We believe it is important to use the best, more innovative equipment on the water...especially when it comes to what types of oars our guides row with on the Rogue River. Sawyer oars (and paddles) are made in southern Oregon by the Sawyer Paddles & Oars professionals. For over 40 years this company has been on the forefront of paddle and oar advancements. Their original Douglas Fir oars were light weight and had the ability to withstand the tough conditions unique to whitewater use. Today, the company also produces under the "Smoker" brand (these are solid Ash paddles and oars). Its newer hybrid oars are made of both composite and wood/composite and are arguably more durable than their wood counterparts and much lighter.
Our Whitewater Warehouse guides all have their own preferences regarding which type of oar they like to run on our Oregon rafting trips. But the one constant is that they all have selected Sawyer oars brand as their oar of choice.
Bruce Bergstrom, owner of Sawyer, had a couple interesting facts to share about his company. "I am proud of that our company has supplied the oars that set the Northern Atlantic Crossing record and also supplied the oars for the recent Southern Atlantic Crossing record. It is amazing to me to think about the individuals that set these records rowing for 2 1/2 months in a 20 foot boat." For more information on this interesting company which sells paddles and oars to hundreds of outfitters and even more private boaters, check out their website at: Sawyer Paddles & Oars
