Spade Bliss

Spade Bliss: An agile creek kayak designed specifically for lighter paddlers

Bliss: No More Compromises for Smaller Players

For a long time, lighter paddlers had to make compromises—either they paddled in boats that were too bulky for them, that were harder to lean and where the water literally “played” with them, or they opted for smaller playboats and river runners, which, however, lacked the displacement and safety needed for heavier creeking. The Spade Bliss radically solves this problem. It is a pure whitewater machine whose proportions have been carefully scaled down and fine-tuned to ergonomically and hydrodynamically suit people with lower body weight and shorter stature.

Hull and Hydrodynamics: Speed, Stability, and Easy Boofing

The hydrodynamics of the Bliss model are based on Spade's popular larger models, but are optimized for lighter loads:

• Planing hull (flat bottom): It provides excellent maneuverability and fantastic carving when entering the turns. The boat surfs the waves with absolute ease.
• Rocker (raised toe): The pronounced longitudinal camber in the nose allows the boat to rise instantly above waves and rollers. The Bliss literally begs to be "boofed" over rocks and drops; it doesn't require brute force, but responds to proper technique.
• Discharge Distribution: The boat has plenty of volume around the cockpit and at the stern, which prevents it from accidentally diving into turbulent water and gives the rider a tremendous sense of security.

Outfitting: Simplicity, Lightweight, and Secure Fit

Spade Kayaks equips its kayaks with a functional, extremely lightweight, and robust interior system (outfitting) that doesn't break down unnecessarily and keeps the kayak's total weight at a fantastic 18 kilograms:

• Seat and pillars: The sturdy, one-piece rotationally molded seat provides excellent power transfer from the rider to the boat's hull.
• Backrest: The backrest adjustment system, which uses lightweight cables and aluminum clamcleats, is extremely reliable. You won't find any mechanical ratchets here that could get clogged with sand or break off.
• Supports and Restraints: Fully adjustable footrests (bulkhead) and precisely contoured side panels ensure a perfect fit with the boat, even for riders with narrower hips and shorter legs.

Appropriate Activities and Use in Whitewater

The Spade Bliss is a versatile and high-performance kayak designed for:

• Creeking and Steep Rivers: Thanks to its stable displacement and rocker, it can handle even the most challenging Alpine rivers and waterfalls.
• River Running as a Sport: A fast and agile boat for fun runs and exploring new lines on rivers up to WW III–IV difficulty.
• Progress and Instruction: Thanks to its predictability and ease of handling, it’s the ideal board for riders who want to take their technique to the next level without fear of capsizing.

About the brand Spade Kayaks

The Spade Kayaks brand was founded in Europe by a group of enthusiasts and top paddlers (including Hans Mayer, Matze Brustmann, and Olli Grau). Their philosophy is simple: to build kayaks that they themselves want to paddle. They focus on high-quality plastic, perfect ergonomics, and shapes that bring soul, lightness, and dynamism to paddling.

Caring for a Polyethylene Shell

The kayak is made of durable polyethylene using the rotational molding process. To ensure the shell’s maximum lifespan, we recommend storing the kayak in a dry place after the season, away from prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays. After paddling in very dirty or sandy water, rinse the inside of the cockpit—and especially the slots in the backrest—with fresh water so that the lines glide smoothly.

Technical parameters and specifications

Bonus program and purchase benefits

When you purchase a Spade Bliss kayak from us, you’ll not only get a fantastic boat, but also credits for our rewards program. You can use these credits for a significant discount on a lightweight paddle, a perfectly sealing neoprene spraydeck with a smaller collar, or life jackets. We’re always happy to help our customers fine-tune their outfitting using the included foam pads for 100% contact with the kayak.