Shop Profile

Shop Profile #6: Alpha Adventures

Posted on: July 12th, 2011 by Paddle Surf No Comments

 

For this installment of the Paddlesurf.ca Shop Profile, we profile Alpha Adventures.

Based in Sechelt and with locations in Wilson Creek, Roberts Creek, Powell River and Pender Harbour, Alpha Adventures has seen tremendous growth with SUP over the past year, so we thought we'd check in with Jamie to see what's happening this year over on the Sunshine Coast...

How long has your company been in business, and how did you get your start?

We have been in business for 11 years. We started by working as kayak and canoe instructors in the lower mainland- but when we moved up to the Sunsine Coast we found a paddling paradise. So-  using my 10+ years of working in specialty outdoor retail, we decided to open up a shop.

When and how did you first find out about Stand Up Paddleboarding?

We first discovered stand up paddleboarding on a trip to Hawaii 4 years ago. I rented a board and I was hooked.

Alpha Adventures SecheltWhen did you start carrying SUP related products in your store?

We started carrying SUP products in our stores in 2010.

What sort of growth have you seen you started selling SUP related products?

The growth has been awesome. We host a yearly set of demo days- called “You Can Paddle Days”. This is a way for folks to try out kayaks, canoes and SUP’s. This year- on two separate days – in two separate towns (Powell River and Sechelt) we almost saw the same interest in SUP as we did kayaks!

What are your top selling board brands and models?

Our top selling boards are Naish Nalu 11’6, Starboard Big Easy and the
Amundson 11’6.

What are your top selling paddle brands and models?

Our top selling paddles are Aquaglide, and Naish.

What are your most popular SUP related accessories?

Our most popular accessories are wetsuits and booties, paddling clothing and roof rack accessories.

If there was one accessory you'd suggest that all stand up paddle boarders should purchase, it would be...

I would say invest in a good paddle. Well worth putting the extra $ into and it can yield amazing results.

Do you offer additional value added services?

We offer:

  • Lessons (owner is a paddle Canada SUP instructor trainer)
  • Wednesday Night SUP sessions- rent a board or bring your own. Social paddle with a mini skill clinic.
  • Rentals- various types of boards – from plastic to race boards
  • SUP fitness classes
  • Organizer of what will be a yearly SUP festival- Sunshine Coast Paddleboard Festival. This one day fest is great to find out about SUP- try boards- attend clinics and enter recreational races.

How do most of your customers use their stand up paddle boards?

Most of our clients use their boards for flatwater or down wind paddling.

Where do you and your customers get out on the water?

Our favourite spots are:

  • Davis Bay- good for flatwater and can also be a great spot for a little surf depending on the tide and wind.
  • Porpoise Bay- Sechelt Inlet is awesome for providing semi protected water.

What time of day brings the best conditions?

Morning and early evening for flat water.
A low tide combined with a West or N. West wind advisory will usually yield some surf for our shoreline on the Sunshine Coast.

Where do you see stand up paddle boarding going in the next few years?

I think it will definitely become more mainstream. It speaks to people in a way that no other paddle-sport does. It is so easy to get on the water (literally) with SUP. It is so diverse- flat water- surf – touring....

What's your favorite part about being involved with stand up paddleboarding?

It is a relatively new and growing activity for Western Canada- and thus it is fresh. I was fortunate enough to be involved in the first instructor training program for Paddle Canada and that was awesome. I love teaching new paddlers about SUP- whether it is in a lesson or in our shop.

Any tips for the newcomers?

Take a lesson and try out different styles of boards. Take advantage of festivals and demo day events.

Any final thoughts?

We are hosting the 1st annual Sunshine Coast Paddleboard Festival on July 24 in Sechelt. It will be a great day of demos- clinics- and some recreational races in the afternoon. Call 604.885.8838 for more info.
We have Naish, Starboard and Amundson SUP’s in stock and in our demo fleet.

Shop Profile #5: Boardworks Surf Canada

Posted on: May 12th, 2011 by Paddle Surf No Comments

 

OK, so Boardworks Surf Canada is not technically a "shop" per se, but as a wholesale distributor of SUP related products for the Canadian market, we felt it'd be good to hear about SUP from behind the scenes.

The company distributes a variety of boards paddles and gear including C4 Waterman, Paddle Surf Hawaii, Rusty SUP, Kahuna Creations Land Paddles to retailers throughout Canada. They also distribute a number of classic surf shapes such as Dewey Weber, Kane Garden, Stewart and Hynson.

So with that, here's what's happening in the world of Boardworks in Canada...

How long has your company been in business, and how did you get your start?

We launched BWSC in January of 2010.  We launched the business because we got excited about the great sport of SUP in LA but had a hard time finding a good quality board in Canada.

When and how did you first find out about Stand Up Paddleboarding?

My good friend Chris Chelios was into it and got me interested. In 2009 I had back surgery and I could not sit in a canoe or kayak but still wanted to be on the water.  I found that SUP helped strengthen my core which helped my rehab.  I then continued to use it as a great cross training tool.

What are your top selling board brands and models?

We launched our business on the C4 brand but the Boardworks brand has launched a new line and the Raven board is just incredible for flat water.  The Rusty brand is meant for sup surfing so its really good the surf out on Vancouver Island.

What are your top selling paddle brands and models?

The C4 and Boardworks carbon/fibreglass paddle is light weight but very strong and is a reasonable price.

Kahuna Creations

Kahuna Creations Land Paddle

What are your most popular SUP related accessories?

The Kahuna Creations Land Paddle, it’s the only way you can go for a paddle when there's no water around.

If there was one accessory you'd suggest that all stand up paddle boarders should purchase, it would be...

Kahuna Creations Retro-Fish Beach Board with the Kahuna Bamboo Big Stick.

How do most of your customers use their stand up paddle boards?

We have a lot of customers that buy the Boardworks Shubu which is inflatable and fits in a duffle bag that is great for traveling.  We have customers that use our boards in the ocean on the waves but the majority are on flatwater touring, racing our just taking it easy.

What time of day brings the best conditions?

I love going out in the mornings when the water is like glass, the air is crisp and its quiet.

Where do you see stand up paddle boarding going in the next few years?

I think the race circuit will take off across the country of Canada, just as it did in the USA.

What's your favorite part about being involved with stand up paddleboarding?

The SUP community is like a big family. Everyone in the business just loves being on the water and having a good time.

Any tips for the newcomers?

Make sure the board is wider than 30 inches and the rail is sharp which gives the board lots of stability.

Anything else you'd like to mention while we're at it?

We are the official SUP provider of the Colorado Avalanche, NHL and the NHLPA.

Thanks for taking the time to read and for more information, be sure to check out their website at boardworkssurfcanada.com

Shop Profile #4: Big Tide Paddle Surfing, New Brunswick

Posted on: April 11th, 2011 by Paddle Surf 4 Comments

 

How long has your company been in business, and how did you get your start?

We started as kiteboarding business in 2007, and in 2009 I decided to move to SUP only. Our location here wasn’t well suited for kiting, but offers endless opportuntities for SUP. We have waves and all kinds of flat water, from coastal exploring to endless kilometers of rivers, and even whitewater. We are still very small, I operate from my van and garage, and are open from April til December. I’m also the Jimmy Lewis sales rep for Atlantic Canada.

When did you start carrying SUP related products in your store?

I got my first boards from Jimmy Lewis back in 2008, even before there was a Canadian distributor, and sold a couple through word of mouth. I also had Ocean Rodeo drysuits and accessories. This year I expanded our line to include RogueSUP, and Grey Owl Paddles.

What are your top selling board brands and models?

The Jimmy Lewis Cruise Control is my best seller, and I think the RogueSUP Tesoro will be a winner this year.

What are your top selling paddle brands and models?

The Grey Owl Wave Rider is my best seller, nice paddle at a good price point, and the Jimmy Lewis Kanaha.

If there was one accessory you’d suggest that all stand up paddle boarders should purchase, it would be…

You have to have a leash, even for flat water.

Do you offer additional value added services?

We offer free lessons with the purchase of board, free demos, and we are doing rentals this summer. If we get enough interest I’m hoping to do a Wednesday evening group paddle, just like the old windsurfer days. Meet up for an hour or so of paddling then a cold beer, or beverage on the beach.

How do most of your customers use their stand up paddle boards?

Right now we mostly in the surf in the Bay of Fundy. Flat water on the Saint John and Kennebecasis Rivers.

What time of day brings the best conditions?

Early morning, and evening, or anytime the surf is good depending on the tides, which are 28ft here.

Where do you see stand up paddle boarding going in the next few years?

I think in our area it will be an equal growth in the SUP surfing and flatwater paddling. I can see a Wednesday evening summer race series developing as the sport grows in popularity. Something fun and easy going.

What’s your favorite part about being involved with stand up paddleboarding?

I love it all, early morning surf sessions in the winter, calm summer days on the river, or late summer surf sessions wearing only a boardshorts and a neoprene top. It’s all good. The biggest thrill is watching new people getting out on a board for the first time, and loving it.

Any tips for the newcomers?

Don’t go too cheap on gear, you get what you pay for. Get a good quality board, and get the best paddle you can afford. Don’t forget to look up, and not down at the board when paddling you’ll keep your balance a whole lot easier.

Anything else you’d like to mention before we wrap up?

We are in the early stages of planning a group paddle/event from New Brunswick to Prince Edward Island for later this summer. It’s about 15km. I don’t think it’s ever been done before from one province to another.

Shop Profile #3: Sun ‘n Sup, Naramata

Posted on: April 7th, 2011 by Paddle Surf 2 Comments

 

How long has your company been in business, and how did you get your start?

We started at the end of July 2010, with rental boards on a trailer. No advertising, just word of mouth, the response was great!

When and how did you first find out about Stand Up Paddleboarding?

My husband and partner, Pete and I usually make a trip once a year to go surfing. Somewhere I don't even remember the exact place we saw it. I have been in the Surf soft goods side of the business for many years, and it could have been at one of the trade shows, perhaps San Diego? But it was about 2 years ago aprox.

When did you start carrying SUP related products in your store?

Our store is just opening this May, we will sell, rent and offer lessons.

What are your top selling board brands and models?

We sell Surftech, Oxbow and Red Paddle

What are your top selling paddle brands and models?

We will be selling Surftech, Kialoa and Red Paddle

If there was one accessory you'd suggest that all stand up paddle boarders should purchase, it would be...

A bag to put your board in when traveling on the highway.

Do you offer additional value added services?

We have lessons starting Thursdays starting May 5th at 6pm, we will be offering morning SUP Yoga starting in June look for info on our soon to be Facebook page. And we will also be encouraging locals with boards already and newbies to join us for SUP & SIP, casual morning and evening paddles days and time to be confirmed. Meet other paddlers, go for a workout or just enjoy the scenery. After we will head to Café Nevermatters for a coffee or a glass of wine.

How do most of your customers use their stand up paddle boards?

Flat water, Okanagan Lake or Skaha.

What time of day brings the best conditions?

The best time or calmest, seems to be from 7-10am and then again late evening 7-8pm, summer of course. But we have two protected areas on either side of Naramata Village that is generally pretty calm any time of day.

Where do you see stand up paddle boarding going in the next few years?

It reminds me of when snowboarding first came on the seen. I worked in the Ski industry for over 18 yrs and in the early 80's and I remember how fast it took off. Of course there was a lot of static between skiers and boarders, just like standard surfing and SUP. We don't have that problem here as we are on flat water. I think with the vast amount of waterways we have available and the ease of learning the sport, we will see a lot more of SUPers out there.

What's your favorite part about being involved with stand up paddleboarding?

I love the mornings at about 730ish when the loons are on the lake and it is already 20 something Celsius, it is the most wonderful feeling.

Any tips for the newcomers?

Buy a good paddle, light weight, carbon, it make a world of difference.

Anything else you'd like to mention before we wrap up?

We are expecting the first shipment of Surftech boards around April 20th, we will be open the first week in May. Grand opening reception will be May long wknd on the Saturday.

Shop Profile #2: Kalavida Surf Shop

Posted on: September 16th, 2010 by Paddle Surf No Comments

 

This week we hear from Kevin O'Brien from Kalavida Surf Shop up in Vernon BC.

How long has your company been in business, and how did you get your start?

Kalavida opened up in May of 2010 as a SUP-specific shop for the Okanagan region and beyond. It took 3 months and countless loads reclaimed wood, tin roof and supplies to get the shop ready for action. It was modeled after those quaint n' quirky surf shops you find in Hawaii and was built using as much recycled materials as possible.

We just kinda fell in love with the sport during the summer of '09 and a series of coincidences and good fortune helped us make the ultimate decision to turn our passion into a business. After spending the last decade marketing BMX in the US and Canada, I was finally able to put those skills to work for our own project – and Kalavida was born! Kala is one the Hawaiian Huna principles that means go with the flow or hang loose so that was a perfect fit given that the First Nations have a Hawaiian connection in the Okanagan. We really wanted a connection to our region so the name was perfect.

When and how did you first find out about Stand Up Paddleboarding?

I had seen the sport for the last couple of years through guys like Laird Hamilton, Dave Kalama and others but never really thought much about what it would be like on the lakes. I saw it in Mexico in the winter and showed it to a few friends as well. We picked up boards early last year and it just kind felt right from the first time we stepped up so to speak. It truly is one of the most versatile sports I have ever been involved with. Shortly after our first paddle on Kalamalka Lake, we took the summer off and drove around BC to paddle in all kinds of lakes and rivers. BC is one amazing place for SUP and we are blessed to be on the shores of Kalamalka Lake

When did you start carrying SUP related products in your store?

May 1st. We took a fairly big gamble that the sport would have a break-out year and even before we had opened our doors, we could tell that there was some interest out there. We started off with Surftech, C4 Waterman and Rogue and I can remember looking at our shop in early May and wondering whether if the timing was right – luckily it was and we continued to add brands like Kialoa, Werner, Sitka and Ocean & Earth.

What sort of growth have you seen you started selling SUP related products?

We beat our forecasts!

What are your top selling board brands and models?

The Rogue All-Rounders did very well but we ran out of boards in early July and so did the company. Surftech 'Laird' Tuflites and softops did very well along with C4's Holoholo and their inflatable iSUPs.

What are your top selling paddle brands and models?

It was interesting….. Werner came out strong in the first part of the season and then Kialoa ruled the second half. We had a good response from the people at the Vernon Paddling centre and they love their Kialoa.

What are your most popular SUP related accessories?

The basics like rail tape, rack pads and leashes were popular. The Ocean & Earth board bags did very well along with Rap Rax (Soft roof racks) the Dry Case for iPhones and such. Later in the season, EZ Plugs and attachments came on strong as people progressed through the sport (and because of Transport Canada). We expect booties to come into season very shortly

If there was one accessory you'd suggest that all stand up paddle boarders should purchase, it would be...

A board bag for travel. I held off for a year but swear by it now. Keeps your ride bug free, ding free and surrounds your board in mystery.

Do you offer additional value added services?

Information and advice – Since flatwater is still 'new' on the SUP radar, we made sure that we educated everyone about the boards, their features and which ones worked best for flatwater. One of our main focus points was to let people know how versitile the boards really are. A common question was "so all you do is paddle"?, so we had to find creative ways to paint a picture for people and many of them were pretty stoked to hear that you can take them on the rivers – The Shuswap river near our shop is amazing and this will become a big category next year.

Try before you buy. Rather than outfit our rental fleet with safe boards, we had a mix of all types of boards so that potential buyers could try out a number of them before making their purchase. The Surftech 'Laird' and C4 Holoholo and ATB sold well because of this.

We worked with customers to provide rail tape applications at no charge and we were pretty diligent about making sure paddle lengths were right for each customer.

We offer 'Intro to SUP' classes throughout the spring and summer for those who want to get more out of their first experience and we started doing River SUP tours in the late Summer.

Most of all, we live the sport so you'll find us out paddling with customers-turned-friends whenever we get the chance.

How do most of your customers use their stand up paddle boards?

Our clientele was primarily from the Okanagan so the boards were primarily used on the lakes and rivers. We did a couple of River tours so we expect this to expand next year.

Where do you and your customers get out on the water?

We are footsteps from Kalamalka Beach and held a weekly race series so this spot was the most popular. Our pals from Kelowna and Penticton spent most of their time on Okanagan lake but I think most of us agree that Kalamalka Lake is the premier SUP spot in the region. It's mostly calm but when the wind whips up, it makes for one amazing downwinder.

For Rivers, we spent the first part of the summer on the Shuswap near Mabel Lake but after hitting the Similkameen near Keremeos, we have much to explore.

Somewhere in the middle of it all, Transport Canada called our shop after responding to a call about 'safety' from a local business. They held a 'town hall' type of meeting with us and explained their interpretation of the laws and how they apply to SUP.

What time of day brings the best conditions?

Best condition depends on what you want to do. Early mornings for Kal Lake and Okanagan Lake are calm and glassy. Downwinders are best in the afternoon's. Kal beach gets on-shore winds so it's pretty safe out there most of the time.

Where do you see stand up paddle boarding going in the next few years?

Its versitility will lend itself to a mainstream audience but it will also become more specialized as the sport evolves in the mind of the consumer and as the products continue to refine. Many of the boards offered today are not flat-water specific so I can see this side developing greatly. Once you get on a displacement style board, the speed might keep you from going back to the surfboard style of design….

What's your favorite part about being involved with stand up paddleboarding?

Freedom and folk. The people and the freedom to go anywhere with your board and go on an adventure on any body of water. More surf would be nice….

Any tips for the newcomers?

There is a lot of information out there about boards and paddles so try to find the stuff that pertains to your application. If you're in the flatwater region, try to find info about boards that work best for lakes and rivers. Don't get fooled by the cheaper brands who claim they are the same. We've seen it first hand that, like in other sports, you get what you pay for. We had many of our for-sale boards in the rental fleet so we have the luxury of seeing how they hold up under use and abuse.

And always buy the board that will suit 85% of where you will paddle. If you'll be primarily on flatwater, try to pick a board that is suited for the lakes. If you end up going surfing, you can just rent a board for the weekend. Ask lots of questions like 'how does it track', 'why does this board have thin rails but this one has thick rails?', 'what if I want to race it?' and so on. In a new sport like SUP, no question is a dumb question. We're all still learning and growing together.

And some closing thoughts?

It truly has been a thrilling ride so far. We jumped into the sport full-stop and have been able to share that stoke with so many good people this year already. The SUP community has come alive and we've become friends with many of our customers and that is what it's all about for us. We support our local scene and also ship anywhere in BC and across the country. We were the first shop to stock race boards this season and always have something more than the ordinary in stock.

Kalavida also partnered with SPrKL (Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake) and made regular donations to the society from our race events.

Website: www.kalavidasurfshop.com

Shop Profile #1: Deep Cove Kayak

Posted on: September 7th, 2010 by Paddle Surf No Comments

 

Photography by
Viviane Nishikiori

In our very first instalment of the PaddleSurf.ca Shop Profile, we chat with Bob Putnam of Deep Cove Kayak in North Vancouver.

Deep Cove Kayak has been a fixture on the shores of Deep Cove for many years now. Every single day of the good weather months you'll see dozens upon dozens of kayaks paddling around Indian Arm, most of them rented from their facility located right on the shores of the Cove.

Deep Cove was one of, if not the first to offer Stand Up Paddleboards rentals in the Lower Mainland, and they've seen some incredible growth in the segment over the past year.

So with that, here's what Bob has to say about the shop, the sport, where to do it and where it's going!

How long has your company been in business, and how did you get your start?

Our rental operation has been in business for 29 years, our retail operation for only 6 years.  We always sold our rental kayaks at the end of the season so it made sense to start selling new kayaks and now SUP in retail operation.

We originally operated out of a warehouse near MEC in North Vancouver, then moved to the old Cove Bike location in Deep Cove.  This building has been sold, so we are moving back to the warehouse for Nov 1 2010.

We are looking forward to this as we will be more centrally located and its kind of a no nonsense gritty location.  3,200 SF of space so we will have retail, rentals boat/board repair.

When and how did you first find out about Stand Up Paddleboarding?

About 4 or 5 years ago, Jeff Teachman, who now teaches at Windsure at Jericho, came into our store looking for castaway paddle parts to make a SUP paddle. When he told me what that he wanted to stand up and paddle a surf board, I thought, "Sounds kinda dumb, maybe in Hawaii but who would want to do that in Vancouver?" How wrong I was. Jeff was always visionary.

When did you start carrying SUP related products in your store?

Two years ago we started selling Starboard.  We also sell other paddle sports equipment like kayaks and surf skis which is similar… but different.  We have a lot of knowledge in "sport and performance" paddling.  Racing, adventure paddling. So pushing the limits is what we like to do and to supply gear that will help people do that.

What sort of growth have you seen you started selling SUP related products?

2010 has seen very good growth.  More and more people are coming in and asking about  SUP so I think it will explode next year.

What are your top selling board brands and models?

Starboard K15, Whopper and the Big Easy. They are manufactured in Thailand's Cobra Factory which sets the bar for composite construction. Necky Kayaks and many others are moving their production to the Cobra Factory.

Because we are located near flatwater we are pushing the efficiency of the flatwater boards.  Many new SUPers will only paddle on flatwater so it doesn't make sense to get a slow surfy board.  You will soon see people have 2 – 3 boards as the sport grows.

What are your top selling paddle brands and models?

Werner has been making top quality paddle for so long that making an SUP is a no brainer.  They already have the blade shapes from Outrigger and are designing new shapes specific for SUP.  They are expensive but the quality is excellent.  Because the shaft is so long it is difficult to make a paddle that is strong but still remains light and has a good swing weight.  Many of the board manufacturers are producing paddles, but I haven't seen any that compare to Werner.  They make the best kayak paddles too.  I have looked at Kialoa and we will stock those for 2011.

What are your most popular SUP related accessories?

Clothing, for SUP surfing you don't need the same thickness of wetsuit that the sit in water surfers need.  We have some great pants by NRS and tops by O'Neil that allow for good movement and that you don't over heat in, as you would in a 4/5 ml steamer suit.  As winter approaches paddlers will be looking at how to extend their season.  Although we are finding that the sport is very solar driven, and many SUPers are fair weather only.  Drysuits are really comfortable to paddling in.  Easy to put on and take off.  Nice and cozy.

If there was one accessory you'd suggest that all stand up paddle boarders should purchase, it would be...

Leash, PFD and Whistle.  OK that's 3 but if you call it safety gear it could be one.  Much of the imagery for SUP comes from Hawaii and the tropics where the water is warm.  Here in Vancouver its pretty cold and hypothermia is an issue.  Cold water shock and Cold water Incapacitation are serious threats to safety.  Many SUPers are naively resistant to PFD's and other safety gear.  They are comfortable and will save your life.

Do you offer additional value added services?

Well working at Deep Cove Outdoors  we get to hear about new equipment, events, techniques.  So by coming into the store you can learn about these things too.  We also offer board repair and lessons.

Mike Darbyshire is one of our main SUP instructors.  He is a great surfer but also brings knowledge from the kayaking world,  You can also stay in touch with news and events through our Deep Cove Outdoors Face book page and our Deep Cove Kayak Page.

I also write a blog which features Stand Up, Surf Ski, Cross Country Ski and Kayaking info.

How do most of your customers use their stand up paddle boards?

Mostly paddling in Deep Cove is on flatwater.  Many are just learning to paddle and trying SUP for the first time.  Deep Cove is a great training ground

Where do you and your customers get out on the water?

Deep Cove and Indian Arm is where many people come to paddle.  The scenery is incredible and its really close to Vancouver.  Indian Arm is about 3 - 4 km wide so you can head off in a variety of directions.  The south part is dotted with about 6 small islands, so every visit can be different.  Twin Island is a beautiful destination, about 10 km round trip.  You can have lunch on Twin and there is a beautiful lagoon between the two islands.

What time of day brings the best conditions?

Well if you like flatwater the morning is best.  If you like surfing, weekend afternoons sees lots of big power boats creating boat wake. In the afternoon on a sunny day the wind blows up the Arm fairly predictably, so its good to paddle south and then surf back. Ambleside beach in West Vancouver is a great spot to paddle.  A NW or Westerly brings in some nice wave action.  A good downwinder is to put in near Lighthouse Park and Paddle to Ambleside.  Also on the new and full moons there are big currents which create standing-ish waves.  Although it might be very challenging for most SUPers.

Racing:  We also organize weekly races on Tuesday Nights.  The Tuesday Night Race Series has been going on for 12 years for kayak, surf skis etc.  This past year there has been good attendance from SUPers and we hope to grow it for 2011.  Starts in April and runs till Sept.

Where do you see stand up paddle boarding going in the next few years?

Nuclear!!  I think SUP will do to surfing what snowboarding did to skiing and full suspension did to MTB.  SUP allows the average joe so much more opportunity to surf, whereas traditional boards are just plain hard.  If you are not surfing it is a great work-out.

What's your favourite part about being involved with stand up paddleboarding?

I like seeing people stoked on a new activity.  I like meeting people who are going through the same experience as I am. I like it when somebody comes into my store to say thanks to us for informing them about a piece of equipment, clothing, technique, or event….and it happens often.

Any tips for the newcomers?

I would suggest to take a lesson.  Many people will say that its not hard and why take a lesson.  But that's not true.  These people either don't know what they know or don't know what they don't know.  Forward stroke is the least taught and most used stroke and will help the paddler get more performance, efficiency and a better work-out.

Safety: If you don't know what the hazards are you can't prepare for them.  How many paddler's have some sort of communication with them?

Surf Etiquette: This I need to learn, but SUPers need to know how not to piss off regular surfers by cherry picking waves etc.  When buying gear try to figure out they type of paddling you will mostly do.  For instance, don't buy a surf specific board if you only go to Tofino once a year.

And some closing thoughts?

Deep Cove Outdoors will be relocating to 352 Lynn Avenue for Nov 1 2010.  For the 2011 season we will be carrying a wider range of brand name boards, paddles and accessories.

Deep Cove Outdoors is in a unique position of owning and operating our water front facility of Deep Cove Canoe & Kayak Centre.  So, we have a qualified instructional team, a full rental fleet, and we host lots of fun events.

We like to offer a full complement of services.  For instance, if you want to start SUP, we can advise on equipment, suggest rentals that will help you develop basic skills, refer you to lesson programs, you can test boards, organize events, provide you with a great price on a board, fix it when you break it and organize an outing for your company or friends.

Thanks kindly to Bob Putnam for taking part in our very first PaddleSurf.ca Shop Profile, and if you operate a Canadian shop or business that's involved with Stand Up Paddleboarding, please be sure to get in touch with us for consideration in participating in the Shop Profile program here on PaddleSurf.ca!