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!

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!

Paddle board mass start POV

Hey paddle boarders, check out this paddle board race mass start in the ocean! It's a great point of view but there's a few difference in paddling in the ocean verses flat water. In swells or choppy water you'll want a planing board, to be fast you'll want a narrow board, and to reduce drag you'll want a long board. Check out the boards during the video and click the link to find out the differences in planing verses displacement boards. Your board choice will be determined by where you paddle and how you'll be using the board. It you don't race, there's no need for a narrow displacement hull. If you're not going in the ocean then you'll need less rocker. If you're getting into paddle boarding for fitness, socialization and possible yoga then a stable moderate length board around 10 or 11 feet would be best.

See you out on the water!

SUP Hydro Foil, super cool or super fad?

It's the newest thing out there! Read all about the SUP Hydrofoil on SUP The Mag site. If you're just starting out I'm sure the whole sport of paddle boarding is "the newest thing" out there. That's where we can hep get you started.

There's more and more links and info on the web everyday about paddle boarding. If you're looking for one of the best boards on the market check out Star Boards. They are innovative, strong and have a flawless design. If your looking for your first board but don't want the plastic things they sell at the local sporting goods stores there are still many options. Great boards for good prices are out there. Check out the options from SUP ATX. If you're interested in 4 or more boards please email me for discounted pricing; paddleboardkc@gmail.com

The primary purpose for SUP KC is to get you out there discovering the many bodies of water we have here in the area. Paddle boarding is a beneficial, social and easily obtainable recreational activity for the majority of the population. You don't have to be a fitness minded person and it's a great activity for families with kids!