SUP boarding is becoming a popular way to hit the water. It is probably the most relaxing way to enjoy the great outdoors while actually getting some exercise.
Being on a SUP board will allow you to enjoy nature as it is intended and let you spend quality time with family and friends.
Nothing can compare to paddling on Lake Pickett or meandering through Emerald Cut in Rock Springs. Hanging out with the manatees in the St Johns River on your SUP is experiencing nature at its finest. And there are countless lakes, rivers, and natural springs throughout Florida that are SUP-friendly.
And whether you are new to the SUP lifestyle or a seasoned pro, safety should always be on your mind. And not just while you are on the water, safety starts before you even leave the house.
By following these simple tips, you will be sure to enjoy your day on the water and get home safe.
Here are 5 SUP boarding safety tips.
Check the weather before heading out on your SUP board.
This should be the very first thing you do before leaving home to spend your day on the water. Check the forecast to see what the weather will be like in the area you plan to visit. The National Weather Service has a great site to see what’s going on in your area.
Calm, flat days with low winds are ideal if you’re traveling on a SUP board. Make sure there is no threat of a storm rolling in or heavy rain to dampen your day. Check to see what the tides and currents will be like to help you decide the best place to paddle.
Be sure you check the weather for the whole day, not just when you plan to be on your SUP board. You never know what the day will bring, and you might decide to spend more time on the water so it’s best to be prepared.
Inspect your SUP board, gear, and load up on supplies.
Inspect all the equipment you will be using for your adventure and not just your SUP board. Any paddles you have will be useless if there is a crack in them so be sure to check those as well. Make sure your SUP is free of any holes, dings, or cracks. Check to see if your leash is properly attached and in working order. And be sure you strap it to your ankle before getting on the water!
Make sure you have provisions for the day as well. Consider a worst-case scenario when packing for your trip. You should consider a lightweight hydration pack to store fresh drinking water. Get yourself a dry bag and keep it stocked with the following:
- A small first aid kit
- Protein-rich non-perishable snacks
- Extra water
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- A hat
Wear a PFD or life jacket.
It should be obvious that this is the most important piece of equipment to bring with you. Never get on your SUP board without wearing a PFD or life jacket. You cannot predict what might occur when you are on the water.
It doesn’t matter how good of a swimmer you are if you hit your head on a low-lying branch and fall in. People drown all the time because of sunstroke, heat exhaustion, and being thrown off by boat wakes and unseen waves. Wearing a safety flotation device will keep you from becoming a statistic.
Don’t forget to bring your phone.
The last thing you want in the case of an emergency is not being able to get help. Get a waterproof case for your phone or put it in a zip-lock and keep it in your dry bag. It is also a great idea to let someone know where you are going to be and what time you expect to be home.
Take someone with you on your SUP board adventure.
Any SUP board trip should be enjoyed with the company of friends and family. You will have a more enjoyable time sharing your experience with others. And not only that but there is also safety in numbers.
Having someone with you will greatly increase your chance of survival in the case of an emergency. Plus, now you can borrow some lip balm since you forgot to pack it!
Manta Racks is just outside Orlando, FL. We ship our racks all over the U.S. and to every corner of the globe. Our SUP board rack systems mount right into your fishing rod holders, keeping them off your deck and out of the way. And they are not just for SUP boards, we have board rack systems for every type of water sport out there such as:
- Sup Boards
- Paddle Boards
- Wake Boards
- Kite Boards
- Knee Boards
- Water Skis
- Kayaks
- Floating Mats
For the best boat rack systems for SUP boards, kayaks, and more,
call Manta Racks at (888) 622-0225 or visit our site.
