… And if it’s that time of year again, that means: PRESENTS!

You’re probably already aware that some of us are decidedly more difficult to buy for… AKA the Dragon Boaters among us.

You know the ones… The ones that don’t seem to have anything else to talk about besides paddling, paddling and more paddling.

A PADDLE BAG.

Help your loved ones keep their paddles safe, while also carrying them around in style.

This paddle bag from Hornet Watersports is tried and tested – I personally bought one for a paddling friend, and they loved it.

It fits most standard paddles, has a stitched logo and a front padded pocket to keep your stuff safe.

What: Dragon Boat Paddle Bag (Black)

Price: $50

Where: Hornet Watersports

WATER SHOES.

Sick of stinky sneakers and damp socks lying around the house? Aqua shoes are the perfect alternative – plus they’re comfy and quick drying!

I have a pair myself, and they have lasted me over a year now. After training I simply give them a rinse or throw them through the washing machine and voila! Done.

What: Men’s Prologue 1.0 Round Toe Aqua Shoes Black 5

Price: $23.99

Where: BCF Australia

LEGO DRAGON BOAT MODEL.

If you’re after something more novelty, this is certainly a fun idea! LEGO released a limited edition Dragon Boat Set, and they’ve been incredibly popular!

What: Chinese Dragon Boat Race 2019 Asia Exclusive

Price: $70 (varies depending on availability)

Where: Amazon

SHAKTI MAT LIGHT.

This is always a popular gift!

Promoting blood circulation, relaxation and restoration, this is the perfect gift for those suffering from sore, stiff or aching muscles.

What: Shakti Mat Light

Price: $69

Where: Shakti Mats Australia

WATERPROOF GYM BAG.

There’s nothing worse than carting around a damp, stinky bag filled with damp, stinky training gear.

This 100% Polyester, waterproof bag has sections for dirty laundry and shoes, as well as internal organisation slips.

What: UA Undeniable Duffel 4.0 Medium Duffle Bag

Price: $65

Where: Under Armour

LONG SLEEVE COMPRESSION SHIRT.

2XU is one of the leading brands for compression-wear. Compression wear promotes posture, performance and recovery – while also providing a light-weight, breathable training top.

This particular shirt comes in male and female configurations and is a great gift idea – or if you’re unsure on sizing, get them a 2XU gift card!

What: 2XU Long Sleeve Compression Top

Price: $120

Where: 2XU

GRIP TAPE.

Grip tape is often overlooked, but vitally important when it comes to paddling.

Burnwater Grip Tape has microscopic gas bubbles in the tape that activate the rubber so that it permanently sticks only to itself – and it comes in nine different colours, so your loved one can match their paddle to their team colour!

What: Fusion Paddle Grip Tape

Price: $17

Where: Burnwater

PADDLING GLOVES.

Paddling gloves provide protection from blisters, and help paddlers keep a firm grip while training and racing.

These neoprene gloves are a perfect gift idea, and are easy to wash. Bonus!

What: Gloves – NRS Fingerless

Price: $40

Where: JPX2

WATER SPORT SUNGLASSES.

A friend of mine recently bought a (very) expensive pair of sunglasses, only to lose them a week later in the lake while he was paddling.

These sunglasses are water-sport specific, polarized and designed to float. They can also be converted to prescription if needed. Problem solved!

What: Classic Jet Specs

Price: $49.95 (more for prescription)

Where: SeaSpecs

NECK PROTECTION.

This neck buff can be used to keep the sun off your neck, keep the bugs out of your mouth, or to provide a wind-block in winter.

On hot days, you can soak it in water to keep you cool instead!

What: Hornet Buffs

Price: $15

Where: JPX2