Shift Gears at the Outdoor Gear Swap

A Soroptomist Miracle

I still remember the one floating turn on a rental snowboard, a bunch of years ago, that turned me to the dark side. It just felt so good. The skis went into storage and that was that.

Fast forward bunches of years. I’m floundering up a slope on snowshoes with my board on my back, watching friends on skis became little dots in the distance. It did not feel nearly as good as that one turn. So I wanted to go back to skiing.

Gearboat guru Todd Kruger helped find me some alpine touring skis and bindings this year, but I was having a rough go locating AT boots. Conley Brown listened to what I was looking for in terms of size and price. His take: “Duuuude, you’re looking for a ski swap miracle.”

CB was right. And it happened. I found these at the Soroptomist thrift store a couple months ago. Hardly been used. Fit ever so nicely. I actually heard classical music when I picked them up. It would have been even more miraculous if we’d had, I don’t know . . . snow this year. But one thing at a time.

Look for your next gear find Saturday, April 18 at the Winding Waters boathouse. Buy new stuff and turn loose of old equimpent you don’t use anymore so it can get back in the game. This gear shuffle is being put on by the Enterprise-Joseph Lions Club. Actual lions will be on hand, so bring a chair and a whip to keep them at bay.

Everything related to snowsports, water activities or things you do on land for kicks is welcome. Not guns, though. The swap will be at the WWRE boathouse in Joseph, the quonset hut a couple blocks on your right as you head out the Imnaha Highway. Buy things from 11am to 4 pm Saturday the 18th. Check out the flyer below for deets on dropping things off.

Climbing the Walls

Check out the recent addition of a climbing wall at WWRE while you’re at the swap. Pictured below is NOT the WWRE wall, rather a scene from a recent WREN excursion over to the Eastern Oregon University climbing wall. 28 Wallowa County kids took turns bouldering, roping up and practicing on a slack line. Good times, good times.

Steelhead Countdown

Getting down there on days left of the steelhead season. Sure been a good one. But you’ve got to reel it in on the 15th. So drop your taxes in the mail and go make a few last casts.

What to Wear for Whitewater Rafting

Getting ready for the river? Your comfort and safety start with proper gear. Here’s what to know about what to wear for whitewater rafting.

Clothing Essentials

• Choose a whitewater rafting outfit with moisture-wicking and quick-drying layers.
• Go for clothing for river rafting like dry-fit shirts, board shorts, or wetsuits if it’s cold.
• Use UV-protective clothing for sunny conditions.
• If you’re asking what to wear rafting in summer, breathable materials are your best friend.

Footwear & Accessories

• Wondering what shoes to wear white water rafting? Stick to closed-toe, grippy, water-friendly shoes.
• Don’t forget sun protection, a secure hat, and sunglasses with straps.
• For kayaking too, think snug and splash-safe when choosing your kayaking clothes or what accessories go on a kayak.

What to Bring on Your Rafting Trip

Planning your pack? Here’s your quick guide to what to bring white water rafting and how to prepare with the right rafting essentials.

Gear & Safety

• Essentials: helmet, PFD, and white water rafting safety gear.
• Add a dry bag, water bottle, sunscreen, and maybe some snacks.
• Review the full suggested gear list for trips here.
  

Parting Shot: Some lake or another

Not sure what this one is called, but it’s not bad as far as bodies of water go.

Book Your Adventure with Winding Waters

Whether you’re gearing up for a float or just learning what to wear whitewater rafting, Winding Waters has your back. Join us for expertly guided whitewater raftings that pair epic scenery with top-tier gear and unforgettable river memories.

Wondering if our rafting trips are worth it? Dive into our Google Business Profile Reviews and see why guests love every wild, scenic moment with Winding Waters.