OKLAHOMA CITY — RIVERSPORT and the International Canoe Federation have announced Zhik (pronounced zike) as the official technical apparel partner of the 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships, set for July 2026 at RIVERSPORT in Oklahoma City.
Following a successful partnership at the 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in Penrith, Australia, Zhik will once again provide technical apparel for the team behind the event, including volunteers, officials and staff. The partnership continues Zhik’s commitment to supporting the global paddle community through innovative, high-performance apparel.
“We’re excited to kit out the team behind the scenes, from volunteers, officials and staff, who are essential to the success of these events,” said Johnny Rodgers, Zhik’s head of marketing, partnerships and global sponsorship manager. “This opportunity to work again with the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships allows us to bring our commitment to performance, innovation and the paddle community to life.”
Zhik has worked closely with the RIVERSPORT management team following the 2025 world championships to ensure Oklahoma City receives a high-quality apparel experience designed specifically for the event.
“After seeing the quality and professionalism Zhik brought to the 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships, we’re excited to continue that partnership in Oklahoma City,” said Chris Sorensen, executive director of RIVERSPORT. “Zhik understands our sport and our community. Their commitment to innovation and delivering a first-class experience makes them a natural partner as we welcome the world’s best canoe slalom athletes to Oklahoma City.”
The partnership also strengthens Zhik’s growing presence within the U.S. paddle community. Earlier this year, Zhik was announced as the official apparel partner of the American Canoe Association’s national teams through the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The ACA serves as a key partner for the 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships and continues to play an important role in growing paddle sports in the United States.
During the championship, Zhik will showcase its latest paddle apparel and product innovations, giving athletes, officials and the broader paddling community an opportunity to experience the company’s newest technical gear.
The 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships will bring the world’s top canoe slalom and kayak cross athletes to RIVERSPORT, marking the first time the event has been hosted in the United States in more than 30 years.
For more information on the 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships, visit okc2026.org