Red Equipment’s Kit List For Paddleboarding In Winter 24/25

Paddleboarding in winter is a fantastic way to harness your sense of adventure in different ways and experience the water in a new light. The crisp air, quieter surroundings and calmer waters all make winter paddleboarding a vastly different experience from your standard summer SUP adventure. However, cold weather also brings its own unique set of safety considerations and it’s important to be prepared with the right equipment when paddleboarding in winter.

Your usual kit list comprising an inflatable paddleboard and accessories will naturally make up the bulk of your winter paddleboarding kit list, along with a number of important extra items. These include:

Appropriate Layers

When it comes to paddleboarding in winter, the key to comfort and safety lies in layering. The right layers will protect you from wind and rain but also allow you to adjust your body temperature if the sun does come out or you find yourself exerting lots of energy. 

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer like our Performance T-Shirt. This lightweight, technical fabric is designed to pull moisture away from your skin and keep you dry which is critical when paddleboarding in winter and can find yourself feeling cold and clammy after working up a sweat. 

For crucial warmth, you can add a mid-layer for essential insulation without adding unnecessary bulk. This layer is a crucial component for paddleboarding in winter as it helps to trap your body heat while also allowing air to circulate, keeping you warm without overheating. You can then add a waterproof outer layer like our Active Jacket to stay protected from the elements but still able to enjoy a full range of motion. 

Beanie Hat

Heat loss from your head can make you feel very cold very quickly when carrying out any form of physical activity in winter. Fortunately, there are a lot of additional layers you can utilise to combat this like a hat. A well-fitted beanie like our Eddy Recycled Polyester Beanie is a particularly simple yet effective solution for paddleboarding in winter, as it offers excellent insulation and keeps your head warm even when you’re out paddleboarding in open and exposed environments. The sustainable recycled polyester design is both sustainable and snug, ensuring you can quickly regulate your temperature when out on the water.

Appropriate Footwear

There’s no need to wear shoes for grip on most high-quality inflatable paddleboards, but this is not to say that you won’t benefit from footwear in certain circumstances such as paddleboarding in winter. In fact, your feet are one of the most exposed parts of your body and keeping them warm and protected in colder temperatures is crucial. We suggest a pair of neoprene boots or a pair of specialist aqua shoes to achieve this, as they will offer insulating properties without restricting your movement or weighing you down.

Waterproof Dry Bag

There are a number of extra items you will want to take with you when paddleboarding in winter, including extra layers and your phone so that you can stay in touch with a safety contact back at shore. Keeping these items dry and protected is just as important as keeping warm, so it’s important to invest in a strong waterproof dry bag for your cold weather adventures. 

Depending on how much you need to take to the water with you, we suggest either our Waterproof Dry Pouch for your small valuables or Waterproof SUP Deck Bag for all of your clothing on an all-day trip. Both are designed to attach securely and seamlessly to your board, and their waterproof construction guarantees that no moisture can get in even in adverse weather conditions. 

Personal Flotation Device

Safety should always be a top priority, especially paddleboarding in winter when weather conditions are naturally more unpredictable. Cold water can present serious risks so it is advisable to be wearing a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) at all times. You could go for a SUP Buoyancy Aid for peace of mind that you’ll stay afloat if you do enter the water, or an Airbelt PFD for lower-profile security without both. Both offer excellent flotation capabilities and exceptional comfort, giving you greater confidence when trying out your SUP in a new season.

Waterproof Changing Robe

No paddleboarding kit list is complete without a waterproof changing robe - and yours will really come into its own in the winter months. You can’t underestimate the importance of warming up and drying off as quickly as possible in colder temperatures and a high-quality changing robe like our EVO Pro changing robe allows this to happen. With a totally waterproof outset shell and a soft and warm fleece lining, you can be certain that you’ll stay warm and cosy as you change back into dry gear. Whether used as a handy car park changing solution or just an extra post-paddle layer, a waterproof changing robe really is the ultimate winter paddleboarding companion.

Insulated Bottle or Flask

Along with your changing robe, it’s also a great idea to take a hot drink to warm up after a winter paddleboarding session. Sipping on something hot after your paddle can help raise your body temperature and restore a sense of normality in cold conditions, so make sure you pop your favourite hot drink or some soup into an insulated bottle or flask before you head out. Alternatively, why not arrange to head for a coffee with friends afterwards and enjoy a social catchup from the comfort of indoors following your time on the water?

If you need any more tips when it comes to paddleboarding in winter, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team or check out our guide to cold weather adventures. Remember, your safety should always come first so plan accordingly and never try paddleboarding in conditions you don’t feel confident with.