If you’re an avid stand up paddleboarder, and you live near or plan to visit the coast, you’ve probably wanted to get your SUP out on the ocean. This is a different level of paddleboarding than a smooth lake or inlet, one which requires advancing the core skills you’ve already developed. Here are some techniques for stand up paddleboarding in rough surf.
Steer clear of obstructions
Don’t enter near rocky shorelines or areas crowded with swimmers and surfers.
Don’t get in over your head
Check out the waves before you head into the water, and don’t take on waves you know you can’t handle. Be sure to have your leash on your board so it doesn’t get away from you. If you get knocked off your board, keep it between you and the beach rather than the other way around. If your board is between you and the waves, it could get pushed into you, potentially causing injury.
Walk first
Walk your board out to about waist deep in the water before climbing aboard. If there are strong headwinds, try paddling out lying flat or sitting on your board in order to reduce wind resistance.
Protect your head
Consider a surfing helmet if you’re working in bigger waves for the first time. Getting clunked in the head by your board is sure to ruin your day.
Adjust your stance
If you feel unsteady, widen your stance and lower your center of gravity. Try what is called the Hawaiian (or staggered) stance: Standing with one foot in front of the other rather than side by side, when in waves about knee high. For bigger waves, use your parallel SUP stance as usual but, as waves approach, step one foot back and raise the tip of your board out of the water to let the wave pass underneath. Bending your knees slightly will also help with balance.
Keep paddling
Stroke, rather than glide through the waves.
Work on your techniques and with enough practice, you’ll have no trouble getting the hang of stand up paddling in rough surf!
Featured Image from sterlinglanier Lanier/Unsplash
