Paddle Boarding

[CharlieAlphaMike]

RobM77 said:

My advice was mainly for a beginner, and particularly factoring in the wider boards being spoken about on this thread. Tracking dead straight paddling on one side is not something that comes that easily - I certainly couldn’t do it for the first year or so, and I was assuming that was appropriate here? It’s also of course good practise to paddle both sides to develop muscles equally.

Point taken. It's good to get your technique right asap though, otherwise you're in danger of getting into bad habits. Please don't take this the wrong way but I was able to paddle on one side after only a couple of days. There are many factors that influence this, most of which I've already highlighted in this thread.

It might sound daft but once you know the correct technique (others have mentioned the many YouTube tutorials and SUP Instructors), try 'paddling' on dry land. I mean, just stand on the ground (not your board) and practice with the movement of the paddle. Try to visualise in which direction the board will go with each movement of your paddle.

[CharlieAlphaMike]

RobM77 said:

CharlieAlphaMike said:

RobM77 said:

My advice was mainly for a beginner, and particularly factoring in the wider boards being spoken about on this thread. Tracking dead straight paddling on one side is not something that comes that easily - I certainly couldn’t do it for the first year or so, and I was assuming that was appropriate here? It’s also of course good practise to paddle both sides to develop muscles equally.

Point taken. It's good to get your technique right asap though, otherwise you're in danger of getting into bad habits. Please don't take this the wrong way but I was able to paddle on one side after only a couple of days. There are many factors that influence this, most of which I've already highlighted in this thread.

It might sound daft but once you know the correct technique (others have mentioned the many YouTube tutorials and SUP Instructors), try 'paddling' on dry land. I mean, just stand on the ground (not your board) and practice with the movement of the paddle. Try to visualise in which direction the board will go with each movement of your paddle.

Hmm, interesting. I was taught properly and actually complimented on my paddling technique. Tracking true on a short SUP surf board though I still find tricky. The race board’s no issue, but something tiny and manoeuvrable is a different matter.

I'm sure my years of Windsurfing must help with me being used to the feel of a board under my feet (short boards and long race windsurf boards). I appreciate how every subtle movement can have an impact on direction. I'm far from being an expert on a SUP though. It is just for leisure. Having said that, from Spring until Autumn, I'm out on my SUP for 2, 3 or days every week and for between 4 to 8 hours each time. It all helps with perfecting techniques. I guess where you paddle will have some impact too and also the shape of the paddle blade. I have used a 'short' SUP and agree, it took more effort to keep it straight and true. Having a shorter board wouldn't suit me and the sort of paddling I do.

And my suggestion about practicing your paddle technique on land comes from windsurfing too. Back in the day, I used to help a friend of mine (a qualified instructor who ran a windsurfing school) with some basic instruction (I had my RYA Level 5 in windsurfing). As well as the extra long 'tandem' board (2 or 3 sails) I mentioned in an earlier post, we had a 'dry land' windsurf board. It was basically a stand that the board was mounted onto. The stand pivoted (360 degrees) so we'd rig a sail and get people to practice what we'd shown them on there first. Once they had a basic grasp on land, we'd let them loose on the water. Obviously, with a SUP it's a bit more difficult because you won't have any movement but if you visualise what the paddle will do (don't stand on the board, standing on the floor will do), I'm sure it will help. Make sure you know what to do with the paddle first by checking out the various YouTube SUP instruction videos. I can't recommend any because I honestly haven't looked.

Interestingly, I was out on my SUP this afternoon for approx 5 hours. I thought I'd analyse my paddling technique (not something I normally do). I've already posted some tips about how the paddle blade should enter the water so check back through this thread for that. When I'm paddling I have my hands approx 3ft apart (I'm just under 6ft tall). Paddling on the right side of my board so my left hand is at the top of the paddle holding the T bar shaped handle and my right hand down the shaft of the paddle. Imagine forming a triangle between the paddle shaft and your arms. I should probably mention the length of the paddle. Mines a 3 piece adjustable so on a level surface (not on the board), with the bottom of the paddle blade touching the floor, I have the handle extended so that the bend in my wrist is level with the T bar on the paddle. In other words, If I bend my wrist, my hand will rest on top of the T bar. This ensures that the blade enters the water correctly when I'm on the board. You don't want too much or too little of the blade in the water. I might make some very minor adjustments to the length of the shaft whilst out on the water, dependent upon conditions.

When I'm paddling, I'll bend my knees slightly and then reach out with the paddle (just a few feet in front) before putting the blade fully in the water. I keep my arms quite straight and try to have the handle as near verticle as possible. I pull the paddle down the side of the board and just behind me before 'slicing' the paddle out of the water (difficult to explain in words). I noticed that I have the paddle blade at approx 20 to 30 degrees to the side of the board but will adjust that angle constantly in order to track straight. Again, it's quite difficult to explain this in words. Try to use your core to paddle, not your arms.

If I need to make a sharp turn I'll do a number of things. I'll make a 'sweeping' arc with my paddle. In other words, stretching out in front, then pushing the paddle out before pulling the paddle back in towards the board in a sweeping semi-circular arc towards the tail of the board just behind me before 'slicing out' of the water; carving an arc. I might also use a 'brake' turn or reverse paddle as I think some people call it. I'll place the paddle into the water just behind me, near the tail of the board and then pull the paddle forwards towards the front of the board. This slows the board down and helps it to turn at the same time. I'm quite aggressive with this movement. I'll then switch sides and use the 'sweep' to make the turn. If I need to turn quite sharp, I might alternate between the two actions.

If I need to make a really sharp turn, I'll use the 'pivot turn' or 'step back' turn. This is a much more advanced technique. It reminds me a little of a 'fast tack' or 'non-planing gybe' on a windsurf board. I know it's not exactly the same before anyone points it out. I don't use this technique very often (hardly ever) because the conditions where I paddle don't really warrant it.

At the moment, I'm quite restricted to paddling on the right hand side because I'm still recovering from a sprained wrist (my Mountain Bike had an argument with a tree and I lost ). I will switch sides sometimes but will paddle for a long time on each side, rather than constantly switching.

I think this thread has changed from what I initially intended it to be. I thought I'd put up a couple of pictures to see if others are into the sport. Then the questions came which is why I tried to give a few hints and tips. I think your advice was great RobM77 because it appears a few people are still thinking about getting into it. It's a huge minefield and if you get it wrong at the beginning, there's a danger that you'll fall out of love for the sport before you even start. Being taught properly like you were, would be a wise move if you have no experience of 'boarding'.

Have fun everyone and share your pictures if you have any. I planned on taking my camera with me today but I'd forgotten to charge the battery

[CharlieAlphaMike]

WindyCommon said:

sealtt said:

If balance doesn’t come naturally then buy a kayak paddle (2 ended paddle) and sit on the board. You can even get seats which secure to the SUP for a proper chilled out kayak hybrid...

Hmmmm.....

I sometimes wonder whether the kayak is a more capable version of the SUP...

I think you have less flexibility with a Kayak. You can't take another person with you on a single seat Kayak and paddling a 3 person Kayak on your own is very difficult. You're also restricted to sitting 'in' a Kayak. On a SUP, you can stand, kneel, sit or even lie down. And you can carry stuff, especially with Long SUP's. I can take my partner out on mine sometimes. She sits whilst I stand and paddle. She can't swim but always feels quite cpmfortable when she's out with me. I guess you can paddle further with a Kayak. Someone here commented on a 5 day trip they made with their Kayak. It could be done on a SUP but I wouldn't fancy it much.

As WindyCommon said. You can get a seat (more of a backrest) to secure to your SUP if you want to.

[CharlieAlphaMike]

There have been some really interesting comments, comparing SUP to various other watersports. It's true, SUP is not what you'd call an adrenaline sport. You'll be missing the point if you're looking for that on a SUP. For me, it's a relaxing, peaceful way to get out on the water.

As I and others have said, it's good for your core, great for balance and paddling against the wind will give you a good workout (although I can't ever remember getting out of breath, even paddling hard against the wind). If you catch a wave, with the wind behind you and paddle like hell, you can get some speed up (I've been surprised at how exactly how much speed I can generate) but nothing like you would on a Windsurfer or Kayak for example.

I'd be interested to know if anyone here has tried a Wing Surfer with a SUP. They seem quite expensive to me for what they are but look like they could add to the excitement. Maybe a great addition for me at some point. Thoughts and experiences anyone?

[CharlieAlphaMike]

hidetheelephants said:

The macro effects of tide are predictable and you can obtain free tide times online or buy a little book with them in; the macro current is predicted in admiralty tidal stream atlases and on admiralty charts, although inshore there can be local effects which these do not note. Wind strength and direction can influence both direction and strength of current, especially if it's been blowing from one direction for a while or if very strong(although I doubt anyone is nuts enough to paddleboard in a gale).

I'm often out in Force 3 and have been out in a good Force 4 but that's about the limit for me. It's hard work paddling against a Force 4

Someone here mentioned windy.com which looks like a really useful website. Because I'm only paddling on the sea, I also use webapp.navionics.com because that gives me sea depths and hazards etc. Incredibly useful when planning a trip to somewhere new

[CharlieAlphaMike]

RobM77 said:

For tides I can highly recommend the smartphone app “Imray tides planner“.

Looks like a great app. It's a shame they don't have a download for a pc. I've looked and can't find one

[CharlieAlphaMike]

PurpleTurtle said:

I had a go on a SUP at a new local open water swimming lake local to me where they rent them out for £20/session, as I have been contemplating buying one as I live within walking distance of the Thames in Reading which is slow moving at this time of year.

I really wanted to love it, but just didn't feel the excitement in it. It was slower than a kayak or canoe, and any amount of headwind just turned my body into a sail, I had to kneel down to stop myself being blown backwards. In which case you might as well be in a canoe, that's what I will be going for.

It's a shame you've made your choice based on a SUP rental. Honestly, the type of board, paddle, fin, inflation of the SUP (I'd be amazed if Hire Companies have all of their SUP's correctly inflated) and your paddling technique can make quite a difference. Yes, a headwind makes it more challenging but not impossible. I'm often out in a Force 3 and have been out in a good Force 4 (just about my limit), paddling against the wind. In a Force 4, it's hard work for sure but anything up to a Force 3 is not too difficult. I certainly don't feel the need to kneel down for fear of going backwards.

And where I paddle, I'm nearly always paddling against the wind. If I'm lucky, I'll get the wind behind me on the way home and get to ride the waves (chop) too. If I'm out of luck, the wind will drop by the time I head for home which means paddling all the way

Edited by CharlieAlphaMike on Monday 9th August 15:19

[CharlieAlphaMike]

Well it's been an interesting afternoon on my SUP. I was debating whether or not to go out because there's been a good Force 4 blowing again today. In the end, I couldn't resist but rather than go on one of my normal long distance paddles, I decided to do several short paddles. Going out, paddling against the wind for maybe 1/2 mile, turning and riding the waves (chop) back to shore. Great fun but quite tiring.

I was out for approx 4 hours and enjoyed every minute. Those who think SUP might be boring should try it in some more challenging conditions but please stay safe.

I've broken my camera mount (it's the second one I've broken this year) so I'll be looking for something of a better quality. I also find it quite a faff to operate the camera when it's fixed to the front of my SUP; kneeling down, stretching out and then switching the camera on before taking a picture is a pain and stop/starting videos is more trouble than it's worth. Can anyone perhaps recommend a good quality camera mount system? Maybe one I could fix to my paddle? I don't really fancy the idea of a body or head mount.

[CharlieAlphaMike]

Bill said:

What's the camera? Could you control via a phone app??

It's a ThiEye (Amazon jobby) but with a cheap (hence breaking two of them) mounting. The camera has a remote device thing with a strap to go around my wrist but that's not waterproof so I've never used it. I never fall off my SUP so the chances of ruining the remote are very unlikely. Maybe I should try using it I'd never take my phone on my SUP. I do have a waterproof bag but when I'm out on the water, that's the time to avoid all technology

I still need to find a better mount for the camera.

[CharlieAlphaMike]

Just to reinforce the safety message. Very sad news from Cornwall:

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-cornwall-53983...

[CharlieAlphaMike]

Bumblebee7 said:

Does anyone do yoga on their paddleboard? Whilst I've given paddleboarding a go, I don't think it's something I will do regularly. My wife on the other hand loves it and I'm keen to buy her a board for Christmas as a surprise. She's never done yoga on a paddleboard but she does regularly do yoga so I do see that as a possibility in the future. We're moving to the South coast of Cornwall in the next year so will have plenty of opportunity and places right on our doorstep. I'm a strong swimmer so I'm thinking I can do open water swimming while she goes out for a paddle.

Should I buy a board suitable for yoga? I've seen the Red Active 10' 8 and weighing up the options between the more conventional 10' 6 board. Would the yoga one be worse as a paddleboard? Any other options I should consider? Whilst it's a lot of money I foresee it getting a lot of use so assume no budget limitations. Also open to rigid boards but everyone I've spoken to seems to prefer inflatables. Storage not going to be an issue either way.

Any recommendations gratefully received. Thank you!

This is a tricky one. I think you need to consider the main use of the Paddle Board. As RobM77 has said, a shorter, wider Yoga biased board will be compromised when it comes to paddling but will be great for balance so would work better than a long, narrow race/touring board. I've done quite a bit of Yoga in the past (I should get back into it really because I love it) but I wouldn't fancy trying it on my long race/touring board; ok, so a Plank, Cobra, Downward Dog, some of the Warrior Poses might be easy enough but I couldn't imagine trying a Tree, Toe Stand or Balancing Stick pose for example.

If it was me, I'd spend the money on a good quality board for paddling and then buy a cheap board for Yoga (you did say storage wasn't an issue). All you really need from a Yoga board is for it to float and be stable so I think quality is perhaps less of an issue. And think how happy your wife will be when she receives two Paddle Boards for Christmas

As for the inflatable/rigid choice. Inflatable board technology has really improved over recent years so if you invest in a good board, I don't think you'll be disappointed, plus they are much easier to store and transport should you fancy a trip out further afield.

[CharlieAlphaMike]

Disastrous said:

Just came across this thread...

I’m about to embark on 92km non-stop of the Great Glen between Ft William and Inverness. Was originally intending to take part in the organised endurance race but it’s been binned off due to COVID. My pal and I had already started the charity fundraising however, so feel compelled to put on a decent showing regardless.

0300 Sunday is our departure time so hoping we get a tail wind!

I am riding a Starboard touring 14’ in Pine finish (it’s well lush) for the race, but have a Red inflatable for less serious paddles with the dog on the nose.

Love it, as a sport.

Nice board

This sounds like a great adventure and 92km in 18 hours will be a good effort. I regularly go out for 8 or 9 hours but just for fun, not in competition. How many people are taking part?

I really should try an early morning start but I love the afternoon/evening paddles too much

If you have a camera, it would be great to share some pictures. Best of luck. Hope you get that tailwind

[CharlieAlphaMike]

Disastrous said:

Just came across this thread...

I’m about to embark on 92km non-stop of the Great Glen between Ft William and Inverness. Was originally intending to take part in the organised endurance race but it’s been binned off due to COVID. My pal and I had already started the charity fundraising however, so feel compelled to put on a decent showing regardless.

0300 Sunday is our departure time so hoping we get a tail wind!

I am riding a Starboard touring 14’ in Pine finish (it’s well lush) for the race, but have a Red inflatable for less serious paddles with the dog on the nose.

Love it, as a sport.

How did you get on?

[CharlieAlphaMike]

Disastrous said:

CharlieAlphaMike said:

Disastrous said:

Just came across this thread...

I’m about to embark on 92km non-stop of the Great Glen between Ft William and Inverness. Was originally intending to take part in the organised endurance race but it’s been binned off due to COVID. My pal and I had already started the charity fundraising however, so feel compelled to put on a decent showing regardless.

0300 Sunday is our departure time so hoping we get a tail wind!

I am riding a Starboard touring 14’ in Pine finish (it’s well lush) for the race, but have a Red inflatable for less serious paddles with the dog on the nose.

Love it, as a sport.

How did you get on?

I survived! And we made it. Thanks for asking!

18hrs and 30mins in the fighting chair ultimately, so was a pretty long stint. I am (still) feeling pretty done-in if I'm honest.

We had NO wind whatsoever so whilst that made for some pleasant paddling, it also made for a brutally long shift as without a tail wind you can't go that quickly. Anyway, we started at 0200 in Ft William and landed in Inverness at 2030 so I'm just glad we got through it

I took some pics but I'm going to collect them all and update the thread when I can...

Great effort. Well done

[CharlieAlphaMike]

markymarkthree said:

Having hopefully taken some of the helpful advice here, i had a beginners session and also hired one in the summer.
This arrived today, 11' x 33" Mrs Marky will be well impressed when she comes home to see it in the front room.
Need to get a suit now as i lost my man card ages ago.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Funwater-Inflatable-SUP...

Congratulations. Looks like good value and appears to be of good construction (drop stitched). I noticed a lack of tie-down points and carrying handles but apart from that, I think it's a nice looking board.

I'd be interested to know why you chose a 3 fin set-up. Was that for stability? You'll have to let me know how you get on with it. Have fun.

If it helps, I've always used O'Neill wetsuits. Not the cheapest but great quality IMHO. The sizing is quite complicated though so try one on first if you can.

[CharlieAlphaMike]

El stovey said:

I find the SUP, from the little I’ve done more like long distance swimming. You get into a flow state and it’s about mindfulness and seeing things.

Not really high octane cardio more spiritual like yoga or meditation.

I suppose the racing and surfing on them is much more physical but touring around on a quiet lake, just you and your mate, or you and nature is pretty awesome.

Exactly

[CharlieAlphaMike]

bulldong said:

I am a windsurfer, whitewater kayaker, sailor, powerboat instructor and can honestly say (as a paddle board owner) that it’s the most boring activity that it’s possible to do on water. We have a lake house where the paddle board is and I’d rather swim than use the paddle board. Absolutely nothing about it is fun, and I’m good at it.

You're obviously completely missing the point of Paddle Boarding but thanks for your constructive comments

[CharlieAlphaMike]

markymarkthree said:

Thanks.
Cant say i really thought about 3 fin or single fin, what difference will it make ? It does have a single carrying handle but i suppose the price reflects the lack of a few things.
Re wetsuit, i am looking at the oneill reactor but they seem to be sold out everywhere for my size 6' 2" & 16st. I feel a trip to Newquay to find an end of season bargain coming.

I don't use a multi-fin set up but I know they're favoured by those who paddle in surf because I believe they offer more stability and better manoeuverability. Mutti-fin setups do create more drag so if you're paddling on flat water, they might not be ideal. On some SUP's, you can remove the 2 outer fins. I don't know if you can do this on yours but take a look and try it if you can.

My board has 4 carrying handles (it is slightly longer at 14 ft though) which I find invaluable. If you struggle with just 1 handle, you know you can buy carrying straps. You might even think about getting a trolley. I live within just a couple of minutes walk of the sea so use a trolley as it's much easier to transport the board, saves on using the bag and inflate it every time I go out and saves on having to use the car. I just got a 2 wheel kayak trolley from my local sports shop. I think it cost around £40.00.

Have you tried Amazon for O'Neill wetsuits? If you're looking for a Summer suit, you might just find an out of season sale. Good luck.

[CharlieAlphaMike]

Sortie 10 said:

Being a newbie & intrigued by SUP & lurker on this thread for a while, I have noticed a few apparently good deals (winter?) of late. Last night at 2130 I fired a speculative enquiry to South West Paddleboards via their website. Was shocked to receive an immediate reply (within seconds!) with a promise of a call this morning. My 'test' enquiry was passed with flying colours when Ian Warren called me at 1030 & listened to my requirements (90+ kg novice, likely use on a French lake in summer nothing too arduous & possibly on the famous, on this thread, Clevedon Marine Lake). The £349 package was duly purchased - the omens are good, enthusiastic small business man who isn't greedy on his margins.
Can't wait till the spring!

Congratulations on your purchase. You'll have to give us an update with some pictures when Spring comes around next year.

[CharlieAlphaMike]

First of all, congratulations on your purchase Riggadig. I don't know much about Mistral SUP's but I windsurfed for years and always used Mistral boards; Screamers to Equipe's and everything in between. My favorite 'go to' board was my Mistral Pandera. I always found the quality of Mistral products to be excellent so I'm sure this will be a quality product and it seems like you got yourself a bargain.

As for a suitable wetsuit. Others have said, that if you're getting wet, you're doing it wrong. I think that might be a bit harsh because if you're a beginner, it might take a while to find your balance. Windchill (when you're wet) is the biggest problem.

If it's too windy/choppy, then you're probably best advised not to go out on your SUP, especially if you're paddling against the wind/chop. It can be hard work. I've been out in Force 4's, gusting 5's and that's about my limit. Paddling to go nowhere is missing the point. That said, it's great if you can paddle with the wind behind you and on a wave/chop. Even in the strongest wind, I don't fall in but that's down to years of Windsurfing experience. I do have an O'Neil shorty wetsuit but never use it. I only tend to paddle during the summer months and only in a pair of shorts. My feet get wet of course but I'm never cold (and most of my SUP use is in the Baltic).

When I was windsurfing, I had shorty's, summer and winter suits (all O'Neill). I would suggest that if you really want to get a wetsuit, buy yourself a good quality shorty. It will keep your body warm if you get wet and will be enough for the summer months I'm sure; I've assumed you're in the UK?

Edit: I assume it's this SUP that you bought: https://shop.mistral.com/collections/sup-inflatabl...

Some pics would be great when you have a moment

Edited by CharlieAlphaMike on Friday 14th May 10:49

Edited by CharlieAlphaMike on Monday 9th August 15:26