I'm planning to try this out with the intention of making my backyard river more fun (the Tuckaseegee in WNC) and moving up to the Nantahala and maybe the Ocoee if I like it and get good enough.

These are shallow rocky rivers so I'm guessing an inflatable is the way to go? The Stride Airlite HD looks pretty tough...is this the direction you'd recommend?

What about a paddle? Cheap and plastic or something nicer? Seems like it'd get beat up a lot.

Any advice would be helpful and appreciated. I've been doing a lot of Googling lately but am only feeling more confused by the options and want some real-paddlers input.

Thanks!