So, you’ll be paddleboarding for the first time? It’s understandable that you’re excited about it, but don’t let your excitement get in the way of organized planning for your new outdoor adventure.
One of the things that you should do is to make a checklist of the essential items that you will bring to your paddleboarding adventure. That way, you won’t miss out on anything and you’ll be able to enjoy the rest of your days – out on the water, paddleboarding to your heart’s content – without any worries.
The basics:
1) Paddle board
Of course, you cannot do your paddleboarding without the the most essential item – the paddle board. It can be either a stand-up paddle board (SUP) or a surfboard, particularly if you’re going to do standup paddleboarding. Paddle boards are either made of pure wood or carbon fiber. Check out this amazing suggestion of paddle boards that you would like to consider: “Top 7 Stand Up Paddleboards.”
2) Paddle
You cannot steer yourself on your paddle board without a good paddle. Aside from standard paddles, there are also adjustable paddles which are incredibly easy to set up.
3) Personal flotation device (for paddleboarding)
A personal flotation device (PFD) is a wearable lifesaver. It usually comes in either a vest or a belt form. PFD’s are not just a basic equipment; in fact, they are even required by law not only on paddle boards but also on all other water crafts. The reason is simple: PFD’s will save your life. If ever you flip over on your paddle board or if it gets carried away by the water, there’s the PFD which is designed to make your body float on the water’s surface until rescue arrives.
Apart from PFD, there are also many other types of lifesavers that range from Type I to Type V. If you have noticed, most standup paddleboarders choose the PFD Type and Type III due to their design aspects which allow them to have become more flexible (especially for such water sports as paddleboarding) aside from providing the wearers safety and comfort.
4) Leash or legrope
A legrope or a leash can be a small item, but it is a big thing that you should not definitely miss this. Because the leash could literally mean the difference between life and death, particularly if you’re paddling on an unexpected turbulent weather, feeling tired, getting lost or getting accidentally flipped over. Usually, a leash should be longer than your paddleboard. There are two types of leashes: coiled (like the coil of the old telephone) or straight.
4) GoPro
To those who are avidly into vlogging about outdoor activities in particular, the GoPro is a must-have. From tranquil lakes to action-filled white water rafting that beg to be photographed and recorded, GoPro is the perfect gear to include in your paddleboarding activity. It takes professional-caliber action photos and videos (with its 12-megapixel camera and 1080p video), is waterproof and is designed to withstand even the strongest impact.
5) Clothing and footwear
Wearing the appropriate clothing and footwear for paddleboarding allows you to move more flexibly and keeps you protected.
If you are paddleboarding in a warmer climate or warm waters, you should choose the following set of apparel:
– Rashguard
– Swimsuit, swimming trunks or board shorts
– Sandals, neoprene booties or water shoes
– Headgear
– Sun-shielding hat
You should also bring sunscreen (water-resistant SPF 30+) and lip balm (water-resistant SPF 15+) to keep your skin and lips protected from the sun’s rays. It is also important to keep yourself hydrated so bring along a water bottle or a hydration reservoir. Also, don’t forget to bring some snacks.
If you are paddleboarding in a colder climate or cooler waters, you should wear any the following:
– Thermal top and bottoms
– Neoprene tops and bottoms
– Wetsuit
– Drysuit
– Booties
– Gloves
6) Water shoes
You don’t just wear any other pair of sneakers because they may not be not suitable for water sports such as paddleboarding. Water shoes are extremely important gear but they are often overlooked. Some people even do not consider them essential. But if you are aiming for the optimal paddleboarding performance, you should wear the right kind of shoes for the sport, such as water shoes.
Water shoes provide ample cushion, support and overall paddling comfort. Many water shoes usually have special holes and mesh upper to allow water to drain quickly. The outsoles are specially designed for traction, to keep your feet protected from sharp and slippery rocks
7) SUP sling bags
These standup paddleboarding (SUP) sling bags are waterproof — including the zipper. They keep your valuables safe and free from moisture in case of an accidental plunge.