FAQs
Store & Contact
Where is the store located, and what are your hours?
Where is the store located, and what are your hours?
The physical store is at 4-2148 Carling Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K2A 1H1. Hours are Monday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm and Sunday 11 am–4 pm. Reach us at (613) 722-4229 or via the contact form on the website.
What is Trailhead Paddle Shack?
What is Trailhead Paddle Shack?
Canada's premiere paddling and outdoor gear specialty store, serving adventurers since 1976. We carry paddling, camping, hiking, and snow gear from brands like Patagonia, Arc'teryx, NRS, Level Six, Salomon, and many more.
Can I try or test gear in person?
Can I try or test gear in person?
Absolutely. Visiting our Ottawa store lets you get hands-on with kayaks, canoes, SUPs, PFDs, paddles, and clothing. Our staff are active paddlers who can help find the right fit for your activity and experience level.
Payment & Pricing
Do you price match?
Do you price match?
Yes. If you find the same item for less at an authorized Canadian retailer, we'll match it. See our Price Match Policy page for eligibility conditions.
Are prices in Canadian dollars?
Are prices in Canadian dollars?
Yes, all prices are in CAD. US customers should factor in the exchange rate — there are no taxes on US orders when US shipping resumes.
Do you sell gift cards?
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes — digital and physical gift cards are available online and in store.
Do you have a loyalty program?
Do you have a loyalty program?
Yes! Our loyalty program rewards you for purchases. Sign up online or in store to start earning.
Paddling & Gear
I'm new to paddling. How do I choose my first kayak?
I'm new to paddling. How do I choose my first kayak?
It depends on where you'll paddle. Recreational kayaks suit calm lakes; light touring kayaks work for longer day trips; sit-on-top kayaks are beginner-friendly and self-draining. Come into the store for a hands-on consultation — our staff paddle these boats and can match you to the right hull quickly.
What PFD do I need for kayaking or canoeing in Canada?
What PFD do I need for kayaking or canoeing in Canada?
Canadian law requires every paddler to have an approved PFD on board. We carry all-round, rescue, inflatable, and kids' PFDs. Our staff can help you find a properly fitting model in store or online.
What's the difference between a wetsuit and a drysuit?
What's the difference between a wetsuit and a drysuit?
A wetsuit keeps you warm by trapping a thin layer of water against your skin — good for warmer water. A drysuit keeps you completely dry and is essential for cold-water paddling where immersion could be dangerous. Our team can help you choose based on your local water temperatures and season.
Do you carry inflatable kayaks and SUPs?
Do you carry inflatable kayaks and SUPs?
Yes — we stock inflatable kayaks and a full range of inflatable SUPs (all-round, touring, and race). They're great for storage and can be shipped more easily than hard-shell boats.
Do you carry whitewater paddling gear?
Do you carry whitewater paddling gear?
Absolutely. We carry whitewater kayaks (river runners, freestyle, creek boats), helmets, rescue PFDs, throw bags, wetsuits, drysuits, and everything else for moving water.
Do you carry canoe tripping and portage gear?
Do you carry canoe tripping and portage gear?
Yes — portage packs, barrels and harnesses, dry bags, canoe accessories, and a wide selection of canoes including solo, tandem, and whitewater models.
Repairs & Services
Do you repair kayaks and canoes?
Do you repair kayaks and canoes?
Yes — our boat repair service handles hull repairs, outfitting, and parts replacement. Bring your boat to our Ottawa location and our technicians will assess and quote.
Do you have a ski tuning shop?
Do you have a ski tuning shop?
Yes! Our ski shop offers tuning services for cross-country and alpine touring skis — waxing, edge work, and base repairs. Drop your skis off at our Ottawa store.
Do you sell ski wax and tuning supplies?
Do you sell ski wax and tuning supplies?
Yes! Our ski shop offers tuning services for cross-country and alpine touring skis — waxing, edge work, and base repairs. Drop your skis off at our Ottawa store.