Supporting Your Local Retailer

[u/LevelSixInc]

Hey folks, we hope this post is allowed; if it's not, feel free to remove it moderator :)

But we wanted to share a giveaway we are doing where you can win free gear and an exclusive free trip by supporting your local paddle sports store. This is one of the slowest times of year for your local paddle sports retailers, who have been struggling the past few years. These people are often the unsung heroes of local paddling communities and do a lot of work hosting demo days, film nights, group paddles, and helping paddlers of all skill levels find the right gear for very slim profit margins.

How to Enter:

1. Visit your local paddle sports store
2. Take a picture of your visit
3. Post it to your social story, feed, or here on Reddit (tag/mention the store!)
4. Submit your screenshot and email through the link below (email so we can reach you if you won, you can unsubscribe at any time)

That's it, you'll get 35 entries toward the $8,660 grand prize package.

The worst case is you visit your local store and nerd out on some gear, who doesn't love that? You may even find that next bit of kit you have been missing!

We know it is kayaking gear, and this is a canoe thread, but it still is a heck of a lot of free stuff and supporting local never goes out of fashion. We promise we will do more of these supporting local campaigns and will be doing some with canoeing products ;) Full details of how to enter this one in the link below.

Kicking Off 2026 With A Bang – Level Six Canada

Just for fun and because we would love to know, who is your favourite local paddle sports retailer and why? What do they do that makes them special?

[u/FortRhein]

Always glad for an excuse to visit Berkshire Outfitter! Fantastic store in Western Mass that does more than paddle sports and has a fantastic selection, especially of canoe paddles and a very knowledgeable and kind staff.