Stand-Up Paddling – whether on a river, the sea, or a lake – almost everyone has seen it or tried it themselves at some point. A warm summer day at the lake, family or friends along, the board ready to go, and off you go. From the outside, the sport looks relaxed and uncomplicated. And in a way, it is. All you need is a board, a paddle, a certain sense of balance, and a basic idea of how to paddle and steer. That's exactly what makes SUP so appealing. It suits young and old, beginners and pros alike. Everyone can decide for themselves whether they want to train hard or simply glide calmly across the lake.
But that apparent simplicity hides real risks. Many people only think about the paddling itself. But what happens if I fall into the water, my board drifts away, or I can't get back on it on my own? As a stand-up paddle instructor at a surf school, I've seen situations like this regularly. That's why it's important to assess your own abilities realistically – that's the factor you can actually control.
What I can't control, though, are the outside conditions. On a SUP, I'm right out in nature, and wind, current, waves, or sudden weather changes are often underestimated. Before setting out, I always get an overview of my spot:
- How strong is the wind?
- Is there a current?
- How's the weather developing?
As a rule, I recommend paddling against the wind and current first. Even though it feels more strenuous, it makes sense – that way you won't run into trouble on the way back. It's also important that someone on land always knows you're out on the water.
The right clothing matters a lot too. Water reflects up to 30% of UV radiation, which increases the risk of sunburn. Sun protection, sunscreen, and UV clothing where needed are therefore essential. In colder conditions, a wetsuit protects you from getting too cold.
A leash – the connection between board and paddler – is an absolute must-have. If you fall in, your board won't drift away. But choosing the right leash matters: for flat water and waves, an ankle leash is the right choice. On rivers or in whitewater, though, you should switch to a quick-release waist leash instead. With an ankle leash, there's a risk it gets caught on underwater obstacles and holds you in place. An additional flotation aid like the PFD by RESTUBE can provide extra safety. Solid swimming skills are a prerequisite.
For longer tours, you should also bring:
- enough water,
- a small snack,
- a waterproof bag for valuables,
- and a phone for emergencies.
Technique is another important factor. Most people manage to stand on the board and paddle forward. But how do I react if a motorboat is heading my way and I need to get out of the way fast? You should be able to turn confidently and stay calm even in stressful situations. Perfect technique isn't essential, but a solid foundation is. That's why I especially recommend a beginner's course for those just starting out.
