Gear Garage Live Show | April 25th, 2025

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater.

Topics and links that Zach talked about in this episode

• Answer Questions
• Middle Fork Trip Planning Blog

Some of the Questions that Zach covered in the Q&A section of this episode

Topic: Oar Length (For a Specific Situation)

What’s the best oar length for running Class II rapids in a 15'6" long Stryker inflatable boat? The boat has a 60-inch span, a 6'2" wide beam, and a 160-pound outboard motor on the stern. I plan to use it occasionally as a drift boat. For longer, deeper, easy-going sections, I’ll use the motor to go back upstream and re-fish, or to get through slow, deep, unfishable water. Thanks!

Topic: IK for Extended Trips

I've been using an Aquaglide touring IK for Class III/IV trips—our last was on the Lower Salmon—and after spending days sitting in water, I know it’s time for an upgrade. I recently picked up a Star Outlaw II for my son, but so far it's only seen flatwater. We’ve got some whitewater trips planned for June and July, and I’d love some advice for my new IK. I’m super torn between a few options. In order of interest:

• Star Outlaw II — I like the 5 chambers, drop-stitch floor, and the price point, plus the reviews are solid. But I hate the lack of anchor points for gear—had to glue some on for my son.
• AIRE Outfitter II — Tons of great reviews, nice bow kick, and it has good gear loops. But it's pricey, and I’m worried I’ll be sitting in water again with that floor.
• AIRE Lynx II — Same pros and cons as the Outfitter.
• Corran Tandem — I like that it handles big water, but I think I’d hate it on flatwater.
• RMR Taylor vs Animas — The price is right and what I’ve found so far is positive, but reviews are way fewer compared to NRS stuff.

I’m 6’2”, around 300 lbs (currently cutting weight), and I need an IK that can support me on a 5-night trip. Also curious about the NRS Riffle—it looks durable and capable.