Paddling activites in KC?

It's time to test the waters and see what type of response we get by asking...is there a place for recreational and competitive paddling sports in Kansas City?

Currently there is an outlet for paddling sports and activities in the KC area. You can rent a canoe or kayak and leisurely float down the Missouri or Kansas river. You can also rent kayaks and paddle boards at a few lakes in the area. There's even a fun race every Wednesday at Shawnee Mission Lake. Bring your own craft and compete against yourself and others in your category every week. Outdoor activity on the water is fantastic and has many physical, social and emotional benefits!

There are land based recreational activities that have fundraising or competitive opportunities. If you're a casual cyclist, you can sign up for several different benefit rides like Tour De BBQ. If you're a little more serious rider there are numerous road races, triathelons and duathelons. If you happen to be a casual runner there are numerous running events throughout the year for worthy causes and chances to beat your fastest time from years past.

We understand that paddle sports take a little bit more participation effort. First you need to purchase a water craft and then you need to find a place to store it when not in use. Oh and then when you want to use it, you've got to get it to the water somehow.

Beyond these differences, what is so difficult about paddle sports in Kansas City? Why aren't there more opportunities to get out on the water and enjoy nature away from the static ground we are all accustomed to? The opportunities are out there and we hope to make them less of a mystery. Not all of us live on the lake and it's much easier to participate in an activity that can happen from the end of your own driveway.

I know it takes more time, thought, planning and effort to use that kayak you bought years ago. Maybe you've always wanted to get a paddle board but just didn't see the benefit. Paddle boarding is a very social and family friendly activity. We'll give you every excuse you need to get out there on the water this summer! If you have questions please email us through the website!

Awesome SUP Accessories!

In anticipation of getting out on the water this season I've been looking around the internet for cool things that go along with paddle boarding. I've already purchased a paddle board keychain for my trailer and have been looking for a cup holder that can suction to the paddle board deck. I might just skip the cup holder and tie down a small cooler. Why take just one beverage when there's room for more. My mom always told me it's good to share with others.

Surf Station has these fantastic foam paddle holders with a sticky velcro backing. They show it attached to the paddle board deck, but they would be great to use for home storage or safe and secure transportation. The backs are simple sticky velcro that's available at most any hobby shop or hardware store. Two thumbs up to whoever invented these things!

There's so many fun things out there to customize your paddling adventures even if it's just hanging out in the cove with friends! Check back to see what fun things we've found and maybe we'll be able to give you a few product reviews throughout the summer.

Launching the website

New site launched and more content coming! Check out the new site and offer feedback, send a few pics and ask questions at Paddle Board KC!!! I couldn't wait to get this thing out there. We'll be providing educational content and taking the mystery out of paddle boarding. You'll be able to find everything you need to be involved in the KC paddle board community.

Cheers, get out and paddle!

Community, culture and competition

For some reason paddling water sports for recreation and especially competition are not very well known in the Kansas City area. We want to change all that and bring those activities and that lifestyle into the mainstream. I realize there are a few obstacles that make water sports a less desirable activity than walking though the park or even riding a bike. But there's also so many more benefits! For example; if you get too hot walking, running or riding your bike your only option is to drink cold water or dump it on your head. If you get too warm when paddling in your kayak, canoe or paddle board you simply get in the water! Instant relief!!!

There's a culture and community out there that many people don't know about. I know I had no idea that so many events, groups and races existed in Kansas City. All these activities and groups are growing and looking for people just like you. You don't even need to own your own craft. you can simply sign up for a day on the water with Tom at KC Kayak and Canoe or take your own craft to Shawnee Mission Lake every Wednesday for a fun race with good people!

If you're really looking for serious paddling races there's a good number in Missouri and the surrounding area. And don't forget about the MO 340. Who would have thought that Kansas City would be the launching point for a 340 mile race down the Missouri river.

There's so many options yet to be discovered, so get out there and explore your local rivers and bodies of water!