Business Details
50 Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Paddling Gear and Expert Repairs in Ottawa
Since 1976, Trailhead Paddle Shack has been Canada's premier destination for paddling and outdoor enthusiasts. Our expertise spans retail sales of kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and cross-country ski equipment, complemented by specialized repair services for watercraft and winter sports gear. With decades of experience, we combine product knowledge with hands-on technical skills to serve recreational paddlers, competitive athletes, and outdoor adventurers. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our curated selection of top-tier brands, personalized equipment fitting, and certified repair technicians trained in hull maintenance, binding installations, and structural canoe repairs.We maintain rigorous standards in all services, from waxing cross-country skis to installing kevlar skid plates on fiberglass canoes, ensuring every customer receives expert guidance and durable solutions tailored to their outdoor pursuits.
Services
Kayak Sales
Canoes Sales
SUP Rentals
Ski Equipment Repairs
Watercraft Maintenance
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We offer free shipping on orders over $99 with Purolator
- Our certified technicians specialize in watercraft and ski equipment repairs
- We carry top brands across paddling, cross-country skiing, and outdoor gear
- We've served Ottawa's outdoor community since 1976
- We provide price match guarantees on competitive products
What people say
Extensive gear selection
Expert repair technicians
Competitive pricing
Seasonal product availability
Knowledgeable staff
Services
Kayak Sales
We offer a comprehensive selection of new kayaks including recreational, touring, whitewater, and fishing models from top brands. Our inventory includes sit-on-top, inflatable, and hardshell options to suit all skill levels and water conditions. Expert staff provide personalized recommendations based on intended use, experience level, and budget requirements.
Canoe Repairs
Our certified technicians perform structural repairs, gunwale replacements, skid plate installations, and hull maintenance on composite, fiberglass, and traditional wood canoes. We use premium materials including kevlar felt and marine-grade resins to restore performance characteristics and extend vessel lifespan for recreational and expedition use.
Ski Equipment Repairs
We provide professional ski tuning services including base waxing, edge sharpening, binding adjustments, and skin installations for cross-country and alpine touring equipment. Our Wintersteiger-certified technicians maintain optimal glide and grip performance using industry-standard tools and temperature-specific wax formulations for various snow conditions.
SUP Rentals
We offer stand-up paddleboard rentals for recreational users and guided tours on local waterways. Our fleet includes all-around, touring, and inflatable models suitable for flatwater paddling, fitness training, and family outings. Rentals include life jackets, paddles, and safety instructions for novice and experienced paddlers.
Watercraft Maintenance
Our maintenance services include hull polishing, bulkhead resealing, skeg/rudder repairs, and outfitting installations for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. We use marine-grade adhesives and abrasion-resistant materials to enhance durability while maintaining manufacturer specifications for performance watercraft.
Questions
What are your current repair shop hours?
Our boat repair shop operates seasonally from spring to fall. Please contact us in spring 2026 for repair services.
Do you price match competitors?
Yes, we offer a price match guarantee on identical products. Contact us with competitor pricing details for verification.
Can I drop off my boat for repairs anytime?
No, boat drop-offs require prior authorization and appointment scheduling. Unauthorized deliveries will be refused.
Do you service inflatable SUPs?
We perform repairs on rigid SUPs but not inflatable models. Structural repairs require material-specific expertise and equipment.
Are gift cards available?
Yes, we offer digital and physical gift cards redeemable across all products and services. Visit our website or store for details.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, debit cards, and cash payments in-store. Online purchases require card payments through our secure portal.
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