Paddlesurfing is a variant of conventional surfing. SUP surfing enables the participant to stand on the board from the shore and paddle out to the surf zone with a SUP paddle, as opposed to lying prone on the surfboard and paddling with arms
Paddlesurfing is also an enjoyable method to play on the water that also provides a total-body workout. And, because you stand at maximum height on your board, you have a unique vantage point from which to observe what’s beneath the water and on the horizon..
The best method to advance is to stand with your feet hip-width apart and your knees slightly bent. The paddle should be held perpendicular to the board in order to prevent inadvertent steering while paddling. Once in the surf zone, surfing rules remain in effect. At your turn, you paddle and steer with the SUP paddle in order to capture a wave. This form of surfing is popular among all types of surfers, and because of its ability to incorporate a paddle while surfing the waves, it’s also popular among surfers with hip and shoulder injuries.
10 Tips to Successfully Paddlesurf
1. Stand in the Normal SUP Stance
Staying in the standard stand-up paddleboard stance while keeping an eye on the incoming surf is one of the most important things you can do to improve your paddleboarding.
2. Identify Where the Waves Are Building to the Right Height
Locate the area where the waves are increasing in height to the appropriate level, and then move your position slightly further out on the side that we have chosen.
3. Pick Your Wave
Choose a wave that is still some distance away from you rather than one that will pass you by too quickly.
4. Angle Yourself at 45 Degrees toward the Shore
Position yourself so that you are facing the shore and the area where you hope to catch the wave at an angle of 45 degrees.
5. Paddle on the Same Side As Your Normal Back Foot
When you paddle on the same side as your typical back foot, you will build up speed, which will allow you to travel at a pace that is comparable to that of the wave when it catches up with you.
6. Change to Your Surf Stance
Make the adjustment to your surf posture in plenty of time before the wave gets to you.
7. Naturally Veer So As the Wave Comes You Are Facing the Shore
If you naturally veer in the direction of the shore such that when the wave arrives, you are roughly facing it, you won’t need to use bow strokes; however, if you veer too much, you will. The cross bow stroke produces a compact, efficient turn without requiring a change in stance. It is excellent for making rapid course corrections while moving. The cross bow stroke produces a compact, efficient turn without requiring a change in stance. It is excellent for making rapid course corrections while moving.
These are the only conditions when you should and should not use the bow stroke:
- If you are paddling on the right side and maintaining a neutral posture in the center of your board, you need to rotate your torso to the left so that your right shoulder is in front.
- If you need to paddle across the nose of the board and completely submerge the blade on the left side of the board.
- If your blade’s power face is facing right and you need to rotate your torso to the right as you bring the paddle toward the snout of your board.
- If you are able to clear the tip of your board with the paddle blade and you need to continue bringing it around.
- If your blade is about to collide with your board in which you need to elevate it out of the water, place it back in on the opposite side, and continue arcing the paddle around the board.
- If you need to make a right turn, begin with your paddle on the left and reach across to the right.
8. Lean on Your Front Foot
Lean forward on your leading foot and concentrate on the rushing sensation as you ride the wave.
9. Stay Balanced for a Better Board Ride
If the wave manages to overtake you, maintain your equilibrium and look back; the wave that follows may provide an even more enjoyable ride and may even carry you to the shore.
Most people lose their balance while paddling because they are gazing down at their boards. Keep your head held high and your gaze focused on the horizon. This will give you a better understanding of your body’s position in space and allow you to anticipate any swells that may be heading your way. You’ll be able to see what’s approaching and be prepared to cope with it because you’ll be facing forward.Being apprehensive or anxious prior to entering the water can ruin an otherwise incredible session. Before entering the water, attempt to relax your mind and body in preparation for a productive session.
By relaxing, you will be able to release muscle tension, which will enhance your reaction time and overall balance.There are numerous land-based exercises and training aids that directly translate to water-based activities.
You should immediately begin balance training if you have not already. Today, there are countless free recordings on YouTube, Instagram, etc. where you can find inspiration for balance exercises. Find a brand of training equipment that allows you to train your balance and stability from a three-dimensional perspective and has a greater transfer to an actual SUP board. You need a board on which you can only concentrate on side-to-side or front-to-back stability, but which is effective for SUP.
10. Lean Forward to Go Faster. Lean Back to Slow Down
When you lean forward, you can move more quickly, yet leaning back will cause you to move more slowly.
What are Some Rules for Surfing Etiquette?
1. Choose an Appropriate Place for Your Skill Level
Finding waves is simpler than one might assume. Begin with waves no more than two feet tall. Beach breaks with sand bases, ample space, and few surfers are ideal.
Local SUP and surf shops will gladly point you in the correct direction and warn you of hidden dangers such as submerged rocks, shallow breaks, and submerged barbed wire. Surfing locations are surrounded by online communities where paddlers share forecasts and meetup plans.
Beginners should avoid paddling out to advanced waves, regardless of whether it’s a reef break or any other break on a day with overhead swells.
Surfing waves within your capacity will aid in your learning and progression. Beginners should therefore consider enrolling in a surf camp where they can learn about the breaks that correspond to their abilities. The camps will also teach you the importance of observing the waves for 10 to 15 minutes upon arrival at the shore. Use this time to determine the optimal surf location. Even if the site had great waves yesterday, that does not mean it will be ideal for you today.
2. Follow “Priority Boarding”
Typically, the individual nearest to the peak of the wave will be the most distant. If a surfer is already upright without a paddle, they have priority. If you intend to head diagonally to the right, look to your left to see if anyone is already surfing.
You must always be aware of your priority at each surf break. To remain safe and improve as a surfer, you must remember that the surfer closest to the wave’s peak has priority over those on the wave’s shoulder or further from the peak. If you comprehend priority, you can surf calmly even in a congested queue.
You should also be aware that the surfer nearest to the curl, the breaking portion of the wave’s peak, has priority over other surfers in the lineup. The surfer who is further from the shore has priority over those who are paddling or seated inside. Frequently, stand up paddlesurfers violate this regulation.
3. Take Turns
At some times, you could notice a line of surfers waiting in what looks like a queue. In the event that you flub your turn, you will be required to move to the end of the line.
4. Don’t Snake
This is when a person maneuvers around another to assume the priority position. As with queue jumping, it is especially annoying because the “snake” will likely have a reasonable level of competence and should know better.
Despite the apparent nature of this decorum, some surfers unknowingly violate it. This occurs when you are riding down the line and abruptly another surfer appears on the wave. This is a hazardous maneuver and a reason why surf conflicts occur. Other surfers also paddle immediately past everyone to get the first wave.
Fortunately, you can avoid making this error. Priority should be your starting point. Simply put, you should not attempt to paddle for a wave when someone else is in it. The majority of these collisions occur because you did not see anyone paddling for the same wave nearby. However, awareness is essential; check to your left and right to ensure that no other surfer is racing down the line. You can also wait for a few waves to break and then enter the water when the queue is disorganized.
5. Don’t Be a Wave Hog
As a Supper, you are able to withstand more than your fair share of waves, but you do not. One surfer per wave is the general rule of thumb in surfing. In most instances, two surfers cannot ride the same wave in the same direction.
When you violate the right-of-way rule, you are “burning” someone’s wave and demonstrating the uttermost disrespect. You are literally destroying a wave for another surfer who shares your passion.
Dropping in may result in severe injuries and damaged surfboards; therefore, do not do to others what you would not want done to you. Relax, inhale deeply, and patiently await your turn. There is always another option.
6. Communicate
Conversation creates a pleasant environment and can prevent misunderstandings. Surfers are typically sociable. In the event that two surfers are sitting in the midst of the peak and the A-frame wave opens to both sides, they should communicate whether they are going right or left.
When this occurs, both surfers can ride down the line without squandering any of the wave’s potential.
7. Respect the Locals
It is unwise to annoy the locals as they may be a source of useful information. Be courteous to other beachgoers. If you are unfamiliar with such beaches, you must acquire the local customs. They will direct you to the store with the finest selection of surfing boards and wetsuits.
8. Try to Hold on to Your Board
Always use a leash, but avoid coiled ones, as they can wrap around you. Wildlife, other surfers, and the seafloor can occasionally cause injuries while surfing. The majority of surf-related injuries are caused by surfboards. Even though the most recent boards on the market have a soft layer and sharp fins, they are granite solid. Therefore, they can cause significant damage if not kept near to the surfer.
You must exercise caution with your surfboard to prevent injury to yourself and other paddlers. Except when surfing 20-foot swells, you should never let go of your surfboard. Consider using a bodyboard leash or carrying your board while paddling or after a wipeout. This surfing etiquette could save your life.
9. Apologize
If you unintentionally interfere with someone’s ride and cannot avoid them in time, be fast to apologize verbally or nonverbally.
A beach is a site where people can escape from the stress of everyday life. Consequently, this should be a site for merriment. Therefore, always apologize if you run over someone, bump into someone, or violate the norms and etiquette of the beach. Surfers typically establish a community that strives to make the entire surfing experience enjoyable and safe. This means that a surfer will warn you of impending peril or come to your aid if you require assistance. Therefore, you should be friendly with other sailors.
10. Respect the Area
Drive and park with caution, and avoid littering. They advise beachgoers to treat the beach and the ocean with respect. For example, you will be cautioned against disposing of trash in the dunes or water. It is considered proper decorum to give back to Mother Nature, and surfing is no exception. Upon completion of your surf excursion, collect all plastic bags and bottles used. Most surfers who surf from islands disregard this decorum because the majority of islands are unmanaged. This surf etiquette is a healthy habit to carry with you wherever you go.
How to Carry Your SUP Surfboard
Generally, standup paddleboards are hefty and difficult to transport. So, unlike conventional surfboards, it is not always possible to carry them under your arm and start strolling. In this section, we will examine the most effective strategies to transport your standup paddleboard.
First, when lifting your board, you must secure your back by bending your knees and maintaining a straight back. Consider that your board will receive a great deal of wind when you pick it up. Before picking up your board, be sure to observe the wind’s direction and strength.
Utilizing the carry handle that comes standard on nearly all upright paddleboards is the simplest way to transport your board. Typically, the handle is centered on the board so that it is balanced when picked up. Some grips are even contoured to make them easier to grasp. Remember that if there is any wind, it will significantly move your board. Ensure that your surroundings are clear and that you are holding your board on the downstream side.
Use the head carry for carrying your board over extended distances, loading it onto a vehicle, or if your board lacks a carry handle. The benefit of the head carry is that it distributes the weight across the entire body, rather than placing it all on one arm. But the challenge is getting it into your mind in the first place. Lift the tail of the board and walk your hands along the rails until your head is near the center of the board. Then, while holding your paddle in one hand, you will grasp both rails and tilt the board until it is balanced on your head.
If carrying the board on your head is uncomfortable, you can slide it to one side so that the rail rests in the crook of your forearm and the board rests on your shoulder. By grabbing the carry handle with one hand and placing the other hand on the bottom of the board, you can actually move the board into this shoulder-carrying position even more rapidly. The board can then be swung up onto your shoulder. This technique has the disadvantage of obstructing your view on one side and putting the board in a position to capture more wind.
How to Learn How to SUP Surf
Until you are a competent surfer, you must practice surfing in areas without other surfers, swimmers, or waders nearby, because an out-of-control board can cause serious injury. The optimal location for learning to surf is an open, sandy beach with small, one- to two-foot waves that break slowly out to sea and do not simply crash onto the beach. It is also optimal to have a location that receives light, off-shore winds, which means that the wind blows from the land towards the water. This maintains the waves predictable and smooth.
Before engaging in stand-up paddleboard (SUP) surfing, it is advisable to conduct some preliminary research because knowing the basics will definitely be an advantage in the long run. Knowing and avoiding the most common beginner errors will allow you to improve your paddling technique and appreciate your time on the water more. Whether you own a surfboard and paddle or plan to rent them, knowing some fundamental techniques will make your time on the water safer and more enjoyable.
Beginners should learn about the surges and currents so they do not end up in a situation for which they are unprepared. As a beginner in SUP surfing, you must respect the waves and currents and be aware of your capabilities and limitations. Always consider, evaluate, and surf waves that match your competence level.
Having the board within reach prevents you from having to pursue after it and provides you with something to hold onto if you become fatigued. A leash prevents the board from striking others if it escapes your control. Depending on the type of SUPing you intend to engage in, there are a variety of leashes available. Do not venture out on the water without one.
Many beginner stand up paddle users mistakenly believe that their paddleblade should scoop the water when balanced, whereas in reality the paddle should go in the opposite direction. This method is more effective, and the standing position is superior. At this angle, the stroke is more fluid and there is less strain on the upper body and forearms. When utilized properly, the blade provides the necessary stability and angle for a forceful stroke.
Don’t rely solely on your limbs to paddle. A solid stance and the use of main muscle groups in the arms, core, and back are required for an effective stroke. Standing up and paddling with only your arms tires you out rapidly and does not provide the same amount of power as engaging your core. Focus on your core and a stable stance to effectively ride waves.
When learning to SUP surf, it is natural to want to gaze down at the board, your feet, or the water. However, when SUP surfing, you should maintain your head up, your back straight, and your knees bent. Place your center of gravity over your heels. Looking forward rather than down prevents you from losing your equilibrium and rocking backwards.
You should have ample space to paddle in the ocean, lake, or river where you are paddling, so make the most of it. Observe your surroundings and remain out of each other’s way. It is simply proper surf decorum, and more experienced surfers will appreciate your efforts. As a beginner, you have a greater possibility of falling off while learning the fundamentals. However, you must begin somewhere, so get out there and have fun.
Everyone falls at some stage, regardless of their SUP surfing skill. The most crucial aspect of falling is learning the proper technique. Learning to fall securely enables you to get back up and continue enjoying the outdoors. The optimal method of falling is to tumble away from the board. Consider the water your cushion. Since the leash attaches the board to you, there is no need to concern about it floating away.
Lastly, always be aware of the wind direction and water conditions before paddling. Forecasts are essential for predicting sudden weather changes. When the breeze picks up, a paddler standing on a stand-up paddleboard acts as a sail, propelling both the paddler and the board. If there is a problem with the wind, paddle from your knees or lay down, affix your paddle to your board, and paddle with your arms as you would on a conventional surfboard. Paddling in this position allows you to avoid the weather entirely.
Should I Take a SUP Surfing Lesson?
You should take a SUP surfing lesson if you have never surfed before. A lesson is definitely worth it. Expect to pay $100 per hour for the lesson, but having someone coach you through the process, so you are able to stand and ride a wave makes the cost worth it. People who try on their own get frustrated when they aren’t able to successfully ride a wave.
An instructor can identify the right wave to try and ride and tell you when to start paddling. Messing up either of those two will ruin your chances. Also, when you try by yourself, you won’t be able to identify what you are doing wrong, so you won’t be able to fix the problem. A professional instructor can help fix any flaws in technique and improve your chances of being able to SUP surf.
Many Instructors will provide you with the right size board for your height, weight, and skill, plus a wetsuit, a leash and a paddle. Expect to have to sign a waiver to release the company of any injuries you may sustain while learning. This is a standard practice.
How Do I Find a SUP Surfing Lesson Near Me?
You can find a SUP surfing lesson near you by searching review sites such as Yelp and TripAdvisor. Read verified reviews to find the best place. If a site has some low ratings, read what the ratings were for. Sometimes reviewers leave bad reviews for minor issues that wouldn’t affect you. Reviews from people who state they never surfed before but were able to after the class are important to find.
Watch SUP Surfing Videos
If you are someone who can learn from a video and apply the advice on your own, you can benefit from SUP surf how-to videos. There are many YouTube stand-up paddleboard surfing videos available. It can be difficult to find a video that is easy to understand and offers great advice, so I included one here for you.
Can You Surf on a SUP Without a Paddle?
Yes, they can be used to surf on waves and propel around as well. SUPs are a great method to learn how to surf, but not everyone can use them. If you lack experience, you may not be able to get the most out of a stand-up paddleboard. In addition, if you’re new to the sport, it’s best to begin with a small group of peers so you can get to know each other and determine what you enjoy doing.
How to Choose a Paddlesurf Board
Selecting a SUP surfboard involves considering the board size, fin setup, and deck pad quality. Board size is crucial for stability, with beginners advised to start with a larger board (at least 10 liters larger than their flatwater board) and move to smaller ones as they gain experience. The fin setup impacts the board’s performance, with a single center fin generating the least drag, but side fins can be added for better control. The deck pad should be thick and long, with a contoured tail pad area and a raised rear edge for foot control. Specialized SUP surfing boards, surf-friendly all-around board shapes, and inflatable paddle boards are also options, each with their own pros and cons. Here’s more information for how to choose a paddlesurf board. Ultimately, the board’s dimensions, shape, and features should align with the rider’s skill level, paddling style, and the wave conditions they intend to surf.