Summer paddling essentials

We’ve got you covered with our checklist of 13 essentials to keep things safe and fun.

Checklist

Paddle clothing

Wetsuit/wetsuit top

The water in our canals can be very deep and very cold. A wetsuit will help protect you if you accidentally fall into the water. Even a short wetsuit will help maintain your core temperature should you fall in, meaning you can stay out for longer without getting cold. It can also protect you from the sun. A wetsuit top may be a great alternative if you don’t want to commit to a full wetsuit

Wetsuit leggings

When you go paddleboarding, you’re likely to get your feet and the bottom of your legs wet when first stepping in the water to get onto your board. Whatever clothing you’re wearing from your knees to ankles is likely to get wet. Wetsuit leggings can be a great piece of kit to help keep your legs warm when they are wet and protect you from the sun.

Rash vest

If you’re feeling confident enough to skip on the wetsuit, you could still consider investing in a rash vest. Rash vests can provide great protection from the sun by keeping your arms, shoulders and back protected from harmful rays, which is an absolute must.

Boardshorts

The best thing to wear with a rash vest is a pair of boardshorts. Lightweight and quick drying, they’re the perfect option for anyone who’s likely to get wet and doesn’t fancy spending the rest of the day in soggy denim.

Wetsuit boots/water trainers

Some people choose to paddle barefoot, but a pair of shoes is a really good idea.  Particularly if you’re new to paddleboarding, a bit of extra grip will be very welcome when you’re out and about on your board.

Accessories

Waterproof cases

If you are feeling confident enough to bring your phone out with you, please make sure it is in a waterproof case. These cases are worn around your neck and are super handy to keep your valuables dry and safe.

Dry bag

Perhaps more of an accessory than actual clothing, a dry bag is nonetheless a solid investment for anyone keen to get into paddleboarding. Dry bags can be used for keeping all sorts of things away from the water, from phones to picnics and towels.

Hat

Wearing a hat on the water is essential for keeping your face protected from the sun, whether you choose a baseball style, or 360-degree protection from a brimmed hat. If you’re worried about falling in and losing your hat, there are handy clips available to keep it close to you.

Changing robe/poncho

A changing robe or towel poncho is perhaps not essential if you’re confident in your ability to stay dry, but it’s still a brilliant addition to your SUP wardrobe. The great thing about them is that not only do they make it easier to get changed in a dignified manner, they’re very cosy and great for warming up small children (or fully grown adults) who are feeling a bit chilly after a day on the water.

Sunglasses

When you’re out paddleboarding, there can be much more glare than there is on land because of the extra glare reflecting off the water, especially in the sunnier months. Wearing sunglasses will not only make it easier to see but will also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.

Safety Essentials

Leash

A leash is a line with one end attached to the end of your board and the other end to your ankle. When you fall in the water, you can use the end of the leash attached to you topull your board back towards you.

Buoyancy aids

Whilst it isn’t essential to wear a buoyancy aid when paddleboarding, it is recommended. Not only will it keep you afloat, but it will also help give you time to recover if you fall in.

Sunscreen

Need we say more? Sunscreen is an absolute must. Even on cloudy days the sun’s rays can still penetrate the clouds and burn your skin.

Recommended reads before you go