Jun 30, 2022

SUP FAQ: The most frequently asked questions from Stand Up Paddle beginners

SUP FAQ: Die häufigsten Fragen von Stand Up Paddle Einsteigern

Summer time is paddling time! Have you tried stand up paddling for the first time, gotten a taste for it, but still have a few questions? In our SUP FAQs, SUP beginners can find answers to the most common questions!

Stand up paddling looks difficult! How quickly can I learn to paddle?

First of all, we want to put your fears about paddling to rest! Stand up paddling can be learned by almost anyone of any age. You will feel more confident after just 15 to 20 minutes on the SUP board and you will quickly make your first progress. If you are unsure, book a taster session or a beginner's course where you will learn the correct paddling technique.

Is stand up paddling dangerous? What do I need to look out for?

Stand up paddling on a windless day on a calm lake is a very safe activity. It is important that you are a good swimmer, are not afraid of the water, and pay attention to the necessary safety precautions. You can find more on this in our article "Safety while Stand Up Paddling".

Can I stand up paddle in every body of water?

In principle, you can paddle almost anywhere. However, there are certain restrictions that you must observe. You are, of course, not allowed to paddle in nature reserves. In addition, paddling is prohibited on some rivers or canals due to boat traffic. In any case, check with the relevant authority or the local SUP rental service about the regulations beforehand. In some countries or regions, there are also certain rules such as the mandatory wearing of a buoyancy aid.

Which SUP board should I buy as a beginner?

Before you decide on a SUP board, you should test different models. Visit test events and try out different boards so that you can see the differences. Do not choose a SUP board based on the lowest price, but rather on quality. After all, you want to enjoy your new sports equipment for as long as possible.

Should I buy an aluminum or carbon paddle?

That depends! An aluminum paddle is enough to start with, but if you want to paddle more sportily, you will switch to a carbon paddle sooner or later anyway. Take a look at our paddle guide, which will certainly help you with your decision!

What clothing should I wear when stand up paddling?

This depends on both the water and outside temperatures as well as your ability. As a beginner, you will fall into the water more often, so you should equip yourself with the right SUP clothing, especially for cool spring and autumn days, to keep you warm. The onion principle (layering) has also proven its worth for stand up paddling, because you naturally get warm while paddling and will start to sweat. In a normal wetsuit like surfers wear, you will certainly quickly get too warm while paddling on the lake, and your freedom of movement will be restricted. For the cold winter months, there are special dry suits for stand up paddlers. Don't forget to wear headgear in the warm summer months to protect you from the sun!

At what age can children learn to stand up paddle?

Since stand up paddling requires a certain amount of strength and good swimming skills should be present, stand up paddling is possible for children from about 6 to 8 years of age under supervision and with the appropriate safety precautions. For children, a board that is as small as possible and a suitable paddle should of course be chosen.

Do you have any other questions that haven't been answered in the SUP FAQs?

Then write us a comment and we will answer your question in the article and add it!