The Whitewater Blog
Kerra Pressley–a guide in the Arkansas River community–describes, “Some people doubt if you are capable of doing your job. Many of the customers assume that because you are a female, that automatically makes you a lesser guide than your male counterparts. Even if they don’t say anything, you can feel it.” This “feeling”, although not always there, is similar to an obstacle in the river. It constricts us into a narrower spot and can be in our heads while navigating a rapid.
Zach Otte: Using Colors to Create
The river is a gosh darn special place. A place that moves, transforms, and inspires people. Whether this be to take life a little slower or to remember how small we are in the grand scheme of things. Many people don’t ever get the opportunity to see themselves in the scenes many of us river people get to experience. They don’t get to see the rushing water or the pillow forming off of that boulder. However, we have the ability to let the river teach us something. And through that, we have the opportunity to create something in us that allows us to share that joy and beauty with others.
Let's Talk Whitewater Dry Bags
Here at River Station Gear, we are serious about having high quality, functional, upgraded gear. Our new dry thwart bag is a game changer for river runners. The design is truly iconic and the standard has been changed with the versatility and convenience of the RSG 2024 Dry Thwart Bag. The name is the game—this bag keeps your things dry and attaches smoothly to a thwart.
Finding your Whitewater Footing
When deciding what type of footwear to sport on the river, it may seem overwhelming. Everybody on the river is wearing something different. You have your sandal people, your close- toed shoe people, your tattered sneaker people, and even your barefoot people. Not to mention that you just saw multiple shoes floating down the river, which begs the question of how much you REALLY want to spend on shoes.
5 Lessons the River has Taught Me (So far)
A lot of activities, it can be really easy to say, “No! I can’t keep going. I’m too scared.” For example, if you’re skiing down your first black, you may be able to find a chance to sit down and allow those nervous feelings to take over. Whereas, unlike many other sports, whitewater doesn’t really allow you to do that. If you’re in the middle of the rapid, that is where you are. It demands that you be present and run that rapid. You can be absolutely scared, but you’re running it scared at that point.
How to Layer on the River (Fall Edition)
With the new season, it can be a challenge to know how you’re going to properly layer this time out on the water. Before you head out, it may seem simple, but check the weather (again)! You really never know what you may get, but at least you have a starting point. Whether you’re going out with dry clothes, neoprene, or a dry suit, we’re going to show you how we layer for those fall river days by mimicking three different types of trips.
We’ll be honest, it’s hard to ignore the signs that point you towards a Sweet Protection whitewater helmet. Not only does this brand occupy the entire Top 5 in the Virginia Tech study, but they are also endorsed by plenty of whitewater professionals and Red Bull athletes. For top of the line safety, Sweet Protection is THE helmet. So let’s talk about a few of the most popular options for this brand.
The Top 5 River Trip Non-Essential, Essentials
You will bring lots of different new things home on your river trip. Memories, laughter, new friends, a few new bruises and probably some bumped toes. But, there is one thing that will linger the longest after your time spent on the river and on shore: sand. Now don’t get us wrong, we love curling our toes in the warm sand from time to time, but spend 25 days on the Grand Canyon and a sand mat will change your world.
Finding the BEST Life Jacket for YOU!
Now, if you are concerned with keeping knick knacks, rocks, and yourself afloat without the rescue aspect, we would recommend the Astral Bowen. This is a great jacket if you’re looking for a jacket that will give you both mobility and maximum storage. The Astral Bowen is a Type III PFD that is incredibly lightweight while still giving you the float and security you need.