Nordic Specialists

Johnathan Bandt

2023-06

I recently purchased a 14’ Starboard Allstar race board from Paddleboard Specialists. The updated website made it very easy to sort through all the available boards. I called Cris at the shop to ask questions about a few particular boards and zero’d in on the Allstar. The next day Cris set up a demo paddle on the board. It was a pressure free environment and I could try the board out for as long as I would like. The only requirement was returning it before the shop closed. After the demo ride, Cris installed the rest of the handles and accessories that came with the board and helped me load it onto my car. This is a well run shop and Cris’ expertise and experience will guide you to your ideal board.

Zach Dallessandro

2023-10

I recently ordered my first kayak and had difficulty with other companies when it came to shipping in my area. The team at Paddleboard Specialist made it happen and the customer service, communication and shipping were seem less and top notch. If you are looking for any water sports equipment I would highly recommend them over anyone else. Absolutely amazing team

Ryan McIntosh

2023-09

Had an amazing experience with Paddleboard Specialists. I recently transitioned from decades of surfing to SUP due to my Midwest move from CA and have rediscovered my passion for water sports. Having outgrown the generic inflatable board I was using for fitness training, I connected with Chris who listened patiently to my background and paddling objectives. We discussed different race boards and guided me through on land instruction and in water board demos. His expertise and passion were evident, and I ultimately purchased a 404 Jump 14 x 23.5 with a QuickBlade T86 paddle. Chris's insights, from proper board width selection to tips on eliminating paddle hand slipping and beyond, were invaluable, making the purchase and knowledge gained well worth the investment. If you're in the Midwest (or really anywhere in the world) seeking expert SUP help, new to the sport like me or a seasoned vet, call Paddleboard Specialists. Huge thanks to Chris, his wife and the team for an exceptional experience!

Jake

2023-07

Bought a damaged board from this company. He was super cool about it, let me really look it over. It’s a great way to get my foot in the door as a newer paddler without breaking the bank. Will plan to buy another new Starboard from these guys when I get better at it.

Les Thornbury

2024-03

Cris and the team at PS are the best. Great communication, knowledgeable, and great prices on boards. I’ll be back for my next one!

Ben F

2023-08

This is the perfect place to go for paddleboarders of any type and experience level! Other paddling stores in southern Wisconsin don't generally have a good selection of boards, and good luck finding someone at one of those places who knows anything about SUPing -- this is doubly true for larger chain stores (looking at you, REI.)I've been itching to get out on more rivers and to be able to go in shallow areas, but my old 14' touring board obviously isn't great at cornering, and the fin boxes aren't made to take much punishment. The owner helped me pick out an inflatable Starboard River 11' x 34" that can turn on a dime and is tough as nails.She was so friendly and knowledgeable, and I got some excellent recommendations for local paddling routes near Oconomowoc. I've already put the board through some serious punishment scraping the fins as well as the bottom over trees and rocks in its first 2 months, and it barely has a scratch on it!

MarthaK

2023-05

In the market for a new high-end kayak. Initially very impressed with this outfit. Visited the warehouse and Ray kindly unpacked some new boats for me to sit in and get the feel of. Then scheduled a time with Eli to test in the water, which was encouraged. At day and time of appointment (10 am on a Saturday) there was no one at the store and my call was not answered or returned. Eli showed up at 11 and the boats I had made the appointment to try were not there. Another customer was also sitting in the parking lot for the same thing. We are moving on to a different dealer.

Brendan Dowd

2017-05

Need a board? Maybe you're looking to train for your first race? Either way, you better head over to Paddleboard Specialists for advice and counsel. I had the pleasure of working with Cris and the crew in getting outfitted for my first true race board. I was amazed at both their knowledge of the sport and the patience they gave in allowing me to demo a few boards from their fleet. That's why I'll definitely keep heading back. They take the time to get to know who you are as a paddler and then match you with equipment that meets your individual needs. Forget Costco and forget finding a deal on some forum. You need some real-time analysis from a crew committed to your success on the water. They're also great ambassadors for the sport and can keep you well educated on trends and conversations shaping this global community of water loving crazies.Get into this shop and geek out over rocker and blade size. Looks like they even have a new coffee bar. But beware, you may become infected with the paddling disease and never be the same boring person again.Brendan,Seattle

Catherine Downing

2022-05

We love this shoo. It is such an excellent example of a wonderful family business that has very high quality service. They worked with us for over a year to order and send us the paddle boards that we really wanted. Then they helped us through amazing difficulties in getting them shipped to us here in Nicaragua as we wait out the pandemic. Thank you so very much to the whole crew. We love our paddleboards and can't thank them enough.

Meghan Garland

2023-06

Chris helped me with a quick repair and a new SUP fin. He was kind, helpful and quick responding to emails and calls. He was even nice to my dog! Thank you :-)

Abigail Rausch

2017-05

We are new to the SUP world, and have yet to purchase a board. My family and I have stopped in at the shop several times to ask questions and get advice on how best to get started. The owners, Chris and Susanna, were very helpful. We never felt pressure to buy.The new coffee bar is a fantastic addition and even kept my 1 and 3 year olds entertained while the adults discussed boards.

Cathleen Esselstyn

2021-05

Last summer I purchased a paddleboard and now skis for this winter. Chris and Susanna offer quality gear along with professionalism, their expertise and a friendly and fun atmosphere. They take the time to match the customer to the correct gear. They are honest and a pleasure to do business with!

Becky Thomas

2017-05

This place is awesome!!! Cris and Susanna were great to work with and super knowledgeable about Paddleboards and accessories! Cris allowed me to try several boards out on the lake and even came along to see how I handled each board. They even have a fun new coffee bar in the shop that customers can hang out at with friends after a morning paddle! Love this place! If you are in the market for a board or even thinking about trying the sport out, go here!!!!!

Jim Bostrom

2019-05

I bought classic cross country skis here last weekend. Very good equipment with owners who are enthusiasts themselves. Good technical support from experienced staff. Great store layout and feel. Owners care about and help the community, and organize active events for all ages.

Austin Michael

2017-05

Couldn't be happier with my experience. I purchased my first board from Cris in 2015, and haven''t looked back. Cris walked me through my options, and helped me make the right choice. Many more Fins, paddles,and gear later I am still an ecstatic customer. If you want your first board or your 40th you can't go wrong checking in the Specialists.

Eric Scott

2021-05

We bought two inflatable paddle boards from them. I had trouble getting an aftermarket electric pump (that I didn't buy from them) to work with the boards. I emailed them on a Monday when they were closed. They called me back later that day and had me up and running in no time. Great product knowledge and support after the sale! If you want water toys, buy them here :-)

vicki carstenn

2017-05

Cris and Susannah are delightful and easy to work with. They want customers to be happy with the product and will go the great lengths to make your experience and purchase something you will use and enjoy. They will provide you with water time and assistance in getting started on your paddleboard journey. They are both terrific.

Rictifyit !

2020-05

A Great place to buy a SUP, and a treasure trove of valuable help ! Just start asking questions, and you'll get the answers ! Chris and Ray gave me all their attention, schooled me on numerous items, and helped me pick out the SUP right for me! They even helped me load up my new SIC Okeanos to make sure I got it home safe! Without any doubts, I would recommend contacting them about any SUP question, but if you can stop in and visit, you won't be sorry!

Jeremy and Mieke Craven

2021-05

Went in for guidance on how to patch my inflatable. Chris ended up helping me with the repair - no charge. Good people. If you're looking for a proper board, don't mess around. Go here.

Matthew Rausch

2017-05

There is a comfortable and welcoming vibe in the shop. Cris and Susanna are very knowledgeable and involved in the paddle board community. Be it racing, leisurely paddling or even fishing, they can point you in the right direction!

Kevin Deuel

2017-05

Little or no support or follow up. Expensive board arrived with chipped used fin. No follow up on the replacement with Naish even after calling them and sending photo.Bought items described as working for my board and they don't fit or work.Beware ! website is very unclear and if you buy the wrong stuff you are out of luck. Bought a rack labeled as shown below but it only works for BOATS!:"SUPRAX Single Board SystemThe ultimate modular SUP racking system.UNIT PRICE: $249.99SUPRAX is the ultimate modular SUP racking system. 061 Aluminum Alloy Sandblasted and Anodized. Heat Pressed EVA protective foam. Free up dock space, free up boat space."Was told that since I didn't call in and talk to somebody it was my fault, too bad. SO don't use the website to order. Go in person and see for your self.

andy53066 mireau

2019-05

I knew nothing about paddleboarding until I went in to paddleboard specialists. They explained to me how different boards are good for different rider styles etc. Now I've got 3 of there boards and feel like I can stop in anytime to visit or ask questions as I mature as a paddleboard junkie! Do yourself a favor and stop in to see what they are all about!

Bruce Kinateder

2018-05

The owners and staff are excellent. They stock an extensive number of paddle boards. You can demo boards on the lake across the street. This is the place to go for paddle boards.

Eli Williams

2023-05

Returned an inflatable board that had a leak and was given a replacement with no questions asked.

Heather Patzer

2017-05

If you are in the market for a paddle board, this is the place to go! Knowledgeable staff and boards for all levels.

Gary Pikovsky

2018-05

Excellent service. Would give 10 stars if I could.

Mike Johnsen

2020-05

Very Professional. Leaders in the industry. Thank you!

Joel Krochalk

2020-05

Knowledgeable, very customers focused.

Roxie M.

2023-07

Paddleboards galore!