Gear Garage Live Show

Get ready for an information packed episode of Safety First with Danger Tate. Tate talks with the river trip planning expert, Michele Crockett. She is the co-founder of RiverBent. Michele is so knowledgeable in all things river trips, from organizing gear and logistics to planning meals and making sure the whole crew—kids included—has a great time on the water.

If you're a private boater looking to level up your trip planning or just love talking all things rivers, this episode is a must-listen!

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater.

Topic: 2D vs 3D Video

What does your "2D vs 3D" framework give us that the International Scale of River Difficulty doesn't already?

You posted an interesting video about 2D vs 3D boating. Your argument for the distinction between 2D and 3D is solid and I agree with most things you say. However, I don't really see the value of this system considering we already have the International Scale of River Difficulty to describe rivers. What does "2D vs 3D" tell us that class I-III vs class IV-V doesn't already? When a new framework for classification or description is invented in science and engineering, it has some clear differences and advantages to other existing frameworks. At the least, it should add some level of nuance to the conversation or be beneficial in niche situations.

Anyways, that's my overly-analytic peer review of your idea. I appreciate you taking the time to bring new ideas to the sport.

Topic:River Hardware Blower Adapters

Have you test-fit any of your blower adapters with the Bauer blower from Harbor Freight?

Topic: Flip in Green Wall

Three person, Three Boat trip on the Illinois. Flow was 1700 CFS and dropping.

We ran a single boat down while two people set safety below harvey. After we got a single boat through, the two other captains went up to run the rapid. During their run, the first boat flipped just prior to getting to the doors. The captain did an amazing job self rescuing himself, and made it to the shore prior to swimming down the crux move.

Now my question. We had a boat flipped, moving downstream. I decided to pull out of the eddy and work on getting the boat moved to the shore. I didn't get the boat into an eddy until the rapid after green wall. While you give tips on getting boats recovered in this situation, and will you give feedback on our safety plan on how we ran and set safety.

In this episode of Safety First with Danger Tate, we dive into the fascinating world of the Upper Klamath with special guest Will Volpert, owner of Indigo Creek Outfitters in Southern Oregon. Will brings a lifetime of experience in the outdoor industry and has played a key role in understanding what the future of the Klamath River holds for boaters.

There were some technical difficulties in the episode where the map and photos we talked about did not appear on the screen. You can find the map here.

If you're passionate about rivers, river restoration, and the future of the Klamath, this episode is a must-listen!

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater.

Topic: Selway Low Water Boat Selection

Does your "bigger is better" advice for the Middle Fork Salmon also apply to Selway low-water trips? Is a 16 or 18 foot boat still ideal, or is the nature of the river different enough to change the advice?

Also, what is a general rule for the cut-off flow to switch out of rafts and into IKs and packrafts?

Love the show, and thanks for all the advice and entertainment!

Topic: Whitewater Helmets

Zach, I'm looking to buy a new helmet for rafting. Can you talk about a few hemlets that you have tried and what would be your top 3 recommendations?

Topic: Cat Frame

I was wondering if you had any recommendations for a day frame for my 12x22 cat, I am looking for something lightweight but durable that’s narrower than 68 inches.

Topic: SPORT LINES!!

Mayhaps you could add your take on a lingering question within the rank and file of the rafting community;

Sport Lines only count if you call them out beforehand correct?

In this episode, we’re joined by the legendary Charlie Walbridge, a pioneer in whitewater safety with over 40 years of experience. As an author, accident analyst, and key contributor to river rescue techniques, Charlie has shaped the way paddlers approach safety on the water. He’s here to share his expertise, stories, and hard-earned wisdom about navigating risk in whitewater environments.

The Evolution of Whitewater Safety – Charlie reflects on how safety practices have evolved over the years, including the development of essential rescue tools like the throw bag and key concepts like “foot entrapment.”

Packed with expert insights, compelling river stories, and plenty of practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for paddlers, guides, and anyone who loves the thrill of moving water.

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater.

Topic: Throw Ropes

On the Ocoee River in Southeast TN we are permitted by TN State Parks and they oversee the day to day. We are working with rules that were last updated in the 90's. Proposed new rules will require a throw rope 3/8" diameter 70' long in every commercial boat with a knife in every boat. I definitely agree with a knife with every throw rope, but I am having a hard time with a rope in every boat. Current rule states a throw rope with every 6 boats and no knife requirement. The Ocoee is wide and shallow in most places. We have had a death and a de-gloving of a digit in the past few years from throw ropes.

I like "senior" guides who have training to carry throw ropes, but I think of the first and second year guides who are just trying to learn how to function as a river guide and most are not ready to carry a throw rope and a knife. A busy July/August Saturday might have 1000 commercial boats per day, which means to me the potential for many dropped knifes in the river. Thoughts?

Topic: Hells Canyon

Hi Zach, I scored a Hells Canyon permit launching June 15, a new river for me. The next three days are scheduled non-jetboat days, so that's nice. Floating from the dam to Heller Bar and we want 1 layover day.

How many total days do you think we should plan for? Any other input for this stretch you might share?

Thanks for these videos and I hope River Hardware is doing well.

Topic: Middle Fork Boats

We scored a Middle Fork permit for July 14. Wondering about your thoughts on taking an 18 ft SOTAR at that time of year? I’ve got other options, but the next size down is an E140…

In this captivating episode, we welcome Kara Weld, a three-time U.S. national champion in canoe slalom, seasoned kayaker, and CEO of Immersion Research. Kara talks about her journey through competitive kayaking, her passion for the outdoors, and building a successful business.

Full of inspiring stories, practical insights, and Kara’s energy, this episode is perfect for adventurers, entrepreneurs, and anyone who loves hearing from trailblazers.

Kara mentioned a great movie about female kayakers called Fast and Clean, you can watch it on YouTube here.

Follow the podcast for more engaging discussions with inspiring guests. For more episodes, visit our website at Whitewater Guidebook.

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater.

Topic: SOTAR Valve Placement

I'm having a SOTAR raft built- it's a 12'6" non diminished design, and will be run as both an oar rig and R2 paddle raft. I'm trying to settle on valve placement. The standard SOTAR fill valves are positioned on the tubes at 2 o'clock and 8 o'clock if looking down from above the boat.

Thanks in advance, see you on the river!

In this exciting episode, we’re joined by the incredible Daniel Stillman, a seasoned multi-day guide, rafting instructor, and adventurer with a deep love for rivers and outdoor education. Daniel shares his expertise, captivating stories, and enthusiasm as he reflects on his career and his recent adventures in Ecuador.

Packed with personal anecdotes, professional insights, and plenty of humor, this episode is a must-listen for outdoor enthusiasts, aspiring guides, and anyone who loves a great story from the wild.