The sport of paddleboarding can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It’s a great way to get exercise, explore the waterways in your area, and have some fun with family or friends! But what if you’re new to paddling? What if you want to paddle all season?
It’s the time of year when we all start thinking about taking our SUP boards and other SUP gear and hit the waters. Whether you’re a competitive paddler or just someone who paddles for fun, it pays to be prepared! Here are some intriguing tips for people who paddle all season:
Always Check the Weather Forecast
If you’re an enthusiastic paddleboarder, you know how important it is to be prepared for different types of weather. To paddle safely and avoid injury or worse, it’s a good idea to check the forecast before paddling each time. Paddleboarding can take place in many different conditions – from calm lakes during the summer to choppy seas during winter storms.
The weather can change so quickly that it’s important to be prepared before heading out onto the water. Knowing what type of water you’re going into beforehand will help ensure a safe paddleboarding experience! Additionally, checking the weather forecast or water conditions will help you know the appropriate SUP gear to carry and wear.
Check Your Equipment
One of the most important things paddleboarders need to do before heading out onto the water is ensuring their paddleboard and paddle are in good condition. The paddle should be checked for cracks, dings, or missing pieces. Paddleboards should be inspected for any damage that may have been caused by accident—if this had happened recently. If you’re using an inflatable board, ensure it’s inflated properly before hitting the water.
After inspecting your paddleboarding items, you’ll want to check your lifejacket and other safety equipment as well. It’s important to prepare thoroughly and paddle responsibly. That means being equipped with the right gear and knowing what to do and not do when you’re out on the water.
Wear the Appropriate Swimsuit
Do you want the best paddling experience possible? If the answer is “yes,” then the first step is to figure out what type of suit you need. When deciding between a wetsuit or a drysuit, it’s important to keep in mind the temperature and length of the paddle. Wetsuits are designed to warm the water tapped between your body and the suit, while drysuits are designed to give you more protection, and it’s typically waterproof.
If you’re going to paddle during cold seasons, a wetsuit will be your appropriate swimsuit and a drysuit when paddling on calm waters. However, if you’re going to paddle in summer, you’re a skilled paddler and are sure you won’t fall, then it’s up to your personal choice whether you wear a drysuit, wetsuit, or neither.
Ensure You Have Local Knowledge
If you paddleboard, then there are a few things that you should know before heading out into the water. One of the most important things to do before paddleboarding in a new area is to know where you are. Paddling can be a great way to explore and have fun, but it’s also important to prepare for any dangers that may be lurking nearby.
Don’t be afraid to talk with other local paddlers, kayakers, surfers, or even sailors. You’ll be impressed by the vast knowledge they have on the area, including wind direction, tidal movement, area security/safety, hidden dangers, etc. By knowing your surroundings, you’ll be able to paddle safely without risking injury or experiencing any surprises!
Paddle Only On Water
What does this mean? Basically—don’t paddle on ice or snow. If you’re an all-season paddler, you may be tempted to try paddling on the ice during winter, which can be exciting but dangerous. Unlike water, ice is heavy, hard, sharp, and unpredictable, and paddling on it can be hazardous to you and your board.
If you’re planning to head out onto the water during winter, ensure you stay away from the frozen water sections for your safety. Avoid walking over ice, especially if you don’t know the area’s depth, and don’t paddle on the sections that are surrounded by huge floating ice chunks.
Don’t Paddle Alone
Adventure seekers should bring friends when they go paddleboarding. Paddling alone is not only dangerous, but it is also boring. If you bring friends, you’ll have someone to talk with and hold onto in case of an accident or emergency. You can also bring snacks!
Note that even if you bring friends with you to paddle, there may be situations where they aren’t around or can’t help. In those cases, you should bring items such as a lifejacket, whistle (for signaling for help), compass (if possible), waterproof matches, and fire starter kit.
Bottom Line
Did you know you can be out on the water paddling all year round regardless of the season? With the above expert tips and good judgment, you can enjoy paddling all seasons. Always remember to keep yourself physically fit, check your equipment and prioritize safety when you’re out there paddling.
