Water Sports Equipment
Alaska is home to a seemingly endless numbers of lakes, rivers, and streams and boasts more coastline than all the coastal states in the Lower 48 combined.
August 2018–Part 1 of 2
Aquatic Gear
Alaska is home to a seemingly endless numbers of lakes, rivers, and streams and boasts more coastline than all the coastal states in the Lower 48 combined. With all this water there are thousands of opportunities for water-based sports and activities throughout the state. Whether you’re looking test the waters by renting or you’re ready to buy and commit to a life on the waves, the companies listed here provide all the equipment needed to get the most out of Alaska’s many waterways.
packerexpeditions.com
Courtesy of
Packer Expeditions
Current Issue
December 2024
REI operates locations in Fairbanks and Anchorage and is staffed by local outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to camping, hiking, climbing, cycling, running, and winter equipment, REI offers a selection of watercraft and equipment, including kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards; personal flotation devices, wet and dry suits, and safety equipment; as well as related water gear such as vehicle racks, storage, and waterproof cases and bags.
rei.com
Courtesy of
REI
Originally providing the Interior with water equipment through its family-owned Fairbanks location, Trax Outdoor Center opened a second location, Trax 2.0, in Anchorage. Trax carries a selection of Mastercraft boats as well as paddle boards and associated gear. For newbies looking to rent a paddle board or water skis, Trax experts provide lessons for additional charge.
traxoutdoorcenter.com
Courtesy of
Trax Outdoor Center and MasterCraft
Industry Sponsor
Become an Industry Sponsor
When it comes to water and the many sports one can enjoy on it, Alaska Raft & Kayak offers equipment sales and rentals for just about any water sport out there. The company offers a selection of inflatables, kayaks, pack rafts, and Hobit Cat watercraft, as well as dry suits, wet suits, and even paddling suits. Alaska Raft & Kayak also provides repair and custom frame services.
alaskaraftandkayak.com
Courtesy of
Alaska Raft & Kayak
Alaska Boat & Kayak Rental Shop offers kayak and paddle board rentals for those looking for water-related adventures around Juneau. Kayak rentals include a paddle, personal flotation device, spray skirt, paddle float, and bilge pump. Alaska Boat & Kayak also provides guided tours and classes.
juneaukayak.com
Courtesy of
Above & Beyond Alaska Wilderness Trips
Two Minimum Wage Increases Set for 2025
Minimum wage earners get two raises in 2025. An inflation adjustment to $11.91 takes effect in January before a voter-approved hike to $13 per hour in July.
Mat-Su College Opens New Suite to Train Veterinary Technicians
Mat-Su College opens a new veterinary technician education suite to train students for an in-demand job they can carry anywhere.
WestJet Bringing Seasonal Anchorage–Calgary Flights in Summer 2025
Calgary-based WestJet, Canada’s second-largest airline, will begin twice-weekly flights between Anchorage and Calgary in 2025.
