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5 Essential Paddle Board Safety Tips
Written by Ross Montandon /
Stand-up paddle boarding is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to get out on the water. It can increase overall fitness, especially core body strength, and allows you to enjoy the local scenery at the same time. However, like any other activity based on the water, it is important to know some basic safety tips in order to keep you out of danger. Here are some useful hints and tips on SUP safety to help you get the most out of your paddle board.
Stand-up paddle boarding is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to get out on the water. It can increase overall fitness, especially core body strength, and allows you to enjoy the local scenery at the same time. However, like any other activity based on the water, it is important to know some basic safety tips in order to keep you out of danger. Here are some useful hints and tips on SUP safety to help you get the most out of your paddle board.
The More The Merrier
Paddle boarding is a great sport to enjoy with a friend or two, and going out on the water together means that you will be there to help each other out if any difficulties should arise. This is particularly important if you are a novice, or new to the surrounding area, but even experienced users can benefit from teaming up. If there is no one that you know to join you, then do some research to see if there are any local groups that you can join.
Keep Communications Open
When considering paddle board safety, never forget to fill someone in on the details beforehand, such as where you are going and roughly for how long. It is also vital that you have a method of communication with you during your time out at sea. A mobile phone is perfect for this, as well as doubling up as a camera to capture those all-important photos. The Red Original deck bag is ideal for keeping items such as phones, a change of clothes and perhaps something to snack on close by and safe while paddle boarding. If you’d rather travel light, then our dry pouch is perfect for keeping small items safe and dry while out on the water.
Gear Up
When using a SUP board safely, having the right gear can make all the difference. A simple yet useful tool is a leash that connects you to your board, as it can be infuriating, and sometimes difficult, to swim after a board that is floating away in the opposite direction. Whether you do or don’t use a leash, you need to have something that helps you if you fall in the water. Wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) will help keep you afloat for as long as necessary, which is even more vital if you become separated from your paddle board. Check out the Red Original Airbelt Personal Flotation Device, which combines a water-resistant storage pocket with a buoyancy aid in a device that maximises both safety and comfort. For more information on SUP accessories that can help to keep you safe while out on the water, check out the Red Original paddle boarding gear guide.
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