Let's talk about safety and SUP. If you are going out to more dangerous waters with your paddleboard, wear a life jacket or flotation device. You should wear a life vest, even if it's just a couple of hours in the water with no other activity. A leash is attached to the paddleboard to keep you afloat while out in the water. Safety is paramount in all forms of water sports. It's important to know that stand up paddleboards are considered a vessel by the US Coast Guard, and you need to have a life jacket and whistle on hand if you're outside a swimming or surfing area.
Different Types Of Stand Up Paddle Boards
Stand up paddleboards are made of heavy-duty rubber, making them a suitable choice when you want a safe, strong board. They are relatively inexpensive, and you will likely use it for many years. Another option for water enthusiasts who have minimal storage space to transport their board is to purchase an inflatable paddleboard. Like a non-inflatable (rigid) paddleboard, they are durable boards for adventurous paddlers.
Take, for example, this true story about inflatable standup paddleboarder Larry Oberto. Larry, 57, had been enjoying the waters north of Cove Park (off Maui, Hawaii) on his blue inflatable standup board on December 3, 2019. Larry was about 200 yards from the beach when he spotted a fish leaping out of the water around 10:15 that morning. Realizing the probable danger of the situation, he headed back to shore. While heading back, much to his surprise, a 10-foot-long tiger shark took a hearty bite from his board! In Larry's words - "Next thing I know, bam! My board gets bit, and I fall off. All I'm thinking is get on the board, lie flat, don't stick any arms out in the water. As soon as I get back, on I get on quick," Larry Oberto told the local news station.
Staying Safe While Stand Up Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding is fun. The basic rules for play are simple and easy. Be aware of your surroundings, check your equipment regularly, and change them immediately if they look damaged or frayed. Some equipment might need replacing every year, so check the date you bought your paddleboard on the instruction manual or manufacturer's website to ensure that it still has plenty of life left. You should also ensure that the board has enough support for your weight and no loose screws or other parts that might cause an accident.
As you can see, there are many safety tips to consider when you take your board out and ways to increase your safety by simply knowing your limits and being aware of possible hazards. Paddleboarding is an exhilarating adventure, so make sure you have the proper equipment to enjoy it safely.
Different Types Of Stand Up Paddle Boards
Stand up paddleboards are made of heavy-duty rubber, making them a suitable choice when you want a safe, strong board. They are relatively inexpensive, and you will likely use it for many years. Another option for water enthusiasts who have minimal storage space to transport their board is to purchase an inflatable paddleboard. Like a non-inflatable (rigid) paddleboard, they are durable boards for adventurous paddlers.
Take, for example, this true story about inflatable standup paddleboarder Larry Oberto. Larry, 57, had been enjoying the waters north of Cove Park (off Maui, Hawaii) on his blue inflatable standup board on December 3, 2019. Larry was about 200 yards from the beach when he spotted a fish leaping out of the water around 10:15 that morning. Realizing the probable danger of the situation, he headed back to shore. While heading back, much to his surprise, a 10-foot-long tiger shark took a hearty bite from his board! In Larry's words - "Next thing I know, bam! My board gets bit, and I fall off. All I'm thinking is get on the board, lie flat, don't stick any arms out in the water. As soon as I get back, on I get on quick," Larry Oberto told the local news station.
Staying Safe While Stand Up Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding is fun. The basic rules for play are simple and easy. Be aware of your surroundings, check your equipment regularly, and change them immediately if they look damaged or frayed. Some equipment might need replacing every year, so check the date you bought your paddleboard on the instruction manual or manufacturer's website to ensure that it still has plenty of life left. You should also ensure that the board has enough support for your weight and no loose screws or other parts that might cause an accident.
As you can see, there are many safety tips to consider when you take your board out and ways to increase your safety by simply knowing your limits and being aware of possible hazards. Paddleboarding is an exhilarating adventure, so make sure you have the proper equipment to enjoy it safely.