Originally called Vermont Waterways, Paddlesport Training Systems had its beginnings in 1997. Longtime Concept2 employee and marathon canoe racer, Mark McAndrew knew from his own experience and from the calls he received at Concept2 that there was a need for quality paddling-specific exercise equipment. A mechanically-minded guy, Mark worked out the design, had parts made and passed out prototypes to paddling friends who gave him feedback. When he had a design he was happy with, he showed his work to Dick and Pete Dreissigacker, the owners of Concept2, who in turn, gave him the go-ahead to market the new product – the Paddling Adapter to the Concept2 Indoor Rower. He got a patent and the business was off and running, with Mark and his wife, Hope, taking orders, assembling and shipping adapters evenings and on weekends.
Fast forward to 2023. Our mission of helping folks become better paddlers keeps us investigating ways to improve the Paddling Adapter. We’ve added the SUP paddle shaft for Standup Paddleboard enthusiasts and have a kayak adapter to Concept2’s Ski Erg. Our Paddling Adapters work on the Concept2’s Indoor Rower and RowErg (with either standard or tall legs) and at last count can be found in over 20 countries. Customer feedback has played a major role in our success and is always welcome.
