Reflections

Training at Home From Coach Stiller’s Notebook There’s a reason we keep coming back to the water. It’s long-term fun. Out on the Hudson, the NY Harbor, or the East River, the views are drop dead amazing, especially when you’re still, floating, and full of vigor and excitement during a paddle trip. But we eschew…

Thinking of buying your own inflatable paddle board? Don’t take the plunge quite yet. Especially if you want a quality ride, join us on the water before you choose one. You’ll learn the technique, test different models, and discover which designs suit you. Our team was featured in New York Magazine’s The Strategist for our…

Avoid These. Cotton or cotton blends. They’re sticky when wet and dry slowly. Most socks, shorts, T-shirts, jeans, and sweatsuits include some cotton! Sneakers that you don’t want to get wet Shoes with heels, leather soles, or thongs Finery: linen, silk, velvet, leather Jewelry that can slip off or snag . April 15–May 15: Wetsuits…

The “Sober” Guide to Cold Water. Cold water paddling is a glorious joy, but it requires respect. When the Hudson is under 60°F, your margin for error shrinks. Here is how we stay safe and “Blue Minded” during the shoulder seasons. What To Wear After Summer If the water is under 60°F, we don’t wear…

After 30 years on the Hudson, I’ve learned that the best trips are won 48 hours before the start. This is the MKC guide to professional preparation and leadership. Prepare Yourself and Your Group Plan around the least experienced person. Don’t shape your trip around yourself if there are others. Instead, ask: • Who is…

Don’t let cotton underwear ruin your day. After 30 years on the Hudson, we’ve seen every outfit imaginable. Here is the ‘Pro-Kit’ list we’ve refined since 1995 to keep you dry and happy. If you’re dressed right, you’ll stay dry, warm, and enjoy your time on the water. Wear a Life Jacket We provide life…

Flow State: Timeless Transcendence On The Water. I’ve paddled my whole life in wonderful places throughout the world. This includes halfway around Australia, Alaska, Patagonia, The Galapagos Islands, British Virgin Islands, San Juan Islands, Scotland, Maine, SF Bay, Florida Keys, Bahamas, Kauai, Costa Rica, Brittany, Bavaria. Then, there are the thousands of miles in the…

When I founded Manhattan Kayak, I was a purist. I believed the only way to truly experience the Hudson was in a sleek, sit-in kayak that hugged the body like a ski boot—making the boat an extension of my nervous system. To me, the efficiency of a two-bladed paddle was objectively superior to its single-bladed…

Which One Should You Choose: Kayak or SUP? If you’re brand new to paddling and conflicted about which paddling discipline to learn, I’m here to help. As founder of Manhattan Kayak Co, I have a lot to share on this topic. First, for fitness: In both kayaking and SUP, learn to use your whole body…

The Vertical City and the Stand-Up Paddleboard! Cities make me feel like a child when I do go–whether it is New York, Bangkok or Rome–I wander around in a daze, my senses indulging in the constant stimulation, my neck craned skyward… –Will Taylor, editor of SUP The Mag This reminded me of how I felt…