Gear Series: SUP Essentials: What You Need
- David Hudson
- Apr 19
- 6 min read
If you're new to stand up paddle boarding (SUP) or looking to upgrade your gear, having the right equipment can make a huge difference in your experience. Whether you're paddling on a calm lake, exploring coastal waters, or just enjoying a day out on the water, the right gear will keep you safe, comfortable, and ready for adventure. This guide will break down the must-have SUP gear, from boards to accessories, and offer recommendations for budget, mid-range, and premium options.
Basic Essential Gear for Stand Up Paddle Boarding
1. Paddle Board
Your board is the biggest and maybe the most important piece of gear. There are so many boards to choose from, from $150 iSUPs on Amazon to $3000 race boards. But most recreational paddlers will choose between two main types of boards. :
Inflatable SUPs – Great for easy transport and storage. Best for casual paddlers and those with limited space.
Hardboard SUPs – These offer better performance, especially in speed and tracking. Ideal for more serious paddlers or those who can store and transport a full-size board.
There are many other considerations when purchasing a board so click here for our full breakdown of all the considerations to keep in mind.
👉 Recommended:
Budget Friendly: Funwater boards have plenty of design options and will get you out on the water for relatively cheap. They also are great for a second board to take out a friend.
Mid-Range Option: If you are new to SUP and have a limited budget check out the BOTE Wulf. This is a well-made SUP from a quality company
Premium Option: If you are looking for a premium board, we encourage you to go to support your local paddling shop and ask a ton of questions. We have had amazing experiences with Earth River SUP located in Bethesda, MD.
2. Paddle
A good paddle can make paddling more efficient and enjoyable. After a board, the paddle is probably the most important thing to a good day on the water. Several considerations and decisions go into picking the perfect paddle. For a full breakdown from the SUP Club experts click here. But here are a few topics to look for:
Adjustable paddles – Best for beginners and multiple users.
Carbon fiber paddles – Lighter and more efficient for long-distance paddling (can be available adjustable also).
👉 Recommended:
Budget Option: Basically, any paddle on Amazon under $100 is budget-friendly. But remember you get what you pay for in the world of SUP.
Mid-Range Option: Adjustable SUP paddle from NRS
Premium Option: If you have the money and want to upgrade your padding experience go look at any paddle from Black Project SUP, they make top-of-the-line paddles.
3. Leash
A SUP leash is crucial for safety which is often overlooked. It keeps your board attached to you in case of a fall. Read the full reasons you should always wear your leash, click here. Lastly, be sure you know how to use the leash correctly, it seems easy but we always see people using it incorrectly or not using it at all.
There are 2 main types of leash:
Coiled leashes – Prevent drag in the water, great for flatwater paddling.
Straight leashes – Preferred for surf and river paddling.
👉 Recommended:
Best all-around option for most recreational paddlers: standard basic leas
4. PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
A PFD is a must for safety and is required in many areas. I get concerned when I see people paddling without a PFD, this needs to be a mandatory piece of gear on all boards, no matter the weather or conditions.
There are two main options for your PFD:
Belt-style inflatable PFDs – Minimalist design, best for recreational paddling.
Traditional life vests – Offer more buoyancy and protection.
👉 Recommended:
Budget Option: Many calm paddling areas simply require a PFD on your SUP, so this will work for those situations.
Mid-Range Option: a simple inflatable belt-style PFD will work for non-moving water.
Premium Option: Should you need or want a full buoyancy aid the NRS Ninja is top of the line, won’t impede your arm movement, and has a front pocket for your basic.
5. Sun Protection
Paddling under the sun means protecting yourself from UV rays and any of the items below will be helpful, but sunscreen, hat, and long-sleeve top are pretty important.
Hat – Wide-brimmed is best, we love our Shelta Hats for secure sun coverage.
Rash guard – Lightweight, breathable sun protection. There are many out on the market but we love our Stio Hylas Hoodie, it's lightweight, SPF-rated, and dries quickly. (use code DAVE20 for a discount).
Sunglasses with retainer – obvious
Reef-safe sunscreen – Protects your skin and the environment.
6. Proper Footwear
Depending on where you paddle, the right footwear matters. For many of us, bare feet is optimal and easiest but some feel more comfortable in sandals or paddling shoes. This is a personal choice but here are a few recommendations of a few good ones.
👉 Recommended:
7. Dry Bags
A dry bag is essential for keeping your belongings safe and dry while on the water. Whether it’s your wallet, key fob, snacks, water, extra jacket, or phone, a dry bag is essential for everyone's board. Dry Bags come in all sizes from 5L (liters) to 55L. We encourage you to support a local business when you can like the Meraki Supply Co. Meraki is a local NoVa small business that makes adorable and functional dry bags.
5L bags – Best for small essentials like phones and wallets.
10L+ bags – Great for carrying extra gear, clothing, or camping gear.
👉 Recommended:
Budget Option: You can pick up cheap ones at Walmart or Amazon that will do the job
Premium Option: Spending a little more will get you a thicker dry bag that seems to keep more water out. Check out the NRS Tuff Sack Dry Bag.
8. Waterproof Phone Case
Keep your phone protected while still being able to take photos and navigate. Any phone case will work. There are thousands to choose from on Amazon, but this one from Pelican floats, so that is a plus.
9. Hydration & Snacks
Staying hydrated and fueled is important for any paddling session, be it a quick hour paddle or a full day on the water. Having a water bottle that works for your situation is important.
Insulated water bottles – Keeping your drinks cold in hot weather makes it taste better, not sure how, but it’s science.
Energy bars & snacks – Easy-to-carry fuel for energy, just make sure on hot days it’s not too much chocolate. I recommend an adult charcuterie board (bring some cheese, crackers, cut up salami, maybe some grapes, and an ice pack). Raft up with your friends and enjoy.
10. Storage & Transport Gear
If you’re transporting your board by car, make sure you are doing it correctly for your car and your board. But these are some essential you may need to look into:
- Roof racks & straps – Secure your board for travel.
- Carry straps – Help carry your board longer distances.
👉 Recommended: None for this section there are too many variables based on boards and car types. But ask questions online, at your local paddle shop, or at our next meet-up. Thule and Yakima both offer a lot of information on roof racks for those looking to travel with their boards on top of their car or truck.
Optional But Useful Extras
Deck bags – Extra storage for long trips. This is a fancy flat-ish dry bag. They are super convenient and look pretty cool.
Inflatable SUP Pump - Makes pumping up your board 10x easier, well maybe not 10x but these make the time in the parking lot faster and more relaxing than a hand pump. Click here to see the top 2 pumps on the market
SUP anchors – Keep your board in place for yoga or fishing.
Fishing rod holders – Convert your SUP into a fishing platform.
Quick Checklist for Easy Reference
✅ Paddle Board
✅ Paddle
✅ Leash
✅ PFD
✅ Sun Protection
✅ Footwear
✅ Dry Bag
✅ Waterproof Phone Case
✅ Hydration & Snacks
✅ Storage & Transport Gear
The right SUP gear enhances your experience and keeps you safe on the water. If you're looking for quality gear at great prices, check out the links above for recommended products. Some of these may have discounts available, so don't miss out!
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