Who Are We?

“It’s not about the boat, it’s about where the boat takes you.”  – Larry Laba, founder of SOAR . 

SOAR was purchased in March of 2024 by Trail Head River Sports in Missoula Montana.  We are thrilled to carry on the SOAR tradition that Larry created.

When SOAR canoes were first introduced in 1993, people did not know quite what to make of these blue “sausages”. Un-traditional and unconventional by both hard-shell and inflatable standards, the SOAR inflatable canoe has gained a reputation as “the most versatile adventure crafts in the world”.

SOAR, which stands for “Somewhere On A River”, was conceived to get more people involved in river adventure. As SOAR founder Larry Laba likes to say: “It’s not about the boat, it’s about where the boat takes you.” Originally designed for wilderness river exploration, SOARs are now widely used by divers, giving way to a new moniker, “Somewhere Over A Reef”!

Missoula, MT is home to some of the best paddling in the world (according to us at least) and makes a perfect home for SOAR. Whether you are interested in a flat water, whitewater, or long expeditions we have both the boat and the knowledge to help you. We are commited to outfitting our customers with both the right equipment and knowledge for whatever adventures lie ahead. Our staff holds a vast bank of knowledge and experience to share with you.

SOAR is a small company that a lot of people do not know, but the customers that we do have are some of the best in the world. Those who do know, and do paddle these boats absolutely love them. If you don't beleive us check out our photos and testemonials at the top of the screen and see where a SOAR can take you!