How to Prevent Rubbing and Abrasion on Rafts
Learn how to protect your raft or cataraft from wear and abrasion with proper setup, transport tips, and repair methods to extend its lifespan.
- How To
- Repair
- Rafting
Expert Advice: Learn Articles, Tips & How-To’s
Search our extensive collection of how-to articles and videos to help you safely raft, kayak, SUP, camp, fish and care for your NRS gear and apparel.
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How to Protect Your Gear From Saltwater
Learn how to protect your paddling gear from saltwater corrosion and wear. Get practical cleaning, rinse, and storage tips to extend the life of your metal, neoprene and dry-wear equipment.
- Repair
- Kayak Touring
- Stand-Up Paddling
Rescue Bag Basics
Learn how the NRS Rescue Throw Bag, a vital piece of safety equipment required for every boater, can be used to rescue a swimmer or help unpin a boat.
- Safety
- Rescue
- Gear
How to Repair an Oar or Paddle Blade
This step-by-step guide will teach you how to repair cracked oar or paddle blades using flexible epoxy adhesive so you can restore your gear and get back on the water.
- How To
- Repair
- Gear
Help Prevent the Spread of Invasive Aquatic Species
Discover simple, effective steps paddlers can take to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species—cleaning gear, draining watercraft, drying equipment and protecting lakes, rivers and streams.
- Rafting
- Whitewater Kayaking
- Kayak Touring
- Stand-Up Paddling
Prevent Boating Injuries and Stretch for Better Paddling
Stay strong and pain-free on the water. Learn conditioning tips, warm-up routines, and stretching exercises that help paddlers prevent shoulder, wrist, and back injuries.
- How To
- Yoga & Fitness
Pre-Trip Food Prep
Doing some work before your trip speeds up meal preparation and cuts down on the mess.
- Camping
Paddler’s Dictionary: A Glossary of Kayaking & Canoeing Terms
A reprint from Canoe & Kayak Magazine on many boating terms.
- Rafting
- Whitewater Kayaking
- Kayak Touring
- Stand-Up Paddling
Fitting Molded Oar Sleeves and Oar Rights
Get step-by-step instructions to properly fit molded oar sleeves and oar rights; learn how to shim, adjust and secure your oars for reliable performance on the water.
- How To
- Repair
- Rafting
- Gear
How to Choose Your Oar Length
"What length oars do I need for my boat?" is one of the most common questions we get. We've developed this chart to help you with this decision.
- How To
- Rafting
Kids and Nature
If you love the outdoors, river or water, you can help spread that passion to the younger generations with these tips about getting kids into nature.
- Rafting
- Kayak Touring
- Camping
How to Overcome Fear for New Boaters
Conquer your fears of boating! This guide offers practical mental strategies, safety tips, and step-by-step advice to help new boaters build confidence and overcome anxiety.
- How To
- Safety
How to Stay Warmer with Proper Paddling Headwear
Learn how proper paddling insulating headwear will help you stay warmer and more comfortable when the weather and water take a turn for the colder.
- Apparel
How to Boat and Camp with Perishable Foods
Learn how to boat and camp with perishable foods, an excerpt from the book Camp Cooking: Eating Well in the Wild.
- How To
- Camping
How to Understand River Flows
Cubic feet per second (cfs) is one of the key indicators of river or creek conditions. Learn what this means and how it can affect your trip planning.
- Rafting
- Whitewater Kayaking
- Stand-Up Paddling
- Safety
How to Repair a Worn Spot on a Raft
Using Aquaseal to cover a worn spot on a raft or cataraft.
- Repair
- Rafting
How to Choose Your First Raft or Cataraft
Things to consider when buying your first raft or cataraft.
- How To
- Rafting
Caring for Your Neoprene Gear
With a little care and TLC, your neoprene paddling gear can last a long time. Read on for some tips and tricks to maximize the life of your neoprene.
- Repair
- Apparel
- Gear
Essential Camping Tips & Hacks for Smarter Outdoor Trips
Smart camping tips for keeping food cold, staying organized and protecting the outdoors on your next river or backcountry trip.
- Camping
Weight Carrying Capacity of NRS Boats
What's the weight carrying capacity of NRS rafts? We get asked that question frequently. Our answer? "We don't rate them." Read more to learn why.
- Rafting
Helmet Know How
Do you need a paddlesports-specific helmet? Yes. Can't you just re-use your bike (or other sport) helmet? Nope. Let us explain.
- Apparel
- Safety
Living With Kids on Boating Trips
Tips for making boating trips with kids enjoyable for all.
- Rafting
- Kayak Touring
- Camping
Kayak and Canoe Car Top Basics
The safe way to carry kayaks and canoes on top of your vehicle.
- Whitewater Kayaking
- Kayak Touring
12 Reasons To Start Paddling
A reprint from Canoe & Kayak Magazine on the many reasons for getting on the water.
- Rafting
- Whitewater Kayaking
- Kayak Touring
- Stand-Up Paddling
How to Stay Warm When Kayaking
Learn what gear to wear to stay warm when boating or kayaking in cold weather and water conditions. Have fun year-round with these tips from Erin Clancey.
- Rafting
- Whitewater Kayaking
- Kayak Touring
- Stand-Up Paddling
- Safety
NRS Gift Card: Always Fits, Always Wanted
