BE WATERWISE #11 – SELECT IT: PICK YOUR PACKRAFTING GEAR

Not sure which packraft or packrafting gear is right for you? You're not alone — and this video is your starting point. In Be WaterWise #11 – SELECT IT: Pick Your Packrafting Gear, Jule breaks down everything you need to know before buying or borrowing your first piece of packrafting gear. Filmed on a real riverside gravel bar with boats in the water and hands on the equipment, this short, practical guide will help you match your gear to your river, your load, and your style. What You'll Learn: Packrafts: There's no single "best" packraft. What matters is understanding the variables — water type, trip length, how much weight you're carrying, and whether you need a self-bailing boat or one with a spray deck. Jule walks you through a full boat lineup, pointing out the key differences in bow shape, cockpit design, and stability so you can make a confident, informed decision before you ever hit the water. Paddles: Paddles get the same treatment. A bad paddle will ruin your day faster than a bad boat — so Jule covers shaft length, blade shape, and fit, because when it comes to paddling efficiency, fit always beats specs on paper. Safety gear: Safety gear is non-negotiable, and it only works when it fits. Watch the ride-up test for PFDs — your life jacket should never climb above your chin, no matter how hard you pull the shoulder straps. And helmets? A loose helmet is a decoration, not protection. Jule walks through the full strap check so you know exactly what "snug, comfortable, and tight" actually feels like. The bottom line: Confidence on the water doesn't come from spending more money. It comes from understanding what you have, why it fits, and how to use it. Knowledge beats price tags — every time. HUGE thanks to our sponsor Alaska Packraft School for making this series possible. In this video: How to choose the right packraft for your water and use case Boat lineup walkthrough — bow, cockpit, and self-bailer explained Stability demo from the water Paddle sizing and fit — why shaft length matters more than blade brand PFD fit test — the ride-up check every paddler should know Helmet strap demo — how to dial in a safe, comfortable fit Coming up next: we go deeper on gear systems, packing strategy, and how to build a kit that works across terrain, not just on the water. Follow along for micro clips, gear tips, and behind-the-scenes prep Subscribe so you never miss a launch #BeWaterWise #BeRiverReady #LevelUpSafely #Packrafting #WhiteWater #PaddlingSafety #AdventurePrep #PackRaft #CultureofSafety BE WATERWISE #11 – SELECT IT: PICK YOUR PACKRAFTING GEAR Learn more about the #BeWaterWise series here: https://www.packraft.org/pages/educat... What’s your favorite gear? Any new companies pop up we should all know about? Share in the comments!