Raft & Cataraft Terminology: Essential Terms for Inflatable Boats
Master the key terms used for rafts and catarafts – learn boat-parts, floor types, tube measurements and accessories in this quick inflation-boat glossary.
- 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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Inflatable Boat Use and Care Instructions
Learn how to properly care for your raft, cataraft or inflatable kayak. We include basics about mounting frames, cleaning instructions and repairs.
- Repair
- Rafting
Inflatable Boat & SUP Guide
Specifics on NRS E-series, Otter series, Otter Livery series, NRS catarafts, NRS Patriots, NRS SUP Boards and NRS Inflatable Kayaks.
- Rafting
- Whitewater Kayaking
- Stand-Up Paddling
Rock Solid Guarantee
We love happy customers. Learn how NRS guarantees all NRS products to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship.
- Customer Service
Modular Frame Part Dimensions
Use these diagrams to learn about the design specs and dimensions for the individual parts and pieces of the NRS modular raft frame system. The NRS frame system is the most adjustable and adaptable raft frame system you can buy and is built in Moscow, Idaho by skilled craftsmen.
- Rafting
- Gear
Key Features of Raft & Inflatable Boat Rowing Frames
Discover how NRS modular frames use premium aluminum alloy, heavy-duty fittings and full adjustability to deliver a strong, lightweight platform that fits any raft or inflatable boat. Learn how to size your frame and why proper width/length matter.
- Rafting
- Gear
NRS, STAR & AIRE Raft Frame Sizing Guide
Learn which NRS raft or cataraft frames fit best on specific NRS, STAR Inflatables or AIRE rafts and catarafts.
- Rafting
- Gear
Cataraft Rowing Frame Features
Why buy your cataraft rowing frame from NRS? Every frame is engineered for strength, adjustability and long-term performance, with precision-fit LoPro fittings and proven river durability.
- Rafting
- Gear
Kayak Floatation for Sea Kayaks
Learn how (and why) to install and use floatation bags in your sea kayak to keep you buoyant after hull damage; paddle safely back to shore in case of hull puncture.
- Kayak Touring
- Safety
- Gear
Valve Know-How
Information on identification, maintenance and repair of inflatable boat valves.
- Repair
- Rafting
- Kayak Touring
- Stand-Up Paddling
USGS WaterAlert Service
Service gives email or text message alerts on river flows.
- Safety
The Sun and My Inflatable Friend (or Foe?)
Energy from the Sun, in the form of heat and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, can do great harm to you and your equipment. Learn to protect your rafting gear.
- Repair
- Rafting
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
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
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 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
How to Introduce Kids to Boating, Kayaking & Whitewater
Learn how to introduce kids to boating, camping, kayaking and whitewater with practical safety tips, gear ideas and fun ways to build confidence outdoors.
- How To
- Rafting
- Kayak Touring
- Camping
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
