Also known as SUP-ing, paddle boarding offers a better way to enjoy the water and sun. Popular in summer, it is also an excellent exercise form, especially for the experienced individuals. However, paddle boarding for newbies can seem scary to know where to start.

If you’re a newbie, you need to learn how to paddle board and know the necessary equipment, protective gear, and accessories you must have. With the right checklist, your family outing will be fun and safe.

In this article, you’ll find paddle boarding items you need for your next adventure. So relax and read on to discover more!

Must-Have Items

If you want to have a successful paddle-boarding tour, you need to have several key items which depend on the type of board you’re using. Before anything else, you should assess and analyse your paddle board and understand how it works.

If there is any damage, ensure it is fixed. As a standard, include a replacement paddle board fin, a pump (in case you have an inflatable paddle board) and a repair kit. Make sure your checklist includes the following essential items:

Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or Lifejacket

A personal flotation device or a lifejacket is a vital item you must carry. Paddle-boarding enthusiasts call it “a life jacket that works”. If you’re a beginner, a personal flotation device helps keep you safe while enjoying the water. It’s an important item on your checklist whether you know how to swim or not.

The ever-changing weather conditions and other water elements may affect your safety when you’re out. Being on the water means anything can happen due to rapid changes in the weather. As a result, it’s recommended that even experienced paddle boarders should put on a personal flotation device!

Paddle

It’ll not be a successful paddle boarding adventure if you don’t carry a paddle. Ensure you carry your paddle and have one extra, just in case. When learning how to paddle board, the first lesson includes how to wipe out or fall correctly without having to injure yourself and very minimal risks of losing your paddle.

If you feel a fall is coming, disconnect yourself from the board by jumping and be sure to land flat on the water’s surface. After that, hold the arms out away from the head and grab the paddle with both hands if you can manage. Let everything happen, then surface with the arms above your head to avoid the board from hitting you.

Warm Clothing

The clothing you need to carry depends on the air/water temperature and the time of the year. Also, what to wear varies depending on the level of skill, preference and venue.

If in doubt, it’s recommended to play it safe and put on more than less clothing. You need to have a swimsuit, waterproof footwear, rash guard, hat, and a wetsuit.

SUP Leash

A SUP leash isn’t just like any other accessory. It is more vital than that. A SUP leash is a safety item that connects you to your paddle board that acts as flotation equipment if you fall in the water. Picking the right leash length and material matters.

A long SUP leash can get stuck in debris or caught in the water. Similar to the personal flotation device, your leash should keep you safe. If you’re a beginner, ensure you have the right SUP leash.

Safety Whistle and First Aid Kit

Experts always emphasise the benefit of carrying safety gear. When you’re out on open water, unprecedented happenings may put you or your loved one in great danger.

That is why experts recommend having a safety whistle and a first aid kit for your SUP trip. Everyone needs to be safe and these two safety items can save lives.

Your Checklist Should Also Include the Following Items

Your checklist should also have a hand pump, sunscreen, a headlamp, a water bottle. While these items ensure you remain safe and healthy, they significantly boost your paddle boarding experience. Ensure you carry each one of them with you, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned paddleboarder.