So you’ve decided to start paddle boarding, or are at least thinking about it. To ensure you’re not scratching your head with where to start, here is an essentials checklist that will take you through exactly what you need. So all you have to do is head straight to the water and get paddling.
As you’re just a beginner, you don’t need to get yourself the most expensive, or best inflatable paddle board on the market. You may find you don’t eve enjoy it, so try renting one first to see what you think. Even if you love it, buying the best inflatable paddle board right away just isn’t necessary. Here’s what we (experts in paddle boarding) think you need as a beginner…
Inflatable Paddle Board & Accessories
- Stand up paddle board: You couldn’t go paddling without it, so let’s make sure it’s perfect for you. Inflatable paddle boards that include a handy travel bag allow you to easily transport your kit to wherever your paddling adventures take you.
- Paddle: You’ll want a fibreglass paddle, and you’ll definitely need to make sure you take this with you. You won’t be able to move across the water without it.
- Pump: You’ll have to pump up your inflatable, so make sure you don’t forget this piece of equipment.
- Fin(s): It’s important to have fins to paddle smoother and with greater stability on the water. So make sure these are packed in your backpack.
- Extra accessories: Remember to keep your accessories packed if you’re looking to explore your options on the water.
Clothing & Footwear For Paddle Boarding
Now, this depends on the climate you’re paddling in. The most important factor isn’t to be prepared for the air temperature, but also for the water temperature.
For warmer weather and water, it’s best to choose clothing that dries quickly. So we’d recommend you look to wear…
- Lightweight T-shirt (protecting you from the sun’s rays), shorts/broad shorts, ● Swimming wear: you may want to wear this under your clothes if you want to take a quick dip to cool off
- Waterproof shoes, neoprene shoes or even sandals
- A sun hat
- Sunglasses (either a pair you don’t mind losing, or perhaps invest in a strap that you can wear safely around your neck)
For cooler weather and water, it’s best to choose clothing that insulates! We suggest lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove. You never realise how warm you can get once you start paddling.
- Neoprene top(s) and shorts/trousers
- Wetsuit
- Wool or synthetic socks (no one likes cold toes)
- Hat & gloves
- Any additional lightweight thermals that you’d benefit from (that don’t hinder you from paddling)
Top Tip: We’d recommend, beginner paddle boarder or not, bring a spare set of clothing so that you’re never travelling home wet!
Safety, Safety, Safety
Paddle boarding is fun, so make sure it stays that way. Ensure you’re ready for anything! Safety in the water is always something that should be taken seriously, no matter how calm the water appears. So we’d recommend the following:
- A Leash – so you don’t get separated from your board
- Rescue whistle
- Personal flotation device (PFD): If you’re not the most confident swimmer, it may be worth investing in a PFD of some form
- Head Torch or flashlight: an essential if you’re paddling before sunrise or after sunset
- First aid kit: This can either fit into your dry bag, or leave it in your car
General Items
Let’s also not forget that if you’re paddling out onto an open stretch of water, you’ll experience stronger sun rays, sharper winds, etc. So perhaps consider adding the following to your bag or cargo storage space on your SUP, so that you’re ready for everything along your journey…
- A dry bag or two to store your items, keeping them safe even if they fall into the water
- Suncream (water-resistant + a good SPF)
- Lip balm with an SPF
- A water bottle
- Snacks or food to eat that will keep
- Credit card or a small amount of cash (Incase you find a hidden gem of a place)
- Mobile phone safely tucked away in a waterproof dry bag or case
- An action camera: Ready to attach to your SUP’s camera mount to catch all the action
- Towel
So there you have it, a beginner paddleboard checklist of the basics that will ensure you’re having the most enjoyable and safest time out on the water!
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