Home > Paddling > Kayak

‘Banking on Bailey’ Is Our Favorite Kayak Film So Far This Year

Support us! GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn More

Love kayaking, colorful personalities, and old trucks? Well, you’re going to love this video by Filson and Merrell.

“It’s smaller than a tiny home.” That’s how Ryan Bailey, a whitewater kayaker, wildland firefighter, and the unofficial mayor of Banks, Idaho, describes this home to 17 hearty residents.

Situated at the confluence of the North and South forks of the Payette River, Banks is a big deal for kayakers. For them, it holds an allure similar to that of the North Shore of Hawaii for surfers. It’s like Yosemite to climbers.

Growing up, the river terrified Bailey, but it kept calling him. Twenty-one years after his first competition in Banks, he continues to live his life unapologetically; he’s not concerned about “what’s next,” but rather “what’s right now.”

The video celebrates a recent collaboration between Merrell and Filson, the limited-edition Convertible Sandal. Learn more here.

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!