Stand up paddleboarding, or just merely SUP for short, is one of the more relaxing things to do globally. A little thought about weather conditions during the winter season. Avid paddleboarders who paddle in colder temperatures require the appropriate gear. A wetsuit is necessary to endure the cold water temperatures and high-quality material, like the vinyl coated fabric used by the Hydrofoil Company. The wetsuit acts as an insulator and keeps your body heat in, but it also restricts your paddling motion. If you don't purchase a wetsuit, you will have to add an extra undergarment to help combat the loss of body heat and keep your paddling comfortable.
Wearing The Right Winter Gear
The next tips for cold water paddling include wearing gloves, boots, and sunglasses. Gloves because it helps keep the hands warm when you paddle and are pushing and pulling against the water's resistance. It creates friction with the paddle, leading to cold hands and feet! There are other potential dangers to having cold hands and feet while paddleboard, including slips, falls, and more. If you fall into cold water, you could suffer from a 'cold water shock response.' While your natural urge is to quickly swim to your board and get out of the water, it is best to try to float until the shock subsides. Wearing a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) gives you added security; it will help you float to conserve your energy and breathing before you try to get back on your board. And once you are back on dry land, make sure you get into warm, dry clothes the right way.
Be Prepared, Check the Weather
Always best to check the weather before attempting any activity that will require going out into the elements. Doing this will also help you determine what equipment must be brought along on your trip to avoid being stranded or left behind. In the event of inclement weather, always make sure you have taken the proper safety precautions. Paddleboarding can be a gratifying and exhilarating activity, but you must remember to stay safe and protected. Always paddle slowly and confidently against the wind and current to prevent accidents. You should still float with the current and try to find calm areas that offer smoother water access.
Wearing The Right Winter Gear
The next tips for cold water paddling include wearing gloves, boots, and sunglasses. Gloves because it helps keep the hands warm when you paddle and are pushing and pulling against the water's resistance. It creates friction with the paddle, leading to cold hands and feet! There are other potential dangers to having cold hands and feet while paddleboard, including slips, falls, and more. If you fall into cold water, you could suffer from a 'cold water shock response.' While your natural urge is to quickly swim to your board and get out of the water, it is best to try to float until the shock subsides. Wearing a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) gives you added security; it will help you float to conserve your energy and breathing before you try to get back on your board. And once you are back on dry land, make sure you get into warm, dry clothes the right way.
Be Prepared, Check the Weather
Always best to check the weather before attempting any activity that will require going out into the elements. Doing this will also help you determine what equipment must be brought along on your trip to avoid being stranded or left behind. In the event of inclement weather, always make sure you have taken the proper safety precautions. Paddleboarding can be a gratifying and exhilarating activity, but you must remember to stay safe and protected. Always paddle slowly and confidently against the wind and current to prevent accidents. You should still float with the current and try to find calm areas that offer smoother water access.