Stuart Leslie
'He is the Prince of the Anglesey beautiful set and another wizard - he can do things in a sea kayak that defy nature' Chris Reed, is that guy...
At Reed Chillcheater, we believe the best adventures are built on trust in your equipment, your environment, and the people behind the products. For over 25 years, we’ve been crafting high-performance watersports clothing and equipment right here in the UK, empowering paddlers, kayakers, and explorers to venture further, safer, and with confidence.
Innovation Born from Necessity
The journey began on the Atlantic coast of Devon, where founder Chris Reed, a garment expert with a background in high-street fashion, grew frustrated by the lack of reliable gear for his children, who spent every spare moment in the sea.
Determined to create something better, he developed Aquatherm®; a technical fabric offering lightweight insulation, stretch, waterproofing, and wind protection. This innovative material became the backbone of the Reed Chillcheater product line.
Made in Britain, Designed for the Elements
From children’s beachwear to full-scale adult kits, our range evolved alongside the Reed family’s own adventures surf lifesaving, paddle sports, sea kayaking, and more. Today, our entire collection, from dry trousers and cags to drysuits/paddlesuits and thermal layers, is still made entirely in North Devon, from raw material to final stitch.
Environmentally Responsible Manufacturing
We’re proudly committed to environmentally responsible UK manufacturing. By keeping production local, we significantly reduce transport emissions, ensure full traceability of our materials, and support rural employment and independent British suppliers in our North Devon community.
At Reed Chillcheater, we’re also proud to say that all of our products are completely free from PFAS, also known as ‘Forever Chemicals.’ These harmful substances that are increasingly under scrutiny across the outdoor and adventure industry. By avoiding these chemicals, we help protect both people and the planet without compromising on performance.
To further reduce environmental impact, we offer a dedicated repair service, helping to keep gear in use and out of landfill, maximising the lifespan of every product (not just our own) and supporting a more circular approach to outdoor equipment.
Built on Real Experience,
From Water to Workshop
Chris Reeds brings unmatched expertise in surface water sports to Reed his knowledge has been built not in a boardroom, but out on the water. From paddling technique to fabric performance, every insight comes from real-world experience. His journey shapes everything we do, and his passion for sharing that knowledge means our whole community benefits. Whether he’s Greenland rolling in icy seas or refining a new design, Chris is always learning, always improving, and always passing it on.
Trusted by Professionals Worldwide
Reed Chillcheater gear is trusted by rescue teams, elite paddlers, expedition leaders, and even film crews working in extreme environments. Whether you're navigating remote coastlines or training on your local river, our clothing delivers comfort, durability, and performance when it matters most.
Over 25 years of Reed
In 2024, we celebrated 25 years of Reed by sharing stories from some of the remarkable watermen and women who’ve pushed boundaries and trusted our kit to go with them.
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Emma Fishleigh
Wave Ski Women's World Cup Master Winner - Two times World Surf Kayak no. 2 - an absolute force of nature, a 100 mph lady and makes a mean mince...
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Dave Pearce
Tested Reed products…on the summit of Everest. Holds the record for highest altitude survival rescue. Former Royal Marine
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Eila Wilkinson
A kayaking pocket rocket - sea kayak coach and expedition leader and bringer of joy to everyone
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Paul Greenway
Every kayak club needs a Greenie - offers knowledge, real time, energy and passion to everybody at anytime.
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James Manke
International Greenland rolling guru with a cult following. Multiple gold medalist at the Greenland Games (Olympics!)
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Justine Curgenven
An influential Sea kayaker and Filmmaker - providing some of the most unique 'how to' videos back in the day
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Pete Bray
First person to kayak the North Atlantic route from the USA to Ireland - Former SAS Sergeant
