New to canoeing

[Greyfox]

Hi folks, I just bought my first open canoe, it's an old town discovery 158. I have yet to get myself some paddles and flotation jackets can anyone tell me where over here I can get them?

Cheers in advance.

GF

[Kayakgirl]

eBay isnt bad or you could try Decathlon. What you need is PFD (Personal, flotation, device) decathalon might try and pass you off with a life jacket..which would be the wrong thing to wear for paddling.  You could  try Tiso mainly to try out paddles and PFD's for size etc, you can get 15% off equipment. Was given a card by them the other week, or wait until a club night is on and get discount then. If you want to PM me for further info let me know.

[Greyfox]

Thanks Shamara, I will pay tiso a visit on Monday and see what they have. I get 15% off in there as I'm in MI. Decathlon have paddles but your right they were trying to sell me a life jacket, could hardly move in it!

GF

[Kayakgirl]

You could also try Jackson's or Coast and Creek in Ballymoney. They have a website www.coastandcreek.com
Also Argos sell exercise balls for about 4 quid each. They are good for airbags. P.s Don't forget Lowa is selling barrels, they are great for carrying stuff in.

[RedLeader]

Mike the Bike in ards is useful. They're probably a shade more expensive but really know what they're talking about.

[Damp Colin]

Coast and creek haven't had anything decent for the past couple of years they've let the paddling section of the shop go down the pan.
You wont get a decent open boat paddle over here you'd need to go on ebay or song of the paddle (site just for open boating).
Just be careful when buying your paddle as you will need to find the correct length for you and the right paddle for what kind of paddling you will be doing.
Jackson do some decent BA's (buoyancy aids) you get 15% off if you tell them your a member of CANI (Canoe Association N. Ireland).

[LandyLiam]

there's a guy in Newcastle with some flotation aids for only £5 each, his number is 07834959053, they're not great condition but good for that price, i have some paddles i could lend you if you don't want to rush out and buy some just yet.

[Greyfox]

Folks thank you so much for all the advice, have tried coast and creek and as you say Colin they haven't got really anything there for open boating, will be off to jacksons tomorrow for a look and have joined song of the paddle, thanks Liam. By the way love the landy Picts and bids on you site Liam. I probably won't get the chance to get out for a few weeks due to other commitments so have a bit of time to pick up the gear I need though if I don't I will give you a shout about borrowing the paddles Liam most generous mate cheers.

GF

[LandyLiam]

i've had my canoe and paddles for over 2 years now and still havn't got out to use them 

[Michelle]

Valkyrie craft will make your paddles for you to suit your height.

We bit more costly but beautiful paddles (I have one myself)