Christmas Shopping for a Paddler? We’ve Got You Covered!
Let’s face it: paddlers can be a challenging crew to shop for. With so many subcategories—rafting, creek boating, playboating, and beyond—finding the perfect gift can feel like navigating whitewater without a paddle. Add in all the technical specs, sizing, and personal preferences, and it’s enough to make your head spin. But don’t worry—we’re here to throw you a lifeline!
Our team of seasoned paddlers has done the hard work for you, curating a list of Christmas gifts that’ll make any boater’s heart race faster than a Class V rapid. Read on to discover our top Christmas gifts for paddlers.
NOC Gift Card
When in doubt, let the paddler in your life pick their dream gift with an NOC Gift Card! These versatile cards can be used for:
- Adventure Activities: Fuel their love for the water with epic experiences.
- World-Class Lessons: Help them hone their skills with expert kayak and canoe instruction from our legendary paddling school.
- Gear Upgrades: From sleek new paddles to helmets and even their next kayak, they can get exactly what they’ve been eyeing.
- Post-Paddle Feasting: Nothing beats refueling at one of our restaurants after a day conquering the Nantahala River.
With an NOC Gift Card, your paddler gets the freedom to choose how they want to embrace their passion.
Foamie Boater
Young or old, every paddler could use a little extra fun in their life—and nothing brings the stoke like a Foamie Boater! These self-righting mini paddlers are pure joy in pocket-sized form, guaranteed to unleash the inner kid in anyone.
Toss your foamie into a hole and watch it throw loops like a pro or cruise down mini rapids with the kind of foolproof roll that paddlers dream of perfecting. Whether it’s playing in small creeks, streams, or on the edge of your desk, these little adventurers are packed with personality and endless fun.
William Nealy Art
Does the paddler in your life love art and humor? Then they’ll absolutely love the legendary work of William Nealy—a name that holds a special place in the hearts of outdoor adventurers everywhere.
William Nealy is a cherished figure in whitewater lore, William “Not Bill” Nealy had a unique way of turning kayaking into pure lighthearted joy.
Why We Love William Nealy
- Iconic Maps: Many paddlers proudly decorate their walls with Nealy’s epic cartoon maps of classics like the Nantahala, Chattooga IV, Ocoee, and more.
- Timeless Books: His guides, like Kayak: The New Frontier and Whitewater Home Companion: Volume 2, are still the gold standard for paddlers ready to level up their skills. These books make learning about the dynamics of water as fun as it is educational.
- Unforgettable Humor: From his offbeat illustrations to his quirky storytelling, Nealy brought reckless enthusiasm to life in books like the Nealy Way of Knowledge.
Whether it’s for the seasoned paddler who remembers Nealy’s works fondly or the next generation of adventurers discovering his genius, Nealy’s maps, books, and art are the perfect Christmas gift.
Cold Weather Insulating Accessories
Just because the temps are dropping doesn’t mean your paddling buddy has to pack up their gear! With the right insulating accessories, they can stay warm and keep paddling through the chill. We’ve handpicked some of the coziest, paddler-approved gear to keep their feet, hands, and head toasty—because nothing should stop a great day on the water!
Headwear: Nobdody’s Insulating Skull Cap
Designed and tested by paddlers in White Salmon, Washington, this neoprene skull cap is a winter paddling essential. It fits comfortably under a helmet and keeps your noggin warm, even when the water’s ice-cold. Support a small paddler-owned business while gifting comfort and style!
Footwear: NRS HydroSkin Wetsocks
Say goodbye to frosty toes! These HydroSkin 0.5 wetsocks provide just the right amount of insulation under neoprene booties or wetshoes. They’re lightweight, snug, and perfect for keeping feet warm without sacrificing comfort or mobility.
Hand Pogies: IR Microwave Handwarmers & NRS Clutch Pogies
Cold hands? Not a chance! Pogies are the ultimate solution for winter paddling. Both the IR Microwave Handwarmers and NRS Clutch Pogies allow paddlers to keep their hands warm while maintaining direct contact with the paddle for unbeatable control.
Shop All Paddling Insulation.
Paddling Books & Guides
Does the paddler in your life love to curl up with a good book when they’re off the water? We’ve got just the thing! Our collection of paddling-centered literature is perfect for adventurous readers who can’t get enough of rivers and rapids—even when they’re not paddling.
Explore Our Paddling Book Collection
Whitewater Guides: Whitewater of the Southern Appalachians Volume 1: The Plateau and Volume 2: The Mountains. Help them plan their next epic adventure with detailed guides to running whitewater rivers. Whether they’re scouting new rapids or revisiting their favorite runs, these books are an essential tool for any paddler.
Historical River Tales: The Nantahala River: A History and Guide and A History of Whitewater Paddling in Western North Carolina are great Christmas Gift ideas for paddlers. Dive into the rich history of rivers and paddling with captivating reads that explore the evolution of our favorite waterways and the paddling culture that surrounds them.
Fictional Adventures: The Starship and the Canoe For the paddler with a vivid imagination, our collection of paddling-themed fiction will transport them to thrilling rapids and epic adventures from the comfort of their couch.
These books are ideal for cozy nights by the fire, road trip planning, or as inspiration for their next big paddling expedition. Give the gift of knowledge, adventure, and storytelling this season—shop our paddling literature collection today!
Wrap Up the Perfect Holiday For Your Paddler
Whether the paddler in your life is into whitewater canoeing, rafting, creek boating, river running, or playboating, this gift guide is packed with ideas sure to make their holiday season unforgettable. From versatile NOC gift cards and cozy cold-weather paddling gear to Foamie Boaters and timeless William Nealy art, there’s something here for every water-loving adventurer.
Make this holiday season one to remember by giving gifts that inspire adventure, warmth, and laughter. Dive into our paddling gift guide and give the boater in your life a reason to celebrate their love for the water all year long!