Why SUP is the Best Weekend Adventure

Disclaimer - This entire post is based on the understanding of basic Stand Up Paddling safety; always wear your PFD and leash, and paddle with a friend and within your limits.

Stand Up Paddleboarding is currently the fastest-growing outdoor sport in North America. The Outdoor Industry Association provides a yearly report on outdoor recreation participation and Stand Up Paddling (SUP) has been on the rise for the last few years. Just look at your nearby lake, bay, or river, and you will see paddleboard rental shops and people out on the water. What has spurred this growth and why is it the perfect bite-sized adventure?

SUP or Stand Up Paddleboarding dates back thousands of years but the popular version we see today originated in the 1940s in Hawaii, on the shore breaks of Waikiki. As a local surfer, John Ah Choy, got older he found it challenging to get up on his board so he took a long canoe paddle and used that to paddle into the waves to keep his surf passion alive. His friends began using this strategy to teach beginner surf lessons because they would be higher on the water with a better vantage point to see the students. In the 1990’s famed surf legend, Laird Hamilton, triggered another growth in the sport as he used SUP to paddle into larger waves. And the sport has had immense growth from there.

But why is it so popular today and what makes it an amazing sport for your next outdoor adventure?

Low Barrier to Entry

The biggest reason is that it is easy for people to try it for the first time. There are SUP board rental shops all over the place and I have even seen an automated one (think BikeShare or CitiBike but for Paddleboards). This low barrier to entry makes it really convenient for people with no experience to rent a paddleboard and give it a try. Other outdoor activities like rock climbing, surfing, whitewater kayaking, or scuba diving; all require a lot of equipment, or the perfect weather conditions, and likely a guide or instructor to show you what to do. All of that can add up and cost hundreds of dollars per person. And yes, I know that once you understand some of those sports, buy the equipment, and learn the safety protocols, those can be free to participate in, but like I said... a huge barrier before you can do it competently on your own. But Stand Up Paddleboard rentals are about $20/ hour for a board, with a quick 5-minute “How to paddle” lesson from the staff member at the rental place, and you are on your way.

Fast Learning Curve

Many people that rent a board are quick to learn the basics; standing up, paddling forward, and turning around. Also, if you fall in, you get wet. The cost of ‘failing’ is not as high as some other outdoor activities where you can get seriously hurt. Also, if you are concerned about getting wet, many new paddlers will simply paddle on their knees until they are comfortable. As long as the conditions are calm and the water is at a comfortable temperature, basic SUP movements can be learned in a few hours.

Fairly Inexpensive (I know I just said that it’s cheap)

Similar to many other activities, once you are hooked, you may want to purchase your own equipment. There are so many paddling companies on the market today that you can purchase an introductory board, paddle, and a PFD (lifejacket) for under $500. There are a bunch of options on Amazon. But I will say this, in the SUP world, you will get what you pay for. I have had a few really inexpensive boards just to get started on the water (which may be your goal in the beginning) but if you have the means, start looking at the mid-level and high-level boards. After a few years, I upgraded my board to a more responsive, technical, and faster board that fits my paddling style. Check out my other post here about purchasing an introductory Stand Up Paddleboard. It will provide a general overview of what you should be considering for your first board.

But once you purchase your own board, paddle, and PFD; you are basically good to hop on any public body of water (within your comfort level), and paddle for free or a small day-use permit fee. In my first few years of paddling, I used an inexpensive amazon board and paid for a season pass at my local lake ($80), and paddled 2-3 times a week during the summer months. This was well worth it and I have done this ever since. Be sure to support your local waterways by purchasing a season pass or day-use permit when using those areas.

Additionally, if you live near a SUP board shop, consider supporting your local small business SUP retailer. They have a ton of knowledge and will lead you in the right direction for the best board for your needs.

Family Friendly

This is one of the biggest benefits of Stand Up Paddleboarding, it is extremely great for couples, kids, and dogs. Many paddleboards are big enough to hold you and a child, or a dog, the key is making sure they have a PFD and feel comfortable floating in the water, just in case you both go in. Once the kids are bigger (7-8 years old) and/or feel confident, they can begin to transition to paddling their own board. If your kids are looking for their own board there are a few options on amazon that might perk your interest.

All-Around and Adaptable

Paddleboarding is something that can fit into so many people’s lives, there is a SUP activity for you. Some people just like to take a leisurely paddle or touring around a body of water, some people use it to go fishing, while others train for competitive SUP races. Many will use their SUP to surf, and some enjoy working out while doing SUP yoga. SUP can be as simple as an afternoon paddle for an hour, as much as a 4-day camping trip down the river, or used for a morning surf session while on vacation at the beach. There is a stand-up paddling activity that will fit your lifestyle.

Mental and Physical Health

This is the best reason to try SUP and put it into your outdoor list of activities. Stand Up Paddling will most definitely increase your mental and physical well-being. Paddlers are clearly getting exercise for their whole body while they paddle, which will benefit their physical health but also they are spending time in nature. Both of those are proven to increase a person’s overall health and wellness. I have introduced many people to SUP and they have decided paddling will be their new leisure time activity. It has helped them with stress reduction, weight management, a happier disposition, and provided them with a smile.

Now don’t get me wrong, there is an exurbanite amount of skills to know about SUP and it could take a lifetime to master those. The point here is getting out on a SUP has a small learning curve and people can have a positive experience on the water quickly. With all of this in mind, I hope you can see why Stand Up Paddleboarding is growing in the US, and why it is the perfect bite-sized adventure for you and your family.