Since 2007, Shepherdstown Pedal & Paddle has provided the region with a full-service bike, kayak, and canoe shop, while also providing sales, services, and rentals.
About as conveniently located as it could possibly be in the heart of downtown (115 W. German St.), owner Eddie Sampson opened Pedal & Paddle in 2007 because of his love for both the outdoors and the town. With bike trails and a river nearby, the location proved perfect.
In 12 years, the shop has successfully provided the type of products and services the region deserves, and has certainly allowed Shepherdstown to accommodate a particular slice of the tourism pie that otherwise would have been lost.
In addition to what Pedal & Paddle provides its diverse clientele, Sampson prides himself on a level of in-house expertise that literally keeps the shop going.
“Everyone in here is helping each other out—it’s an awesome experience,” he emphasized. “There’s a great team atmosphere.”
Two members of that team are Torrence Adams and Kenny Walker—who each wear multiple hats once on the clock.
Adams joined the team in 2017 and brings 30+ years of a wide variety of experience in the bike industry, including providing sag support for RAAM race teams, wrenching at various racing events, and providing support for video production at Spinervals Cycling. In his spare time, he enjoys racing BMX bikes.
“I just love the atmosphere of a small town—when my wife and I first came up here, we grabbed a kayak and really enjoyed it. I also just fell for this place,” he confirmed. “As far as the experience here, I like all of it. I enjoy a small shop, and working here exposes you to so many things—the diversity of people, the surrounding landscape. It’s really special.”
Walker is the newest addition to the team—a local who brings 16+ years of experience in the industry and advanced bicycle repair skills. He has industry certifications in bike fit (Fit Kit), operations manager (Trek), service adviser (Trek), and e-bikes (Bosch). His love for cycling began with mountain bike racing, and in his spare time, he enjoys bike-packing, gardening, and spending time with his family.
“One day, my wife and I just decided to move up here—though I was working at a shop in Rockville [MD] for a while,” he explained. “While that was a great experience, the work-life balance was rough.”
Walker ended up finding out that Sampson was looking for a new manager at Pedal & Paddle, and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. “It was around spring time, I sent Eddie an email, and within a few days, it worked out,” he added. “It’s the smallest shop I’ve ever worked in, but it’s the most fun. I’m not just wrenching on bikes—I’m out there dropping off kayakers, getting people set up with rental bikes. You get to meet tons of people, interact with tourists, all of it. It’s been a great experience so far.”
For more information, visit the above links or call 304-876-3000.
By Staff Contributor