Stories
As stand-up paddle boarding soars in popularity as a summertime sport, more paddlers are beginning to venture out in the winter as well. And for good reason. Summer in Canada is beautiful, but it’s also short. If you don’t want your boards collecting dust for nine months of the year, you either have to fly south (like a Canada Goose!) or brave going out in colder weather. Fortunately, modern SUPs are fit for year-round use. And with the right skills and equipment, a reasonably confident paddler can extend their SUP season well into the shoulder months, and even winter. You can enjoy kaleidoscopic fall colors, bright snowy landscapes, or the budding freshness of spring, all from aboard your favorite SUP board! And you also get to enjoy the added calm absent summer crowds.
Naturally, venturing out in colder weather presents a whole new set of risks and challenges for the intrepid paddler. The shoulder seasons are relatively easy to manage, but winter paddling can be more hazardous and warrants some extra caution. Falling in the water can be a dangerous possibility in sub-zero temperatures. The risks of hypothermia, frostbite, and drowning are all elevated, and the realities of dealing with cold, snow, and ice, might surprise you with unexpected difficulties. It pays to think ahead and learn from the mistakes of others. So, without further ado, here are some lessons we’ve learned over the years paddling throughout our cold, Canadian winters.
1. Clothing for Paddleboarding in Cold Weather
For the confident paddler, warm winter clothing might seem adequate enough. A warm puffy jacket, winter gloves, a toque (that’s the Canadian name for a winter hat or beanie!) and some insulated pants and winter boots are certainly items you’ll want to bring along in cold temperatures. However, standard winter clothing will become heavy and burdensome if you fall in the water, making it hard to swim (no matter how infrequently you fall, you should always be prepared for it to happen!) and won’t do much to fend off the cold once soaked with water. For those reasons, you absolutely should wear a lifejacket (hey, it’s extra insulation!) and a leash to prevent your inflatable paddle board from getting away from you!
To really cover your bases, I’d recommend a winter wetsuit. Neoprene wetsuits are surprisingly inexpensive, readily available, and only a fraction of the cost of a dry suit—and there are options designed to keep you warm in freezing temperatures. They provide an excellent insulating layer and unlike standard winter clothing, will protect you in the event that you fall in. We’ve remained quite comfortable in 5mm neoprene wetsuits well into sub-zero temperatures, and you can always layer dry winter clothing on top to stay comfortable. These won’t keep you warm if you plan to get in and out of the water, as they’re not as effective in the air, but will at least provide enough protection that you can get safely back to somewhere warm, in the event you fall in.
Neoprene gloves, hoods, and footwear are also available, and will suffice for modestly cold temperatures. However, these items don’t perform as well in the air as they do in the water, and for that reason I most often elect for some winter work gloves, wool socks in waterproof hikers, and a nice warm toque instead.
Of course, the best option is a full dry suit, but a good one will likely cost you more than your board. If you plan to do a lot of winter paddling, it might be worth the investment.
What you wear while paddle boarding in winter can make all the difference. Dressing for the water temperature—not just the air—is essential to stay warm, safe, and comfortable out on the water. Here’s a quick guide:
>75°F (24°C)
- Stick to lightweight, quick-dry clothing like wicking shirts and shorts.
- Keep a dry bag with a towel and a light layer for after your session.
60°-75°F (15°-24°C)
- Wear a 1-3mm neoprene wetsuit or hydroskin garments.
- Add neoprene socks and gloves for extra warmth.
- Bring a jacket and dry clothes in case you get wet.
50°-60°F (10°-15°C)
- Opt for a 3-5mm neoprene wetsuit or a semi-dry suit.
- Use neoprene gloves, booties, and a hood to protect extremities.
<50°F (10°C)
- A full dry suit is your best option, paired with synthetic insulating layers underneath.
- Neoprene gloves, hoods, and booties are essential to keep warm.
2. Prepare A Dry Bag & Emergency Gear Before Paddle Boarding in Winter
In the event you do fall in the water, you’ll want to have a towel and a stash of backup clothing and additional layers readily available. If we are planning to go any distance, we keep these supplies in a dry bag on the front of the board. A dry bag is one item that I rarely go without. It provides a secure place to keep your essentials and car keys and can be easily accessed on the water if secured to the cargo straps on the front of your board.
Choose a good quality dry bag to ensure your items don’t get wet, and keep in mind some materials become brittle in colder temperatures. As a side-tip, when you roll up the dry bag to secure it, make sure to trap some extra air inside (like a balloon!). If it’s airtight, it’s watertight, and the added buoyancy will ensure it doesn’t sink.
3. Water Access
In colder temperatures, it becomes more important that you stay dry. In the summer, it’s easy to wade out into the shallows to find enough depth for fin clearance and then start your paddle. In the winter, you will most likely want to avoid this so that your feet don’t get soaked and subsequently become ice-cubes once exposed again to the cold air. You’ll want to think ahead, and plan entry and exit where deeper water can be accessed right from shore, so that you can mount and unmount your board without getting your feet wet. If there’s ice along the shore, additional precautions should be taken (see below!).
What to Do if You Fall?
Falling in icy water is part of the adventure when paddle boarding in winter, but staying calm is key. If you take a tumble, resist the urge to panic. Focus on bringing your head above water and take a couple of deep breaths to steady yourself.
Locate your board, swim back to it, and climb on as calmly as possible. Once you're back up, paddle steadily to shore or a safe spot where you can warm up. Even if you’re wearing a wetsuit or drysuit, cold water can cut your outing short—and that’s okay! Warming up is more important than pushing through.
For extra safety, keep your paddling routes close to the shore, and always let someone know your plans. Paddle boarding in winter is exhilarating, but preparation and awareness make all the difference!
4. Beware of Ice
If temperatures are sufficiently low that you might encounter ice on the water, be extremely cautious planning outings. It’s critical to note here that you should NEVER go out on river, streams, reservoirs, lakes with a current, or any form of flowing water where ice is possible or has already accumulated. The risk of being swept under the ice in moving water is too great, and if you encounter an impassible section of iced-up water, you won’t be able to paddle upstream to avoid it. If there’s ice, only well-known, perfectly still bodies of water should be considered, and even then, with extreme caution. It is highly likely the ice will prevent you from swimming safely to shore, so you need to think ahead and always have a plan to get out of the water should something go wrong.
In icy conditions, access to the water becomes one of the biggest hazards. The shallows will most likely be frozen, and if they’re not, it might be because the water is flowing. Don’t ever attempt to walk across unknown ice unless you have the skills and tools to assess it. The best option is to find an ice-free, deep-water access point where you can get on and off your paddle board without getting your feet wet. The best (and often only) option here is a dock, as steep embankments are guaranteed to be slippery.
5. Bring Sand or Light Gravel if Paddling in Icy Conditions
Paddling in sub-zero temperatures means that you’ll most likely accumulate ice on the deck of your board. Proper footwear can go a long way to providing grip, but you might need some extra help to have sure footing and traction. We’ve learned to take a small bag of sand or light gravel to sprinkle on the deck as it becomes icy. It’s an environmentally friendly solution and helps to prevent slips and falls.
6. Inflating / Deflating Your Board
Inflating and deflating a SUP in cold temperatures is substantially more difficult than in the summer. The colder the temperature, the stiffer and more brittle the material will become. In freezing temperatures, any water or moisture in the valve might freeze and cause it to leak. Most northerners know, the colder the weather, the more likely it is for equipment to fail.
With that said, in temperatures below freezing, it is best to inflate and deflate your board indoors or in a warm environment. If you must inflate and deflate outside, let the material warm up in the trunk of your car before unfolding it. If it’s particularly stiff and difficult to fold up again, loosely toss it in the back of your car, and worry about folding it properly once it’s warm. You might damage the board by forcing it. Of course, the iROCKER Electric Pump can go a long way to making inflating easier!
7. Expect A Drop in Pressure
To best protect your equipment, it is best to inflate indoors, but there’s a caveat here. Since the air that you are pumping into your board will be significantly warmer than the air and water outside, you will most likely see a significant drop in board pressure once the board cools down outside. This is because the pressure of the gas (air!) inside the board decreases with temperature, as it cools and becomes more dense. A rule of thumb often used for car tires is that for every 10°C, you can expect a pressure drop of about 1-2PSI. For Fahrenheit, the rule of thumb is about 1PSI for 10°F. You may have noticed this paddling in the summer too! When you fill your board up in the warm air on land, and subsequently expose it to much colder water temperatures, you’ll typically notice a slight loss of pressure.
The solution to this issue in the winter is to fill your board inside, then top it up once it has cooled down outside with cold dense air, so that you have full pressure. If you do this though, you’ll have to remember to let some air out before the board warms up again indoors – otherwise you can expect the rise in temperature to create an over-pressure situation.
Hopefully these tips are helpful to any paddlers braving the winter season! Here in Calgary, we’ve learned many of these lessons the hard way in temperatures as low as -20°C. This winter, being particularly cold at the onset, has frozen most of our local water bodies solid, but once the ice starts to dissipate, you can be sure we’ll be out on the water again. If you have any comments or tips and tricks of your own, share them in the comments below!
As always, happy paddling!
If there’s anything we’ve learned from the past few years, it’s that maintaining a healthy immune system is key to staying well. And there’s a bit more to it than just washing your hands.
It’s important to exercise, get a healthy dose of fresh air, eat right, stay hydrated and care for your body from head to toe. And SUPing helps too! Discover 5 ways a healthy SUP lifestyle can help boost your immune system and help you live a fun and healthy life.
#1: PADDLE BOARDING STRENGTHENS ALL OF YOUR MUSCLES
If you’re a stand up paddler already, then you know stand up paddle boarding is a full body workout. From shore, it might not look like you’re working every muscle, but you are.
In fact, SUP works just about every muscle of your body, from your neck, shoulders, and arms, down to your legs and feet. Most of all—and best of all—it really works your core. Core strength is beneficial for all of your body’s functions, and healthy bodily functions are key to a healthy immune system.
SUP also improves your balance, another important factor in staying healthy. Learning to maintain a constant standing position on moving water takes full body concentration and effort. You’ll feel the effects of your workout and you’ll see it, too, with better tone and better balance on stable ground.
Whether you opt for traditional paddling or try SUP yoga or SUP surfing, you’re going to benefit with a leaner, stronger, healthier body.
#2: STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING BURNS CALORIES
With a good paddle session, you’re going to burn a lot of calories. On average, you can burn up to twice as many calories with SUP as you would with speed walking on a treadmill. The harder, faster, and longer you SUP, the more you burn!
Here’s a rundown on SUP calorie burn with different SUP activities:
SURFING ON STAND UP PADDLE BOARD
SUP surfing is a serious workout and a serious calorie burner. In one hour of SUP surfing, you can burn up to 600-to-750 calories.
PADDLE BOARD RACING
Racing will definitely get your blood pumping, and we all know that’s good for your heart. SUP racing also burns major calories. Depending on what kind of racer you are, you can burn 700 calories or more in just one hour.
SUP YOGA
SUP Yoga is one of the most popular forms of non-traditional SUP. It’s a great mind-body workout and a great calorie burner. An hour of SUP can burn around 400 calories and leave you feeling blissed out on the water.
#3: PADDLE BOARDING GETS YOUR HEART PUMPING
Let’s talk a little more about heart health. Exercising gets your heart pumping and in turn, your heart gets oxygenated blood to all of your muscles. By maintaining a healthy heart, you are taking giant strides toward boosting your immune system. Conversely, an unhealthy heart can lead to heart disease which can make you susceptible to all kinds of illnesses, including viruses like Covid-19. It’s extremely important to maintain a healthy heart by not smoking, eliminating bad fats and processed foods, and getting plenty of exercise.
#4: PADDLE BOARDING BEATS STRESS
Stress is another killer, and another contributor to heart disease. Unfortunately, while certain stressors are unavoidable, SUP is a proven way to help manage and relieve tension. It distracts you from your worries, forcing your attention on the process of paddling and balancing, and gets you in tune with Mother Nature.
#5: YOUR BODY GETS THE FRESH AIR AND SUNSHINE IT CRAVES ON A PADDLE BOARD
Did you know an estimated 40 percent of people have a vitamin D deficiency? And that number only goes up during the winter months.
Fresh air and sunshine are your friends when it comes to maintaining a healthy immune system, and the vitamin D we get from being out in the sun is hard to capture in pill form. Besides, stand up paddling is much more fun than a multivitamin anyway! Of course, we need to remember to protect ourselves from too much sun, but a little bit every day is healthy.
All of these factors add up to a healthier mind, healthier heart, and healthier immune system. So, what are you waiting for? Get outside and get on your SUP!
Discover the benefits of the SUP lifestyle for senior explorers
If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “I just don’t think I could stand up on a paddle board,” or, “I’m too old for that,” think again! iROCKER paddlers range in age from young kids to senior explorers, all finding joy in living their best lives on the water. And for those more senior adventurers, paddle boarding is about more than just having fun on the water—it can actually help to improve balance and provide a low impact workout perfect for those with joint pain. If you’re looking for a new way to remain active, preserve muscle strength, and maintain your flexibility, get ready to SUP!
SAFETY FIRST
Like with any water sport, safety should be your first priority when paddle boarding. This means having the right gear—including a personal flotation device and the proper attire—as well as checking the forecast, using your SUP leash, and employing the buddy system. If you’re planning to paddle solo, let a friend or family member know exactly where you’ll be heading and when you plan to be back. Better yet, opt to take your phone with you in a waterproof case. At the very least, you’ll be happy to have it to take pictures of your latest hobby!
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
Again, as with any exercise routine, it’s important to know your skill set and your limits. Don’t set out to paddle further than you’re capable of, or in conditions you’re not yet comfortable in. Staying close to shore can help you feel comfortable and confident as you navigate paddling a SUP for the first few times. Plus, you can keep track of how far you’ve gone, and even have a friend keep a watchful eye from the shoreline should you need any assistance.
GO AT YOUR OWN PACE
Paddle boarding should be fun, not stressful! And no one becomes a pro overnight. It’s more than okay to start slow. Not sure whether you’re ready to stand up just yet? Opt for transforming your board into a kayak with the SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit. This versatile accessory allows you to start seated as you gain confidence and build strength on the board. Once you feel ready, you can try standing up—again, always going at your own pace and taking in the scenery rather than racing to keep up with others.
REAP THE BENEFITS
In our opinion, the biggest benefit to paddle boarding is the fun you’ll have on the water, whether paddling solo or with family and friends. In fact, you may be having so much fun you don’t even notice the other, more hidden perks to paddling. As you’ve probably heard your doctor say, staying active past the age of 55 is crucial, helping to support your physical and mental health as well as your independence as you age. Without regular physical activity, seniors increase their risk of life-threatening issues including diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and stroke, not to mention an increase rate of injuries.
Providing a full body workout, stand up paddling engages your core, helping to improve muscle strength as well as overall balance. And even just recreational paddling requires the use of your cardiovascular system, helping to improve your endurance not only on your board but also in daily activities like walking. And when it comes to mental health, paddle boarding can even help improve your mood. Just getting outside and in the sun can turn your entire day around, and paddle boarding is the perfect way to alleviate long-term depression and take a break from life’s daily stressors.
So, what are you waiting for? You’re never too old to pick up a new skill!
Fall is here! For many paddle boarding enthusiasts, that means yet another season of adventure. Summer often gets labeled “paddle boarding season,” but that doesn’t mean you have to pack up all your gear at the end of September. In fact, you can do just the opposite. Those hot summer days under the scorching sun are over. Cooler temps are in the forecast—finally—and that makes for excellent paddle boarding conditions. Of course, as the seasons change, there are some important variables to keep in mind. Safety is always the number one priority on the water. As you grab your inflatable paddle board and hit the water this fall, here are a few tips to make fall paddle boarding even more fun.
#1: Keep an Eye on the Sky
Summer days can go by with barely a cloud in the sky. However, it’s increasingly common to see more frequent weather changes in the fall. As temps fall, be vigilant. Keep a close eye on the forecast as you plan your inflatable SUP board excursion. Then, keep an eye on the sky as you hit the water. If there is a shift in weather, be ready to paddle back to shore. Windy conditions can create choppy waters, which can be hard to navigate. Being safety conscious—and instilling safe paddle boarding habits—is the best way to achieve paddle boarding success this fall.
#2: Watch the Clock
There’s nothing like a long summer day out on the water. When summer turns to fall, those longer days slowly fade away. One moment, you’re cruising along on your inflatable SUP board in the sun, and the next, the sun has already disappeared behind the trees. With the days getting shorter, it’s important to keep an eye on the clock. This doesn’t mean you have to pack up all your gear once the sun sets. It’s just about being prepared. You don’t want to get caught out on the water in total darkness. If you think there is any possibility that you’ll be out past sunset, be sure to pack some lights. Many paddle boarders prefer waterproof headlamps to keep their hands free during the twilight hours. But a good, waterproof flashlight is just fine if you plan on staying close to shore. Plus, having a light ensures you’re visible to others who may be on the water, and it can help you navigate back to shore.
#3: Dress for the Occasion
As temps drop, dressing for the occasion makes all the difference. During the afternoon, it might be fairly warm, and you could enjoy paddle boarding in your summer gear. But in the early mornings and into the evenings, it can get chilly. So, don’t forget to pack those long sleeves and various quick-drying articles of clothing. Of course, it can depend entirely on where you decide to have an adventure. But it’s yet another reason to do some research on the forecast so you can plan accordingly. As fall drifts into winter, then you’ll really want to break out the full body wet or dry suits.
About iROCKER
When you need a new paddle board, iROCKER has the perfect option for any excursion. For nearly a decade, they’ve been your go-to source for all things inflatable paddle boarding, offering boards and equipment for all skill levels and interests. Need an inflatable SUP built for stability? iROCKER has it! Need a board made for touring? Find it at iROCKER. Already have a board but need accessories? iROCKER delivers everything you need, including beverage coolers, fishing attachments, waterproof speakers, paddle board pump, and much more.. As you set out on your next adventure, iROCKER has everything you need. Leave no lake, pond, river, bay, or coastline unexplored, thanks to iROCKER!
Fall paddle boarding season awaits at www.irockersup.com
Discover how this Florida Keys native is capturing and conserving the natural world around him
Splitting his childhood between the Florida Keys, his mother’s native Nicaragua, and his father’s native New England, outdoor photographer Ian Wilson-Navarro has never strayed far from the water. While travels and job opportunities have taken him around the globe, Ian has made the Florida Keys his homebase, and their crystal-clear waters his calling.
PURPOSEFUL DAYDREAMING
“I wasn’t the best student growing up,” he admits. “I was just a daydreamer, constantly just in my head, thinking of things I wanted to do or places I wanted to travel to.” Spending winters in Latin America with his mother’s family opened Ian’s eyes to a world of possibility, one that of course involved the ocean.
“I was always around water. Nicaragua is where I learned to surf and fell in love with the ocean. Of course, the Keys are where I was first introduced to it and the clear water diving and underwater coral reefs and fisheries and things like that, and then Nicaragua expanded into the ocean sport-side of things,” Ian explains.
But it’s not just the lure of good waves that draws Ian to the ocean. “I’ve always kind of been interested in science and the reason for why things happen,” he says. “I grew up observing the rapid changes in my home archipelago, and so I picked up on the decline of the greater ecosystem really quickly and realized we weren’t heading in the right direction. And I’ve taken that interest and run with it.”
CONSERVATION CONVERSATION
“I really enjoy documenting passionate people in their element. And more specifically, people who love the ocean, who love being outdoors on the water or underwater, and are passionate and respectful of those environments,” he states. “Whether that’s fisheries management or biologists or coral biologists out in the field […] I find their work just incredibly interesting. The natural system of how everything works in the environment has always fascinated me.”
A self-taught photographer with a keen eye for detail, Ian uses his photography to highlight the conservation efforts of those around him, as well as his own. “The conservationists, the scientists, they don’t necessarily get a lot of the credit. Their work might, but the individuals might not, so it’s always really fun to kind of help bring them front and center.”
Last August, Ian spent the entire month as the artist-in-residence in Dry Tortugas National Park, a 100 square mile park located almost 70 miles west of Key West. Comprised of mostly open water with seven small islands, the Dry Tortugas are accessible only by boat or seaplane. Here, Ian lived in the historic lighthouse keepers house on Loggerhead Key, spending his days capturing images of the local marine life.
That unique experience has since blossomed into Ian’s latest “big project,” a “large format coffee table book highlighting the Dry Tortugas and the many ecosystems found in the park, with an emphasis on ecosystem preservation, conservation, sustainability, and of course, the people that work there,” he explains. “I’ve been really lucky to have great relationships; there’s a lot of great people there doing really cool stuff.”
In addition to Dry Tortugas and Everglades National Parks, Ian works closely with Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, a Florida-based conversation group dedicated to conserve and restore bonefish, tarpon and permit fisheries and habitats through research, stewardship, education and advocacy. “They do a lot with the environments that those fish live in, so I’ve found there’s a really nice balance there between sport, photography, and conservation of the natural landscape,” states Ian.
“I love shooting big schools of any sort of fish—fish or shark or tarpon—whenever they’re engaged in a natural pursuit and they’re just completely oblivious to things happening around them, and you’re just watching them. Whether it’s bonefish on a shallow water flat or tarpon in deep water or grouper or whatever it is, I just really love being like a fly on the wall for natural behaviors on the grand scale. I really love finding myself immersed in those moments,” says Ian.
TAKING IT SLOW
“Any day it’s glass calm and at sunset, I’m on a paddle board,” states Ian. Enabling him to arrive quietly, his SUP allows him to stealthily “get up to wildlife and interact. He adds, “As long as you’re conscious of being quiet, it’s like an underwater safari where I live, so it’s super important to have that access.”
Working on, near, and around the water most days, Ian reflects on his appreciation for the natural world and just how much the ocean has to offer. “It just brings me comfort, it’s where I can go to refocus myself and remember what matters. If career things or life things are throwing me for a spin, then that’s where I go to re-center and come back to life with a kind of reinvigorated approach and refreshed perspective.”
His advice to others exploring our world’s waterways? “Remember to go slow and focus on the world around you at a more detailed level. Being on the water and on a paddle board, you can be tuned it to this secret, kind of hidden world happening around you if you’re observant enough. And remember how special it is to have places to paddle and clean water and pursue that in all aspects and encourage others to do the same.”
To learn more about Ian and view his work, visit https://ianwilsonphoto.com/
Or follow along with his adventures on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ianwilsonn/
If you could do good and have a killer time on the water, would you take us up on it? The iROCKER team and our global community of adventure lovers paddle waterways of every shape and size all over the world. These bodies of water all have one unfortunate thing in common—pollution. Sure, the views are beautiful, and the sunshine makes the water sparkle, but nothing ruins the scenery and a perfect day of paddle boarding like a floating pile of trash.
Serving your community doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Grab some friends, inflate your iROCKER paddle board and head to your closest body of water. Whether it’s the retention pond in your neighborhood or the sprawling Atlantic Ocean, SUPing your way to a trash-free environment is the best way we know how to give back.
Check out our GWP collection of paddle boards to help create a cleaner ocean!
You don’t need to remove hundreds of pounds of trash to accomplish something important. It can be as simple as a few bottles and some plastic bags. But first, you’ll need to be prepared with the right gear.
Staying hydrated is key to a successful cleanup. The Cooler Deck Bag is the perfect accessory for keeping drinks and snacks cold without taking up too much real estate on your board that can otherwise be used to store trash. Even better, once the cooler is empty, it makes the perfect receptable for storing plastic bottles and other small trash items you come across on the water. The bag uses a bungee system to securely attach to the front of your board and uses a sanitary liner that’s easy to clean when you’re done.
Another accessory for making your SUP clean up even easier is the SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit. Adding a seat to your SUP puts your arms as close to the surface as possible, making it easier for you to pick up pieces of trash that may be floating by or stuck near the shoreline.
Converting your SUP into a kayak is as easy as can be. Take a look at our step-by-step video instructions here.
BE A PART OF SOMETHING GREATER THAN YOURSELF
We’re all about having a good time out on the water, but sometimes the universe calls us all to do more. There are massive ocean cleanups all over the world and your local swimming hole could probably use some TLC, too. You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced conservation knowledge to make a difference.
One of the top reasons to use a paddle board instead of a boat or kayak to clean up your beach is the clearance levels you can reach. Paddle through even the shallowest parts of the water to reach trash caught in shrubbery or rocks. You can’t do that with a boat!
A great inflatable paddle board is your first step toward becoming an ocean conservationist. Need some further inspiration? Read about The SUP Garbage Man and start planning your next cleanup.
Here in Calgary, Canada, at the foot of the Canadian Rockies, paddle boards have risen in popularity. A great addition to an active, outdoor lifestyle, you can use your paddle board year-round to access spectacular remote locations, drift scenic glacial rivers, or fly-fish idyllic alpine lakes. Many enthusiasts relish the portability and carrying utility of these boards. Others enjoy the stunning views and the feeling of "walking on water" amongst soaring peaks and glassy mountain tarns.
It's important to note that mountain weather is incredibly varied and notoriously nasty. Temperatures plummet to well below -30F (-35C) in the winter and soar above 90F (35C) in the summer. Summer days in the alpine region can begin calm and tranquil, then quickly develop into monstrous thunderstorms, with raging winds and lightning. It's rare to have a day where conditions don't change, and therefore it's a good practice to get used to paddling in various weather, including rain, snow, and wind.
UNDERSTANDING HOW WIND AFFECTS YOUR INFLATABLE PADDLEBOARD EXPERIENCE
Something many first-time paddlers will notice is that inflatable paddle boards are very susceptible to wind. When standing, the paddler essentially becomes a sail, which can significantly affect where, how quickly, and how confidently you can travel. The effect of the wind can be diminished noticeably by shifting to a kneeling or sitting position. But like any wise sailor, it is better to go with the flow than fight against it!
1. START YOUR PADDLE BY HEADING INTO THE WIND
This is perhaps the most helpful advice for first-time paddlers who haven't yet developed the confidence to put the power down and move swiftly across the water in high-wind conditions. If you are paddling on a large body of water and intend to return to your starting location, it is best to begin your float by paddling directly into the wind.
As you tire, you will drift back towards your starting point and avoid you having to paddle aggressively against a headwind. I've battled headwinds for many miles in windy mountain passes, which can be exhausting and frustrating. Savvy paddlers take note of the winds and enjoy a leisurely drift home.
2. KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT
In the Rockies, we have a saying, "If you don't like the weather, just wait an hour." Conditions in the mountains change rapidly. I've experienced sweltering heat and snow-showers in the same afternoon and temperature swings of over 30C (90F).
A clear day in the alpine region can quickly turn to pouring rain or blanketing snow as weather systems pass through and mother nature sends humbling reminders of who's in charge! It's a good policy to research the weather in advance, and the more extended or remote the outing, the more thorough research required!
In the summer, pay particularly close attention to the chance of storms, prevailing winds, and UV indices. Typically, the hotter the day, the more convective energy to drive currents and build thunderstorms. All these factors are intensified at higher elevations, and it can make the difference between a relaxing paddle and an "old-man-versus-the-angry-seas" sort of a day.
Winter paddling can present some excellent conditions, as the colder weather typically brings stability and clear sparkling winter scenery. But due to sub-zero air and frigid water temperatures, you must take special considerations to stay warm and dry.
3. PLAN TO DRIFT FACING DOWNWIND
Inflatable paddle boards are fantastic platforms for fishing, providing better visibility into the water than kayaks or canoes. This is due to the higher angle of refraction and a comfortable standing position for casting on your SUP. However, they can be tough to manage in the wind, as your hands will likely be occupied fishing and only sporadically available to work the paddle.
In the standing position and windy conditions, the inflatable paddle board will naturally want to turn to face downwind (your back to the wind). You can use this knowledge to plan your float, starting upwind of the desired track, casting forward off the bow, and letting the wind push you precisely where you'd like to go.
4. POSITION YOUR INFLATABLE PADDLEBOARD PERPENDICULAR TO THE WAVES
High winds mean larger waves and more difficulty maintaining your balance on a SUP. If you're struggling to stay on your feet, it's usually easier to face directly into the waves and the wind. Lateral rolling and yawing motions do a far better job of throwing a paddler off-balance than pitching up and down. Also, small waves are easier to manage when they are visible directly ahead. And it helps to keep paddling. The paddle strokes stabilize and provide thrust as you top out on chop or small white caps.
5. LOOK FOR LEE, AND CRAB
If you can't resist a paddle on a windy day (I know the feeling), you can often find more manageable water on the leeward side of islands or trees, or near shore, where the currents are slower. In any case, it helps to focus on good paddling technique and consistency, and if you still can't make progress, crabbing at an angle to the wind may help. If all else fails, attempt to reduce the size of the sail (that's you) by kneeling or sitting on the stand-up paddle board and simply taking the easiest path back to shore.
EQUIPMENT THAT MIGHT BE HELPFUL:
Are you paddleboarding in windy conditions or trying to fish in a current? The iROCKER SUP Anchor will keep you pinned down and secured so that you can get the great catch without the hassle!
The SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit will allow you to rest comfortably and continue to paddle in rough or windy conditions from a seated position for a more stable paddle.
These are just a few tips to help you better manage your SUP in windy conditions. If you have other suggestions, anecdotes, or helpful tips for fellow paddlers, feel free to drop a comment below!
Happy paddling!
Kayle.
IG: life.of.luft
About the Author:
Hi there! I’m Kayle Luft, a life-lovin’ Albertan with a passion for adventure and the outdoors. I’m a professional pilot, musician, business manager, photographer, writer, and a travel and fitness enthusiast. I’ve travelled around the world, run ultra-marathons, scuba-dived exotic shipwrecks, flown remote skies under the northern lights, survived avalanches and nights lost in the wilderness, and motorcycled, skated, skied, camped, climbed, paraglided, paddled and fished countless hours in the backcountry and all over the Canadian Rockies. An old friend once told me, “The more you LIVE, the more you’ll want to live forever.” He was right, and it’s become a goal of mine to share the joy abundant in life’s adventure. Here's to a wonderful journey!
Paddle boarding is a versatile sport. You can paddle board on lakes, rivers, around marinas, and along the coast. Basically, you can paddle board anywhere there’s relatively calm water. And when you’re out on your board, you practice yoga, fish, bask in the sun, or paddle to new and hard-to-reach locales. You can also take your board touring. The practice of paddle board touring is becoming popular with a lot of people. They’re going from cruising around their favorite lake to spending hours exploring larger waterways. Maybe you’re thinking about giving it a try. If you’ve been thinking about going for a tour with your inflatable paddle board, here are a few tips to make it a success!
Know the Difference Between Conventional SUP Boards and Touring Boards
Yes, there are dedicated touring paddle boards! These are typically long and narrow so they can cut through the water and travel longer distances with ease. The overall design can be slightly different, too. The front end may have a sharper point, and the back fins may be configured to keep the board straighter as it glides through the water. These design elements can slightly reduce overall maneuverability, but they optimize stability. However, if you already have a SUP board or you want more of a multipurpose or all-around inflatable SUP, you can simply go with that option over the touring board. Just keep in mind, for touring purposes, all-around boards won’t be as quick on the water so you may exert more effort as you explore.
Get Ready for Your Tour
Whether you go with a dedicated touring inflatable SUP board or you have an all-around board, there are a few things to do before you start your adventure. One of those things is packing for the day. This means you want a dry bag you can wear or strap to your SUP board. At the minimum, you want to pack a hat, food, water, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and a personal flotation device. Touring can mean you’re out on the water for long hours, so you’ll need plenty of calories to keep going. Energy bars are always a good option, but any of your favorite snacks work, too. And because you’re out in the elements and sweating, staying hydrated is absolutely essential. Lastly, as always, you should be prepared for the unexpected. A first aid kit and a PFD can come in handy in a pinch. Beyond those essentials, other things to pack can include an inflatable SUP repair kit (just in case), a waterproof Bluetooth speaker, and your cell phone in a waterproof case.
Plan Your Tour from Start to Finish
Since you’re likely going to be out on the water for an extended period, it’s good to have a plan in place. You want to know where you’ll be and when, roughly. That way, people know where you are should anything come up. You want to plot your general course from where you’ll start to where you’ll finish. At the same time, keep an eye on the weather forecast for the day of your tour. Whether you’re exploring coastal inlets, mountain rivers, or expansive bays, changing conditions can be dangerous. Storms and bad weather can kick up wind and create choppy conditions making navigation difficult. If you start your adventure with clear skies and the weather starts to change, be prepared to get off the water if you need to. No matter the situation, having a plan gives you a guide to follow. If it’s your first time touring, having a detailed plan is a must!
About iROCKER
Since 2013, iROCKER has been the top online destination for all your paddle boarding needs. They have an inflatable paddle board for everyone. Explore their versatile line of all-around inflatable SUP boards. Or check out their ULTRA™ Collection. These lightweight boards are designed to go with you anywhere—no waterway is off limits. What about paddle boarding accessories? iROCKER has every angle covered. Find an electric pump for your blow up paddle board. Or get a cooler that straps right onto your board! Make your next adventure on the water an adventure to remember with iROCKER!
Get ready for your paddle boarding tour at irockersup.ca
From fear to career, this free diver and ocean photographer gets up close and personal with sharks.
Growing up in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, the “Shark Bite Capital of the World,” John Garza could have easily let sharks become a lifelong fear. While never having been bit himself, John carried several friends from the water after altercations with sharks while surfing. Enough to turn anyone away from the ocean for life.
Long-lining for sharks as a teen in Florida, John wouldn’t have another close encounter with sharks until many years later after moving out to Hawaii in pursuit of world-renowned surf breaks. While the original draw was epic waves, John quickly became entranced with diving and the clarity the water there provided. “I fell into a group of marine biologists and photographers. They were shark biologists, and they took me under their wing and taught me everything they knew, and I just fell in love with it,” he says, adding, “And now I’m here.”
“Here” being a published underwater photographer, the captain of Purely Blu Charters, a luxury catamaran experience based in the Bahamas, and co-founder of lifestyle brand Ocean Outcasts.
A COMPLETE 180°
Together with his partner, Chief Stew Hannah Patten, John aims for Purely Blu Charters to change the way people view and interact with sharks and other marine wildlife. “Growing up, I had this [ … ] fear of sharks, and now I’ve done a complete one-eighty,” he says. “So, I like to tell people my story [ … ] I know it’s scary, but all it takes is for you to get in the water with the sharks for the first time and it’ll completely change your mind. It’s actually calming to me watching the sharks swim around. I feel like I could stay in the water with them forever,” he says.
Though John has traveled the world in search of dive spots and different species of sharks, from Tahiti and Tonga to Bali and Japan, “My favorite location is always going to be the Bahamas,” he says. “There’s this spot out there called Tiger Beach and tiger sharks are definitely my favorite to interact with out of all the species I’ve done dives with.”
Along with simply being in the water and experiencing sharks in their natural habitat, John has found a way to capture these ancient creatures through underwater photography. Having been introduced to photography by the same group who got him into diving, John began hosting his own underwater photography workshops. “I would take people diving and teach them all about interactions with animals in the water and their characteristics, while also teaching them about photography and how to use their cameras, how to edit,” he explains.
Realizing that he was pigeonholing himself by offering expeditions only to those interested in photography, he realized he needed to broaden his horizons. Together with Hannah, the “backbone and brains” of the operation, the pair created Ocean Outcasts.
SUSTAINABLE ADVENTURE
Established in 2020, Ocean Outcasts is a lifestyle brand with the goals of bringing awareness and compassion to the ocean and inspiring others to “take a stand for our planet and ocean.” With several platforms under the Ocean Outcasts umbrella, including John and Hannah’s expeditions as well as a media team, John describes the initiative as “our way of bringing people on board and showing them why we love the ocean.”
“The ocean means everything to me,” he says, adding,” it’s a place I’ve gone to when I’ve had hard times going on in my life, and I can let go of everything and find peace”. Protecting this great blue wonder is something Ocean Outcasts takes seriously—using reef-safe sunscreens, teaching the importance of sustainability and sustainable fishing practices, and providing ocean education in addition to a day of adventure on the water.
A RESPECTFUL GUEST
The main takeaway for John when it comes to diving with sharks is respect. “Obviously I’m jumping in the water with sharks so it’s hard for me to tell others not to do it, but for me it’s about being respectful. I’ve spent the time and been diving with marine biologists and people that have studied shark behavior for years. So, when getting in the water I want to ensure the sharks feel comfortable that I’m in the water with them [ … ] and if they don’t want me in there, I don’t push it.”
With his iROCKER inflatable paddle board, John is able to enter into places without the noise of a loud engine announcing his arrival. “It just makes everything that much more peaceful and you’re not really disturbing the wildlife,” he says. And capturing the wildlife in their natural state of being is crucial to the artistic side of his venture. Preferring still photography to video, John shares his compelling images through both print work as well as his Instagram account, where he often accompanies each photo with important information about marine wildlife. Follow along at @johngarzaphoto and get up close and personal—that is until you’re ready to dive in with the real thing.
Learn more at purelyblucharters.com and oceanoutcasts.com
