The post Starboard Announces Updated All Star Race Board for 2026 appeared first on SUPboarder Magazine.

XMAS COMES EARLY AT AVONXMAS COMES EARLY AT AVONChristmas came early for the Avon Beach crew this year. What began as a low-expectation session quickly escalated into one of the most memorable days the spot has seen in years. Andy Chambers was on hand to make the most of the surprise swell, while Lyndon Clayson, armed with a borrowed camera, managed to capture the drama of this this unexpected early Xmas session!ANDY CHAMBERS: The forecast for Saturday looked pretty good on paper for Avon beach in terms of swell. 10ft @10 seconds is usually a pretty solid ground swell. However sometimes it doesnt quite make it up the channel or can get blocked by Hengistbury Head. So I tried to keep my expectations fairly low as I have been skunked a number of times with a good forecast. The wind forecast was Westerly which can be quite tricky as it means there isnt any wind on the inside but its cross off on the outside for wave riding which is perfect.My actual plan was to head to Avon in the morning to sail around the higher tide as it was dropping and then check out Southbourne in afternoon over low tide as the wind was westerly and Southbourne would have better waves you can tell that I didnt have high hopes for Avon!Reports started coming through from Avon at first light that it was pretty underwhelming In the back of my mind I was thinking I knew it would be, so I carried on with my usual Saturday routine of heading to the gym. By about 9am messages were coming through saying its getting better and then by 10am the messages just said, its going off!. I was out the door and at the beach by 10.05 ha-ha! As I pulled into the carpark, I could see waves reeling down the outer sandbar and then linking with the inner sandbar and carrying on going down past the caf. It was windy pretty much straight off the beach too which meant there was a touch of WSW, so it seemed all the stars had aligned!GEARI rigged my 4.5 Goya Banzai Surf Carbon and 86l Custom Thruster 4. I opted for the thruster over the Quad at first as the waves at Avon quite often lack power and speed, so you need a fast board with more drive to make the most of it. However after my first 2 waves it was apparent that it was really windy, so speed wasnt an issue and the waves had a lot more power than usual. I came straight in and grabbed my 84l Goya Quad 8 which was the perfect choice! The waves just kept getting better and better, the swell was solid and there were some pretty meaty (for Avon) ones coming through. The biggest ones were around logo high which never happens at Avon. You could actually sail way out back and gybe on a set swell and cruise all the way into the sandbar on it, then when it hit the outer sandbar, it jacked up and properly broke top to bottom. You could get 3-4 turns on the first section and then wait for the reforms further down and closer in. This was the magic section of the wave because it was so smooth as its protected by Mudeford Beach and sandbank. You could then get another 3-4 turns on this part of the wave with a couple of throwing sections. By the end of the wave your forearms and back leg were burning!EPIC SESSIONI sailed for three hours! As the tide dropped more and more so did the waves and the wind had increased so by 2pm I was done. The conditions carried on for most of the afternoon just wasnt as good as earlier! It was great to see so many people out pushing themselves in the bigger waves. Thats the great thing about Avon, no matter how big it gets its not a wave of major consequence so if it all goes wrong you might have a little swim and a bit of a tumble under water but its over in a few seconds. Unlike Southbourne that just gives you a flogging and destroys everything! Most of the locals were out and the forecast had attracted some people from much further away. The problem is they probably think its like that all the time now!AFTERMATHOnce the pictures started to come through later that evening the messenger group got very excited and chatty with peoples stories of best waves/wipeouts and generally a great feeling from what was one of the best ever days at Avon.Lyndon Clayson Andy and all the sailors at Avon Beach are lovely. I am temporarily out of action so borrowed an old camera to give me something to do whilst caddying for my 17-year-old son!! (if I cant sail, he has no choice but to!) What I have learnt is that you get nearly as much stoke from watching as you do from taking part!!The post XMAS COMES EARLY AT AVON appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

The post Kai Lenny Streams Rare Multi-Sport Maui Session With Standout SUP Moments appeared first on SUPboarder Magazine.

MAUI KONA SESSION!MAUI KONA SESSION!Sarah Jackson reports from a stunning light-wind Kona day on Maui; one that convinced her to ditch the windsurf gear and put her new camera setup to work instead. Judging by the shots she captured, its safe to say she made the right call.Photos: Sarah Jackson / JackoPixKONA SUPRISEIts been a weird Maui season for conditions so far I feel like two years ago I had double if not triple the days in the water, but maybe thats hindsight playing tricks on me. Weve had lots of days of east winds in the last 6 weeks blowing strong and gusty offshore, where even the top pros made it look tricky at times, but that was interchanged today with Kona winds a wind that comes from the opposite direction leading to rare port tack conditions. These days are few and far between in Maui, and often tricky and hard to forecast the best time when they do appear. Around 1:30pm the guys started to head out, and as one hit the water, the rest followed. First Matteo Iachino, then Morgan Noireaux, Robby Swift, Marcilio Browne and Tom Reuveny (Paris 2024 iQ Foil Gold Medalist) all trickled out I say this because today was the definition of float (or sink) and ride. It was suuuuuper light and very much why I decided to crack out the camera rather than destroy all my gear!ON THE ROCKSWipeout of the day went to Marcilio Browne for a huge mid-aerial bail and was probably one of my favourite sequences of the day, but most gear destroyed had to go to Robby Naish. The man, the myth, the legend. Unfortunately, no amount of local knowledge or world titles stopped him from paying his taxes to the Hookipa rocks today.As he launched, the already dropping wind got even lighter and he was wobbling through the current as a huge set rolled through the channel. He held on to the gear through the first couple, but it was ultimately ripped from his hands and landed in the rocks where it eventually came to rest, with only the boom still in one piece everything else destroyed!It was awesome to witness the top guys ripping out there and navigating the tricky conditions and seeing Robby destroy everything was validation that sitting on the cliff was the best place for me to be today!Beautiful Kona action from Maui!The post MAUI KONA SESSION! appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

Julie PooleInterview: Emma LovePhotos: Bassfilmco, Epiclife, Bob Bannister & P3tPhotographyWhat started as a fun way for Julie to stay active post-injury quickly evolved, taking her from SUP instructor to coach and, by the end of 2024, to SUP Instructor Tutor! I caught up with Julie to chat about her tutor journey and how, in the end, the process turned out to be the best part!How did you become interested in paddleboarding?It all started because of an injury!I accidentally snapped my cruciate ligament and couldnt do all the high-impact fitness, which I love. I remember sitting there thinking, What now? Then I saw paddleboarding, gave it a go, and got truly hooked. It turned out my husband was better than me, which was NOT ok, but I loved being on the water and kept practising.Within six or seven months, I was doing my instructor course, and before I knew it, I was working at Epic Life!What inspired you to take the leap from Paddle UK SUP instructor to coach to SUP instructor tutor?Coaching SUP was such a natural fit. Ive always loved seeing people progress whether thats in fitness (I am a professional personal trainer) or paddling. Cliff Meaden encouraged me to consider applying for SUP Instructor Tutor. And I doubted myself, of course!I kept thinking, am I good enough? But I successfully applied, attended the two training days, completed the online assessor course, shadowed some great instructors, and went for it! As a tutor, I train new instructors, which is a very different and interesting challenge from my other roles, but I love it.How would you describe your approach to supporting paddlers?For me, coaching has always been about making people feel comfortable. I remember what its like to be a nervous beginner. I dont overcomplicate things I believe people dont need lots of technical jargon; they need to understand why something works. And Ive realised this approach applies when supporting aspirant SUP instructors.Weve talked before about experiencing self-doubt how do you manage it?If theres one thing Ive learned, its that self-doubt is part of the process. When I look back at my first assessment (qualifying as a SUP Instructor), I do question why I was so worried. We all start somewhere. Whether coaching, SUP racing, or just paddling for fun, it is important to keep learning and enjoying the ride.How did you find the SUP Instructor Tutor training experience, and what challenges did you face?You know, when I reflect on my SUP Instructor Tutor training, I do ask myself, why did I stress so much? At the time, it felt overwhelming especially all that theory. I remember us all getting so bogged down in the details that we forgot how to apply it on the water! After our training, I spoke to Phil Hadley about whether I was right for this role. His reply? Julie, you already do this. Just do it! It was great feedback and gave me the boost I needed.Did you enjoy being a student again?It was a brilliant course, and yes, it really reminded me what its like to be a student how daunting it can be. It allowed me to talk to other students and realise we were all in the same boat. If Id been doing this alone, I dont know who Id have talked to.Having that network was so important. Having Chris Brain, our tutor, on hand post-training was fantastic because I could go back to him and double-check anything I was unsure about.How did you prepare for your sign-off?Wow, did I overthink it? I spent the last week panicking, reviewing my notes, laminating little bits, and running through my PowerPoint continuously!I even took people to a pool to practice rescues again.Cliff, my boss, had to tell me to stop and remind me that I could do this. If I could go back and tell myself to do one thing? It would be, calm down, Julie. And you know what? The sign-off turned out to be so much fun!What surprised you about the process of becoming a tutor?One big surprise was the cost and logistics of running the course. Nobody really tells you beforehand how tricky it is to find water access, classrooms, and kit! Initially, I was meant to be running the course on the River Medway, but a week before, it went into a red flood warning. I had to scramble to find a backup site. Even then, I was crossing my fingers that the river levels would drop in time. And, of course, it all worked out in the end, but it was stressful!And then theres the financial side. I had to get at least five people signed up for the course, but some couldnt afford it, so I reduced the fee. One of my instructors had their training covered by Epic Life so that I couldnt charge her either. In the end, I just made it work, but it made me realise if I wasnt working for a company like Epic Life, how would I have managed?Whats next?The paddleboarding world is changing. More and more kids are coming through, but adult beginner sessions seem to be slowing down. That makes me a bit nervous wheres it all going? I love my job, but I also know I need to evolve. Thats why I want to blend my passion for fitness with paddleboarding. I have been introducing interval training on the water recently, and I think theres so much potential there.Im also considering pushing my paddling more racing, more whitewater. And maybe even taking on another leadership qualification! Phils already telling me to go for the SUP Leader Tutor role, and at first, I was like, absolutely not, but now maybe.Any pearls of wisdom youd like to share?How lack of confidence impacts women in paddleboarding. I see it all the timewomen saying, I dont think I can do this when they absolutely can. And then theres the menopause factor. I hadnt thought about it until recently, but it affects confidence, energy, and weight gain. Its something Id love to talk about more in instructor training because so many of our client base are going through it, whether they say it out loud or not.And looking back on 2024?At the end of the day, Im glad I achieved my tutoring goal. Its made me a better coach, helped me see things differently, and, if nothing else, Ive learned that youve just got to go for it. Stop overthinking, stop doubting, and just enjoy the process. Because honestly, the journeys the best part.

HTTPS://PADDLEUK.ORG.UK/Places to Paddle: Liverpool, Middle Level Navigation and the River SoarA Paddle UK team has been exploring the wonderful trails on the PaddlePoints website. They recently explored Liverpools Docks, the Middle Level Navigations in the east of England, and the River Soar, to produce guides for everyone to try.Look out for all of the videos on Instagram and YouTube (@PaddleUK) to see what you find on the trails, together with tips on where to get in and out of the water.Liverpools historic docksDistance: 4.2kmTime: 1-2 hoursSat Nav: L3 4DGWhat3Words: ///outer.linked.gladiatorsExplore the historic heart of Liverpool from the water! Launch from Liverpool Watersports Centre or Coburg Dock and embark on a fascinating journey through the citys iconic docks, a former global hub. Gliding through the clear waters of Queens Dock, keep an eye out for harmless Moon jellyfish; they are a great sign of a healthy ecosystem. Paddle past architectural marvels like the Royal Liver Building with its famous Liver Birds.Follow the route through Wapping Dock, Salthouse Dock, and the vibrant Royal Albert Dock Waterfront, bustling with cafs and museums housed in renovated red-brick warehouses.The route ends at Canning Dock, offering spectacular views of the Museum of Liverpool. This paddle offers a unique perspective on Liverpools rich maritime history and modern regeneration. Its a must-do urban adventure!https://paddleuk.org.uk/places-to-paddle-liverpools-historic-docks/Middle Level Navigation: 99 Miles, but a ditch aint oneDistance: 6.5 miles (10.5 km)Time: 2-3 hoursSat Nav: PE26 2XNWhat3Words: ///intent.riverside.displaysDiscover the peace and tranquillity of the Fens with a paddle along the Middle Level Navigation, a network of 99 miles (160 km) of navigable waterways managed by the Middle Level Commissioners. Ideal for beginners and race training, the extended, straight, artificial drains offer easy paddling. Launch from Ramsey Forty Foot, where steps have been built to ease access, and explore this unique landscape.Our journey took us westwards, past Ramsey Road bridge to the old course of the River Nene, and Wells Bridge. Covering over 8km in total, we enjoyed spotting local wildlife like swans, ducks, and kingfishers. With access to towns like Whittlesey, Ramsey, and March, there is plenty more to explore. Uncover this hidden gem of Cambridgeshire and Norfolk.https://paddleuk.org.uk/places-to-paddle-99-miles-but-a-ditch-aint-one/River Soar and the Grand Union CanalDistance: 7.5 miles (12 km)Time: 2-3 hoursSat Nav: LE4 5PNWhat3Words: ///issued.employ.deviceDiscover Leicesters waterways on an intriguing paddle that blends nature and history. Starting from Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre, youll paddle along the wildlife-rich River Soar, keeping an eye out for kingfishers. Navigate past green meadows and under historic bridges, with the futuristic National Space Centre tower soaring into view.A short portage at Belgrave Lock leads you onto the Grand Union Canal, offering a change of scenery. Stop for a well-deserved break at a quirky local caf near North Lock. The return loop takes you past the stunning ruins of a 12th-century abbey and a 17th-century mansion in Abbey Park. This paddle is a perfect mix of urban exploration and peaceful river stretches, promising a memorable day out on the water.https://paddleuk.org.uk/places-to-paddle-leicester-river-soar-grand-union-canal/

WINDSURF CHRISTMAS NEWS BULLETINWINDSURF CHRISTMAS NEWS BULLETINFirst things firstmassive thanks to everyone who follows the website and here at Windsurf Towers we wish you all a Happy Christmas and fabulous new year. As always, were here to bring you the latest windsurfing news, rider interviews, keep you updated on the behind-the-scenes gossip and support pretty much anything connected to windsurfing. Also, we would like to say thanks so much to all of the advertisers that support us! Dont forget when browsing to click on those banners and check out their website and products as well!Right! Enough of the formalitieslets move onto some festive Xmas pressie ideas for youobviously all windsurfing related! Hands up who has not done any shopping yet? The links in this feature could just be your get out of jail free card!!!Yep, its that time of year again! Time to start dropping hints about that windsurfing quiver youd love to find under the Christmas treeor to treat your windsurf obsessed partner to a special surprise gift! Weve done the hard graft for you, hunting down some of the best deals on the market along with a handful of great stocking-filler ideas and practical gift suggestions.So, lets get stuck in and uncover the top windsurfing bargains this festive season and who knowsmaybe this year youll finally unwrap something windsurf related!WINDSURFER MAGAZINEHow about a subscription to Windsurfer Magazine the gift that keeps on giving long after the wrapping papers been stuffed into the bin bags? Yep, what could be a better stocking filler than buying this quality coffee-table publication, featuring the epic stories, photos and personalities behind the greatest sport in the world. Click the link to subscribe!!Windsurfer Magazine Windsurfing focused print magazine based in the UK.BOARDWISEThe crew at Boardwise have some excellent offers up for grabs in the build up to Christmas! They have a special selection of gift ideas and stocking fillers for Christmas so check out all the ideas by following the link below!Gifts ideas for Windsurfers Boardwise2XS2XS has a load of different options for Christmas depending on how good you have been this year! They have Windsurfing club memberships at West Wittering beach, they have windsurfing lesson vouchers for those who want to improve, there are lots of accessories, wetsuits and if you been really good maybe your loved ones can splash out on a new Goya, Quatro, Ezzy, ION or Duotone product. If you cant decide 2XS can help with either a 2XS voucher or you can call for some friendly advice 01243 512552Check these Christmas ideas from 2XS here:https://www.2xs.co.uk/product-tag/christmas-2025/2XS not only have a tonne of bargains at the shop to light up your Christmas this festive season, they also some awesome jobs opportunities available! Get those C.Vs ready! All the details are here:JOB VACANCIES 2XSRYA DINGHY AND WATERSPORTS SHOW 2026Why not treat yourselves to some tickets to the RYA Dinghy and Watersports Show 2026! We even have a special discount code for our readersfollow the link here for all the details:Windsurf Magazine2026 RYA DINGHY & WATERSPORTS SHOW | Windsurf MagazineOSHEAGet in touch with the guys at OShea if you are looking for some bargains then check out their website.Home www.osheasurf.comSimmer Style gear here:Simmer Style | WindsurfingROBIN HOOD WATERSPORTSThe crew at Robin Hood Watersports have been gearing up for Christmas and have plenty of bargains on the site including some amazing offers on new Go ProsSpecialist Watersports Equipment | Robin Hood WatersportsWORTHING WATERSPORTSSam Latham at Worthing Watersports has a large order of Duotone Foil Assists on its way to the shop. Check out the video here and you can get in touch with Sam here:Worthing Watersports Duotone Specialist Store Wing Foil, Kitesurfing4BOARDSStu and Bob at 4Boards have tonnes of ideas for stocking fillers at the shopclick on the links to take you to the products:rip-curl-flashbomb-polypro-hood-vestdakine-core-contour-system-footstrapsensis-rider-helmet-mintdakine-uphaulrip-curl-fbomb-5mm-hidden-splitIONION have some amazing offers available over the festive season and you can view some great ides here on the ION website!ION Water | Gift GuideION say: The X-mas gift guideThis Christmas, keep the good vibes flowing for all saltwater adventurers and wind chasers in your life. Discover IONs Gift Guide and find surf gifts, kiteboarding essentials, and wing foiling accessories. From passion-fuelling gear to everyday must-haves built to handle any conditions, these picks are made to keep your favourite riders stoked on and off the water.MAUI ULTRA FINSWe are sure your partner would love a new fin or set of fins in that Christmas stocking this year. Take a look at the Mui Ultra Fins website for some ideas here!Maui Ultra Fins Windsurfing SUP Kite MUF MUFinsH20Its a very festive time at H20 Sports and they have a tonne of Xmas hand picked deals and stocking fillers on the website! From stocking-size treats to show-stopping presents, weve got gifts for every watersports enthusiast all shapes, all sizes, and all guaranteed to raise a festive smile. They have also had some amazing conditions at the local beaches! Check it outChristmasH20 say:Weve just launched a market place to help anyone around the UK sell their second hand equipment on our platform! Safe, secure and simple!Market PlaceAlso were going to be exhibiting at the RYA show in Farnborough in February with Ian at Boardwise with the Windsufer LT! Link below with all the info and ability for customers to get discounted tickets.RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show 2026CLUB VASSAs the cold, dark days of Christmas set in, why not reward yourselves with a special gift you can look forward to and book a holiday to Club Vass, one of the best windsurfing centres on the planet? While most presents end up in that infamous Use it once and forget it pile, a trip to Club Vass guarantees months of anticipation and sun-drenched daydreams!It just so happens Club Vass have a fresh out of the wrapping: 1st Week Special for next seasonBe among the first to try the full array of brand-new 2026 kit. The Early Bird Special is for 17th May 2026 offers 100 off per person for a one-week booking. May is one of the most magical times in Vass, with spring in full swing, a fired-up team, and racks stacked with pristine, box-fresh gear. But dont wait too long, this offer is only valid until the end of December.Club Vass | Windsurfing & Watersports Holidays In Greeceinfo@clubvass.net01992 874566HARRY NASSEgypt is warm, windy and sunny right now and if you are thinking of getting away for a windsurfing fix, the incredible Harry Nass centres in Dahab will serve all your needs with the latest NeilPryde and JP Australia gear ready for you to get out on that warm turquoise water!Harry Nass Windsurf & Kite Centres Dahab + Hurghada EgyptFOAM LIFEIf you are thinking of booking a holiday of a lifetime then you will surly need to style yourself out with a new pair of flip flops. Click the link here to peruse the latest stylish beach wear from Foam Life! You can get 10% off if you sign up to their newsletter!Mens & Womens Flip Flops FoamLife | Official StoreThe post WINDSURF CHRISTMAS NEWS BULLETIN appeared first on Windsurf Magazine.

CLUB VASS ARE SLEIGHING IT!Club Vass Are Sleighing It!The team at Club Vass would like to wish everyone a happy Christmas and a breezy New Year! Heres their festive round-upBeat the Winter Blues & Get Ahead for 2026If the winter blues are creeping in, it might be time to start dreaming of the stunning blues of Vassiliki Bay. With Summer 2026 shaping up to be a bumper year, theres plenty on the horizon to look forward to.The Club Vass Xmas List is Next-LevelAlready renowned for offering the largest choice of brand-new kit anywhere, Club Vass is taking things up another notch for the coming season. Expect an even bigger and better selection, with virtually everything upgraded, including the latest windsurf and wingfoil gear from Duotone, Goya and Severne. As though all your Xmases have come at once, you will be spoiled for choice! Its all on order and will be perfectly rigged, racked, and ready for May talking of which theres a tempting deal on for the start of the seasonFresh out of the Wrapping: 1st Week SpecialBe among the first to try the full array of brand-new 2026 kit. The Early Bird Special for 17th May 2026 offers 100 off per person for a one-week booking. May is one of the most magical times in Vass, with spring in full swing, a fired-up team, and racks stacked with pristine, box-fresh gear. But dont wait too long, this offer is only valid until the end of December.Winging in the New YearClub Vass wing foil clinics continue to soar in popularity, and for good reason. Many guests say they simply cant find the same combination of kit, coaching and ideal conditions anywhere else. Beginner/Improver and Intermediate one-week clinics are run throughout the summer (excluding peak), tailored to each group and conditions. The focus is on maximum water time, with focused technique sessions (including drone video feedback), to ensure fast progression. Of course the fun factor will be high and youll probably make new friends along the way. Spots are already extremely limited, so securing one soon is essential.Go On, Spoil Yourself with Beachfront LuxuryLaunched in 2025 and an instant hit, the Cross Shore Apartments are already booking up fast for next summer. These stylish one- and two-bedroom beachfront retreats sit right next to the club and include:Private sea-facing terracesSeparate bedroomsDesigner kitchensSleek en-suite bathroomsHigh-end furnishings throughoutFor those wanting to elevate their holiday with one of the most luxurious stays in Vass, nows the moment to book.Dear Santa All I Want for XmasThe long summer holidays will be here before long and theres no better place for kids to build confidence, skills and friendships. Whether they join Kids Club (younger kids and windsurf tasters) or ProKids (older riders and more full-on windsurfing), theyll quickly find their crew. With expert coaches and an unbeatable range of kid-friendly kit, more time on the water and less on screens happens naturally. For a first-hand look at the family experience, check out the feature below.Testimonials: The Wonderful, Windy World of Club VassThis write-up from Mary Jane about her familys summer holiday captures the Club Vass vibe perfectly:Whether youre chasing wind, finding your flow on a yoga mat, or simply kicking back with grilled prawns and a chilled Mythos, Club Vass has something for everyone. Its not just a destination its a community, a rhythm, a feeling youll want to return to, again and again something super special.Read her full article here:https://gandjtheedit.com/inside-the-windy-wonderful-world-of-club-vass/The post CLUB VASS ARE SLEIGHING IT! appeared first on Windsurf Magazine Online.

By Dale Mears @supwithdaleAnother suit in for testing, but this one isnt one I can fit into, as this is a specifically designed kids suit. Designed for kids from 134cm, now my daughter, aged 7, is around 130, and the smallest size the KM is perfectly suitable. Ill explain why later. Lets have a look at why. Why a kids drysuit? The Grom market is definitely growing, and kids have always been on the water, but I feel there is greater awareness of the importance of having the right kit and how that can impact performance. This is precisely why a kids suit is an excellent option. Of course, the downside is that they grow quickly. I get that, but I feel this suit will last my daughter 2/3 years, at which point it will have been entirely worth it to keep her on the water during autumn/winter. We know kids get colder quicker, and a wetsuit isnt always the warmest option.This suit is a three-layer fabric; it feels rough, durable, and well-made. It has many great features, including adjustable velcro cuffs that fit around the latex seals on the wrists. Thick, durable, waterproof socks allow younger paddlers to double up with a thicker sock to keep their feet warm. Everyone knows that keeping your feet warm makes a huge difference.Kayak-specific but multi-disciplineThe entry zip is traditional across the shoulders. This is a kayak-specific but multi-discipline suit. Inside are two removable shoulder straps that are adjustable, meaning they can be tightened so that the suit fits just right. We had to fully tighten the straps for my daughter, and that held the weight of the suit whilst she paddled. She didnt once complain about the weight of the suit; its nice and light and fits well, even if a little oversized for her at the moment. The shoulder zip does mean kids will need a little help getting in and out, but lets face it, most will be paddling with adults or parents/coaches at this age.The suit itself comes in a great colourway, Aqua, with some red/orange detailing that matches the Quest range of PFDS nicely. It also features Palms Grom logo and a cheeky Haka, which is a nice touch.There are no pockets in the suit, so it is pretty streamlined. There is a waist baffle for the spray deck, and an adjustable waistband to tighten and keep water out.My daughter, as mentioned, although slightly smaller sizing for the smallest suit, really liked wearing it and found it comfortable. In fact, it was one of the longer sessions weve had since the weather dropped, and the added confidence of the suit meant we had a swim test at the end. She was dry and warm, taking advantage of a onesie underneath, which went down very well!I definitely think this will extend our paddling season, and if youre worried about how fast kids grow, they are slightly larger in-store and see how it fits.All in all, another positive move from Palm to encourage more kids on the water and to wear the right kit. Palm also offers split options in this range, with jackets and dry pants too.https://palm.equipment/gbPrice: 349.00

https://palm.equipment/gbBy Dale Mears@supwithdalePalm Rocket Kids Drysuit reviewxAnother suit in for testing, but this one isnt one I can fit into, as this is a specifically designed kids suit. Designed for kids from 134cm, now my daughter, aged 7, is around 130, and the smallest size the KM is perfectly suitable. Ill explain why later. Lets have a look at why. Palm says this is suitable for kids aged up to 16 and up due to the sizing, with the largest KXL reaching a paddler height of 170cm.Why a kids drysuit?The Grom market is definitely growing, and kids have always been on the water, but I feel there is greater awareness of the importance of having the right kit and how that can impact performance. This is precisely why a kids suit is an excellent option. Of course, the downside is that they grow quickly. I get that, but I feel this suit will last my daughter 2/3 years, at which point it will have been entirely worth it to keep her on the water during autumn/winter. We know kids get colder quicker, and a wetsuit isnt always the warmest option.This suit is a three-layer fabric; it feels rough, durable, and well-made. It has many great features, including adjustable velcro cuffs that fit around the latex seals on the wrists. Thick, durable, waterproof socks allow younger paddlers to double up with a thicker sock to keep their feet warm. Everyone knows that keeping your feet warm makes a huge difference.kayak-specific but multi-disciplineThe entry zip is traditional across the shoulders. This is a kayak-specific but multi-discipline suit. Inside are two removable shoulder straps that are adjustable, meaning they can be tightened so that the suit fits just right. We had to fully tighten the straps for my daughter, and that held the weight of the suit whilst she paddled. She didnt once complain about the weight of the suit; its nice and light and fits well, even if a little oversized for her at the moment. The shoulder zip does mean kids will need a little help getting in and out, but lets face it, most will be paddling with adults or parents/coaches at this age.The suit itself comes in a great colourway, Aqua, with some red/orange detailing that matches the Quest range of PFDS nicely. It also features Palms Grom logo and a cheeky Haka, which is a nice touch.There are no pockets in the suit, so it is pretty streamlined. There is a waist baffle for the spray deck, and an adjustable waistband to tighten and keep water out.mentioned, although slightly smaller sizing for the smallest suit, really liked wearing it and found it comfortable. In fact, it was one of the longer sessions weve had since the weather dropped, and the added confidence of the suit meant we had a swim test at the end. She was dry and warm, taking advantage of a onesie underneath, which went down very well!I definitely think this will extend our paddling season, and if youre worried about how fast kids grow, they are slightly larger in-store and see how it fits.All in all, another positive move from Palm to encourage more kids on the water and to wear the right kit. Palm also offers split options in this range, with jackets and dry pants too.Price: 349.00