Lifestyle und Inspiration ·Jun 30, 2022

Safety in Stand Up Paddling

You're leisurely paddling on a large lake, already some distance from the shore, and don't notice a large thunderstorm front appearing in the mountains behind you and the wind starting to pick up slightly. Within minutes, the weather changes, and the light breeze turns into a fierce and gusty wind. You fall off your board and your SUP board drifts away with the wind….

A nightmare situation for anyone!

Why safety always comes first when stand-up paddleboarding!

Stand-up paddleboarding is easy to learn and can be done well into old age. If this water sport is performed correctly, the risk of an accident or injury is relatively low. Nevertheless, you are dealing with the elements of water and weather, so small mistakes or misjudgments of the situation can have fatal consequences.

In this article, you will find some safety tips that can protect you from accidents and misjudgments!

Tip 1: Pay attention to weather, wind, and currents!

If you're completely new to stand-up paddleboarding and don't have any prior experience with windsurfing, kitesurfing, or surfing, you should first learn to assess weather, wind, and currents.

Even light wind can be disruptive when stand-up paddleboarding, especially if it makes the water choppy, you have to paddle against the wind, and you still have trouble maintaining your balance. If you fall off your SUP board in this situation and aren't using a leash, your SUP board can quickly drift away from you, and you might panic.

If you lose your paddle in an emergency, it's not a major problem. You can lie on your SUP board and paddle back with your arms like a surfer. However, if you lose your board and are far from shore, the paddle won't help you.

So, always check both the weather and wind forecast before you set off for stand-up paddleboarding.

In some waters, there is a risk from currents or changing water levels. Find out beforehand what dangers might occur at your chosen SUP spot.

Tip 2: Safety equipment for stand-up paddleboarding

Please realize that there is no shame in paddling with a life vest and leash. In some countries, a life vest is mandatory for water sports anyway.

The leash connects you to the SUP board, so you can't lose it if you fall into the water. Please note that there are different types of leashes for different waters. The wrong leash can also lead to problems! We are happy to advise you on choosing the right leash for your SUP board!

You should bring your charged smartphone in a waterproof phone case so you can call for help in an emergency.

Tip 3: Protection against heat and cold

Both extreme heat and cold can impair your paddling enjoyment.

In hot summer temperatures, pay attention to proper headwear, enough sun protection, and sufficient fluids. Stand-up paddleboarding in a bikini may sound tempting, but you should protect your skin from intense sun exposure with a rash guard and appropriate SUP pants if you plan to be out for longer.

In colder seasons, you need to protect your body from cooling down but still avoid sweating. There are special dry suits for stand-up paddleboarding that are breathable and won't make you too hot.

You can find more information on SUP in winter in this blog post!

Tip 4: Don't paddle alone or tell someone your plans

If you are not yet experienced, you should not go on longer tours alone or move far from the shore. In various SUP groups on Facebook, you can find enough people who want to paddle together.

If you have gained some experience and want to paddle alone, always inform someone beforehand about your planned route and send them a message in between to confirm that everything is OK.

As a SUP beginner, investing in a beginner's course is definitely worthwhile, as you will learn how to move safely on the water. For your next SUP tour, always remember that safety comes first!