repairs shows you the best ways to install D-rings and footcups and permanently glue them to Hypalon-, PVC- and urethane-coated materials

How to Patch an Inflatable SUP Board

How to repair a tear or hole in inflatable SUP board made of PVC or urethane-coated material.

How to Repair Neoprene

In this video, we show how to repair neoprene when it gets damaged. Don't throw that gear away; fix it!

How to Repair Waterproof Fabric

Learn how to repair waterproof fabric with some simple techniques for applying patches using Aquaseal or Seam Grip, two user-friendly adhesives.

How to Replace a Raft Valve

Here we show you how to replace a raft valve, using a doughnut patch to cover the incisions you make to remove the valves inner piece.

How To Stretch a Sprayskirt

In this video, we show you how to stretch a sprayskirt to prevent water leakage and implosion.

Inflatable Repair Adhesives Guide

This video helps you understand when to use such glues as Clifton Hypalon, Shore, Stabond, Clifton Urethane, Vynabond and G/flex Epoxy.

Rescue Film Series: Ep. 3: Swiftwater Swimming

Swimming efficiently in whitewater is essential for self-rescue, rescuing others and building your kayaking, rafting and canoeing confidence.

Rescue Film Series: Ep. 5: Victim Contact Techniques

This video covers victim contact techniques for safely paddling, swimming and wading out to the victim

Rescue Film Series: Ep. 6: The Rescue Harness

This video shows you how to safely and effectively use the quick-release rescue harness on your life jacket.

Rescue for River Runners: Ep. 1: Getting Started

Learn what gear you need to have with you, from your rescue PFD, protective apparel, throw bags, rescue hardware to first aid kit and communication devices.

Rescue for River Runners: Ep. 2: Team Strategy

Smart teamwork and preparedness make everyone safer on the river with the swiftwater rescue playbook.

How to Repair PVC and Urethane Boats

In this video, the NRS Repairs Department shows you the step-by-step process for repairing boats, finding the leak, rolling on the patch and more.

Life Jackets Stop the Senseless Loss of Life

Boating and paddling safety isn’t optional. Dive into real accident stories and learn why wearing a life jacket and respecting cold-water hazards matters on rivers and lakes.”

Whitewater & Touring Kayak Paddle Sizing Guides

Choosing the right paddle length or oar length is an important decision that may greatly enhance—or even extend—your time and happiness on the water.

Leave No Trace, Please

NRS is partnering with Leave No Trace for the month of May. Donate today and well match your contribution.

Boaters and Dehydration

Body fluid loss can lead to serious consequences. How to recognize it and prevent it.

Paddling Guides, Expert Advice & Outdoor How-To Articles