Global kayaking pioneer and influencer - A non-stop explorer no matter what
“I first met Chris in person at the old ASSC symposium on Anglesey in about 2001, he had made me a bespoke Cag deck which was to become the precursor for the original Storm Cag. We paddled together during the event, but I think at that time we probably got wetter in the Paddlers Return (pub) – either spilling each others beer, or having beer thrown at us for taking the piss out of some of the other paddlers at the event – than we ever did in the rough waters of the Irish Sea.
Chris was one of my first official sponsors; when he found out that Hades and I were looking at circumnavigating Japan by sea kayak, he instantly stepped forward and offered us his support. I was already familiar with his designs and had been using his cags for sometime, I was also familiar with the unique fabric {Aquatherm} that he uses, so at the time it was an absolute blessing to know that were not only going to be warm and dry, but also paddling in comfort. His support was invaluable.
Chris was and is always on the end of a phone for you, when we needed something replacing, he would get it to us as soon as possible. He was also very open to feedback and made adjustments for us when we needed them. All who know him well, Chris is sometimes on the outer perimeter of appropriateness in what he says, but with his cheeky grin, you are seldom offended and this is why we all love him, he knows how to laugh at himself as well as with others, but when it comes down to his work, he is exceptionally professional and serious about what he does. I have turned to Chris for product support, but he has also been there at other times when I have needed his assistance too…
I am still guiding expeditions, coaching others and selling kayaks through my business Expedition paddler as well as helping to train others within the industry as professional sea kayak guides and leaders through an organisation called ISKGA and PaddleUK.
"Chris’s gear is exceptionally good quality and really well-designed by an active paddler. All of his gear is very comfortable to wear and he is always there in terms of communicating with you directly. An experienced waterman himself, he understands the ocean and what you need to protect yourself upon it. In this day and age, when most companies that become successful turn towards the East to secure greater profit margins in manufacturing costs, Chris has – in my opinion – retained his integrity and continues to support his staff and the wider paddling community.”
