Are you planning to make 2023 the year for endless outdoor adventures? Paddleboarding is one of the most popular water activities to enjoy. It gets your body moving, allows you to spend time out on the water, and offers a lot of flexibility in location options and transportation abilities. If you plan to pick up paddling this year, here are 10 essential stand-up paddleboarding safety tips to keep in mind.

1. Wear a PFD

Personal flotation devices are required for many activities, and for a good reason. They keep you afloat. No matter your swimming abilities, a PFD can come in handy. It plays an especially important role when you get tired of treading water and keeping your head afloat for long hours.

Although life jackets are bulky, look unphotogenic, and often leave you with strange tan lines, wearing a PFD while out on the water can save your life. It keeps you safe in many emergency scenarios, from broken paddleboards to currents to getting stranded in the water. So before paddling off, strap on your life vest and stay prepared for anything.

2. Stay Strapped In

Another life-saving component is your board’s leash. If you fall off your board—your only mode of transportation while out in open waters—you put yourself in a dangerous situation. Strapping on your leash allows you to stay connected to your paddleboard, preventing it from drifting away even if you fall into the water.

Plus, paddleboards also make great additional flotation devices. By keeping your ankle strapped to your board at all times, you equip yourself with an additional PFD for emergencies. Furthermore, strapping keeps you tethered to your board and secured in place when riding waves or bumpy waters.

3. Paddle in a Buddy System

Paddleboarding with your friends gives you an opportunity to make lifelong memories worth cherishing and, more importantly, keeps you safe. Whether on land or offshore, most fatal accidents occur when someone is by themselves. A buddy system makes sure that someone is by your side in emergencies, ready to lend a helping hand. Paddleboarding in a group also ensures there are plenty of people to help out and work together in certain scenarios, such as choppy or obstacle-ridden water.

However, if you must embark on a solo adventure, make sure that there are other people nearby in the water. Additionally, try to always stay in sight of the public eye.

4. Dress Appropriately

Dressing appropriately for your environment minimizes elemental risks, such as temperature and weather influences. When paddling in sunny and hot conditions, wearing a long-sleeve yet breathable suit and a hat keeps you protected from the sun. It also reduces the risks of sunburn and overheating. On the other hand, when paddling in colder climates, wearing an insulated wetsuit prevents hypothermia.

Furthermore, no matter the weather, wear colors that will make you stand out. Making yourself visible to others helps prevent boating accidents and helps emergency teams and your friends find you easily.

5. Observe and Be Aware

Dangers come in many shapes and sizes, from health issues to physical threats such as sharp rocks. Staying observant of your surroundings and being aware of potential dangers prevents you from getting seriously hurt. While out on the water, keep a look out for the following:

• Shallow spots
• Sharps (e.g., rocks and roots)
• Currents and waves
• Wind direction and changes in direction
• Visibility and lighting
• Animals
• Motor boats

Remaining alert and aware of your surroundings while paddleboarding reduces your chances of getting into an accident. Staying observant before even hitting the water by knowing the weather also maximizes your safety.

6. Bring Your Phone With You

Spending quality time outdoors—free from distractions—offers many benefits. It refreshes your mind, exposes you to clean natural air, and gives you a healthy dose of Vitamin D. However, before you go completely tech-free to enjoy the great outdoors, reconsider packing your phone.

Although notorious for distancing people from the present, cell phones offer practical benefits, especially in emergencies. Nowadays, cell towers reach further and cover more areas, allowing people to connect from anywhere at any time. Pack your phone in a water-tight bag and take it with you, so you can easily access and reach emergency services if an accident occurs.

7. Pack Outdoor Essentials

Along with some form of communication, other essentials to pack in your bag for improved safety on your excursion include the following:

• Mini portable first aid kit
• Sunscreen
• Water bottle
• Rescue whistle
• Headlamp
• Snacks
• Paddleboard repair kit

These outdoor must-haves keep you well-equipped for various threats and come in handy during emergency scenarios. Overall, the more prepared you are, the better your paddling experience will be.

8. Learn Basic Paddling Techniques

You don’t have to only stand up on your paddleboard. You can learn many other forms and paddling techniques for various situations. For example, kneeling while paddling preserves your energy, allowing you to rest. It also offers a more balanced stance that is easier to maintain and reduces wind obstruction.

Similarly, prone paddling—getting low and paddling with your hands—minimizes the risks of your body acting as a sail against the wind. As you lay low or flat on your stomach to paddle with your hands, you become more aerodynamic, increasing your speed and steering control.

9. Check Your Gear Beforehand

A broken or damaged paddleboard won’t do you much good. It reduces travel efficiency, lacks functionality, and puts you at risk of drowning and other potential dangers. To avoid issues, check that your paddleboarding equipment is in top shape before hitting the water.

10. Be Honest With Yourself

SUP is a physically strenuous activity. It requires a lot of physical strength, movement, and stamina. When planning your venture, be honest with yourself and your abilities and know when it’s time to retire for the day.

Overexerting yourself leaves you vulnerable. It decreases your chances of making it back to shore safely, quickly draining your energy and your abilities. Plus, it increases your chances of pulling a muscle, fainting, and other possible ailments. Be honest with yourself, set limitations, and ensure you make it back safe and sound.

Stay safe out on the water with these 10 essential stand-up paddleboarding safety tips. From paddling techniques and best practices to emergency essentials and proper preparation, there are many ways to guarantee a successful paddleboarding adventure. As you join the SUP community and relish the joys of this water sport, keep these safety tips in mind.

Also, remember that investing in a quality paddleboard decreases your risks of a malfunctioning and damaged board. A high-quality board offers more durability, smoother paddling, and a better overall experience. Shop for top-notch and durable paddleboards for sale at RJ Nautical to maximize your safety and paddleboarding experience.