Seattle - Kayaking heaven?
On my way back from my trip to Canada, I was hoping to find some real kayak stores around Seattle. I was looking for
something other than the rec and whitewater stores we have here. I wanted to find places that had real sea kayaking
gear.
I guess I should feel lucky here in Raleigh, NC, but I don't. I have Great Outdoor Provision Company and three REIs close by. But I want more. I want a place that sells kayaks that don't come with a
fishing rod and multiple cup holders.
We stopped at Seattle Raft & Kayak and Northwest Outdoor Center. It wasn't quite retail heaven as I'm not a fan of Werner
paddles, and that's all any store in the Seattle area seems to have, but it was close. I was able to see and touch
things that I've only previously seen online. I didn't buy anything, but I did confirm that Snap Dragon considers my gut to be "extra large". That's what their fit
guide said it was, but I had to try one just to make sure. When the temperature here drops below 95 degrees, I'll order
my all neoprene skirt.
I was impressed with Northwest Outdoor Center's location on Lake Union. I'm sure I'm
odd in thinking this, but I'd rather paddle among these beavers and otters than these.
Local wildlife
Looking back on it, I should have gotten something while I was there. I went to the most impressive kayak stores I'd
ever seen and I got nothing. But, Jean did get a t-shirt.