Why to go stand up paddle boarding in winter

Stand Up Paddle Boarding is often overlooked in winter. It’s cold. Uncomfortable. Wet. But given that the sunshine doesn't appear to be heading our way any time soon, we're in desperate need of finding fun outdoor activities to stay active. So why can't SUP be one of them? Well actually, it can! If you’ve got the right kit, Stand Up Paddle Boarding doesn't have to be half as brutal as you'd think. 

Why SUP in winter?

Winter paddling might just be one of the best water activities out there and here’s why.

You avoid the crowds – whether your SUP style is touring on flat water or catching waves with the surfers, you’re bound to get a whole body of water to yourself in winter.

Nature – why avoid that burning desire to adventure in the outdoors just because the temp’s dropped a little? All it takes is a bit of extra layering and we can enjoy the fun all year round.

Landscapes – there’s nothing quite like wintery mist and snowy landscapes. You won’t regret wiping the dust off the SUP board when you can relax alone, with just your thoughts and the frosty surroundings for company.

 

Winter SUP Clothing Kit List

Cold water wetsuit

Check our wetsuit thickness guide to discover the best type of wetsuit for the water you’re SUP’ing in. Remember, with SUP, you're on the water - not in it. Unless you're convinced you'll be falling in a lot, a wetsuit may not be necessary. Wide SUP boards like the All-Round Red Paddle Co 10'6 are nice and stable, so should help you to keep your balance. 

We recommend:

Billabong Furnace Carbon Ultra Hooded 6/5mmRoxy Women's Syncro 5/4/3mm Hooded

Drysuit

Alternatively, a drysuit can be worn - these are especially handy if you’re a White Water paddler. A drysuit will protect you from the elements without restricting your movement. It'll keep you dry and warm for as long as you’re on the water, provided you've got the appropriate layers on underneath. Drysuits have latex seals, so ventilation is not an option and it's up to you to determine the perfect balance of insulation.

We recommend:

Crewsaver Atacama ProTyphoon Women's Ezeedon 3

Thermal Layers

Whether you’ve gone for a wettie or a drysuit, if you’re paddling in winter you’re probably going to want as much protection as possible. Stock up on as many layers as you need, but don’t overheat! A 5mm wetsuit may be enough for you, or you may need a thermal top and jacket too. It’s all down to personal preference, the local temp, and how well adjusted your body is to the cold!

We recommend:

Prolimit 1.5mm Neoprene HoodyGul Hydroshield Pro Thermal Long John | Palm Inferno 5mm Double Lined Long John

Footwear

Winter wetsuit boots or a quick-dry, lightweight shoe such as the Jobe Discover Water Shoe. Our winter wetsuit boots range from 5mm to 7mm, and paired with some thermal wetsuit socks you’ll be bound to keep your toes warm.

We recommend:

Quiksilver Highline+ 5mm Split Toe Boot | Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 5mm Round Toe Boot

Accessories

Shop our collection of gloves, hoods and hats to keep you warm from head to toe.

--

Shop our entire SUP collection here.

 

@wetsuitoutlet

 

Updated on 4th February 2019

Originally published on 8th November 2018 in SUP

Your browser is extremely out of date. We strongly recommend that you try a different browser for the best experience when using our website. Close.