The fight to remove dams from the Klamath River has been ongoing for decades. Conservationists and indigenous groups have been pushing to restore the river to a free-flowing state, but it’s been an uphill battle.

Finally, though, their efforts paid off, and in October 2024, the last dam was deconstructed. For the first time in over 100 years, the river flowed unimpeded and kayakers could run its entire length from source to sea.

So that’s exactly what one group of indigenous paddlers decided to do.

The group of 13- to 20-year-olds embarked in the summer of 2025 on a month-long, 300-mile journey. They followed the river from its headwaters in south-central Oregon to the Pacific Ocean. Many of these young kayakers’ families have been fighting to remove dams on the Klamath since 1908, when the very first dam was constructed.

Now they’re reaping the rewards of their ancestors’ struggle to restore this river. Watch as they shove off on this historic journey. It marks the end of an era, and the beginning of a new life for the Klamath.

Runtime: 28:43 minutes

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If you’re an avid whitewater kayaker, take note: Werner Paddles is recalling two of its latest kayak paddles. The paddles may break, posing a risk of drowning.

On Nov. 9, Werner Paddles posted a notification that it’s recalling its Covert and Stealth downriver whitewater racing models of kayak paddles. The brand says, “We have identified an issue with the collar of the paddle where the blade meets the shaft.” Basically, the blade can break off from the shaft.

GearJunkie confirmed with a Werner team paddler that this issue is due to a problem with the mold and is being addressed for future production.

Werner Covert & Stealth Recall

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were around 80 reports of these paddles breaking. The organization reports that around 700 models were sold in the U.S, with another 25 in Canada.

The brand posted the following on its website: “For over 60 years, Werner Paddles has been dedicated to building the highest performing, longest lasting paddles on the market. While we rigorously test all of our products before they are sold and hold every Werner paddle to the highest standards, we have recently found a quality issue with our Stealth and Covert models.”

Customers who purchased the defective paddles can visit this link to upload their information and receive store credit or a refund. Users must include photos of the affected paddles being destroyed. Werner plans to update the molds to fix the issue and re-release both paddles.

Werner Paddles

The company got its start in the 1960s when founder Werner Furrer started building kayaks and paddles in his garage for his growing family. The brand, based in Washington state, grew steadily over the years, branching into other paddling disciplines like SUPs, and became the dominant paddle manufacturer in the world. Jackson Kayak purchased the brand in 2024, moving production to Tennessee.

Several of Werner’s models, including the Shuna, Kalliste Bent, and Powerhouse, earned a spot on GearJunkie’s list of the Best Kayak Paddles of 2025.

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If everything you know about Nevada is related to gambling and 24-hour entertainment, you’re in for a treat. More than 85% of Nevada is public lands, and that includes rivers and lakes perfect for beginner kayakers or seasoned boaters. 

What awaits kayakers goes beyond idyllic floats. If you find yourself camping after a day on the water, you’ll be greeted with the darkest skies in the Lower 48. Or if you want to soak in natural hot springs to break up the day, you’re in luck: Nevada has the most hot springs in the United States.

These outdoor wonders and more await you. Dive in below to see the best places to paddle through history in Nevada.

Where to Go Kayaking in Nevada

With its 27 state parks, a national park, and plenty of lakes and streams, kayak adventures are easy to find in Nevada. Many of the locations on this list are lakes and perfect for beginner paddlers or seasoned boaters looking for a mellow float.

As with any waterway, seasonal flows vary, and your skill level for navigating rapids and rivers will need to be accounted for. Always check local flow levels with the relevant managing park, state, or federal agency.

Black Canyon Water Trail

This first beginner-friendly kayaking spot isn’t flat water but is still ideal for less-seasoned paddlers looking for slow-moving water with plenty of history, caves, and even hot springs.

Located in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and flowing between the famous Hoover Dam and Eldorado Canyon, this section of the Lower Colorado River offers paddlers a “choose-your-own-adventure” style float. 

The most popular starting point for the Black Canyon Water Trail is below Hoover Dam, the second-tallest dam in the U.S., which was built in 1936. More than 7 million people visit the dam every year, but significantly fewer paddle downriver from the dam on the Black Canyon Water Trail. Before heading out for a paddle, be sure to check the flow release schedule from Hoover Dam. 

Paddlers can enjoy a peaceful river float downriver, either stopping at Willow Beach, Ariz., or pushing through on the full 30-mile trip to Eldorado Canyon. 

Along the way, you can enjoy sandy beaches, caves and coves, secluded hot springs, and hiking trails. For the history buffs, stops around Hoover Dam include gauging stations, river-spanning catwalks, and building foundations. 

Most paddlers end their trip at Willow Beach, Ariz., where a full-service marina and parking lot for your return vehicle or shuttles await. Strong paddlers can launch at Willow Beach and paddle upriver to the dam and then back down for a round-trip adventure. Or, continue on down the less-trafficked half of the Black Canyon Water Trail through Eldorado Canyon, which is rich in geological history.

Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Situated on the eastern edge of the Ruby Mountains, Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge is an oasis in the Great Basin. The area is made of a network of spring-fed marshes, wet meadows, and a 12-foot–deep lake that brings in an abundance of wildlife — including 220 species of birds.

The refuge is 40,048 acres in total and is a dream for birders and wildlife enthusiasts. Anglers flock to the area for trout and largemouth bass, while those looking for a calming place to watch wildlife will be overjoyed at the bounty. From sandhill cranes to trumpeter swans and sage grouse, the area is a wildlife haven. 

Before you embark on a paddle adventure, be sure to read up on how to safely navigate the labyrinth of marsh. Anglers need to be sure to get a Nevada State Fishing license before casting.

Walker Lake Recreation Area

Walker Lake is a remnant of the ancient Lake Lahontan and the ancestral home of the Walker River Paiute Tribe. Beginning in the late 19th century, the lake’s water source, the Walker River, began to be diverted for irrigation. This has caused a dramatic decline in the water levels of the lake. 

However, paddlers can still enjoy the lake rising out of the desert landscape, and if they’re lucky, even spot the bighorn sheep in the area. Best of all, the surrounding mountains protect the lake from erratic weather. That means no matter the time of year, paddlers can enjoy calm weather and sunshine.

Rye Patch State Recreation Area

Nearly 23,000 years ago, the Humboldt River fed the ancient Lake Lahontan and supported animals like camelops, mammoths, and bison. Fast-forward to the present day, and boaters can enjoy the remnants of the great lake in the Rye Patch State Recreation Area.

With 72 miles of shoreline around the reservoir and 11,000 acres of state recreation area, Rye Patch offers plentiful outdoor adventure and paddle opportunities. From trophy-class fishing and sunny days for kayaking along the reservoir, paddlers can enjoy the outdoors without fighting the crowds.

Walker River State Recreation Area

For 125 years, this stretch of the Walker River was under private ownership, until the Walker Basin Conservancy acquired the area’s historic ranches. In 2018, they donated a large tract of land to the state, transforming the area into what is now a popular destination for recreation. 

The 12,000-acre riparian paradise, including 29 miles of the East Walker River, has camping, hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing. While not all the ranch units are open to the public, paddlers will find plenty of riverway to float on this historic section of the Silver State.

Depending on seasonal water flows, the river will vary in difficulty. Beginner-level kayaking is found within the state recreation area; however, the Walker River extends beyond the state recreation area and this section of river is not considered beginner. Always check river flows with local management prior to heading out on the river.

Pyramid Lake

Pyramid Lake is another sacred remnant of the prehistoric Lake Lahontan and home to the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe. The lake is special for many reasons, including species of plants and animals that can only be found in the lake, like the cui-ui sucker fish. 

The lake is also home to the Anaho Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is protected habitat for thousands of migratory birds and the largest breeding ground for the American White Pelican. The refuge is not open to the public, but can be viewed from Pyramid Lake. 

The lake is about 45 minutes northwest of Reno and offers legendary trophy fishing, birdwatching, camping, and more. Paddlers are in for a wild adventure on the lake, which is 15 miles long, 11 miles wide, and up to 350 feet deep. 

This area is prone to high winds and can quickly turn a casual paddle into an extreme sport if you’re not careful. Be mindful of weather advisories and try to aim for morning floats to avoid afternoon storms. Note that any recreation in the area requires a permit from the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe.

East Fork of the Carson River

This section of the Carson River ranges from wilderness class II to short class III and offers a bit of everything for the adventurous kayaker. From whitewater to gentle rapids, dramatic rock formations, and hot springs, the 20-mile stretch of the East Fork of the Carson River is great for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.

Preparing for a Kayaking Trip in Nevada

No matter where you drop your boat in Nevada, you’re sure to have an adventure. With millions of acres of public lands and truly wild and historic waterways, Nevada is a destination for history buffs and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

If you decide to go boating in a Nevada state park or on tribal lands, be sure to check about permitting with local management offices. As always, whenever you’re exploring the outdoors, practice Leave No Trace principles and be sure you’re prepared for the level of paddling you’re getting yourself into.

This post is sponsored by Travel Nevada.

The latest from JK just debuted over the weekend at the annual Gauley Fest. The Gauley is a perfect playground for the Antix 3.0-style kayak. Let’s dive into what this new-generation boat is all about.

Jackson Kayak Antix 3.0

“Trying to improve upon one of my favorite boats of all time was a tall order, but I couldn’t be more stoked on where we ended up. We brought a modern feel with its more confidence-inspiring bow, increased speed, and a higher floating design, but maintained the nimbleness and playfulness I loved with the Antix 2.

“But my favorite part is we added our Rockstar double rail turning it into a loose, epic surfing machine no matter what size wave you’re on,” said Dane Jackson, Jackson Kayak owner, team paddler, member of the design team, and one of the very best whitewater kayakers of all time.

The latest JK whitewater kayak is an update of the top-selling half-slice out there, the Antix. The first-gen boat hit the market in 2016, with the gen-two design coming out in 2020. For 2025, it gets some major design tweaks, which combined should make it more stable, better surfing, easier to squirt, and more comfortable to paddle.

New, More Playful Design

The new boat was designed by the self-proclaimed “Herding Cats” group of Dane Jackson, Stephen Wright, Clay Wright, Nick Troutman, and Alec Voorhees, with Tad Dennis leading the CAD work. The boat keeps a lot of the looks and general concepts as the previous generation that so many people love about the Antix 2.0, but dials in the rocker profile, volume distribution, and adds a double rail hull.

The design team at JK says the “added surface area on the bow combined with more volume and rocker gives you a much higher and drier ride. When paired with the wider hull, this boat carries speed through and over features.” The lower volume stern should also make squirting and splatting much easier.

The big update, besides the volume redistribution, is the double rail hull that is borrowed from the Rockstar V playboat. This should equate to sharper carving — on waves and across eddy lines — easier spins, and overall more fun surfing every wave you come across as you travel down a river.

“With the Antix 3.0, we set out to make a kayak that feels even more playful and intuitive. It’s looser on a wave, easier to stern-squirt, and handles better downriver, all while keeping the confidence and safety paddlers expect. Working with the design team to bring this vision from paper to production has been an amazing experience,” said Tad Dennis, CAD designer and newest member of the Jackson Kayak design team.

JK Antix 3.0 Specs

Antix 3.0 Small

7’8″ (92.186″) L x 25.418″ W x 14.832″ H, 60 gal., 37 lbs., 95-160 lbs. paddler weight range

Antix 3.0 Medium

8′ (96.013″) L x 26.477″ W x 15.449″ H, 68 gal., 41 lbs., 130-200 lbs. paddler weight range

Antix 3.0 Large

8’4″ (99.853″) L x 27.536″ W x 16.067″ H, 76 gal., 46 lbs., 165-230 lbs. paddler weight range

MSRP: $1,799

Colors: LE Raven (pictured above), Venom, Slushie, Lime Green

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The first time I tried stand-up paddling (SUPing), I had no idea what I was doing. My friend handed me a paddle, showed me how to hold it, and took off. Thanks to my athleticism and comfort in the water, I figured out the basics, but it wasn’t until years later that I truly began to learn the ins and outs of the sport.

I began my journalism career writing for a stand-up paddle magazine and, through my work, became connected with numerous athletes. One of them is world champion Candice Appleby. We became fast friends and started paddling together regularly.

During our warmups, she would give me pointers before leaving me in the dust on the workouts. But through her, I learned so many skills and how beneficial it can be to learn from someone more experienced. Thanks to Candice’s expertise, I’ve improved drastically, medaled in races, gained confidence at paddling out through the surf, and become much better at riding waves.

If you’re new to stand-up paddling or just looking to improve, it’s super-helpful to seek out knowledge from experts. Because not everyone knows experienced paddlers, I asked Candice to share some of her top tips.

SUP G.O.A.T. Candice Appleby

Why should you care what Candice Appleby has to say about stand-up paddling? Well, she’s the most decorated female SUP paddler of all time.

She first picked up a paddle in 2006. By 2009, she had won her first SUP world title. Today, Candice has eight world titles to her name, as well as countless wins across multiple SUP disciplines.

In addition to her own training, Candice loves sharing the joy of the sport with others. She has taught surfing for over 20 years and stand-up paddling for over a decade. In 2020, she opened her own coaching business, the Ocean Academy, with the goal of creating positive experiences on the ocean as athletes progress their skills.

Top 9 SUP Tips From Candice Appleby

After decades of experience, Candice Appleby has a wealth of knowledge. Here she shares her top nine SUP tips and how to execute them.

So, let’s wade in and see what words of wisdom the world champ has for us.

1. SUP Board Selection

It’s important to have a board that’s wide enough for stability and that also has enough volume to carry your weight. If you’re new, I recommend a board that’s no shorter than 10 feet by at least 32 inches wide. As you progress in skill, you can go narrower with a sleeker design.

But keep in mind, if you’re going into more turbulent conditions, you would also want to be sure and have extra stability. And if you’re going to paddle on an inflatable, as far as safety is concerned, you don’t want to go too far offshore in case you were to have a mishap. If your board were to pop, you want to be able to get back to shore.

2. SUP Paddle Selection

As for choosing a SUP paddle, 4 to 5 inches over your head is a good length, while making sure that the blade is not too large.

And if you’re going to use an adjustable paddle, it’s important to make sure that the handle is lined up properly. Sometimes I see people paddling with the paddle backward, but a lot of times it’s because they’re paddling with an adjustable paddle, and they turned the handle around backward.

Make sure you face the paddle the right direction with the blade angle facing forward. It seems counterintuitive; it looks like it’s designed to be a scoop, but the paddle is designed to have a positive blade angle to lift the board off the water.

With paddles, you get what you pay for. If you’re opting for a paddle that’s a lower price point, it’s probably going to be heavier. You want to consider that with every stroke that you’re taking, you’re carrying the weight of the paddle.

You can get a light, durable carbon-fiber paddle for more money that’s going to last you the entirety of your paddling career. If you make the investment into an expensive paddle, you want to make sure that you’re picking the right size. Paddles are somewhat like golf clubs; the deeper you get into the sport, the more the paddle can vary depending on what specifically you’re doing. 

3. Where to Paddle

When you’re starting, it’s good to start in calm water, not somewhere where you have to launch through waves. You want to start in a lake or a harbor, somewhere that is protected from the wind and from big currents.

Once you hone your skills in the flat water, you can venture out into more open water. But it’s important to understand the lay of the land in terms of traffic, wind, tides, etc.

4. Reading the Conditions

Checking the conditions before you paddle is super-important because the wind can come up halfway through your session. You want to know what the wind is going to do, so you can plan accordingly with whatever route you’re going to take. You also want to have a plan for getting back to your starting point if the wind does kick up.

Pay attention to what areas are blocked from strong headwinds and side winds. If you can, you want to make sure you do the hard work first — go upwind for the first portion of your paddle so the wind can be at your back when you’re finishing. If that’s not possible given your location, keep in mind what you need to do to get back and how much energy that’s going to take.

Reading the surface texture of the water will tell you a lot. If you have surface texture in a broad area, it is usually indicative of something happening from above the water (i.e., wind). So, if you have ripples in a large area, that’s probably generated by the wind.

If it does get windy and you see broad surface texture in a big area, but then you see a little area that’s slick, that tells you that the wind is not hitting that area. That’s a good thing to look for if you’re paddling upwind.

If you have surface texture that’s churning up in a smaller, more acute area, that usually tells you that there’s something going on beneath the water, which could be current, an animal, rocks, or a reef that is just below the surface of the water.

5. Safety Precautions

It’s important to have a leash and PFD and make sure you know how to use your PFD. But a leash is always great because it keeps you attached to your board — if you’re attached to it, you can just hold onto it.

If you want, you can also have a water pack and a whistle. In your pack you can keep a cellphone in a dry bag so you can call for help if you need it.

It’s also good to tell somebody before you go paddling. Tell them where you’re going and when you expect to be back. If you’re unsure about a particular location, look for a lifeguard and ask them questions before you launch.

If you don’t have experience in waves, you shouldn’t go out in waves. If you don’t have any ocean experience, then you shouldn’t be going out in waves. And if you don’t have any experience paddling in the wind and it’s very windy, you probably shouldn’t go out. You want to work your way into increasing conditions, work your way up as conditions get more challenging. 

6. Foot Placement

You want to make sure you’re in the center of the board, both front to back and side to side. Generally, that’s going to be somewhere near the carry handle on the board. Depending on your size and weight, it may be a little bit forward or behind. A general standing position is with your feet in a parallel position facing forward to the front of the board.

If you’re working up to bigger skills, like pivot turns and wave riding, then you want to be in a staggered surfing position with your feet lined up down the center line of the board. Your back foot would be perpendicular to an imaginary center line of the board, with the arch of your foot straddling that line. Your front foot would be at a 45-degree angle with the arch of your foot also straddling that center line.

7. Navigating the Surf

When you’re navigating through the surf, you want to watch the sets and time them if you can. Try to time it so there aren’t as many waves when you’re paddling out or look for the area that has fewer waves.

Sometimes paddling out through a rip current is actually helpful because it’s a bit of a conveyor belt that helps you get out. And then you want to make sure that you’re paddling out while keeping your nose perpendicular to any waves. That’s going to give you the best chance of getting up and over them.

You want to paddle on your toe side, which is the side that is your foot-dominant side. If you’re a regular footer, your toe side is your right. If you’re a goofy footer, your toe side is your left.

It’s important to know how to paddle on your knees properly as well. If you’re on your knees, you’re going to choke down farther on the paddle, keeping your hand closer to the blade, which will give you more leverage.

It’s also important to know how to brace, which is using the paddle for leverage when you go over waves, or anytime you need it because of instability.

For riding waves, you want to watch where the waves are breaking and study the lineup, see where other surfers are catching the waves, and look for the direction that they’re breaking, right or left. And then you can use landmarks to triangulate your spot in the lineup. Make sure that you’re taking off perpendicular to the waves or slightly angled toward the direction the wave is going to break.

Stroke into the wave, paddling on your toe side, while keeping your board facing the right direction. That’s going to give you the best chance of success for riding the wave, as it allows you to brace and use the paddle for turning.

8. Plug Into the Community

One of the greatest things about the sport is the community. It’s a really good way to meet people and find a group that you can train with, which is super-beneficial. It will help you push yourself, and it’s safer to paddle with a friend, especially if you’re going to push yourself harder and go farther out into the ocean.

9. Work With a Coach

It’s helpful to hire an expert or coach, someone who can walk you through all the phases of the stroke, how to move your feet on the board, teach you how to brace properly, and teach you how to read conditions. Just like any sport, you’ll learn a lot quicker if you get the right instruction, and it will help you to avoid bad habits and overuse injuries.

There are also lots of coaching resources online. A great place to start is my two online courses, a stroke technique course as well as a footwork course. 

Takeaways From the Champ

Hopefully, you learned as much as I did from these top nine paddling tips from the champ. A few big takeaways for me are to double-check that you’re holding your paddle properly, always check the conditions, and when in doubt, don’t paddle out. Now, get out there and paddle!

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One of my biggest frustrations with fishing from an inflatable kayak or paddleboard is the time and energy it takes to inflate them before hitting the water.

I’ve always been disappointed with the hand pumps that come with the inflatable SUPs and kayaks I’ve tested over the years. I’m already sweating thanks to the full-body workout I had to complete before I hit the water, making my fishing a less-than-pleasant experience.

I was thankful to receive a cheap electric air pump with one of my inflatable kayaks, but quickly found many things I didn’t like about it. I was initially reluctant to test the AIRBANK Pulse Pro when AIRBANK first reached out. But I wanted to give it a fair chance, and I’m grateful I did after testing it for the summer on multiple paddleboards and kayaks.

In short: The AIRBANK Pulse Pro ($150) is the best electric pump I’ve ever used to date. It’s compact, lightweight, rechargeable, fast, and effortless. I no longer use a hand pump, except to top off some of my kayaks. The battery is long-lasting, so you don’t have to recharge it after every trip, and you can even air up a friend’s SUP without worrying about draining the battery. I keep it in the backseat of my truck or in the carrying case of one of my inflatable kayaks.

It’s a great tool to have, especially if you don’t like working out before you hit the water, but it also has some downsides.

AIRBANK Pulse Pro Electric SUP Pump Review

check price at amazon

8

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

• Dimensions: 5.63" x 5.39" x 2.66"
• Weight: 1.98 lbs.
• Battery: 4,500mAh, 14.8V
• Max pressure: 20 psi
• Working temperature: 32°F–1,040°F
• Operating amperage: 14.8V, 11A (Max)
• Max pumping speed: 1st Stage: 119 gal/min; 2nd Stage: 18.5 gal/min
• Interface: USB Type-C, QC3.1 fast-charging, CC cable

Pros

• Fast, effortless inflation/deflation
• Versatile with multiple nozzles
• Rechargeable, long-lasting battery
• Auto stop feature

Cons

• Expensive
• Loud
• User interface is a tad wonky

Wesley Littlefield

First Impressions

I immediately noticed how compact and lightweight the AIRBANK Pulse Pro was. Although I don’t entirely agree with the “palm-size” claim, it is still easy to hold with one hand. It came with a thorough user manual and several nozzle attachments, so you’re not limited to only inflatable watercraft.

Build Quality

It’s apparent when looking at the AIRBANK website and Pulse Pro box that it comes from China. This made me skeptical of the quality. However, I’ve been impressed with the build quality so far.

Though it’s lightweight, it doesn’t feel like a cheap piece of plastic junk. It feels solid and boasts excellent features that keep it running smoothly. The primary one is the Dual Cooling System, which helps prevent overheating and ensures reliable performance, quick cooldowns, and a longer lifespan.

I had this feature engaged the other day while I was inflating a couple of paddleboards in 100-degree F+ weather, and it saved my out-of-shape butt from having to use a hand pump.

Performance

During my initial use, it took me a minute to figure out the settings and how to begin pumping. However, after messing with it for a little bit, I quickly got the hang of it.

My favorite setting is Auto because I can set the pump to the exact psi I want, start it, and continue getting my other gear ready. Once it fills to the pressure I set, it will automatically stop inflating.

It inflates and deflates faster than I can do either with a hand pump, plus it requires zero effort on my part. This means I have more energy to paddle and fish, so I stay on the water longer.

The thing I least enjoy about the pump is the noise. It’s not obnoxiously loud, but it is much noisier than a hand pump. It’s loudest whenever it reaches the set psi, I’m assuming, to make you aware that it’s now finished inflating (because it does an excellent job of that!).

Lastly, I haven’t used it to inflate anything besides a couple of pool toys and my inflatable paddleboards/kayaks, but it has several nozzles, so you’re not stuck with only one use for this pump. But, since it only inflates to a maximum of 20 psi, it’s not intended to inflate tires, including bike tires.

What the AIRBANK Pulse Pro Does Well

So far, the AIRBANK Pulse Pro has eased my disdain toward inflatable kayaks and paddleboards. I’m not breathing heavily and much less sweaty by the time I reach the water, so I have a more enjoyable experience, overall.

It deflates and inflates fast, but doesn’t overinflate when set on auto. The multiple modes mean you can use the settings that work best for you. Auto is the one I find most helpful.

I also love that it’s rechargeable, and on a single charge, the battery has lasted me a summer of inflating and deflating.

Where I See Room for Improvement

Since this pump is nearly half the price of some of my paddleboards, I think it’s a tad expensive. However, I’ve used cheaper electric pumps that don’t compare to this one. Considering the features and rechargeability of this pump, I don’t think it’s incredibly overpriced; just be ready to fork over a little more than a Benjamin and a half.

The noise level is another area where I see a need for improvement. I go paddleboarding and kayaking to escape the noise of modern society, not to bring it with me, and the loudness of this pump will ruin (for a few minutes) a beautiful, calm morning on the lake or river.

Who Should Buy It

If you own an inflatable watercraft, inflatable tent, air mattress, or anything else that requires inflation (minus tires), this pump is a must-have, unless you enjoy using a hand pump.

For those who find it a bit pricey, consider saving up and purchasing it; you won’t regret it, as it’s not excessively expensive, but it is costly for a pump.

AIRBANK Pulse Pro SUP Pump: Final Verdict

The AIRBANK Pulse Pro is compact, lightweight, and super fast. It has multiple nozzle attachments and a long-lasting rechargeable battery. It’s a must-have accessory for everyone who owns an inflatable kayak or paddleboard. The Pulse Pro will continue to get plenty of use, airing up my fishing SUPs and kayaks.

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We pulled our standup paddleboards out of the river and onto the rocky beach to scout the crux. A section of class II rapids decorated the width of the Upper Slocan River in British Columbia. Smooth water wasn’t in our line of sight. “I might portage,” one friend said, as two experienced paddlers from our group rode by and started the wave train. 

I knew NRS had built the Clean 96 standup paddleboard for these conditions. After considering the conditions and obstacles, I decided it was a good section for me to run. Pushing off, I steered into the center, where the crests were the highest and free of rocks. 

Following the wave set, the lineup grew, and so did a strong crosscurrent, which turned the Clean diagonally and sideways. An assertive paddle stroke reoriented the board in the trough. As I rode up, over, and down each wave, the Clean gained momentum. Despite the chop, it smoothly rode the rollercoaster. 

Near the halfway point, the energy of the rollers bucked my balance. I restabilized on my knees, finishing the peak of the waves before popping back up to my feet for the tail of the segment, all with a huge smile. The Clean 96 made me want to ride through the rapids again — with a more aggressive stance and bent knees ready for the surf. 

In short: The stable, playful NRS Clean 96 ($945) is a volume-shifted standup paddleboard with continuous rocker, nose to tail. This silhouette is shorter, wider, and stout for running river crests, grazing around obstacles, and surfing. The shape maneuvers strikingly well through continuous, turbulent whitewater. While this SUP feels fine on flat water and lakes, it isn’t keen on tracking straight and speedy traverses. The Clean shines at quickly pivoting, spinning, and accelerating through crests.

Peruse the other masterful watercraft we’ve field tested in the Best Standup Paddleboards buyer’s guide.

NRS Clean 96

Check price at REI

8.5

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

• Length: 9'6"
• Width: 36"
• Thickness: 5"
• Weight capacity: 210 lbs.
• Weight: 23 lbs.
• Fin setup: 2 removable
• Tie-down points: 1 D-ring on the tail, 1 D-ring at the top of the deck
• Features: Bungee strap on nose, 5 grab handles
• Accessories: Super Pump II, 2 all-water fins, 2 whitewater fins, travel backpack, repair kit

Pros

• Wide design feels very stable
• QuickClick fin boxes make fin swapping super quick and streamlined
• Feels very light compared to size
• Super Pump II provides speedy inflation

Cons

• Travel backpack doesn't have wheels or a hip belt, a ding for airport trips
• Not many tie-down points
• Wider volume causes more drag on flat water than a narrower, longer board

Morgan Tilton

Field Testing the Rockered NRS Clean 96 Inflatable Standup Paddleboard

I took the NRS Clean 96 and NRS Clean 110 on various day trips in Nelson and Rossland, British Columbia. The NRS Clean 96 is an excellent day trip vessel, and I never carried more than a single dry bag. I’m close to 5’6″, 135 pounds, and four other paddlers tested this model, too — plus a small dog — weighing up to 210 pounds.

Over the season, I paddled the SUP 1.5 miles on Kootenay River, 2 miles around Nancy Greene Lake, and another 4.3 miles on the west arm of Kootenay Lake. I also rode the Clean 96 on a 12-mile descent of the Upper Slocan River with sections of class I and class II rapids.

Along with this inflatable standup paddleboard, I tested the recently launched carbon-reinforced fiberglass NRS Fortuna 90 Adjustable SUP Paddle ($250). The upper-tier paddle outperformed the other basic paddles I’ve used.

Chiseled Whitewater Tool: Rockered Tips & Wide Width

The other paddlers agreed with me: The Clean 96 is a playful standup paddleboard that pivots on a dime. The continuous rocker and shorter, stouter construction allow this SUP to maneuver quickly on the water. That’s an exceptional trait for paddling in whitewater.

At 9’6″ long, 36 inches wide, and weighing 23 pounds, this board accelerates through the wave train. In choppy, prolific rapids, other SUPs can feel like a piece of lumber. They spear the waves but aren’t smooth between the crests or as playful. They might feel best forward-facing in the whitewater, but unforgiving when they turn sideways.

Instead, the Clean feels smooth and pumps through each wave. Its shorter, strongly rockered silhouette absorbs and carries momentum through cross-currents. The design allows you to steer the board in the direction you choose. This is an aggressive paddler’s dream tool.

Rockered Shape

Rockered SUPs aren’t new. For instance, the Red Paddle Co. Wild MSL incorporates a pronounced upturn. Red’s Sport MSL has a bit of nose rocker, as does the iROCKER All-Around. Hala Gear and Badfish make rockered SUPs, too. Even shorter designs are more tailored for river surfing.

But the NRS Clean 96 is the widest SUP we’ve tested at GearJunkie at 36 inches. The Wild’s width is 34 inches, as is the NRS Clean 110. The majority of inflatables tested by GearJunkie are 34 inches wide or less, including the iRocker Blackfin CX Ultra, which sits at 32.5 inches. The next widest board is the ISLE Switch Pro, a hybrid kayak-SUP design that’s 35.5 inches wide.

While those slightly narrower boards offer plenty of stability, the extra width improves this board’s playfulness side to side and ability to absorb energy in choppy water.

Inflatable Side Chambers & DropDeck

The Clean 96 has two additional side air chambers that parallel the rails, which you inflate for stability in whitewater. The SUP can be inflated up to nearly 20 psi, and each chamber can be pumped up to 5 psi, which is two quick strokes with the hand pump.

Higher-placed rails means the deck is lower, which NRS calls the DropDeck, and the paddler’s center of gravity is lower, creating more stability.

I really like the texture of this EVA foam deck pad. On long days, I often sit or kneel to grab snacks or sunscreen from my dry bag, so I appreciate when the pad is smooth yet grippy like this one. The material offers plenty of traction, too. A raised kick‑tail (or stomp pad) near the tail offers extra leveraging power.

Handles & Lash Points

When you’re pulling a SUP out of moving water, the importance of quality grab handles can’t be overlooked. The Clean has three in the center of the board, which are oriented in a triangular shape. I could easily grab those center handles when I was pulling myself back onto the SUP after enjoying swim breaks and riverside rope swings. They were also comfortable to grab while carrying the SUP sideways to the put-in.

There are two additional handles on the nose and tail, which were key for quickly pulling the board onto the rocky beach, like when we stopped to scout the rapids on the Upper Slocan.

Additional tie-down points are two metal D-rings at the tail and at the nose of the deck pad (about two-thirds from the tail). The Clean’s longer version, the 110, has more lash points with four additional metal D-rings on the tail to strap down cargo for multiday trips.

Powerful Hand Pump & Four Fins

The SUP comes with a high-pressure Super Pump II, which is a sweet tool that expedites the pump-up process. The tradeoff is that the pump is a bit cumbersome, but it’s not heavy. I just wish it were a bit leaner for multiday trips.

In the package is four fins: two 2.5-inch fins for shallow, rocky days and another two more moderate lengths — 4.75 inches — for all water conditions. I really appreciate that NRS includes extra fins, because most of the SUPs I tested this summer don’t.

The QuickClick fin boxes are so easy to use, and I really appreciate not needing to worry about misplacing or dropping fin hardware.

Roomy SUP Travel Backpack

Most inflatable SUPs now include a travel backpack but not all designs are created equal. Some require you to finely fold your board like intricate origami in order to fit. I’m not here for it.

Thankfully, NRS makes a spacious pack that’s easy to fit the Clean 96 into. There are four compression straps on the sides to help tighten the load and lower swing weight. Overall, the design feels lean but durable.

On the face, two narrow, short sections of mesh are in theory a good idea to help release moisture. But I am skeptical about taking that material through airport travel if I decide to check my SUP.

The pack lacks wheels. Large grab handles are on the top and bottom. I wish there were handles on each side, too, especially for such a large bag. I often end up grabbing the compression straps, which require loosening first.

NRS Fortunate 90 Adjustable SUP Paddle

A paddle is not included in the kit, which means you get to choose the one that works best for you. Budget paddles get the job done, but a premium design like the NRS Fortuna 90 Adjustable SUP Paddle is one that I came to appreciate on long tours, like paddling 12 miles on the Upper Slocan.

I really liked how lightweight, comfortable, and sharp this paddle felt. The Fortuna’s carbon fiber shaft and fiberglass laminate blade weigh 590 g. In contrast, the NRS Bia ($190) with a fiberglass-reinforced nylon blade weighs nearly double: 890 g. The aluminum Pelican Vortex ($70) weighs 1,049 g.

The handle was ergonomically shaped and supportive of my palms, while the shaft is mid-volume for compatibility across different hand sizes. The rounded blade is quiet and deflects better off rocks, and the slight dihedral shape is effective at displacing water. I tested the 90-square-inch blade (there’s also a 100-square-inch option) and found it provided plenty of steering power.

Fortuna has a sleek adjustment system with a lever that’s integrated into the handle and pops up to change the length between 68 and 84 inches. The only downside of this paddle is that it’s not collapsible, so you can’t fit it into a SUP bag.

Critiques

Inherent tradeoffs exist, too. The Clean doesn’t strongly pierce smooth water, accelerate quickly, or feel planted in a straight track.

As a result, the Clean 96’s tendency to turn was noticeable when I was paddling across glass. To direct the SUP straight, I alternated sides for each paddle stroke, requiring more focus and work on smooth water. In comparison, the Red Paddle Co. Sport MSL stays planted and follows a straight line, hardly requiring me to alternate sides for paddle strokes.

As a wider shape with a broader tip and tail plus rounded rails, there’s more drag. Pointier, narrower designs are built to dice smooth surfaces, meaning, the Clean won’t accelerate as quickly or move as fast as speed-oriented shapes.

This Clean 96 is built with fewer lash points compared to its larger sibling, the Clean 110. The 96 has two D-rings while the 110 has six including four to carry cargo on the tail. The 110 is longer and narrower, which makes it a less spunky, more well-rounded choice for all-around river conditions.

The 96 is excellent for experts and whitewater surfers ready for aggressive paddle technique. The 110 is a top whitewater SUP but not as nimble, a bit more planted (through waves or on lakes), and has more drag. It also tracks slightly more straight.

Ultimately, it’s still fun to paddle the Clean on flat water, and it’s stable anywhere. But lakes are not where it was built to excel.

Conclusion: Who It’s For

The NRS Clean 96 is a textbook whitewater asset with one of the widest, most rockered shapes out there today. This inflatable standup paddleboard is built for intermediate, advanced, and expert paddlers that happily steer their SUP through uneven water.

This design is made to maneuver well around obstacles, through waves, and across chop. It carries and builds power crest to crest. For experienced paddlers, it feels stable yet playful. For expert paddlers, it can support your skills as a river wave surfer.

With only two D-rings, it’s best suited for day trips. Other whitewater and river-oriented SUPs have more lash points for multiday dry bags, including its longer sibling, the Clean 110. With continuous rocker, it’s not inherently planted nor does it carry a straight track. It does best with an engaged, proactive paddler.

That said, if you only want one SUP in your garage, the Clean 96 is still fun to paddle on flat lakes, as long as you don’t mind not being a speed queen.

In a quiver of SUPs, the Clean 96 is a more technical, tailored design that’s stable, play-focused, and quick to orient. It gives you a truly energetic ride and — as long as your knees are bent and ready for it — a ton of fun on the waves.

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Wesley Dopkins was last seen in June 2024, paddling a kayak across Jackson Lake without a life jacket. Over a year later, a nonprofit search and recovery (SAR) organization known as Bruce’s Legacy finally located his body using advanced sonar technology.

The organization is one of many regional SAR groups across the country, helping to fill the gaps that law enforcement can’t.

Dopkins, 43, went missing after he and a friend attempted to paddle 3 miles across Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park (GTNP). Their destination was Waterfalls Canyon, but neither man would make it there. When they started, it was a nice day. But vicious winds picked up, catching the two men in 6-foot waves. His partner turned around, but Dopkins continued on out of sight.

Later, his kayak, dry bag, and paddle were found floating off Moose Island. The National Park Service (NPS) initiated a huge search with boats, helicopters, SAR dogs, and ground teams. But after several days, NPS called the effort off.

That’s when Dopkins’ mother, Kathryn, contacted Bruce’s Legacy. The 501(c)(3) SAR organization specializes in bringing closure to families impacted by drowning tragedies. It took over a year, and the volunteer team faced challenges it had never encountered before. But on September 7, 2025, the search finally came to an end.

“There were a lot of places I was really worried that if he had landed in some of those areas, we’d never have found him,” Keith Cormican, founder of Bruce’s Legacy, told GearJunkie. “But it paid off by being patient and just working it.”

Bruce’s Legacy: Nonprofit SAR Helps Grieving Families & Communities

Cormican founded Bruce’s Legacy in 2013, naming the organization after his brother, who died during an attempted SAR operation in Wisconsin in 1995. While recovering the body of a drowning victim, a whirlpool sucked Bruce and two other firefighters underwater.

The death of his brother changed the course of Cormican’s life. In 1996, he established the Jackson County Dive Unit to train public safety divers. Then, after learning how sonar could be used to search for and locate remains underwater, he founded Bruce’s Legacy. To date, the organization has recovered 62 victims.

And Cormican said, by far, Dopkins’ recovery was the hardest one he’s had.

“It was the most challenging lake I’ve run into so far, and I’ve done a lot of glacier lakes,” he said.

Finding Wesley Dopkins

Kathryn Dopkins contacted Bruce’s Legacy in September 2024. That October, Cormican and his team initiated its first search. He explained that side-scanning sonar has to be towed behind the boat with a winch. It’s a 30-pound torpedo, he described, and it can scan 100 feet on both sides of the boat.

However, it needs to be suspended 10 to 15 feet above the bottom, which proved very difficult among the glacial ridges and valleys of Jackson Lake.

“It raised hell with my operation,” he said. “I had to leave because I broke stuff … we hit the bottom and broke our winch.”

That ended his October 2024 search effort. In September 2025, he returned for a second try. He ran into many of the same issues, he said, but eventually they found what they were looking for. A mile and a half from where he was last seen, and 420 feet underwater, they found Dopkins’ remains. The next day, on September 8, Cormican, his team, and several GTNP rangers returned and successfully brought Dopkins home.

“It’s always a bittersweet moment,” Cormican said. It’s a triumphant feeling, that’s quickly followed by the knowledge you have to deliver that news to the family. Yes, it’s rewarding, he said, but doleful at the same time.

Never-Ending Work

When Cormican spoke with GearJunkie, he was on the road. After leaving Wyoming, he’d gone straight to Iowa to help a family look for a loved one who was missing on the Missouri River. Then he was headed home to make repairs on his boat and teach a diving class the following week.

“Right after that,” he noted, “I leave to go to South Carolina [to look] for another missing man.”

The organization’s work is never-ending. Like other nonprofit SAR organizations, it’s funded solely by donations. In the case of Dopkins’ recovery, Grand Teton Lodge Company and Flagg Ranch Company supported their stay at the lake. In other cases, people raise money through GoFundMe campaigns to pay for their room, travel, and board. But neither he nor his volunteers receives any wages for their work.

That’s how Cormican wants it, but the nonprofit still has expenses for equipment and operation that rely on public goodwill.

“We need donations just to keep moving forward,” he said.

If you want to contact Cormican, you can find his email on the Bruce’s Legacy contact page or reach out via social media. If you’d like to donate to the organization, Cormican said the best way is through its website.

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