great gifts for beginners

Beginners: We've either been them, or know them.

Set them up for success – They're going to want gear that will last and last.

Shop our collection of Great Paddlesports Gifts for Beginners.

Our Top 7 Must-Buy Items

1. Hala Gear All Water Paddleboard Kit

Beginners want their paddleboarding adventures  to beas easy and hassle-free as possible. That's why Hala has expertly designed their All-Water Full Package SUP Kits to contain everything to get out and paddle.

The only thing that's left is planning the next adventure!

Hala All Water SUP Kits

Do they already have a SUP? Read about SUP Paddle Upgrades >>

2. Level Six Duke Drytop

If your beginner paddler want to extend their paddling season and you don't want to break the bank, consider the Level Six Duke Drytop. The Duke offers an excellent water protection at an affordable price. Keeping their torso dry will help keep them warm, giving them more energy to play on the water and get their skills dialed in. Pair the Drytop with Hydroskin neoprene shirt and pants and get out on the water during the shoulder seasons!

Level Six Duke Drytop

Pairs well with NRS Hydroskin Apparel >> 

3. Astral Water Shoes

The moment a paddle goes from a pair of neoprene booties to soled Astral Water Shoes is a big one. 

Since 2002, Astral has offered top of the line paddling gear, including their lightweight, quick drying water shoes that have grippy soles and are ultra comfortable.

Read our Astral TR1 Review >> 


4. WRSI Helmet

Know someone that wants to upgrade from their outfitter helmet? 

WRSI helmets score highly in both style and safety! With an interconnected retention system on all WRSI helmets that tightens the chin strap when pressure is applied to the underside of the brim, you can be confident that these helmets will stay firmly in place.

WRSI Helmet

More Options: See the Difference between the Shred Ready Zeta and the Sweet Protection Strutter >>

5. Astral YTV PFD

There's a point where we all need to upgrade from our department store mesh-back lifejacket. Enter Astral YTV PFD.

The YTV packs two zippered pockets and plenty of floatation.

Astral YTV PFD

Check out our guide for finding the right PFD >>

6. Watershed Ocoee Drybag

There's one thing all beginners must learn: Make sure you have your keys at the takeout. 

A Watershed Ocoee Duffel Drybag is a great, small starter pack for those just getting into whitewater trips. Can fit everything you'd need for a quick float.

 
Watershed Ocoee Drybag

7. NRS Bill's Bag

When maximum space and ultimate durability are a must, look no further than the classic NRS Bill's Bag. These can pack everything your paddler needs (and then some) for their first overnighter. This pack is exceptionally easy to carry to camp comfortably on their back.

NRS Bill's Bag

Our Tips on Packing for a River Trip >>