Christian Riesen | Kayak Tester & Open Water Touring Expert in Switzer

Christian Riesen | Kayak Tester & Open Water Touring Expert in Switzerland

Christian is a kayaker, packrafter, canoeist, and certified Professional Risk Manager — and he brings all of that precision to every session on the water. As a Segla Gear paddle test center, he knows what performance really means. His philosophy: understand the gear, understand the water, never take either for granted.

The Waterman's Way

Christian Riesen is many things: an open water touring kayaker, a packrafter, a canoeist, and a certified Professional Risk Manager. Based in Switzerland and serving as a Segla Gear test center for paddles, Christian brings an analytical, precision-driven mindset to everything he does on the water.

Certified through both BCAB for Open Water Touring and ACA for Safety & Rescue, Christian approaches kayaking the way he approaches risk, thoughtfully, thoroughly, and with full respect for what's at stake. Whether he's testing a new paddle's flex on an alpine lake or packrafting a remote river valley, his goal is always the same: understand the gear, understand the water, and never take either for granted.

AMBASSADORS IN ACTION

Take a look at one of our ambassadors using their Segla Gear paddle.

Extraordinary on the water

See why passionate enthusiasts who take their time seriously choose gear that reflects their love for the sport.

Just phenomenal — absolutely my favourite paddle I've ever used. At the risk of sounding a bit corny, it's an absolute joy to use. It's incredibly lightweight and very precise in the water; it cuts incredibly cleanly and is ideal for very long days. They've truly changed my relationship with the water.

Leigh van der Byl

BCU Certified Kayaking Instructor & Outdoor Content Creator, UK

Competing at the highest level of Greenland Rolling demands a paddle that is precise, light and utterly reliable. The Ikigai is my trusted companion — it delivers the performance and feel I need to compete for a World Championship title. There is simply no other paddle I'd choose.

Rumer Fenn

U18 Danish Champion in Greenland Rolling; World Championship Competitor

Paddling the Arctic waters of Nordkapp year-round puts every paddle to the test. Segla Gear holds up to the cold, the conditions, and the demands of remote expedition kayaking. When your life depends on your equipment, you choose what you trust — and I trust Segla Gear.

Hugo Salamonsen

Sea Kayak Guide & Norwegian Canoe Union Activity Leader, Nordkapp / Magerøy Island