Water is sometimes referred to as the elixir of life. It not only keeps us alive physically, it’s mystic power also has the ability to sooth the mind, calm the nerves, and replenish the soul. It’s something Sonya Schweitzer—founder of Girl Paddlers—recognized when she first started kayaking and paddleboarding.
She also discovered there was an intense need for more women to be able to connect both physically and spiritually about their love of water, to share their joy, knowledge, and experiences, and to create new friendships. Dark Dog Posse had a chance to talk with Sonya about this safe and inclusive community she created and how so many people are benefitting from it.
What prompted you to create Girl Paddlers?
As a member of a few paddling groups on Facebook, I realized the conversations were often dominated by male paddlers, and that the women were often intimidated and felt a little alienated in the groups. I also paddled with both a paddle board and a kayak, and most groups catered to just one or the other. To me, being on the water is what is important, not the vessel you paddle with.
Tell us about the company/philosophy.
We create a safe, inclusive, and supportive community for women to thrive on the water. Girl Paddlers is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community. We welcome women and women-identifying individuals of all skill and experience levels to join us in kayaking, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), canoeing, and any other water vessel. We provide an environment where women feel safe, supported, and inspired to enjoy their paddling journey. Our range of products and services includes clothing, home goods, memberships, travel experiences, regional meet-ups, and an online hub to help women create community and thrive on the water. As a paddler myself, I believe that paddling on any vessel is similar in the experience; the vessel is just different. I am focused on offering content, resources, and a community environment to help paddlers learn, empower, and support each other.
Why did you decide to make Girl Paddlers exclusively for women?
The experience for women is a little different than it is for men. We are strong, but we may not be as strong as some men we paddle with, leading to frustration. Women are also often looking for a different type of experience when we are paddling. We wanted to create a space of diversity and empowerment.
What do you offer your followers?
We are forever adding to our list of services, but we offer paddling meetups (regional), destination retreats, resources, content, discounted gear, and a community.
Why should women embrace this?
Many women don’t know where to start, or don’t know how to meet up with other like-minded women. We have created a safe place to gather, ask questions, get advice and guidance, and support.
You also happen to be a dog lover, right?
I have been an avid dog lover my whole life and have had the joy of being owned by a couple of dogs in my life. Most recently I had a blue heeler/beagle—Sidney—who was my adventure buddy! And his sister—Kira—who has now become my adventure buddy. Dogs add so much joy to life, and they have given me a purpose to get out and explore more. Our Girl Paddlers community is also full of big dog lovers. Many of our members are taking their pups paddling, and it is a joy to see their pictures.