With Christmas just around the corner, its time to start thinking about gifts. One of the most important parts of picking a gift is making it thoughtful, something that means something to that person. There are so many things you could buy a paddler to help them on their adventures. Some you might come up with on your own, some you may never have thought about. So to make shopping that little bit easier (and cheaper!) here are our top gift ideas for paddlers.
Paddling Kit
- Neoprene Gloves
- Waterproof Phone Pouch
- Dry Bag
- Electric SUP Pump
- Thermals
- Changing Towel
- Woolly Hat
Extras
- Biomate Kit
- RNLI Paddleboarding Santa
- Massage Gun
- Paddling Books
- Combi Key Safe
- Roof Rack Padding
- Rechargeable handwarmers
Subscriptions
- OS Maps
- Paddle UK Membership
- Paddler & SUP Magazines
Paddling Kit
Neoprene Gloves (from £12.96 at Decathlon, 15% discount as a Paddle UK member)
When the temperatures drop it’s time to get the gloves out. Neoprene gloves are designed to be used in wet conditions, with the material using the body’s heat to warm up. Perfect for any kind of paddler, from recreational paddleboarder to extreme whitewater kayaker.
Waterproof Mobile Phone Pouch (from £16.95 at Aquapac, 25% discount as a Paddle UK member)
When out on the water it is really useful to carry a mobile phone on you. Not just so you can take those scenic photos for Instagram, but also so you can call for help should you need it. Waterproof phone pouches come in a range of sizes and generally have clear backs so you can take crystal clear photos. Being waterproof, you can keep your phone in your buoyancy aid pocket and have it to hand.
Dry Bag (from £7.91 at Decathlon, 15% discount as a Paddle UK member)
Dry bags are perfect for packing up dry clothes, car keys, food and anything else you might need while out on the water. Coming in a range of sizes for different amounts of kit, and in different styles allowing you to store them in your kayak or on your paddleboard. And any paddler can attest, you can’t have enough dry bags for an adventure!
Electric Paddleboard Pump (from £44 at Decathlon, 15% discount as a Paddle UK member)
Pumping up your paddleboard or inflatable kayak can be quite a work out before you’ve even hit the water. So why not save energy, and time, with an electric pump. Simply plug it into your car (or some are battery powered), set the PSI and click go! By the time you’re changed and packed up, your paddleboard is ready to go.
Paddling Thermals (from £6.99 at Decathlon, 15% discount as a Paddle UK member)
Layering up is essential at all times of the year, and having extra dry layers is ideal. From nice thick thermals to thinner short sleeve ones, it is a bit of kit used all year round.
Changing Towel (from £4.99 at Decathlon, 15% discount as a Paddle UK member)
Lakes, rivers, and canals don’t always have cosy changing rooms next to them. So it is always nice to have a warm changing towel to climb into and get changed. From a very basic poncho style to heavy duty coat style, you can get them in all shapes and sizes. These are an amazing bit of kit that makes changing a lot nicer.
Woolly Hat
When paddling on a canal or lake, anywhere you don’t need a helmet on, a woolly hat is a great accessory. You don’t want to wear your best hat on the water, so having a paddling hat is great. They keep a little water off your head, keeps the heat in, and makes you look stylish.
Extras
BioMate Cleaning Kit (£17.99 from MudMate, 15% discount as a Paddle UK member)
Keeping our waterways clean and clear of invasive wildlife and plant life is really important. The BioMate kit allows paddler to quickly clean and dry their crafts as they move from location to location. The star of the kit is the brush that fits onto a bottle of water, allowing you to effectively clean on the go.
RNLI Paddleboarding Santa Tree Decoration (£10 from RNLI)
The word on the street is that Santa Claus has ditched his reindeer for a more sedate form of transportation! Get into the Christmas spirit while looking forward to fun days out on the water with this adorable paddleboarding Santa decoration. He’s ready to hang up on your tree, or just pop him on your mantelpiece for some festive cheer.
Massage Gun (from £49.99 at Decathlon, 15% discount as a Paddle UK member)
After a long day’s paddling your muscles can start to ache. Being able to give yourself an effective massage can really speed up recovery, and get you out on the water sooner. A massage gun is like a portable masseuse, ready to ease the ache and get you ready for your next paddle.
Paddling Books (from £4.99 on Amazon)
Paddling doesn’t have to stop when you get off the water. With books to filled with stories of adventure and new places to paddle, you can keep the excitement going at home, wrapped up warm, with a hot chocolate.
Combination Key Lock Box (£34.99 at Decathlon, 15% discount as a Paddle UK member)
Reduce the risk of losing your keys while paddling with a key lock box. Lock the box onto your car and lock your key inside ready for when you finish your paddle. This also makes it super easy when lift sharing as they key is ready for anyone you want to have access to it.

Roof Rack Pads (from £13 at Decathlon, 15% discount as a Paddle UK member)
Protecting your craft while it’s attached to the roof with some pads. A layer of foam padding inside a weatherproof fabric that attaches to the roof rack. A simple thing that can help avoid expensive damage and the disappointment of missing a paddle while repairing.
Rechargeable Handwarmer (from £29.99 at Decathlon)
When you get off the water it’s nice to warm them hands up. A rechargeable handwarmer is the perfect thing to slip into your pockets and keep a hold of. Providing up to 10 hours of heat, these will warm you all the way through. Please note the Decathlon membership discount code is not applicable for this item.
Subscriptions
OS Maps Premium (£34.99 per year at OS Maps, 30% discount as a Paddle UK Member)
Browse routes and map your own on the OS maps app with a premium subscription. You can also download the route for times where signal is low. Great for planning paddling as well as walks and bike rides.
Paddle UK Membership (from £29 at Paddle UK)
By gifting a Paddle UK membership you are giving someone access to over 4500km of waterways, comprehensive insurance, access and environmental support, and much more. A must have for all paddlers, this Paddle UK allows paddlers to find more paddling and go out there safely.
Paddler and SUP Mag (from £29.99 annually from Paddler, 20% discount as a Paddle UK Member)
Keep up to date with regular editions of the Paddler and SUP mag. Containing interviews, adventures, news, and great reading on the paddling you love. Being subscribed means you won’t miss a single edition.