AS Watersports. Canoe and Kayak specialists, Exeter, Devon.

Pots Rodeo and Boater Exe up date.

2012-01-28T14:15:00.000Z

Its all looking very good for next weekends Exeter Uni canoe Club event at Flower Pots- Mill on the Exe.

Mill on the Exe are putting on a Beer and Burger deal and will have drinks promos on the night. Don't worry as this year they have bought extra Hot Chocolate in to cope with demand.

Yak Adventure equipment will have a selection of drysuits for paddlers to test. Try out their new Titan suit along with some more of the range. You may have to have your photo taken though!
There will be discounts available on the suit on the day and also vouchers for discount after the event.

Win a Titan drysuit on the upcoming Facebook competition. Keep your eyes on this page: Yak Adventure Equipment.

Booming Sounds to keep you amped up and ready to rumble provided by Sound Events

This years event is raising money for the Devon Air Ambulance. A very usefull serivce for paddlers who need help in remote locations. It is also a very expensive to run service and is funded by donations. Please dig deep and fill the collection buckets on site.
You can find out more about the Devon Air Ambulance Trust here: www.daat.org

Pots Rodeo Saturday 4th Feb. Mill on the Exe www.potsrodeo.co.uk

Another happy customer.

2012-01-10T17:02:00.000Z

Just before Christmas we sent another shiny kayak on its way to the water. This one was a beauty as well.

The pictures don't do it justice as this P+H Cetus HV was stunning. The blue and black worked really well and the finish was impeccable. With a glass and Diolen layup this Cetus was a great weight and nicely durable. It even had a foam stiffener laid into the hull inside the boat. Which you can see inside the cockpit as a white strip.

Factory fitted with a towing cleat and bullseye ready for towing and rescues. We then fitted a Silva 70p compass for further sea worthiness.

Custom graphics finally set this Cetus HV off a treat. All ready for its soon to be very happy owner!

Stunning and shiney black and blue. The black is not always advised for sea boats as it does show the scratches, this one was fitted with a keel strip to help keep it in good nick, the keelstrip was coloured to hull to keep it all looking smooth.

Left hand side skeg slider controls. A skeg is still the most popular option on sea kayaks instead of rudders.

Colin, super pleased with his new P+H Cetus HV. What a great match to his van! Colin used the P+H kayak customiser tool on the website to check out his dream boat. http://www.phseakayaks.com/

Order a P+H Cetus online today: P+H Cetus

Gear Trippin'!

2012-01-10T16:32:00.000Z

Trippin'! No, not psychedelics but moving your kit about. Sea to Summit are an Australian brand that have some really neat transportation solutions. Infact their canoe and kayak range is called Solution Gear.
Ewart has been testing the Gear Trip Deck bag and is loving it.

"So my trusty Nookie dry bag finally got binned. It was over 5 years old and was showing it. Thrown in the back of the van, dragged around Europe and kicked around Newbridge car park. It didn't get any love but it held up well. New kit bag time it was. The next in line was a very nice Ortlieb Rack pack. This now serves as my main kit bag. However I always have too many bits of extra kit in it. Spare thermals, socks, gloves etc.
Which is always handy to loan out if someone forgets something. The only problem was I kept chucking my wet kit back in the bag with all the spare dry stuff. I needed help". (yes, we know that Ewart).

Enter the Gear Trip from Sea to Summit. We first saw these last Autumn and thought they were good.
The idea is that you can store all your wet kit safely inside your kayak and it drains into your boat at the same time. The bag is made up of a nice ripstop nylon on the top and base with mesh sides for draining. A strong shock cord helps keep it on the cockpit rim and there is a nice big handle to pull it off and to carry it.

The gear trip fitted to a Wavesport Habitat 74 creek boat. You can see the handle at the front and the shock cord coming out the back. There is a slider on the shock cord to keep it tight around the boat.

Sea To Summit Gear Trip open

Here you can see the mesh sides to the bag that allow the drainage into your kayak.

A two way zip means you can open from either direction. There is plenty of room for every day paddling kit. Inside you can see Ewarts Palm Fuse cag in the LTD edition Harlequin colours and a Yak Descent pfd. Also inside are some Five-Ten Water Tennies, Yak Moray dry pants, Sweet Saviour thermal, Yak Toki thermal, Palm Ti soxs, Sweet Rocker helmet and a Playboat Pro team deck. Every thing Ewart needs for a day on the river. There is space for more as well. Then when you get home you can just chuck it in the bath, rinse off your kit and then carry it outside to hang up.

Over all a great kit bag. £44.95, instock and ready to rock. Click to buy here.

More Exe Big Paddle pics

2011-12-14T14:59:00.000Z

A few more pics from the Exe Big Paddle back in October. Showing yet again what a great day it was.

Signing during the prize giving

Carboard construction madness.

Ewarts dad Peter gets back on the water for the first time in 20 years.

The guided tours were popular. The Exe above Topsham is perfect for all paddlers.

Some cardboard canoes lasted better than others. The unseasonally good weather made swimming a lot of fun.

Sun, water and kayaks = massive fun! The Perception Expression and Dagger Alchemy are just perfect touring boats for this kind of water. Stable, responsive but not twitchy, fun and comfortable. Ideal for begginers or even those coming back to paddling after a long break.

St James, or Salmon Pool weir. Nice and easy in the summer levels. This weir is easily portaged if you dont want to run it (get out on the pontoon river right above the weir and put back in using the steps below. Just out of shot to the left).

This is all part of the Exeter canoe loops routes. Download the Exeter Canoe Loops map.

the Rivers Source, A white water symposium

2011-12-08T14:55:00.000Z

The Rivers Source is a new event being hosted by leading white water coaching and guiding company Gene17 Kayaking in January 2012.

A.S Watersports will be hosting a repair workshop on the Saturday afternoon/evening.
During the workshop you will be able to learn how to fix your boat if you have split it. Workshop style repairs, when you have all your tools and repair materials and river bank repairs when its just what you have with you.

Get information on what to carry and how to use it.
In the second part of the workshop you can have a go at fixing your own kayak. If you haven't broken it it we will supply lots of pre-split plastic for you to try your new found welding skills.

See the info below more more details and how to book.

Always one to open new doors, Gene17 will start the New Year with a brand new event, The River’s Source, a coaching event for White Water Paddlers. This Symposium will be organised along three themes; Paddler, Club/Business & Industry and of course hosted in Devon, at the prime location of the River Dart Country Park.

We’ll invite all the leading providers, industry contributors and experts from far ranging fields. Work shops on white water kayak design, or a Q&A session about the legal position of a coach or club leader, starting a club or developing a competition/coaching programme, the list will be extensive and inviting.

We’ll offer the Symposium to day visitors and weekenders a like, see the River’s Source – a White Water Symposium for details. Symposium news along with other news from Gene17 can be found at Gene17Kayaking Facebook Group Events and our Twitter feed.

Booking info and full programme: the Rivers Source

Big "O" Film Show this weekend! Friday 2nd December

2011-11-30T10:13:00.000Z

The Gene17 Adventure Paddlers weekend at the River Dart Country Park in Ashburton Devon is always one of our faveourite kayaking events. It has grown and grown and is now probabley the biggest gathering of white water paddlers in the South west and also with exception of the Student rodeo one of the biggest in the country. Usually blessed with good water levels (not looking too bad so far this year) its a great chance to hook up with firends old and new to share ideas about trips, get information on any aspect of an expedition and have a jolly good social.

The Friday night see the the Big O Film show. Olaf Obsommer is one of europes best ww paddlers and an amazing film maker. Come and see for your self!

Friday 2nd December’s entertainment, Olaf’s Adventure Kayak Movie Show in the Ballroom at the River Dart, for 19:30 to start at 20:00, online booking, £7.50 or £8 at the door.

The BIG-O movie tour programme takes about 90 minutes. 5 films will be shown, plus Q&A sessions.

From the Big O Studios the Adventure Kayaking Show trailer in English

Here’s the programme:

Ecuador – Jungle Adventure

Olaf Obsommer is fascinated by the primeval forest with all its plants and animals since a long time. When he and his team faced the challenges of »the gorge of holy waterfalls« on Rio Upano, things started to get serious. For Obsommer one of the pinnacles of his paddling career: »Rio Upano is Ecuador’s biggest head stream of the mighty Amazon. I brought home tons of amazing footage from South America, wild animals and spectacular scenery from this trip.«

Galapagos – Big Boss on holidays

Olaf shares his trip of a lifetime to the last paradise on earth with us. Sea lions, marine turtles, albatross, iguanas and many more exotic animals will fascinate the audience.

Mexico – a real river god

On their never-ending quest for the ultimate river god Olaf and the A-list of international kayaking travelled to Mexico’s Agua Azul. Here they found amazing whitewater, committing waterfalls and indescribable landscapes. Not only the whitewater paddlers will be thrilled by this segment – also the landlubbers will feel the adventurous spirit of this trip.

California – shattered dreams

California is known as the eldorado of steep creeking action. Every ambitious kayaker dreams about a trip to the High Serrias in the »Golden State«. But sometimes the weather just pees on your parade. A severe winter with a lot of snow issued a totally new challenge to the group and the boys had to learn that not every wish comes true.

Canada – Tatshenshini River

The »Tat« is a must-do for every canoeist. Approachable only by boat this remote river flows through the Canadian territory of British Columbia and Yukon. Grizzly-Bears and white-tailed eagles line the banks, majestic glaciers cover the surrounding mountains. After the Tatshenshini joins the Alsek River this crosses the US border and flows into the Pacific Ocean. For this trip Olaf teamed up with some friends to enjoy the rough beauty of North America and to shoot footage for his latest adventure documentary. This time it was not about the extreme but about the divine natural setting.

The New Dagger Mamba 8.1, Spitting venom and ready for action

2011-11-03T13:41:00.000Z

Straight out of the oven at Dagger Europe and now lurking in a corner of the AS Watersports shop, (ready to strike at any passing whitewater paddler) its the new Dagger Mamba 8.1. The design team at Dagger took the already successful and very popular Mamba range and have refined it to make it even better than before.

Spitting venom and ready for action, the new Dagger Mamba 8.1

The new Mamba features some neat and subtle differences from the original, all aimed at making the new Mamba quicker, smoother and easier to paddle. Whether you are just starting out in whitewater paddling, or a gnarly creeker the new Mamba ought to be on your hit list.

The New Dagger Mamba 8.1, looks fantastic!

First up the size/volume. All of the new Mambas are now slightly larger than the originals, this means that they fit a wider range of paddlers, and have a bit more room for comfort too. The popular mid sized Mamba the 8.1 will fit a wide range of paddlers from 70-100kg, while the larger 8.6 now fits 80-118kg while the smaller 7.6 fits paddler upto 77kg.

New Mamba on the left, old Mamba on the right

The hull shape has had a few small tweaks as well. The rocker profile has changed, with a slight injection of extra volume in the stern, to keep the speed up and also to keep it stable when punching through holes, crossing eddy lines and boils and exiting drops.

The Extra volume, and tweaked rocker in the tail. Extra speed and stability

Also on the hull the rails have been lifted slightly, this allows better edging, more forgiveness and the rails are less likely to trip over rocks or obstructions. Yet it will still carve in and out of eddies and across the current, and it will still snap into the smallest of micro eddies.

Over view of new and old. The New Mamba on the right and the old one on the left.

The New Dagger Mamba range has something to offer everyone on the river. There are three sizes to fit a huge range of people and there are two levels of outfitting. The river spec Mamba has an easy to adjust seat, and a welded hull stiffener, that allows you to move the seat forward or back by around 10cm. As well as the standard hip pads, full plate footrest, ratchet adjustable backrest, adjustable thigh braces and grab handles. This spec is great for paddlers who are looking at getting their first river runner, or clubs and centres who want an easy to adjust boat to fit a wide range of paddlers.
Then there is the Creek spec, which comes with Daggers tough rotomoulded seat and bow stiffener. This spec is designed for the creek boaters and hardened whitewater fans. The extra strength and stiffness that the solid seat offers is a vital safety factor when you are planning to rack up the gradient.

Let Simon Westgarth tell you more about the new Mamba

New Dagger Mamba Overview - Coming Soon from James Bebbington on Vimeo.

The New Mamba is currently only available in the 8.1 size and in the adjustable spec, but fear not the boys and girls at Dagger are working feverishly to get the rest of the sizes and the full range of outfitting ready. We are expecting to see the rest of the range coming in early next year.

You can check out all the specs on our website - Dagger Mamba River and Dagger Mamba Creek

Burn vs Shiva, Pyranhas big boats go head to head.

2011-11-02T09:57:00.007Z

With the new Shiva gettting ready to roll off the production line this winter you may be undecided which boat is for you.

Heres a little more on how to choose the right boat for you.

Burn V Shiva (Rails V Round Hull)
It’s all about the paddler really, how do you paddle and how do you like your boat to respond?

The Burns hard, carving rails give a precise and controlled feel, letting you drive around the river easily and the flat hull lets you surf and ferry with style. Do you like to make every little micro eddy? Work the river and enjoy a stylish and technical run? Then the Burn is probably the one for you.

The Shiva on the other hand has a rounded hull, soft stern chines a massive rocker and loads of volume. These features give you softer landings on big drops, rear driving force when you want it, awesome boofability and resurfacing capability. If you are running big drops and pushing harder lines the Shiva is the one you want.

Shiva – Ultimate Steep Creeker

Features
Rounded Hull – Forgiving - Gives softer landings on big drops.
Smooth Stern Chines - No rails to trip you up but the chines gives driving force when you need it.
Progressive Rocker - Easy to Boof and Flair over features.
High Volume Bow & Stern – rides easily over features, resurfaces quickly.
Stern release edge - Allows really fast lines for drive. Low profile deck – Easy to roll.

RRP £949.00

Burn – Precision Creek Machine

Features
Flat Hull – Dynamic - planning surface for surfing and ferrying.
Hard Carving Rails – Precision carving capability around the river.
Aggressive Rocker – For great boofability.
Medium volume bow and stern – Punches through features.
‘V’ed deck – sheds water and resurfaces with control.
Reprofiled deck – Easy to roll.

Staff member Ewart getting to grips with some tight steep technical paddling in the Pyranha Burn.

That's what Pyranha say. We think if you are paddling in the South West either boat will be good but the Burn may just have the edge as we just don't have any big water falls but we sure have some great technical paddling.

Burns are instock in all sizes, and we are able to offer some great prices for these instock colours.

RRP £949.00 Very special offer: £799.00

Call now to see what colours we have instock

01392 219600

Dart Loop Maps

2011-11-01T14:44:00.002Z

We are now stocking some very pretty maps of the Dart "Loop" by local artisit and paddler Julie Perren.

We have this version and soon will have a version with descriptions of the major rapids.

Call now or buy online by clicking the image above

Watermark Experiences

2011-10-26T16:47:00.003+01:00

Watermark Experiences Weekend, River Dart Country Park, Ashburton, Devon.

12th-13th November 2011

Our friend Debs sent some info over about her new project with Matt Tidy.

Debs has run a few youth trips now and this looks like a great project.

Here's a bit more info. Spread the word.

Twice World Freestyle Champion Deb Pinniger and internationally renowned whitewater kayaker Matt Tidy are planning the official launch of their new Community Interest Company: Watermark Experiences, at the River Dart Country Park on the 12th-13th of November 2011.
Watermark Experiences offers an ongoing programme of unique and challenging kayak adventures for young people aged 12 to 23.

We would like to invite young kayakers, clubs, youth groups, schools and their volunteer coaches to this free event, offering a chance to meet up with the Zanskar expedition team who have recently returned from India, and to discuss Watermark Experiences adventures for 2012. There will of course be some fun on the water and a limited number of free-guided river trips.
We hope to see you there.
For more information on this launch weekend see our web site
Or e-mail

Sweet Protection specials back on.

2011-10-20T15:04:00.008+01:00

We have extended our special offers on Sweet Protection soft wear and selected helmets.
Sweet gear is designed in one of the worlds premier white water destinations, Norway and tested world wide by a high flying test team including Rush Struges and Mariann Saether.

Sweet use Gortex Pro shell and Performance shell fabrics. The Pro shell has a super tough outer with a highly breathable membrane. Designed to keep you comfortable in all conditions.

Performance shell, as used in the Shadrack is a lighter more flexible 2 layer fabric. Better for the high activity of freestyle and playboateing or just the paddler who keeps on moving.

This kit is awesome to to give it the recognition it deserves we are offering some pretty amazing prices..
Click the banner to see the awesome deals on offer.
Or call in store and talk to one of our sales staff.

Click the button to see what we've got.

Sealect Designs Anchor trolley kit

2011-10-20T11:10:00.003+01:00

Sealect Designs have a new Anchor trolley kit coming out this winter. With the trolly being such an important part of anchoring it helps to have a good one.
When Ryan from Sealect showed it to us at the Kanumesse show in Germany we knew it would be a great addition to our Kayak fishing accesories range.

The kit has very thing you need to fit it and it all comes in a nice resealable box which is usefull for outfitting bits and bobs, spare parts or even putting tackle in.
Pre order online now for early December delivery.

Order here: Sealect Designs Anchor trolley kit at A.S Watersports

Putting the boot in, with the new Liquidlogic Stomper

2011-10-18T11:48:00.003+01:00

We've just been lucky enough to get our hands on the new Liquidlogic Stomper 80, so we thought we'd give you a quick run down on this great new kayak.

Many peoples first thoughts are, "It looks just like a Jefe, whats the difference?". Yes, at first glance you'd be hard pushed to spot any difference, but if you look again a few subtle changes will start to emerge.

Starting with some of the small differences, on the inside it still sports the fantastic and comfortable 'Bad-ass' outfitting, but it has been tweaked. It is possible now to flip the whole backband up and out of the way, allowing easy access to the rear of your kayak, great for getting your gear in and out, whether its your lunch, rescue gear or overnight expedition kit!

Comfy 'bad-ass' outfitting

The new flip over backband

Easy access to the back of the Stomper

Another small change that you might not spot straight away is the rear deck. The sides of the Stomper are softer and more rounded than the Jefe. Meaning water is less likely to load up on the rear deck, making it easier to paddle in boily, confused water.

Softer rear deck profile

But the biggest difference by far is the hull. The Stomper features a Semi-planning hull, with a flat central section, and softer higher rails. The Rocker profile has had some changes too. This makes the Stomper faster, and easier to turn in all situations. Combined with a more rounded sidewall this makes the Stomper easy to edge, and stable on edge too.

Semi-planning hull, with softer higher rails

So, if you are looking for a new creek boat, or just looking for your first river runner the Stomper is the boat for you. Stable, fast, easy turning, great boofing, comfortable, tough and with 5 attachment points.

The Stomper is available in two sizes the 80 and the 90.

The 80 is suitable for paddler 50-95kg and the 90 is suitable for paddlers 77-122kg.

Check out the Stomper in our webshop

New stuff!

2011-10-10T16:46:00.004+01:00

We just cant get enough of new stuff!

Good job too as we have loads of it in the shop. A.S Staff had a quick road trip to Germany at the end of September to the Kanumesse trade show. This is the biggest paddles sports show around and is just mind boggling with the amount of stuff on show.
It was hard to keep our grubby mitts off it.

Check out our little gallery here: Kanumess part 1

Lots of the stuff on show is making its way to the shop or has already landed.

Coming soon: Liquid Logic Stomper, two sizes of the new flat bottomed creeker from LL.

New Dagger Mamber, 3 sizes in all. The medium will be first. This is due in a couple of weeks.
Prijon Pure, Big boy boat from Germany. Ewart has taken on the midium size the thrash around Dartmoor this winter. More on this when the rain comes and his busted collar bone are a bit more fixed. Doh!

New paddle variations form Werner due in a few weeks. Gone are the glass shaft Werner bent shafts. IN come the Carbon bent shafts with Glass blades. This will give stiffer shafts along with the durability of glass blades. All for just £10.00 more.

Most of the Palm kit is now here but there ar e a few bits still on the way. Unfortunately the Harlequin Extrem pfd seen at the show will not be for sale due to an increadable high price tag (over £500!).
However the lime greeen Amp is on its way!........

More soon...

Teignmouth canoe club sea kayak demo evening.

2011-10-10T16:33:00.002+01:00

A month or so ago we went down to Teignmouth with some sea boats for the club to have a go in.

There are some nice pictures in our gallery here: Teignmouth Canoe club demo evening

And a video from one of the members. Minus points for having so much of Ewart in it.!

Demo evening

South West Canoe Show 2011. WOW!

2011-10-10T15:35:00.006+01:00

Its been a while since our last blog and lots has happend.

The South West Canoe Show consumed our time some what. However, it was a fabulous day made even more amazing by the weather we had. Possibly one of the best days of the year?

There were a good numbers of visitors who all appeared to be having a great time checking out the latest and greatest in new paddling gear, boats and paddles. There are lots of photos up now in various places so we have tried to compile them here. If you have any we would love to see them!

Rather than fill the log with pics you can just follow the links. Here is one that for us sums up the whole weekend. Sun and fun with boats. The little lad in the picture had just won the junior race and is high fiving his sister!

SWCS On Facebook (no need to login)

Ewarts mobile pics

The Exe Big Paddle was a great success. The general idea was to have a very large social paddle down the Exe and back up the canal. Easay going but with plenty of local interest and with history and nature guided tours to pass on the info. There was lots of newcomers taking the chance to have a free taster session run by the guys and girls at Globe 360.

But the real highlight was the Cardboard canoe race in the late afternoon.

See the photos here: The Exe Big Paddle (as pics)
Palm Blog: http://thebigpaddle.com/index.php/thank-you-all/

Many thanks to every one who gave up their time to make this event happen. Exeter Canoe Club, the volenteers from South Devon Collage, Andy Davey @ the BCU, Ben Heddon @ Haven Banks, Palm Equipment, Canoe England, the Wild Life Trust and all the guides and safety staff.

More blogs on the way!

Winners! Canoe and Kayak UK awards 2011

2011-08-15T16:13:00.005+01:00

Oh Yes! Canoe and Kayak UK mag has recently published its awards for 2011.

The awards are the result of lots of debate, testing and votes from readers and online users.

We are very pleased to announce that we have been awarded "Retailer of the year" for 2011.

Thank you to any one who voted for us.

Along with awards for centres, coaches, facilities and paddlers there were the all important product of the year awards. Fortunately for us we stock most of them and here they are:

Open canoe of the year: Venture Prospector 16

Kids kayak of the year: Pyranha Rebel

Recreational kayak of the year: Islander Calypso sport

Most innovative product of the year: Palm Extrem PFD

Gear of the Year, Hardwear: Werner Stikine paddles

White water kayak of the year: Dagger Axiom

Freestyle kayak of the year: Wavesport Project X

Composite sea kayak of the year: Valley Etain

Plastic sea kayak of the year: P+H Delphin

Touring kayak of the year: Perception Expression

We have to say we agree with pretty much all of these. The Perception Expression has been a great boat this summer. Perception also had some other highly commended product too. Here's what they had to say on their website:

Canoe & Kayak UK Magazine Kayak Awards 2011
Aug 09, 2011
CKUK Kayak Awards 2011
Perception Kayaks are excited to share that not just one, but three models from our range have recently won awards from CKUK's 2011 Kayak Awards. The popular UK Canoe & Kayak magazine announced the results last week. The Perception Expression won 1st place as the 'Best Touring Kayak of the Year', while our kids touring kayak and new tandem tourer were both 'Highly Commended'.
Perception Expression - Touring Kayak of the Year

Launched back at the end of 2010, the Perception Expression range is already proving to be at the top of its market. Available in two sizes the Expression is ideal for the adventure-seeker who wants the best of both touring and sea kayaks: a fun, manoeuvrable day-kayak that remains stable and predictable when loaded down with gear. We're really thrilled that CKUK see the wide appeal and performance the Expression range has and thank them for ranking it as 'The Best Touring Kayak of the Year'. To find out more go to the Expression product page.
Perception Prodigy II 14.5 - Highly Commended Recreational Kayak

New to the Perception line-up at Easter, the Prodigy II 14.5 tandem is already making a name for itself as a recreational tandem with unmatched comfort and a high level of outfitting and detail. Its rocker profile focuses on speed, tracking and minimised noise when paddling through flat water and light currents. Whether paddling solo or tandem, with pets, kids or adults, this kayak can be configured perfectly for any outing. As the only tandem kayak to get a mention in CKUK's Kayak Awards, the Prodigy II 14.5 is set to lead the way in recreational kayaks. To find out more go to the Prodigy II product page.
Perception Carolina 12xs - Highly Commended Kids Kayak

With few child specific kayaks out there to choose from, our kids Carolina 12xs has been highly commended by CKUK for being designed for touring rather than white water. Offering directional stability, speed and the ability to keep up with others and set a good pace on river trips!

You can see all of these products and more at the South West Canoe Show Sat 1st Oct 2011. Outside the shop on the Piazza.

www.swcanoeshow.co.uk

New server switch happening today.

2011-07-28T15:10:00.004+01:00

Our sever switch is happening today! Unfortunately the webshop will be down for the day. Please bare with us while we make the changes. This will give you a much better running site. If you come across any discrepencies please let us know. There may even be a reward in it for you!

Thanks,
The team.

The Exe Big Paddle Sunday 2nd Oct

2011-07-21T14:05:00.002+01:00

Come and join us for a celebration of paddling on the River Exe. Choose from different guide tours including Nature and History, general guided tours and a 5 mile charity paddle.
There will also be a Cardboard Canoe race! Get designing now but materials will be available on the day. Just cardboard and tape, no cheating. Prizes to be won!

More detailas as they happen here: www.thebigpaddle.com

The South West Canoe Show 2011

2011-07-21T13:53:00.003+01:00

Its back! This years show takes place on the 1st of October. Get set to see the best that paddling has to offer. Boats, paddles, kit, talks, presentations, deals, info, advice, demos and more.
Take a look at the show website: www.swcanoeshow.co.uk or the facebook page: South West Canoe Show

or email info@swcanoeshow.co.uk

Off our trolleys! Sea to Summit

2011-07-19T16:46:00.005+01:00

We have taken on the new kayak and canoe trolleys from Sea to Summit. You may know this Aussie brand for the light weight travel accesories they do. These trolleys are light, strong and really well made. In fact we think they are much better quality than some of their competitors.

Sea to Summit Kayak trolley. Like the Eckla version but with much bigger wheels for easy transit. The strap helps keep boats steady whilst on the move.
Nice anodized orange aluminium finish to set it apart from the others RRP £64.95
Buy here: Kayak Trolley

Sea to Summit Canoe trolley. Much the same as the kayak trolley but on a bigger scale. A nice wide base to give support on a large area of hull for a secure fit. The wide wheel base also keeps things on track over the rough ground.
RRP £79.95
Buy Here: Canoe Trolley

The best of the bunch! This sit on top kayak trolley is great! The rubber coverd prongs fit nice and firmly through the scupper stopper holes in your sit on top. The strap helps keep the boat from bouncing off over rough ground. Reducing the risk of puncturing your boat. The quick release clamp for setting the width to fit the scupper holes is smooth and secure. Green anodized aluminium finishes off this awesome trolley. Ewarts fave new bit of kit in the shop.

RRP £69.95
Buy here: Sit on top trolley

Devon Air Ambulance sea swim 18th Sept 2011

2011-07-18T14:32:00.003+01:00

We like to support the Air Ambulance here at the shop. Its one of the the three charitys we support. When it comes to paddling these guys are one of the serivces we may need.
The organisers could dop with some safety kayakers as well.
Check out the details below.

You don’t have to be a swimmer to get involved in the BBC Radio Devon Appeal one mile sea swim!The annual BBC Radio Devon Appeal sponsored swim is taking place on Sunday 18th September 2011. This unique event, now in its second year offers a great opportunity for serious and fun swimmers alike to raise money for the Devon Air Ambulance Trust (DAAT).If you are not lining up on the start line but you want to be part of the event, then why not volunteer as member of the sea safety support crew. To ensure the safety of our entrants as they enjoy a fun and leisurely swim, we are looking for volunteers to provide sea safety from kayaks, canoes and boats. Power boat volunteers must be certified at level two power boat whilst kayak and canoe volunteers should be BCU 2 star or above with some sea experience. DAAT’s Fundraising Director Caroline Creer said: “We would like as many people as possible to provide volunteer support at the swim and make it as safe as possible for those rasing money for the charity which is a vital asset to the region”.
After completing the sponsored swim, entrants and volunteers will be able to enjoy the beautiful location, entertainment and the revel in the satisfaction of knowing they have raised money for a great cause. Last years 152 swimmers raised in excess of £10,000 which has made a huge contribution to the BBC Radio Devon Air Ambulance Appeal. The aim of the Air Ambulance appeal is to not only to raise the profile of the charity and the life saving work they do in the region, but also to encourage and engage the Devon community to help raise in the region of £600,000 in order to facilitate the ordering of a new helicopter. By owning rather than leasing a helicopter, the DAAT charity saves in excess of over £10,000 every single month!Details on how to volunteer and sea swim entry forms are available from any of the DAAT charity shops, by calling them on 01392 466666 or visiting our website at http://www.daat.org/asa-agatha-christie-sea-swim-18th-september-2011/. Entry is only £20 plus a minimum of £30 sponsorship with all proceeds going directly to the BBC Radio Devon Air Ambulance Appeal.

Tarpon Tastic!

2011-07-11T13:47:00.005+01:00

Tarpons are awesome. Wilderness Systems T100 above in a secret South Devon location, photo by our resident salty specialist Jemma.

This stunning shot of a T120, all set up for fishing was taken at Durdle Door in Dorset by one of our facebook fans, Nick Clarke.

Get "liking" and post your summer fun pictures.

Italy Video

2011-07-11T13:13:00.002+01:00

A Little video that has a few clips of Ewart from his spring trip to Italy and France.
Thanks to Kate Howell for the film.

http://vimeo.com/26147453

Kates World Kayak Blog:
http://worldkayakblogs.com/welshkate/

Exeter Canoe Loops map download

2011-07-05T12:20:00.005+01:00

Did you know? The Exeter Ship Canal was the first canal to be built in England since the Roman times. It is also a fantastic paddle with lots to see (and eat and drink!). Some of the loops go through internationally recognised areas for wildlife.

The River Exe and Exeter Ship Canal Canoe Loops leaflet is now available for download.

The map shows the 4 available loops and how to do combos of all of them.

It shows get in and get out areas, points of interest and more.

Download it and get paddling!

Canoe Loops

Visit the Canoe England site to see the rest of the canoe trails around the country. These are bing added to all the time and it is starting ot be come a geat resource.

Canoe england here: http://www.canoe-england.org.uk/our-sport/where-to-paddle/canoe-trails/

Fish finders, rod holders and more!

2011-06-21T11:36:00.005+01:00

Here at AS watersports our range of Kayak Fishing accessories just keeps on growing! We've now got a vast range of Rod holders from Scotty and Ram Mount, Fish finders from Hummin Bird, parts and spares from Sealect designs, Scanstrut and Plastimo, anchoring systems, drogues and more.

And as if that lot wasn't enough we also offer a complete Fishing kayak outfitting service, whether its just to fit some flush mount rod holders, or to add a complete fish finder why not call the shop to see what we can do for you.

And of course on top of that we stock a huge range of boats and gear Ocean kayak, Wilderness systems, Perception, Dagger, Pyranha, Werner, Palm, Yak and many many more

Scotty and Ram Mount rod holder, offer a rod holder for everyone.

Drogues, anchors parts and complete anchor systems

Fish finders from Hummin Bird

Sealect Design parts, cleats, pulleys, rivets, grab handles, clips and much more

Deck seals for electronics

So why not click through to our extensive online shop to take a look around, check out our outfitting service, or call the shop to talk to out friendly and experienced staff.

Canoe Trails

2011-06-20T12:10:00.002+01:00

This has come in from the BCU. Get out paddling and help others with info on where to go.

Canoe Trails

There is something quite magical about being out on the water in your canoe ... whether you are on flat water, white water, lake or the sea canoeing the pleasures and fun are never ending.

Canoe England are building a directory of places to paddle so we are asking for your help; the paddle could be a short stretch of easy water or something more challenging.

The idea is to keep the information as simple and easy to understand as possible while giving enough information for someone who does not know the area to be able to easily find and paddle the Canoe Trail.

If you have a favourite bit of water which you would like to share with others then please consider writing a Canoe Trail, we have produced a simple template for your to follow or you can just write your own, template here and example trail here, plus there are trails and further information available Canoe England Web Site.

Euro Fluro!

2011-06-02T16:16:00.004+01:00

Euro Fluro colours are the way to go this summer!

Ewart has just returned from a quick trip to Italy and France chasing the spring snow melt.

He is seen here sporting the new limited edition Palm Harlequin cag, the Playboater Pro team deck and shiney Sweet Rocker all in some sizzling shades!

A better up date from his and Liams ( also away in euroland) trip very soon!

Kernow surf part 2

2011-04-29T14:19:00.002+01:00

A bit of a long way away, competitors sit it out waiting for a set. Still not a bad day for being on the water.

The only women in the comp, come on girls, its lots of fun. Keep an eye out for the next event.

The winners, organisers and judges.

No boats in the comp but the Vally flag flew high all day and was a great wind marker.

Kernow Student surf contest

2011-04-29T13:50:00.003+01:00

The Kernow Student surf kayak contest happened on Wednesday in nice 2-3ft surf with northerly cross shore winds. These were great conditions for this event as it allowed all paddlers a chance to get some waves. There were a few students who had never surf kayaked before so that really helped with the confidence. Here are some pictures from the day in no particular order. Above is 2nd place? paddler and English team member Phil Watson.

Judging area. The contest site at Gwithian near Hayle is perfect. You can see the action really easily from the cliff and it has all the facilities you need, like a great cafe (Sunset surf) toilets and parking.

Godrevy light house in the distance. The waves always looked a bit better at Godrevy but it didn't matter. Every one had a great time with a nice fun vibe to the day.

The Vally demo boats went out and were enjoyed lots. We aim to support more surf kayak events in the future, Our main man in Kernow, Denzil has a comp later in the year (Sept time) and North Devon shredder Steve Chivers is also hosting the British champs (I think) which we aim to be with the Valley Range. Demos will be available at these events so pop along with your kit and try one out!

A tough day at the office for Ewart!

A big thanks to Tim Elks and Steve Bowens from Falmouth Marine School for letting us get involved.

Part 2 pics on the way.

Palm 2011 kit hits the shelves!

2011-04-20T15:20:00.003+01:00

Oh yes!

2011 Palm Aqua cag for ladies in aqua/jet grey/mist

The long awaited 2011 Palm cag collection is now starting to hit the shelves. We have had our first batch of Mens Atom and Flow cags and the ladies Aqua cag.

2011 Palm Mens Flow cag saffron/jet grey/ mist

2011 Palm mens Atom cag Red/jet grey/ mist

You can buy them on-line here: http://aswatersportsequipment.co.uk/index.php?cPath=36_58

Coaching Diary - Taster Session and Guided Exe Day Trip.

2011-04-10T19:46:00.009+01:00

This Saturday plenty of people joined us on the water for one of our Free 2 Hour Taster sessions...

A fun 2 hours in the Sun but more importantly the perfect chance for you to sample kayaking with a qualified instructor and try a range of boats.

Book your taster session now

01392 219 600

On Sunday we were incredibly lucky with the weather. I had 1 : 2 guided trip on the Exe Estuary, Jane and Bev were soon comfortable and stable in their touring boats, we re-capped on a few skills then we took the high tide down onto the Estuary.

We spent the day learning skills in the sun before a packed lunch in Topsham then heading back to Exeter.

This area is packed with wildlife, we spotted Buzzards, Kingfishers, Egrets, Herons, Grayling or Mullet (I think).

This is a great day! If your interested in kayak touring then book on to our guided day trip for your first taste.

tuition@aswatersports.co.uk

Coaching Diary - One to One Introduction to Kayaking

2011-04-08T12:38:00.005+01:00

A pleasant morning delivering a One to One class.

This gentleman hadn't paddled in thirty years and within two hours he was really getting to grips with the Pyranha Fusion
.

A keen learner he also successfully had a go at a capsize and a capsize with a spraydeck!

The Swans have also begun to nest on the canal, kayaking gives you a great view of wildife on the canal.

Also managed to spot a Mink last week, not everyones favourite animal!

Book a Two Hour One to One class now for £40

01392 219 600

Coaching Diary - Moderate Water Endorsment - North Wales.

2011-04-06T15:06:00.010+01:00

This Weekend our inhouse instructor Liam Kirkham succesfuly took his Moderate Water Assesment with Stuart Woodward of Canoe Control.

This new award from the BCU allows A.S Watersports "On the water" coach Liam Kirkham to coach on grade 2/3 Whitewater ( his perfect playground) aswell as assessing BCU 3*.

" I spend alot of time coaching, So it's really refreshing to be coached myself, espescially by someone with such experience as Stuart Woodward,

Some pictures from the couple of days.

Sit on top kayak hire on the River Dart

2011-04-04T13:19:00.003+01:00

Stoke Gabriel Kayak Academy and canoe hire is the new venture from Tom Morris formally of Totnes Kayaks in Totnes. We have supplied a brand new fleet of Islander Calypso sit on tops, Wilderness Systems T130 double sit on top kayaks with Palm Quest pfd's and paddles. The Calypso is a brand new model from Islander, made with love at Dagger Europe's factory in Clevedon, N. Somerset. A very stable and easy paddling sit on top which is perfect for the River Dart estuary hire location. In the back ground you can see the Mill pond and jetty of the small harbor which is a lovely place to start your paddle. With a few hours to spare you can visit the Sharpham estate with its vine yards and cafe where they serve cream teas and the Sharpham Brie cheese. Bow creek is just across the river and has a great pub and the village of Dittisham is just a short way down stream. A full day will get you to Totnes or Dartmouth depending on the tides.

Summer evenings will bring on the BBq supplied by the River shack, sounds good to us.

For all the information on prices and booking along with all the local info on where to go and what to do check the website. Hire is available now!

http://www.totneskayaks.co.uk/index.html

or email Tom: mail@totneskayaks.co.uk

Student surf kayak contest

2011-04-01T09:54:00.002+01:00

Kernow Student surfk kayak contest 27th April 2011

Coming up towards the end of the month there is the Kernow Student surf kayak contest at Gwithian beach near Hayle in Cornwall.

Organised by Falmouth Marine School the contest is open to any collage or university student over the age of 16.

A.S Watersports are supporting the event and will be taking our demo fleet of Valley Surf Kayaks. We will have with us the plastic Storm, Glass Rip and glass/carbon Rush 7.2. We will also be supplying some prizes.

Demos will be free on the day and we should have a couple of extra boats from Valley available as well.

Even if you havent competed before or have never used a surf kayak its still worth entering. It will be lots of fun.

For all the latest information go to the blog page:

http://kernowsurfkayakcontest.blogspot.com/

Tootega Pulse 85 now in stock.

2011-03-05T14:02:00.005Z

Tootega have delivered the new Pulse 85 sit on top kayak. We have been looking forward to this new sit on top and are pleased with the results.

The Pulse is set to become a favourite with juniors and smaller paddlers looking for some good surf and beach fun.

The designer behind the boat has a history with surf kayak design and we can see the influence.

A nice up-swept bow with plenty of rocker to stop the nose digging in when taking off on a wave.

A deep seating area that can be paddled with or with out a back rest and deep foot holds to provide some thing to brace on when paddling.

Each Pulse comes with a screw hatch and drinks bottle as standard and strong d-rings to attach the back rest and optional thigh straps which improve control when surfing. Reccessed side carrying handles and moulded bow and stern handles will make it easy for juniors and adults to carry. A paddle park placed near the stern is great for keeping hold of your paddle when getting back on if you have a capsize. (in our recent test paddle it was easy for a man of about 16 stone to climb back on).

The flat hull will excell in the surf with the centre keel line maintaining tracking for normall paddling. The side cut stingers in the hull enchance the drive to give more speed on the wave.

The Tootega Pulse 85 is light and small. Retailing at £339.00 it is good value for this British designed and made sit on top kayak. Come and demo one today.

Colours available:
Glacier (blue/white pictured), Storm (grey), Firebrick (red), Aurora (green/white), Sunburst (yellow/orange).

You can purchase online here: Tootega Pulse 85 sit on top kayak.

Valley Etain - our first look

2011-03-04T11:27:00.004Z

We got our first glimpse of the new Valley Etain sea kayak this morning. The Etain is bit of a change from the norm for Valley sea kayaks, they have gone from a 'Fish form' hull with the wide point in front of the paddler to a 'Swede form' hull with the wide point behind the paddler. As well as this the Etain hull also has a very strong 'V' all the way through.

The Etain has a little less rocker than previous models too, this combined with reasonable volume and the 'V' shaped hull make the Etain a quick and easy to paddle all rounder. Capable of load carrying, but not necessarily just an expedition boat, the Etain would also be a great day kayak too.

The Etain also features an interesting new removable front day hatch. The storage pod is easily removed, meaning its easy to take with you with any valuables inside. But it fits neatly and securely when you are out paddling.

New storage pod in and out

The Valley Etain will be available in both Composite and Rotomoulded versions. The Composite version will be available in Glass/Diolen and Carbon/Kevlar versions with all the usual Valley Sea Kayak composite custom options, like keel strip, towing system, pumps, custom bulkheads and many more!

The 'V' shaped hull

The Etain still has classic Valley Sea Kayak styling

The Cockpit has also had a slight re-design, with a different cockpit rim and thighbrace. The New cockpit rim has been designed to give a better seal with spraydecks, by ensuring that the rim is more even without any big gaps above the tight brace like previous versions. Also note the new security point behind the cockpit, designed for securely locking your boat when not in use.

Check out the Valley Etain here in our webshop.

We will have a demo model available soon, contact the shop for further details.

High water head cam on the Upper Dart.

2011-02-18T16:36:00.005Z

South West teenagers Jamie and Torsten fire up the Upper Dart at some pretty big water levels. This is some great head cam footage of the South West favourite white water run. Thanks to Jamie for letting us post this. Enjoy.

High Water Upper Dart from Jamie Conn on

Exeter Canoe Club's Scottish White Water Adventure.

2011-02-15T13:51:00.015Z

Exeter Canoe Club have just returned from a weeks whitewater action in Scotland.

AS Watersport's in house instructor Liam Kirkham and Escape to Adventure's Andy Holt guided them through a collection of some of the Scottish Classics.

Some shots from the week.

The Team after a snowy walk in to the River Pattack.

Liam using the Typhoon Multisport Drysuit to use retrieving a paddle on The Lower Roy.

Jane Evans styling tripple drop in The Big Dog Force 7.7

Liam Planting the blade

Neville on The Etive

Bob Noakes on The Pattack Gorge

Liam Kirkham, Andrew Holt, Bob Noakes, Jane Evans, Nigel Hill, Peter Doxey,

A fantastic week, many thanks to everyone.

New gene17kayaking website

2011-02-01T20:26:00.004Z

Already lots of us, and we cant blame our selves, are thinking about spring and summer paddling missions. Half the shop have already booked ferrys (Liam and Ewart) to get out in the spring, chasing the snow melt in the European granite steeps of Italy and Switzerland.
They have been before and know the drill (kind of).
How ever, if you haven't (and there's no excuse) but really want to push your paddling, enjoy some other rivers, explore new cultures and make new friends but are just not sure where to start we have two top recommendations for you.

For the famous granite bedrock (hmm just like Devon?) of Piedmont and Ticino in Italy and Switzerland it has to be Gene17. Headed up by Simon Westgarth, the Gene17 gang really are the best people we can think of for a trip to Italy.
The brand new website is up www.gene17kayaking.com with all the details and they are even hosting a river festival at the end of May this year (May is the best time to visit northern Italy).

Check out a little more about Simon and his team here: Devon boys (Simon and Nick), International guys (Jakub and Ollie) and World champion women (Deb). All ably assisted by some other great instructors and expedition paddlers Matt and Leo.

A little later in the year and with a bit more variety for those who don't like it so steep the perfect destination is the Southern French Alps. This is a classic destination for UK paddlers who have visited since at least the 70s.

There is so much to do, from bouncy grade 2-3 wave train runs to tight gorges, big volume and steep drops. Of course wine and cheese still play a big part of apre paddle activities.
Its so easy to get to and the man with all the info you could need is Stuart Woodward of Canoe Control. Stuart has been running rivers around the world for over 25 years and his Alpine kayak school for over 15.
With a new campsite near some of the most famous runs in Europe you cant go wrong with input from Canoe Control. Take some tuition, the family or a gang of mates. It is all fun in the sun.

We cant wait!

Birthday Paddle on Dartmoor

2011-01-25T15:04:00.012Z

Though he looks the wrong side of thirty Liam turned 25 last week.

Too celebrate his quarter of a century Ewart, Jim and Liam hit the Dart Loop for dawn raid.

Ewart then had to leave us (someone had to work). Leaving Jim and Liam to have a couple runs of the Upper. The Moor was bathed in Winter Sunlight which allowed Jim and Simon (G17 kayaking) to get some classic Dartmoor Shots.

Liam and Jim on a early start
Simon Westgarth on Euthanasia

Low level fun

Kate Edhouse

Mark Allen, Liam And Jim

Photo: Gene17

Jack Butcher smooth as a button

Photo: Gene 17

2011

2011-01-20T16:50:00.003Z

Hi All,

2011 is set to be another great year for paddle sports in the UK and beyond.

Lots of our highly skilled paddle sports athletes are training for the 2012 Olympics in Slalom, Marathon, and Rafting. The new Olympic White water course, Lee Valley will open its pumps to the public in April offering the thrills and spills of white water to lots more people who are unable to travel to the wilds of the UK.

Recreational paddling is set to continue growing as more people discover that canoeing and kayaking is one of the most fun things to do with water. Its for every one!

Day trips on the canal, fun sessions mucking about in the waves, crusing the estuary, or just floating on a lake, its all great fun so get involved. This year why not try at least one day doing another varity of paddling from your norm, you just might enjoy it.

Here at A.S Watersports we will be continuing to run our FREE 2 hr taster sessions through out the year, our next one is the 12th of Feb.

These sessions provide a great opportunity to come and try paddling if you have never done so.

A.S "on the water" went from strength to strength last year with our in house coach Liam introducing lots pof people to paddling and giving others much wanted skills and confidence to take their own paddling and them further.

Check out our course pages for all the latest: A.S "on the water"

Looking further down the line, the best paddle sports show in the SW returns in October.

The South West Canoe Show is the largest show this side of London. Held at the beggining of October to coinced with the white water season this show displays all the best in paddle sports. The UK'S biggest and best manufacturers and suppliers bring all the new shiny stuff for you to see and try. Free deoms are a great part of the show along with adventure travel and paddling talks, presentations and films. Practical work shops and on water displays are also great to see and take part in.

As always the show if free to enter, so arrive early and grab a show bargin while you can!

Canoe show mini site: www.swcanoeshow.co.uk Sat 1st Oct 2011 Exeter Quay

The paddling world is never one to sit still and there is lots of new kit on the way. Palm Equipment will be dropping their all new range in the spring, this collection of cags, pfds and accesories looks amazing and knocks the socks of a lot of product on the market.....

Check it out here: Palm Equipment Work book 2011

Sweet Protection always have kit to salivate over and the new collection coming in early spring is no different. Expect bright Euro styling with the well known Sweet quality. New cags, helmets and soft gear..... Very exciting. 2011 Sweet Protection Helmets 2011 Sweet paddling gear

Tootega are a new sit on top kayak company from the UK. These guys have lots of previous experience in sit on top and boat design with some nice touches on the new boats. The boats we will be stocking are aimed towards the fun end of the market with fishing and beach action in mind. The new Tootega Pulse 85. www.tootega.com

We have other new brands joing us as well more tbc.

Thats just few little bits of whats to come. Stick with us to find out more. As always give us a call for any help or information you need. We are here 6 days a week (unless we are skiving to go boating). Every one at the shop paddles and loves it. We hope you do too. Come and give us a visit to see and hear whats happening.

02391 219600

email: sales@aswatersports.co.uk

Staff Profile updates

2010-12-21T14:56:00.004Z

Mitch enjoying his lunch break.

Seeing as though we haven't done a huge amount of boating this week we have found the time for the guys and girls to update their staff profiles. Alex joined us in the summer so we had to get his up. Check them all out here: Staff Profiles.

Alex ripping in his Scud.

The profiles let you know who's helping you choose your gear. What kind of paddling they like and the kit they use them selves. For example Liam uses Palm pfds. He usually gets 200+ days a year on the water, most of them teaching so his kit has to work.

Jim "the Swim" hard at work on the Upper Dart.

Yes Liam, We can see you.

Jemma. Racing hard at the Colligan Gorge Games in Ireland.

Not a recent pic of Ewart. But he's back to Italy for 2011 so some fresh drops will be done.

There's snow boating here.......

2010-12-20T11:41:00.002Z

We are open! If you get offered some canoe paddles from this guy, hes' nicked them from the shop.

Custard County Cetus MV!

2010-12-17T12:18:00.006Z

We've just received the new boat in the P&H line up the Cetus MV. There are now three sizes of Cetus to choose from, the LV, MV and HV. This means that there is a boat of every size for every paddler, whether you are small or tall, want a day boat or an expedition boat the Cetus now has it all covered.

It also features some funky new 3D gel filled logos. They look great and really catch the eye. A great way of making your friends envious.

The Cetus features four hatches; Front and Rear hatches, a Day hatch and a super handy Mini hatch in front of the cockpit.

The Cetus also features the Great P&H skeg system, ideal for keeping your boat under control when paddling in windy conditions or through confused waves and races.

We've got a great west country colour scheme, its a real Custard County Cetus. With White hull, seam and deck trim, while the deck is in the loudest shade of Custard yellow possible!

Don't forget you can now also get the great P&H Delphin deck. The Delphin deck is a solid neoprene spraydeck, with edge reinforecment, built in storage bungee and large easy to find and use release webbing.

Find out more about the whole Cetus Range HERE

Making a Venture Kayaks Easky 15 pt 2

2010-11-30T12:25:00.001Z

Part 2 of the making of an Easky 15 touring kayak from Venture kayaks. The fitting out and final parts.

Making a Venture Kayaks Easky 15

2010-11-30T12:18:00.002Z

Here you can see the popular Venture Kayaks Easky 15 being made in the UK production facility. The Easky 15 is one of the UK's favourite Weekend touring kayaks. Perfect for lakes, slow moving rivers, Estuarys and light coastal work. This is part 1. Part 2 to follow.

Pots rodeo 2010 again!

2010-11-29T15:58:00.004Z

The blistering heat and massive water was just too much! So, we went for sub zero temps and low water just to make sure!

The second Pots Rodeo and Boater Exe went off on Saturday and was great fun. Over 30 paddlers braved the freezing air and water conditions (it never got above -2 deg bankside)

to compete in some very close racing. There were short boat races (playboats) intermediate long boat and advanced long boat races. No different categories for the Ladies as most of them were just as quick as the boys! Good work girls.

Seeding runs took place in the early afternoon before the daylight faded and then the floodlights(very kindly supplied by HSS Hire in Exeter) went on, the tunes got turned up ( Sound system provided by Sound Events) and the racing spirit (and maybe some other spirits, medicinal of course) got every one into the mood for some serious down river racing.

With very few rules (except for safety ones) we saw plenty of action. The tough course set by Ewart from A.S and Pete, rode organiser included Yak touch boards in tricky eddys, a long sprint/slog across the slow flat water, a quick spin around the Crewsaver maker buoy and a final dash to the crocodile ( yes, the Exe has some truly amazing wildlife!) finish line, dodging the "Mighty Pots" on the way. Despite low water the hole still took a few prisoners and dished out a few spankings, only one ended with a swim though!

During the timed seeding heats it was all about the Big Dog boats, the Force and Dropzone came in with the quickest times of the day. Good job they made it out of the snow in Nottingham just to come down for the day. They even had a prototype full carbon kevlar Kaos play boat on show. (following blog on that soon!).

The Square Rock "how long can you stand up in your boat competition" was very well attended with all the signed up paddlers getting on the water. Very funny to watch and cold for the unsteady!

After all the racing was done it was into Mill on the Exe for beers and food. Prize giving and the charity raffle. The prize fund was massive, Yak paddling equipment gave about £1000.00 worth of kit away! Bigdog kayaks had their own brand of bottled beer to cheer people up and tees and hoodys to keep them warm and Square Rock gave away buoyancy aids for the stand up comp.

The after party went down with boat races, crazy rave rodeo outfits and some storming tunes from Jamthechannel DJ's.

Once again thanks to the supporting companys:

Yak paddling equipment for continuing support of grass roots kayaking events and huge prize bags!

Big Bog kayaks for free demo boats and prizes, also keeping UK paddling events going.

Square rock for raffle and impromptu prizes. Thanks to Team GB freestyle member Sam Anderson for coming down. (also congrats for winning the UK freestyle Championships!)

Fluid Skills for the on site EMT support. Good job it wasn't really needed.

Four your eyes people for the event t-shirts (some still available; only £10. email team@potsrodeo.co.uk )

Mill on the Exe for great hospitality (nearly selling out of coffee and hot chocolate)

HSS Hire in Exeter for the massive floodlights.

The full race results are now on the Pots Rodeo website here: http://www.potsrodeo.co.uk/

Pictures and blogs here: Pots Rodeo and 3Bsports

Massive thanks to all the supporters, crowd and paddlers that made it.

But with out the sponsors it would not happen in the same way.

Shake it, Shake it.

2010-11-03T09:56:00.004Z

It really works! We had a shake this morning. I bet you there's rain this weekend! I'll put a pound on it. Thanks to Pete Scott and the guys and girls of Exeter School canoe club for this little peice of magic. Brought all the way from the jungles of Peru to the concrete jungle of Exeter.

All change!

2010-11-03T09:37:00.002Z

We have had a great few days on the river recently. Jemma took her brother down the Loop in a ducky at the weekend which was amusing. Andy, Jim and Ewart all had great fun surfing the double ducky on the wave at the bottom of triple drop. Some times solo and some double surfing action. Solo proved best with soem great rides and even some 360's! Photos coming soon when Jim downloads his camera.

Down to business: We are currently updating all our price lists and webshop as most of our brands have issued new price lists. Whilst some stuff is going up due to the new VAT rate coming into place in January some items are being reduced!

What does this meen for you, our valued customer? It meens that its probalably better not to hold off on getting some new gear as it is almost definately going to have a higher price ticket in the new year. To help you out we are still able to offer alot of instock items at the old prices.
We have some great deals on Ex Demo boats and are offering some competative rates in other in stock boats.

If you find an item in store that has the older price on it we will honor it and even give you a discount! (Ask nicely or give us cake!).

Thanks for bearing with us on this. It takes abit of time to change every thing!
On the plus side, we have found our Peruvian rainstick. The lads at Exeter School did a trip to Peru a few years back and gave us the rainstick on return. We have been shaking it like a poloroid picture baby!

Email down today,

2010-10-20T13:58:00.001+01:00

Hi Folks,

Sorry but we have no email today. We apologise for the slow response. We aim to be back online ASAP. In the mean time please call the shop with any enquires.

Thanks

SWCS Nookie prize draw winners

2010-10-06T12:36:00.004+01:00

We have three lucky winners of the Nookie prize draw held at the South West Canoe Show.
They will be nice and warm in their new Nookie clothing, except for the third place winner who will be styling it up in his board shorts.

Winner of the Nookie Bank Jacket: J Sibely from Dorset.

Winner of the Nookie Hoody: D Treslove from Wiltshire

Winner of the Nookie board shorts: J Eaton from Berkshire.

Well done folks, enjoy!

South West Canoe Show video highlights

2010-10-06T12:31:00.004+01:00

Check out this very nice short film showing the South West Canoe Show including some interviews with leading members of the UK Paddlesports industry. If you didn't make it this year then you can see what your missing.

Southwest Canoe Show 2010 from Five Element Productions on Vimeo.

Check out other films and info over at UK Active Outdoors

South West Canoe Show 2010, massive photo blog!

2010-09-28T11:36:00.010+01:00

The South West Canoe show 2010 took place this weekend. As usual we had a great event, with lots of people, lots to see, lots of boats to try, lots of Hog roast and stunning weather. A big thanks to everyone that came along and to all of our suppliers for making it such a good event. Below, in no particular order, are some pictures of the event.

Demos were popular, us usual

Ergo racing entertained many

Lots of people took to the water throughout the day

The crowds were treated to great weather all day

There were plenty of boats to try from all our suppliers

Big dog kayaks

Andy Benhams' fishing kayak

Andy Benham with his new book, discover kayak fishing.

The Mighty Hog roast

Hummin Bird fish finders

Coaches, course providers and colleges in the Marquee

Jackson Kayaks

More Big Dog kayaks

More crowds and people demoing more kayaks

Nookie Paddle Gear

Palm Equipment

Perception kayaks

Pyranha and P&H kayaks

Prijon and Wilderness kayaks

Prijon kayaks

Pyranha kayaks

Sevylor inflatables

Someone else enjoying taking pictures of kayaks!

Valley Sea kayaks

Canoes, kayaks, sit on tops all on the water

Wilderness systems touring and sea kayaks

More Wilderness systems touring kayaks

Yak Paddle gear

Sout West Canoe Show is go go go.

2010-09-24T12:05:00.006+01:00

The South West Canoe Show is all go for this weekend.

We have had lots of up dates for the show and the weather is looking tip top.

News includes : Two presentations in the Exeter Canoe club, club house.

Mark Rainsley author of the SW sea kayaking guide book (one of the best selling guide books ever at the shop) and white water expedition paddler will be talking about and showing photos and video from a recent trip to the Thuli Bheri in Nepal.

Both Photos Mark Rainsley. Top Shetland isles, bottom Thuli Bheri

This presentation will be at 1pm in the Exeter canoe club club house on the banks of the canal. There is a bar on site for refreshments, make use of it and support a local club.

The second talk at 2pm will be from Marks wife Heather on a visit to the beautiful and wild Shetland Islands in Scotland.

Both will have stunning photos and very informative info on the paddling, people and culture.

Grab a hog roast and a beer and enjoy!

Win A Kayak with Westerly!

2010-09-17T16:57:00.005+01:00

Westerly Mini of Marsh Barton Exeter are giving away the chance to win an Islander Hula sit on top kayak worth £299.95!

This weekend sees the launch of the brand new Mini Countryman. You will have seen the ads on the television by now, classic Mini looks all chunked up for a bit more rugged outdoor fun. Just perfect for nipping down to the beach with your boat on top for a quick paddle.

Visit the showroom as part of the Countryman launch for the chance to win a great beach fun sit on top. Or click your way over to the website for more info!

http://www.westerlyexetermini.co.uk/

P&H Delphin, sea kayak revolutionary

2010-09-11T12:57:00.005+01:00

It never rains but it pours here at AS Watersports. Another New toy has arrived this week. The New P&H Delphin. The Delphin is a sea kayak revolutionary. Designed to perform in tideraces and overfalls, as well as surfing waves, the Delphin has some unique features to achieve these goals.

Square stern, flared bow, extra rocker, the Delphin certainly looks unique

The new P&H Delphin turns traditional sea kayak design on its head and challenges many preconceived ideas of how a sea kayak should look and behave. The cockpit has been move backwards and the stern squared off so the bow just kisses the water but when paddling the stern engages and aids tracking.

A flat hull, sharper edges, and a double concave nose, this isn't your normal sea kayak

The P and H Delphin has some unique features to help it play in the sea; Rocker - Creates super manoeuvrability when surfing and prevents purling, Quick Resurfacing Bow - Splits and sheds water preventing nose burying on steep waves and helps punch through waves on way through surf, Hard Chines - Direct water onto planing surface and bow allowing for a super-fast pick up on the wave, Planing surface and smooth chines - Forgiving for beginners and when surfing, Flat Midsection Hull - The most manoeuvrable sea kayak on the market, spins like a white water kayak to get you out of those sticky situations like crossing fast flowing races, Stern - Squared off to increase water length, speed and tracking, Rear weighting - Creates a long water line when paddling on flat water for speed and tracking, Low back deck and cockpit - Easy to roll when the wave wins.

The bow has been shaped specifically to improve surfing performance

The Delphin has three hatches, a large front and rear hatch, and a handy hatch in front of the cockpit, for small easy to reach items. The Delphin comes with a drop down skeg as standard. The cockpit is outfitted with the Pyranha Connect 30 system, to ensure a snug fit when playing in waves and tide races.

Pyranha Connect 30 outfitting, means a snug cockpit

You can check the Delphin out on the P&H website, and also see it and buy it on the AS Watersports online shop

Two main hatches, and handy cockpit hatch for storage

New Pyranah Varun Now in

2010-09-11T12:04:00.003+01:00

We've just got our hands on the New Pyranha Varun kayak. The Varun is Pyranhas new 'Play the river' kayak. Designed to get you down the river, but play at every spot on the way. The Varun has it all, forgiving edges, speed and maximum playability to give any white water enthusiast an awesome time on the river. Slicey ends allow you to initiate all the classic vertical moves plus it has enough speed to run the river in style. A wide flat hull means that it will surf river and ocean waves really well, and the forgiving edges will help any paddler learn and progress.

Check out the Pictures Below.

The Varun is also available to buy online in the AS Watersports Online Shop

A longer, smoother profile will make the Varun quick on flatter sections and fast on waves

Classic Connect 30 Outfitting, for comfort and adjust ability

A wide flat hull means stability, and easy surfing.

New Typhoon PS220 immersion suit now in.

2010-09-09T14:58:00.003+01:00

New in the shop this month is the Typhoon PS220 Xtreme immersion suit.

The PS220 is designed with sea kayakers in mind. The PS220 Xtreme is the culmination of several years research into making suits to cope with the most extreme conditions found in the worlds oceans. The prototype designs and fabrics were tested in the harshest of environments including the Volvo Ocean race, powerboat circumnavigations of the British Isles and Xtreme Sea kayaking in the Arctic, in order to produce the best possible combination of Durability, Performance and safety. The result raises the bar on what sailors and Kayakers can now expect from their drysuit, as well as providing a vision of extreme dry clothing of the future.

The PS220 Xtreme features; Super tough and breathable quad-ply fabric through out the suit, with Cordura reinforcement in high wear areas, like knees, seat and elbows, BDM Brass coil zips (back zip and front relief zip) ensure that the suit stays sealed in even the most extreme conditions, a 3D hood, with volume adjusters that rolls down into the collar, four pockets, including VHF/MP3 intergration point and hand warmer, Super bright 'glass bead technology' reflective wrist print and SOLAS reflective tape for great visibility, extra long lower leg outers mean that you can wear wellies, or tall boots like the Palm Kola boot, internal braces and glide skin seals at the wrist and neck for durability and comfort even when used in salt water.

The PS220 will appeal to all kinds of paddlers, Sea kayakers will love the comfy seals and VHF intergration. The tough and breathable fabric is ideal for instructors, or anyone who spends lots of time in their paddling gear. And the styling is spot on for the fashion conscious! You don't need to be a sea kayaker to get the most of the PS220, the comfy seals and tough fabric are ideal for any paddler, river, sea, touring, fishing and whitewater.

You can see and buy the suit online in the AS Watersports web shop.

River Dart in Kayak Session Mag

2010-09-01T11:04:00.003+01:00

The wonderfull and fantastic River Dart has its own artical in the worlds best white water mag, Kayak Session. Its not like the river needed any more publicity but its always nice to shout about what you have. Artical by Simon Westgarth with photos by Mark Rainsley and Paul Wilkinson.
Thanks to Simon for the nice SW Canoe Show plug

We still have a few copies left instore or order yours from the Kayak Session website.

Whos that paddler?

2010-09-01T10:56:00.004+01:00

Whilst looking for some info for a customer Ewart found this poster on the Waveski.co.uk site.
What caught his eye was not the massive arial that Mark Trise? is performing its the other paddler.
Do you know who it is and when it was taken? We do. Answers in an Email and you will get some thing in the post.

If you fancy some wave ski action then this would be a good oppertunity to get some valuable coaching. The problem is you will be at the South West Canoe Show instead!

Richard from Exeter says;

2010-09-01T10:55:00.000+01:00

"Just to say thank you for the excellent service provided in repairing
the bulkhead of my Dagger Alchemy kayak. Job done within 24 hrs of me
first contacting you.
I suspect a lesser retailer might quibble over the cause of the problem
and charge their customer for the repair. You didn't!
Once again, reminded me why its best to purchase locally from the
specialists."..
Thanks again
Richard,
Heavitree, Exeter

No, Thank you Richard.

Sam Anderson update.

2010-08-25T10:05:00.002+01:00

Sam Anderson is one of the best freestyle kayakers in the country. A current GB team member who has had some great results this year. The most recent being a 5th place at the European championships in Austria.
It must be the Fower Pots upbringing!
Check out a movie of his favourite spots on his blog:

Sam -Anderson SW Freestyle

EUCC Alps trip 2010

2010-08-25T09:47:00.004+01:00

Exeter University Canoe Club took one of their annual club trips to the white water mecca of the Southern French Alps earlier in the year. High water prevented some of the harder rivers but as always they had a lot of fun.

The team.

A quick short. For a full report head over to the clubs website: Exeter Uni Canoe Club

If your thinking about which University to go to with some great paddling and people Exeter Uni club is super friendly, supportive and very active. Contact them via the website.

There is a new date for the studant Pots Rodeo. This year we have brought it forward to November the 27th. Hopfully this will give good water levels and be slightly warmer.

Head over to www.potsrodeo.co.uk for more info on where, when and how to enter.

Gwylims Avocet

2010-08-17T14:39:00.005+01:00

Gwilym at Wet and High Adventures has been out in his new Valley Avocet. In a rare but stylish British Racing green and a full carbon build its a very nice boat. Take a look at his Diary of an outdoor instructor.
You can meet Gwilym at the South West Canoe Show if you need some more tuition in canoeing, kayaking or climbing.

New colour WRSI Helmets now in!

2010-08-12T13:03:00.006+01:00

We've just got in some of these cool new colour scheme WRSI Current helmets. The Current helmet is a tough, comfortable and stylish helmet that offers great coverage and top quality protection. They are made with a tough multiple impact outer shell, energy absorbing inner foam, an energy dissipating inner shell, and an energy absorbing comfort foam layer. They come with three complete sets of the inner foam layer, in varying thicknesses, allowing you to custom outfit your helmet for the perfect fit. They are also available with and without venting in the top of the helmet.

For more info check the WRSI Website, and to buy online from AS Watersports Click Here to go straight to the WRSI helmets.

Pyranha Varun 2010 playboat

2010-08-10T11:57:00.007+01:00

Pyranha have a new "old School" play boat ready to hit the shop floor. Whilst still pretty small the Varun (god of rain) sees a return to a slightly long more slicey playboat. Thats right, cartwheels will be back. This should be an awesome boat for the the Mighty Pots!

A fast and loose hull, two way rails with that little extra length should also give a bit more footroom. There will be 3 sizes in total but for now its just the middle "medium" size.

Specs are (tbc): length 205cm, width 64cm Volume 58 gallons (quite big for a play boat) and the weight is a nice and light 14kgs.

We expect to see stock around the middle of September and there will definately be demos at the South West Canoe Show!

RRP £749.00 we are taking orders now.

Video here from Rapidmedia TV and Rich Taylor on Youtube

New LL Jefe colours

2010-08-10T11:41:00.005+01:00

This year is the beginning of Liquidlogic’s 10th Anniversary as a kayak manufacturer. Over the last 10 years they have literally reshaped the world of whitewater kayaking with solid innovative designs. From their meager beginning in 2001 on the banks of the Green River in Flat Rock, NC in a dilapidated old house they called the “Lair” to merging with Legacy Paddlesports in 2007 and now producing kayaks in a high tech facility in Greensboro, NC. They have had ups and downs but through it all have stayed true to the original goals of designing and producing the best kayaks possible, providing excellent customer service and always looking to the future and exploring new, untapped markets with groundbreaking designs. To celebrate the 10th anniversary we are “freshening” up our logo. All the white water boats will get a face lift with new model and logo graphic updates, and texturing on the decks of the boats as well. Check out the images of the Jefe for a cool new marbling colour way, changing the colour of the Bad Ass out fitting and the boats get a new 10th anniversary logo behind the cockpit.

More updates from the Outdoor Retailer show in Salt lake city coming up.

A Devon White water selection.

2010-07-23T12:16:00.002+01:00

Last winter we supplied a few creek boats for a bunch of travelling Italian guys, friends of Simon Westgarth (Gene17 Kayaking)

Here is a short video of a few bits of river they paddled over the weekend they were here.

The Exe Circuit

2010-07-23T11:50:00.009+01:00

The Waters around AS Watersports offer a fantastic variety of Environments for paddling.

With in half an hours paddling from the shop you have three weirs, which, depending on levels, can be a great intro to whitewater or the best play feature in the South West.

(A competitor at the Exeter Uni Fower Pots Rodeo)

Further down we hit the tidal section of the river. This section is super quiet and very attractive and packed with plenty of wildlife. A fantastic spot for Sea kayaks, Sit On Kayaks, Touring Kayaks and Open Canoes.

Running alongside the river there is the seven miles of flat sheltered water of the Exe canal, with easy access, good shelter, no currents this is an ideal learning ground.

The Exe Circuit.

Using the river and tide to flow down the Estuary and the canal to work your way back up is a fantastic round circuit bypassing all the weirs.

We offer this as a day trip course for £40 running through the year. We provide all the equipment our inhouse experienced instructor has all the local knowledge to show you the routes, access points as well as packing in loads of top tips to make you a better paddler.

Last night our inhouse Instructor Liam Kirkham and Ewart Aylward took advantage of whats on there Doorstep. Fantatsic paddling with good sightings of Cormorant, Herons, Little Egrets and Kingfisher. Here are some photos to wet your appetite!

Ewart in The P&H Scorpio LV Areound the Topsham Moorings

Outside the passage house pub in Topsham one of the many places to stop and recharge en route

The sun breaks through the cloud on the Topsham Moorings

Too Book onto the next course (August 1st 10am - 4pm) call now or have a look at out coaching page too see what else we can offer.

0139 219 600

Yak Paddling gear MEGA Clearence deals!

2010-07-23T11:13:00.003+01:00

We have teamed up with Yak Paddling gear to offer you some amazing knock down prices on some very usefull gear.

Hit the picture for a full list of what we have. We may even offer some better rates if you want lots of it!

Yak MEGA Clearence sale

Book signing at the South West Canoe Show 2010

2010-07-23T10:52:00.003+01:00

Discover kayak fishing is a new book from Pesda Press.
The latest publication from Pesda Press is Discover Kayak Fishing by Andy Benham. This is the first book on the subject published on this side of the Atlantic, with our different fish species, techniques and approach.
Andy is a specialist magazine journalist with 25 years experience, much of it for angling magazines. He is totally addicted to kayak fishing and hopes that his book can impart some of fun he has had and some of the lessons he has learnt.
The book is aimed at the angler who has taken up or is curious about kayak fishing. Experienced kayakers will also benefit from Andy's kayak fishing wisdom.
Topics include:
Choosing your fishing kayak and equipment.
Practical tips on modifying your kayak and installing a fish finder.
Kayaking with confidence and staying safe at sea.
Seamanship; tides, weather and charts for anglers and kayakers.
Using handheld GPS and VHF radios.
Fishing skills; top tips on anchoring and 'downtiding' from your kayak.
What to fish for; Andy's tips for catching your favourite fish.
And more, including freshwater fish and wreck fishing.

Andy will be at the Pesda Press stand at South West Canoe Show Saturday 25th September 2010 to sign copies of the book purchased at the show.

UK Active Outdoors

2010-07-21T16:37:00.004+01:00

We took part in a little promo video for a new outdoors website, UK Active Outdoors. The site is geared at gving information to those who are looking to get into all kinds of outdoor activities.

Kayaking with UK Active Outdoors from Five Element Productions on Vimeo.

Rodeo Raft, a day rafting and kayaking in France.

2010-07-20T13:38:00.002+01:00

Ewart has just come back from a trip to France and Spain. Whilst he went with his downhill bike to the bike parks and ski resorts of Spain and Andorra he also managed to squeeze in some paddling.

Ewarts friends Sam (front left) Mike (front right) and Grace (2nd right) enjoy the warm up rapids.

His friends got in a raft and Ewart managed to borrow a Riot Sniper and some kit for the afternoon to join them. He wasn't to keen on the rafting after seeing the river, he wanted to paddle it!

The beautiful Gorge de Pierre Lys, River Aude, Pyreness Orientale, South West France. A fantastic class 3+ limestone gorge. Great little tecnical rapids and a nice class 4 drop to finish.

The valley is beautiful with oak and beech trees lining the hillsides.

Strike a pose Ewart! Actually, put it away.

The last but one drop, good 3+. Lots of fun to run blind.

Ewart drops in.

Lots of thanks to the Guys and girls at Rodeo Raft in Belvianes near Quillan. The centre is about an hours drive from Carcassonne and a great area to visit with lots more white water potential. The best time to visit is in early spring with the snow melt and a bit of rain fall. We got a dam release in the afternoon but Rodeo Raft can help with locations. They also do canyoning, duckys (hotdogs) and hydrospeeds.

Visit their website here: www.rodeoraft.com or email rodeoraft@gmail.com

South West Canoe Show 2010 TSF advert

2010-07-02T10:32:00.001+01:00

This is the advert we have placed in our friendly fishing magazine, Total Sea fishing.
Keep up to date with the canoe show news by visiting the site. www.swcanoeshow.co.uk

New Typhoon bits.

2010-07-02T08:46:00.004+01:00

Its usually a bit quiet for new products at this time of year. So its always nice to get somthing in. Typhoon have come up with a couple of nice touring and general purpose items which suit the season very well. Along with the cags they also have a very reasonably priced pfd and some great value snorkle sets. All absolutly perfect for this time of year.

The Mekong pfd sells at £34.95 and is perfect for all thsoe sit on top kayaks or just abit of old fashioned mucking about. Soft foam make it very comfy, two side adjusment straps to ensure a firm fit, a pocket in the front for your keys and ice cream money. We include thses pfds in some of our kayak packages. Buy online here Tm2 snorkel sets are perfect for summer fun. Chuck one in the back of your boat for some rock pool exploring. Dont miss out by going here.

The cream of the crop, the Typhoon Amur touring cag. A two layer touring cag for spring and summer use sea kayaking, touring and general paddling.

Its always good to have a nice light top you can keep stashed in your boat or under the deck lines to chuck on if the weather turns or is maybe a bit breezy when you set off.

The Amur has good firm sealing cuffs with plenty of velcro, a nice wide neoprene waist band for a dry seal, front pocket for keys and ice cream money (a recurring theme for A.S Staff).

We particularly like the fairly high collar with its soft fleecy mesh lining and pack away hood. The hood is a good size and will go over a hat and has a stiff peak (but not to stiff) with some high viz reflective taping. RRp £84.95.

This cag goes up against the Palm Greenland, Delta Pathfinder and Peak Tourlite Hoody and comes out pretty good against all of them.

Check one out instore or purchase online.

Surfs Up! Typhoon Bering sea semi dry top. Perfect for sit on top kayak surfing and the slightly wetter side of general purpose. You can even use this top for sailing or other watersports.

With very soft feeling neoprene neck and wrist seals the Bearing Sea will keep the worst of it out.

Not as dry as a latex seal cag or one with a twin waist its great for summer temperatures and paddling. The wide neo waist seal holds onto your leg wear well to stop it riding up and creates a a pretty good seal.

This would also be good for intro white water or centre use. RRP £79.95 Online here

Pick me up.

2010-06-22T11:15:00.003+01:00

Just a little plug for our favourite coffee shop on the Quay. Lutzy and the girls next door look after us with great coffee (mondays) and excellent brownies (week day treats). Next time your in checking our boats and gear pop in for some refreshment. Its definitely entertaining!
Check out here little website for contact detals and a map.

http://www.lutzys.co.uk/

Palm 2011 catalogue on-line

2010-06-21T10:43:00.002+01:00

Producing some of the best gear in the world for paddle sports, Palm Equipment have now put their new catalogue on line.

Take a look here: Palm 2011

Giggling girls

2010-06-07T16:37:00.006+01:00

Sit on tops are all about having fun. Heres some pictures (from last year actually) from a day at the beach in sunny south Devon. Teignmouth to be precise. Some semi successful kayak fishing and general mucking about.

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100, a great all round s.o.t now being made in the UK for even more quality and better availability. Easily upgradeable for kayak fishing and looks so good the local dogs came to check it out.

Amber and Emma had lots of fun on the Malibu 2. Shortly after this giggly moment things got wetter! A splash turned into a soaking and then into a full on water fight. Happy days.

The Palm Big Paddle.

2010-05-19T16:35:00.003+01:00

This weekend saw the Palm Big Paddle. A celebration of thirty years of Palm gear. The weekend was based on the River Wye at Symonds Yat, with camping, entertainment, competitions, guided paddles, a shuttle bus service, demo boats and much more!

Enjoying one of the guided tours

Team AS watersports dropped in to see what was going on. Mitch and his family enjoyed a guided trip down the River from Kerne bridge. Mitch also built a super streamlined Cardboard canoe for a cardboard canoe race!

One of the cardboard canoes in action

Andy Knight and Bob Slee try out some Tandem SUP paddling (or is that flying?!)

Team AS on the water on Sunday

Jim and Louise dropped in for Saturday nights entertainment, Live music and DJ's rocked the Big top till the small hours! Then Sunday saw some paddling action. Jim paddling his squirt boat whilst Louise took on the Mighty 'Yat Rapids' in her Canoe.

Mitch (the human cannon ball) and Bob Slee tackle the rapids at Symonds Yat

What an excellent weekend the Big Paddle was!

I think its appropriate to say thank you for the 30 years that Andy Knight has dedicated to paddlesports. The effort that Andy and his team at Palm Equipment have put into making a wide range of excellent products that makes our sport so much more enjoyable and fun. The Big Paddle 30 year celebration weekend proved just how much fun it is.

Thank you to Andy Knight, Bob Slee and all the Palm team.

Jim hits the Surf

2010-05-19T16:22:00.003+01:00

AS Watersports surf fan Jim has been out in the water recently. Here are a quick couple of pictures taken while Jim was competeing at the recent Shoreline handicap competition at Blackrock Bude.

Tiny waves breaking on the shoreline, but fun!

The Surf was tiny, when the tide came in it was breaking in barely a foot of water, and most people were finishing their rides on the sand!

The Valley Rip in action

Jim was paddling his trusty Valley Rush 7'2", but also took the Valley Rip of for a quick spin in the small conditions.

Jim got a first and two seconds in the heats to end up joint 11 at the end of the day. Thanks to Denzil for the pictures!

2010 Sweet gear now in stock

2010-04-27T11:30:00.003+01:00

Our first delivery of the 2010 Sweet Helmets, T-shirts, Hoodies, Beanies and Fleeces has just arrived. Like a shark feeding frenzy Liam, Sam, Ewart and Jim have been checking it all out this morning.

The 2010 Rockers feature a new Occi-grip adjuster at the rear, making them easier to adjust, and making them fit even better.

Just a little selection of the new Sweet helmets, the Strutter looks great this year, in Flash blue, Dirt black and a startlingly loud Lime green!

We've got a full selection of Beanies, T-shirts and Hoodies as well. As ever they look super cool, the must have streetwear for the discerning Whitewater paddler!

You can check out our full range of Sweet gear, and buy it online in the AS watersports Web Shop.

New Course and Trip Dates.

2010-04-21T10:40:00.003+01:00

We have announced more dates for trips and courses for the upcoming weeks.

All courses are with a qualified and experienced instructor and work with a low instructor to student ratio ensuring you get some quality input.

As well as new dates we have launched a new range of courses including: "One Day Introduction to Kayaking" "Over 50's introduction to kayaking" and exclusively for our customers "Sit On Top Skills and Safety"

Check out course dates and prices here:

http://www.aswatersports.co.uk/canoe-kayaktraining.html

See you on the water

Liam Kirkham

AS on the water: Photo Highlights.

2010-04-09T11:01:00.011+01:00

Did you know AS Watersports also provide One to One tuition, Star Awards, Courses, Group Bookings and Guided trips? That means we supply everything to get you going on the water.

On Tuesday Liam (our inhouse instructor) took three ladies on a trip of the River Exe and Exe Canal as part of one of the groups birthday present.

A fantastic sunny day discussing equipment, learning skills,and journeying in sit on top kayaks. Highlights included; spotting a kingfisher, tackling windy conditions on the Exe Estuary, t warm weather on the calm canal, flasks of coffee and of course a big bowl of chips at Double Locks Pub.

Thanks to John for these photos.

(Liam demonstrating the importance of foot pressure when paddling)

(Jane finding out that, "There is nothing, absolutely nothing so much worth doing as messing around in boats")

Thanks to Jane, Zoe and Juliette for a great day out.

Easter Sunday saw the first guided Exe day trip of the season . After a week of rain we were blessed with blue skies, calm winds and sunny skies.

(Lunch at Topsham Lock Cotage)

(Heading past the naturse reserve, a haven for Avocets, Egrets and Oyster Catchers)

Pop into the shop for a chat about what we can offer or click on the coaching section of the website.

New showroom doubles A.S floor space.

2010-03-31T23:15:00.002+01:00

Large,bright and great for seeing the best on offer in the world of paddle sports.
Our new 1500 sq ft of fresh display space has all the day tripping, sea kayaking, estuary cruising, kayak fishing and open canoes you could want.

Our fleet of brand new Essence 16 and 17's supplied by Perception are already being booked up.
Call the shop for all the details. On-line hire booking is coming soon. 01392 219600 or email us: sales@aswatersports.co.uk

A full spectrum of Scooters, the UK's favourite sit on top? Come for a free demo at our waterside shop 200mtrs up the road. Like to try some thing else? We are an official Dagger test centre, including Mad River canoes and Wilderness systems with nearly 30 boats across the brands.

Fishing kayaks and sit on fishing kayaks from Ocean Kayak, Wilderness systems, Perception and Native can now be seen in all their glory.

Theres plenty to see, so come and join us now its looking proper! Be quick before we eat all the chocolate eggs then have to nip onto the canal in a new vessel to burn them off!

The showroom is open now, the kettle is on.

Devizes to Westminster Race, easter weekend.

2010-03-30T13:53:00.004+01:00

This weekend is the world famous D-W race. The canoe marathon over 125 miles is a true test of fitness and stamina. Click the banner below to go to the DW site.

We have been helping out tow teenagers from Dorset in their race efforts to raise money for Help for heros.

Pyranha kayaks have kindly lent Alan and Josh two Speeder kayaks for the event so they will have a fast boat to use.

Check out their site here: Racing for Heros

Pots rodeo, the offical video

2010-03-19T15:14:00.001Z

Check out the offical Pots rodeo Video....

New showroom taking shape

2010-03-19T14:51:00.006Z

Our new 1500 sq-ft showroom took a step closer to being ready this week, when we laid the new carpet. We are now getting on with all the last few details, odd jobs and small fiddly bits ready for the grand opening on the 1st of April.

The new showroom takes shape

Our new showroom will enable us to display a wide range of fishing kayaks, sea kayaks, touring kayaks, large sit on kayaks and canoes. All the stuff that we currently stock, but just don't have the space to display well!

With more space to display larger canoes and kayaks

So why not join us for the grand opening on the First of April? More details can be found on the AS Watersports main website.

Plus lots of stock next door in the warehouse!

The Palm BIG paddle.

2010-03-18T11:24:00.003Z

The Palm BIG paddle is a celebration of all things paddling and a chance for PAlm Equipment to say "thank you" to all those who have supported them over the last 30 years.
Click the picture to go to the website for all the details.

New Yak Dry Trouser range now available

2010-03-17T12:42:00.003Z

We've just taken delivery of the new range of Yak Dry Trousers. There are three trousers in the new range, the Manta, the Moray and the Wrasse.

The Wrasse is a high chested trouser with a front pocket. They are made from a lightweight and highly breathable 2.5 layer fabric, with reinforced seat and knees and adjustable ankles and shoulder straps.

They cost £99.95 and are available now. Check them out here

The Moray is a high chested dry trouser, with a high inner neoprene waist and natural latex ankle seals. The Moray is made from durable and highly breathable 3 layer fabric, with reinforced seat, knees and inner ankles. It features an adjustable elastic waist and shoulder straps.

They cost £129.95 and are available now. Check them out here

The Manta is a great all round dry trouser with a high neoprene waist and natural latex ankle seals. The Manta is made from durable and highly breathable 3 layer fabric, with reinforced seat, knees and inner ankles.

They cost £119.95 and are available now. Check them out here

Tek Sport Demo Day 17th April 2010

2010-03-15T10:09:00.005Z

We are hosting a Demo day for a new brand to the shop: Tek Sport.
Tek Sport have been around for a few years but this year we have decided to stock them as the products have really moved along.
The FX Angler looks set to become a firm fixture on the kayak angling scene and the Xcite 260 and Xcite 290 will be some of the most fun sit on tops for beach use we supply.
The demo day will have all models on display and for free demos here in Exeter in the canal basin.

The demo day runs from 10am - 4.30pm and our new 1500sq ft showroom will also be open for you to see all teh rest of the worlds best sit on top, canoe and kayak brands including Ocean kayak, Wilderness Systems, Mad rive, Old Town, Dagger, Perception, P+H, Valley sea kayaks and more!

For more info check back here or call the shop on 01392 219600

South West Canoe Show 2010 New dates!!

2010-02-18T12:07:00.004Z

The South West Canoe Show 2010 is moving to a new date! We are bringing the show forward from its usuall date in October. This should mean better weather for the day and ties in with industry moves.

The new date of the show is:

Saturday 25th September 2010.

Put the date in your diarys as an event not to be missed! We will be updating the website with news as it happens!

www.swcanoeshow.com

New 100% recycled plastic Dagger Fiesta

2010-02-10T15:23:00.003Z

The Dagger Fiesta kayak is now available, only in 100% recycled plastic. The Fiesta is a great introductory boat for the recreational paddler. It has a wide hull offering lots of stability, yet its 'V' shape front and rear cut easily through the water, it also has a large cockpit making it easy to get into and out of and comes fitted with front and rear deck elastic storage and easy to adjust slidelock footrests.

For year’s now Dagger have been recycling the waste plastic from their factory; their offcuts were mixed with other plastic to become toys, compost bins and carrier bags. Good for the environment? Not bad, but their aim had always been to recycle any waste themselves – to produce more kayaks.

Well now they can. The 100% recycled Dagger Fiesta kayak caused quite a stir at the 2010 Dealer preview. Throughout the event they invited all of their UK dealers to put a boat shell through the “2lb Lump Hammer Test”. A month of abuse later and it was still going strong!

The colours of the New recycled Fiesta vary slightly depending on what colour plastic has been recycled. But on the whole they appear slightly green/grey, but closer inspection reveals that they are made up of a whole variety of colours.

The New recycled Fiesta is not only an environmentally sound choice, but also a bargain at £299.95. You can check out the Dagger Fiesta online HERE

Daggers Paul Robertson and Nick Horwood explain more about the Dagger Fiesta, and put it to the 2lb hammer test

Big Dog Drop zone demo now available

2010-02-09T14:37:00.006Z

We now have a demo Big Dog Drop Zone kayak. The Drop Zone is the long awaited Creek boat from new Kayak manufacturer Big Dog. Along with bags of volume the Drop zone offers, six attachment points, a separate roto moulded seat and hull stiffener, and a multi adjustable full plate footrest.

If you are looking for a new creek boat why not come and give our demo Drop zone a go.

For more details on the Big dog Drop zone have a look here

Pots Rodeo Round-up

2010-02-08T14:53:00.003Z

Heres a quick round up from the First Exeter Uni 'Pots Rodeo.

The Pots Rodeo took place on Saturday the 6th of Feb 2010. The event saw about 35 competitors take to the water on Saturday night, under the electric glow of 4000w of lighting, and the pulsing sounds of DJ Redbelly. The Water level was perfect and paddlers got to strut their stuff to a large crowd.

There are plenty more pictures of the event on the AS Watersports shop Gallery which can be found by clicking HERE

More pictures from Yak can be found on the Yak equipment facebook Page Click HERE for more.

Big thanks to the Guys and Girls at Exeter Uni for organising the event, A-plant for the incredible lights, DJ Redbelly for music, commentary and 'encouragement', Big Dog for supplying demo boats, Pete Ford at Yak, Fluid skills for safety cover, and all the competitors and supporters for making it such a great event!

All images from Pete Ford @ Yak equipment.

Pyranha Molan M now available

2010-02-04T16:17:00.003Z

Fresh out of the packaging today, its the Pyranha Molan playboat. Pyranhas latest, most prototyped and tested playboat. The Molan is definitely from the new school wave orientated design school.

The hull is short and wide, which should make spins easy, and has enough Rocker front and rear to help it into the air.

Many people have been comparing it to the 2010 Jackson kayaks Star series, which from a quick glance is quite understandable. But if both boats are put side by side there are a range of differences. The Star has less rocker and less volume in the stern, and the Molan definitely offers more cockpit space, and a more positive feel.

We have a demo boat, as well as stock, so if you want to try before you buy why not give us a call and book it in now!

Check the specs in the AS Watersports online shop

Secondhand Kayak overload!

2010-02-03T09:55:00.004Z

We seem to be over run with just about every type of secondhand kayak possible at the moment. We've got creek boats, play boats, river runners, surf boats, wave skis, general purpose and recreational boats. All of them piled up outside the shop just looking for a new home.

So why not go and have a quick look at what we've got, maybe you'll find yourself a bargain! You can check out our Secondhand Boats in the AS Watersports webshop, secondhand kayaks. You can reserve one, and pop into the shop to try it out, we can even send them out with a courier if your not local!

New Kayak Pro Boats on our webite

2010-01-29T11:10:00.005Z

We've added some exciting new fast touring kayaks to our website. The Kayak pro Nemo and Namu, both designed by South west resident and boat designer extraordinaire Rob Feloy.

The Nemo is designed as an ultra fast sea and touring kayak, that also complies with Sea Kayak racing regulations. Speed is definitely the key with the Nemo, if you want to do some rock hopping, or even intend to land on a few rocky beaches, then you'd better look elsewhere, but if you want to get from A to B as fast as possible and not have to lugg about a heavy boat, then this is the boat for you. The Nemo is made from a Full Carbon/Kevlar sandwich construction, and is fully vacum bagged and heat cured for the ultimate in lightweight and stiffness. The Nemo weighs in at an amazing 15.5kg! It comes with a easy to use and smooth to operate Smart track rudder system, two hatches with bulkheads, and an adjustable composite Italian style race seat.

The Kayak Pro Nemo

The Namu is shorter and wider than the Nemo, but shares much of the same features. Designed to be stable and easy to paddle, but still quick and effortless the Namu is a great Recreational and light touring kayak. It is suitable for paddlers all the way from beginners upwards, and comes in a range of sizes to accommodate all sizes. The Namu is available in two different constructions, either the Light weight 'Racer' construction the same as the Nemo or in a 'club' construction, made from a Glass sandwich, but also Vacum bagged and Heat cured. The Namu has all the same great features, a smart track rudder system, two hatches and and adjustable composite Italian style seat.

The kayak pro Namu

Check out the Kayak Pro Nemo and Namu on our website by clicking here

The speed and stability of the Nemo has already attracted some people. The BBC Blue Peter presenter Helen Skelton is currently paddling a Nemo down the Amazon, to raise money for sport relief. If she completes the challenge, she will be the first women to have solo paddled the entire length of the Amazon.

Check out Helen Skeltons paddle down the Amazon Here And HERE

Helen Skelton Training in a Kayak pro Nemo

This is Devon!

2010-01-28T15:33:00.004Z

You would be forgiven if you thought we had swanned off to the tropics for this. We have some of the most amazing paddling in the UK right on our doorstep! Wether its salty or fresh water get out there and enjoy it!

Perception Scooter package here.