Field guide: summer boat day essentials

A closer look at what the Arc team is packing for demos and lake sessions this season.

Our team spends a lot of time on the water — like a lot. After thousands of demo miles, countless early starts, and long days aboard the Arc Sport, our sales crew and ambassadors know which gear makes the perfect boat day. So we tapped our team members around the country to share some of their favorites and give you a closer look at what’s in their coolers, racks, and gear bags.

Boards we love to ride

Austin Keen · Carlsbad, California: Kanuk AK Pro

When Arc ambassador Austin Keen rides behind the boat, you can guarantee he’s on his pro wake skim model. Unlike traditional wakesurf boards, this low-profile, high-performance design is loose, skatey, and perfect for his signature spins and shuv-its.

“Love my Kanuk! It’s built with care from the boys over in Kelowna. Performs super well, and provides all the speed, pop, and performance I require.” - Austin

Grant Jeide · Everywhere: Soulcraft Voodoo

Grant has known the Soulcraft crew for years, which makes the connection personal. He’s all about versatility on the water, which is why he always has their Voodoo model on the boat. The high-volume design makes it easy for beginners to gain confidence, while the sharper rails make it easy to gain speed and lock into the pocket.

"Me and Soulcraft go way back. They build beautiful boards that are just plain fun to ride — especially behind the Arc Sport."

Apparel we actually wear

Roman Manning · West Coast: Florence Marine X

Roman and his wife Mackensie spend enough time outdoors to know the difference between gear that performs and gear that simply looks cool. In summer, Florence becomes his everyday uniform thanks to lightweight and durable fabrics, stylish designs, and pieces that transition easily from the boat to the bar.

"Florence hits all the marks of a high-performance product that fits well. You can pretty much guarantee I’ll be in the boardshorts and UPF shirts whenever I’m on the Arc Sport.” - Roman

Sun protection

Oliviah Gemperle · Lake Tahoe, California: Freaks of Nature sun stick + SPF chapstick

Sun protection is non-negotiable for our teams. Oliviah never shows up without a non-spray sunscreen like the Freaks of Nature Sun Stick and a few SPF chapsticks in her dry bag. The formulas hold up through wakesurf sessions and never feel heavy or greasy. Plus anything with Kelly Slater’s stamp of approval is good in our book.

"Freaks is always in my kit for days on the water. It goes on clean and clear, and it stays on through the day.” - Oliviah

Drinks & snacks

Kristen Szost · Austin, Texas: Bawi Aqua Fresca + Siete chips

Kristen first brought Bawi and Siete chips to a Lake Travis demo and made converts of the entire crew. Both Austin based brands complement each other perfectly — especially on the water. The Austin-made agua fresca is delicious, light, and super refreshing. And the chips, well, let’s just say once that bag is open it doesn’t last long.

"Bawi is a staple on just about any boat in Texas. I usually bring extras because somebody always ends up drinking two or three. It’s that good." - Kristen

Music on board

Michael Helwig · Southeast: Electric Summer Playlist

Every Arc Sport is fitted with a JL Audio system that pumps. So when Arc Product Advisor Michael Helwig gets on the boat, he gets everybody moving with tracks like “Fire, Fire” by Shimza, “Water Flow” by Klyne, and even some Whitney Houston. Music is a huge part of the Arc Sport experience, and that’s why we put together a special playlist for our Electric Summer Tour — which you’ll definitely be hearing on our boats at all of our demo locations.

“Once I put on ‘Fire, Fire’, that’s when things really come alive on the boat. The smiles get wider, the airs get bigger, and the fun goes to 11. And yes, Whitney’s ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ always turns the boat into a giant singalong.” - Michael

All about the little things

At the end of the day, a great boat day isn't about bringing everything on this list. It's about bringing the right things for you and your crew. These are just a handful of recommendations, so don’t be afraid to try other items to see what suits your style. And make sure to tag us @arcboats to share what you’re bringing on the boat this summer.