Double amputee war veteran who proves that massive adventures are still possible - one of the recent Forces of Nature team
“In preparation for an extended kayaking trip in the Pacific Northwest there was the usual hunt for kit and equipment that would be up to the task. I had seen Reed products well represented in the expedition paddling scene and decided that I too should take advantage of expedition tested equipment. Without knowing much about Reed, I made my first purchase and was very pleased with my spraydeck which served me well through the years of training pre-departure.
Due to injuries sustained during military service, I am often forced to adapt gear in order for me to be functional on the water. My first real contact with Chris was when I phoned him to see if he could tailor a drysuit for me. After a short but productive conversation, he invited me up to the shop to see what could be done about it. On arrival I was greeted by the wonderful team that work with Chris – friendly, professional and keen to hear all about the proposed adventure ahead. Chris then showed me around the workshop which is a treasure trove of all things paddling.
Myself and my suit were then measured up, and I asked when I should return to pick it up again. Chris chuckled and called me over to one of the work stations where he immediately started working on it, explaining what he was doing as he went. Within no time at all – and clearly many many years of experience – the suit was done. Soon afterwards I was having to argue with him to take payment for his time as he was only charging me for the materials. In protest of this kindness, I purchased a new spraydeck.
Whilst at the shop I explained what the idea was behind the trip. We were going to kayak The Inside Passage with a team of wounded servicemen, a 2000km route up the Pacific Northwest coast, from just South of Seattle Washington, up the US and Canadian coastline and finishing in Skagway Alaska in support of military charities. After many excited questions on what it was likely to entail, Chris offered myself and the team Reed’s support in this endeavour and we are extremely grateful for it.
In August 2023, we paddled into Skagway having spent 89 days paddling up the coast. A truly spectacular part of the world and an adventure I will never forget.
The gear was worked hard everyday on the expedition and had no issues and is very much in use to this day. Working with the team at Reed felt like a personal relationship and we were extremely satisfied with the performance of the kit.
Although there are no big adventures confirmed right now, there is constant conversation amongst the team on what is next. No matter what it ends up being, I will be using Reed equipment in any future endeavours due to the quality of both the kit and the people that work there.”
