
Gear Garage Live Show
Zach rambles about all things whitewater with a focus on rafting
Episodes
Reading the feed…

Zach rambles about all things whitewater with a focus on rafting
Reading the feed…
The Low-Water Soapbox: Myth vs. Reality Zach kicks off the show addressing the flood of anxious questions about low water levels on the Middle Fork of the Salmon and the Rogue River. His take? It's not actually that low: Middle Fork of the Salmon: Currently running at 3.2 feet, which is very close to average. A truly "low" water level would be down around 1.8 feet. Zach notes that anything between 80% and 120% of average is a good, normal flow. The Rogue River: The dam is releasing 1,400 CFS (with some diverted for irrigation), leaving about 1,200 CFS in the river—though it may drop to 1,100 C
Tear-Aid | Gear Garage Live Show This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage live show, where Zach covers whitewater rafting, river safety, gear, and everything else whitewater. In this episode, Zach shares details about booking standards for commercial trips, critiques common rowing styles, and evaluates field repair solutions. Episode Summary The primary discussion segment serves as a major public service announcement regarding the eternal debate of pushing versus pulling when navigating technical rapids. Reacting to a social media clip shared by fellow boater Brody, Zach strongly e
Custom Boat Idea & Umbrellas | Gear Garage Live Show This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage live show, where Zach breaks down technical rafting questions, reviews custom gear, and answers viewer-submitted questions. In this episode, Zach dives into custom raft design specifications, managing first-time rafters on multi-day river trips, and the utility of high-end throw bags. Episode Summary Zach kicks off the episode by introducing a brand-new prototype throw bag from Sockdolager Equipment, designed specifically with thoughtful modifications for packrafters and rafters alike. He
Custom Boat Idea & Umbrellas | Gear Garage Live Show This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage live show, where Zach breaks down technical rafting questions, reviews custom gear, and answers viewer-submitted questions. In this episode, Zach dives into custom raft design specifications, managing first-time rafters on multi-day river trips, and the utility of high-end throw bags. Episode Summary Zach kicks off the episode by introducing a brand-new prototype throw bag from Sockdolager Equipment, designed specifically with thoughtful modifications for packrafters and rafters alike. He
Cobra Oar Locks & Undercut Rocks | Gear Garage Live Show This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage live show, where Zach covers whitewater rafting, river safety, gear, and answers viewer questions. In this episode, Zach discusses the dangers of undercut rocks and addresses a question about a 14-foot Star raft and calculating oar length. Episode Summary Zach begins the show by highlighting that this episode will focus on answering user questions and revisiting a video from Bedrock on the Grand Canyon. The main technical segment covers a question regarding undercut rocks and what happ
Elk River & Grand Canyon Footage | Gear Garage Live Show This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage live show, where Zach answers submitted questions and talks all things whitewater. In this episode, Zach recaps his recent experiences at Clackfest and shares advice for boaters exploring the technical coastal streams of Oregon. Episode Summary Zach kicks off the show with an enthusiastic review of the newly updated Clackfest, noting its recent shifts to a Friday start complete with product demos, educational classes, and a community gathering under a large event tent. Despite some hea
Episode Summary Zach kicks off the episode by highlighting Clackfest, the Northwest's premier annual whitewater gathering. He notes that the festival has expanded its schedule with vendor booths, gear demos, and live music kicking off early, followed by a full schedule of multi-category river races on Saturday. The core technical discussion addresses a viewer planning a trip down Hell's Canyon who is expanding their setup with a 16-foot AIRE raft. The viewer asks about stretching an NRS Bighorn frame out to a 69-inch width, creating a 78-inch gap between the oar locks. Zach uses his standard s
This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage live show, where Zach answers submitted questions and talks shop on technical rafting. In this episode, Zach dives into the logistics of camp selection on the Middle Fork, discusses PFD innovations, and shares technical tips for raft maintenance. Episode Summary Zach starts the episode by highlighting the 40th anniversary of Clackamas River Festival and encouraging boaters to participate in the community races. The main technical discussion focuses on the Middle Fork of the Salmon, specifically how to navigate the camp lottery system and cho
This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage live show, where Zach answers submitted questions and talks all things whitewater. In this episode, Zach shares his excitement for the upcoming Clackfest and provides expert advice on identifying and maintaining vintage Avon rafts. Episode Summary Zach kicks off the show with an enthusiastic look at Clackfest, his favorite event of the year. This festival, now in its 40th year, is centered around the whitewater community and features twelve different types of races—ranging from R-II and R-IV rafting to SUP, kayak, and packraft events. Zach e