Adequate clothing is a common concern when starting a new activity or sport. You want to feel at ease but also need to plan for the unexpected. Depending on your paddle boarding style, your attire should combine safety gear, clothing, and footwear.
With many choices available, you should be able to find your ideal outfit. Whether you’re a warm weather paddler or if you enjoy stand up paddle boarding all year-round.
In this article, we describe all the stand up paddle board—or SUP—attire you might need. From life jackets and shoes to summer and winter clothing, you’ll know what to wear paddle boarding from head to toe. We’ll even discuss some unique clothing styles designed for SUP yoga and SUP fishing.
Define Your Paddle Boarding Style
What you’ll be wearing when paddling will mostly depend on what type of paddle boarding you intend to do. Is tanning while paddling important to you? Are you likely to fall in the water?
If you plan on doing SUP yoga, you’ll want to wear comfortable clothes. When planning a trip in cold waters, keeping yourself warm should be your priority.
Paddle board clothing isn’t always economical and putting some thoughts on what you really need should save you a lot of money.
Safety Gear
Beginners tend to omit safety gear, yet two of them should be on your checklist.
Personal Floatation Device (PFD)
Although it isn’t always mandatory for adults to wear one, SUPs are recognized as vessels by the U.S Coast Guard. This means that by law, you’re required to keep a USCG-approved PFD handy. In most states, however, children under 13 years old are compelled to wear one at all times.
Several kinds are available. When shopping for one, you’ll need to know about life jacket classification, specifications, and types.
Buoyancy Specifications
Each PFD should display a buoyancy weight. Although most of us require a 12-pound buoyancy to float, the newest models offer a floatation power of at least 15 pounds.
The greater the floatation force, the taller your head will stand above the water. For paddlers with a higher body fat percentage or body weight, stronger buoyancy is preferable.
PFD Classifications
PFDs approved by the U.S Coast Guard are classified as type I, II, III, IV, or V.
Type I life jackets generally offer the strongest buoyancy, at least 22 pounds. They’re bulkier and might be the least comfortable to wear when paddle boarding.
Type II and III PFDs show some commonalities. They both provide a floatation power of about 15.5 pounds. Type III, however, is more popular among paddlers as they allow for more freedom of movement.
Type IV devices should only be used as a backup. They usually come in the form of a cushion or ring. Finally, Type V life jackets are specifically designed for watersports such as paddle boarding.
Although all classifications can be used on a SUP, most paddlers select Type III or Type V life jackets for their convenience.
PFD Types
Within each classification, you’ll find several types of PFDs. Standard models are typically made of foam and don’t need to be activated in the water. They have a larger footprint but provide a few practical pockets.
Depending on the model, inflatable PFDs can be activated either manually or automatically. They’re more compact than the standard ones. That said, after your first fall, you’ll have to wear your PFD inflated until you go home.
A few of them offer both the benefits of inflatable and standard life jackets. These are generally available at a higher price-point. On the last note, if you’re planning on bringing your dog along, don’t forget to get him a floatation device as well.
Safety Leash
Every paddler should be wearing a leash. It will keep your board close to you and make it easy to retrieve. If having a cord attached to your ankle doesn’t seem appealing, you can also wrap it around your calf.
Some models can even be fixed around the waist. They usually include a waterproof pocket to place a set of keys or a phone.
Whether made of a coil or a straight cord, a leash should be on your attire list. It’s most useful after flipping. Without one, the current can carry your SUP away without the ability to get it back.
Your Summer Attire
Do you enjoy paddle boarding in the summertime? For calm and sunny days, we’ve put together a list of everything you may need.
Protect Your Skin
One of the most important layers you should be wearing when practicing any watersport is sunscreen. UV rays cause an impressive 90 percent of skin aging. When exposed, your skin can turn red in less than 20 minutes. A good quality sunblock should be water-resistant and act as a shield against both UVA and UVB rays.
Sunscreens come with a sun protection factor or SPF. The higher the SPF, the better. For watersports, an SPF 35 or 50 is recommended.
Here are a few critical elements to keep in mind. First, no sunblock will provide 100 percent protection against all types of UV rays. Second, it’s best to apply the lotion 30 minutes before paddling and re-apply every 2 hours.
Although it may not feel as smooth and pleasant on the skin, thicker creams don’t need to be re-applied as often. Liquid lotions have a higher alcohol content and are easily washed off in the water.
Lastly, the level of protection will vary depending on how much you’re applying. At least 1 ounce—or the equivalent of a full shot glass—should be used at a time.
We recommend staying away from scented sunblocks. They can contain harmful chemicals and synthetic fragrances and potentially cause skin irritation.
Polarized Sunglasses
SUPers tend to forget that their eyes are fragile. Water is one of the most reflective materials and can burn the cornea.
Polarized lenses are covered with a chemical able to filter UV rays and reduce the light glare. They’re vital to keep your eyes healthy. Today, polarized sunglasses are trendy and available in all shapes and designs.
There is nothing more annoying than sunglasses constantly sliding over your nose or falling in the water. We suggest adding an elastic band to keep them in place.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKlZ_ibIBgo (from 24 seconds)
Swimming Suits
In the summer months, most people enjoy wearing swimming attire. You’re exercising, having fun, and working on your golden tan all at once.
If swimming shorts, bathing suits, or bikinis aren’t for you, there are many alternatives. Sports outfits, such as a sports bra and shorts, can sometimes feel cozier.
Board Shorts
Initially popular among surfers, board shorts can fit anyone of any age. They’re generally longer than regular shorts and quick to dry. Stretch fabric and loose material is best, as you’ll need to jump on and off of your board with ease.
Many models come with ultraviolet light protection, and a few include velcro pockets to place keys or a waterproof device. Available in various patterns, lengths, and fashionable designs, you should be able to find one that suits your taste.
The Right Hat
Not all hats are created equal. Although wearing a cap is safer than leaving the shore with a bare head, it only covers the scalp, forehead, and nose.
To properly preserve the neck and ears, your hat should have a brim of at least 3 inches. After brimmed hats, the legionnaire style comes second when it comes to sun protection.
Even on a cloudy day, 90 percent of UV rays are still able to reach you. Forty percent of them will even penetrate the water as deep as 164 feet. This is why a few models are conceived to absorb and block ultraviolet rays.
If you’re heading for a day-trip or longer, a hat allowing good air circulation will reduce perspiration. Choose a material that dries quickly, such as neoprene. A tight fit is also advised in windy conditions, so you won’t have to paddle after your hat.
Rash Guards
Rash guards are versatile and have become extremely popular. Although you may not need to wear it at all times, being able to layer up is a great advantage.
On a SUP, your skin gets exposed to salt, sun, water, wind, repetitive movements, and to the contact of your board. Over time, they can create rashes and other skin irritations. This piece of clothing will protect your skin from the external environment.
In spring and fall, it can also keep you warm. Although it’s recommended to wear it fitted to your body, self-conscious paddlers may also wear it loose.
A rash guard typically provides UV protection, either by using a special coating or a tight stitch. Many fair-skinned paddlers prone to sunburn wear them instead of constantly re-applying sunscreen. It should save you money in the long run and can prevent questionable chemical components from your skin and the water.
Rash guards are made of various synthetic materials. Lycra is a breathable material with the most stretching ability. Neoprene isn’t typically used during summer as this material keeps you warm.
Combining breathability, stretchability, and a quick dry, spandex and nylon are popular among SUPers. Finally, polyester rash guards are the least stretchable but provide the tightest fit.
If you’re worried about going out of style, rash guards come in all styles and patterns. You’ll find models with short, medium, or long sleeves. They also exist in vests, tank tops, shorts, or even pants.
Cold Weather Attire
While most summer outfits are about convenience and sun protection, wearing adequate cold-weather attire could save your life.
Main Considerations
Beginners should start practicing in warm environments before paddling in winter or cold waters. Although body responses can differ from one individual to another, cold temperatures typically increase your heart rate and blood pressure. For this reason, we advise against winter paddling if you don’t feel completely healthy.
Your breathing gets affected when the water temperature falls below 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Be extra cautious when it drops below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and below 50 degrees, it’s best to wait for warmer days.
Be ready to fall. If you’re able to stay warm in the water, you should have a great time on your board.
Here are some useful tips to paddle board in winter.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odJeWlb8SFg (from 30 seconds)
Thermal Rash Guards
We’ve already mentioned rash guards and what they are. When shopping for a winter outfit, however, you might come across thermal rash guards. This type of paddle board clothing provides an added layer of insulation.
They’re usually made of neoprene. The thicker the material, the more insulation it offers. Wear it under a wetsuit to avoid skin irritation, or under a drysuit to keep you warm.
Wearing a Wetsuit
Wetsuits are common outfits for many watersport activities. They only allow a small amount of water to penetrate between your skin and the material. Your body will then heat the water to keep you warm, while the wetsuit prevents colder water from entering.
For this reason, a wetsuit shouldn’t be worn loose, and a tight fit is crucial in winter. Don’t commit to one before trying it on. While it should be close to your skin, it should still feel comfy and give you the ability to move freely.
Most wetsuits feature a thickness between 0.11 and 0.23 inches. Thick material is more efficient, yet it tends to limit mobility. Although you’ll find short sleeves wetsuits, full-body styles are preferable when paddling in cold weather.
When the air temperature drops below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ll feel warmer with a hooded wetsuit. The best ones are made of neoprene and protect against UV rays.
Dry Suits
If you aren’t fond of tight-fitting clothes, wearing a dry suit might be your way to go. This type of paddle boarding outfit is fully waterproof and generally designed with two layers of insulation. Yet, one alone doesn’t create warmth; for this, you’ll need to layer up.
Most paddlers wear a rash guard and a hoodie underneath. As dry suits have increased in popularity among SUPers, you’ll find lighter models specifically designed for paddle boarding.
Winter Headwear
The best ones are again made of insulated neoprene material. A ski cap made of wool could, however, do the trick.
Cotton hats are the least preferable as they’ll retain cold water and aren’t fast to dry. They’ll keep your head wet and freezing during most of the trip.
Wear Gloves
When your body feels cold, it sends the blood to your vital organs, leaving your extremities glacial. Numb hands and toes are generally the first signs that your body heat is compromised.
Although some of them only cover half of your fingers, we recommend investing in full gloves to protect your entire hand. Some models even come with pre-curved finger shapes.
Neoprene is, again, our material of choice and comes in various thicknesses, usually from 0.4 to 0.15 inches.
Adequate Footwear
In summer and winter, wearing stand up paddle shoes is strongly advised. In hot weather, they avoid cuts from rocks and shells, while in cold temperatures, they keep you warm.
Either way, water shoes allow a better grip. They increase stability and decrease the probability you’ll slip and get injured.
Some SUPers prefer the barefoot feeling and opt for direct contact with the board. If you’re indecisive, footwear can be used to launch your board and be fixed to the bungee cords while paddling.
It’s best to avoid regular running shoes. When filled with water they’re heavy and slippery over wet surfaces.
The Right Fit
Water shoes should fit like a glove—close-fitting, but comfortable. Ensure that you’re able to move your toes. Overly tight shoes may impact blood circulation and create painful cramps.
They shouldn’t be worn loose either. The water weight will likely take them away.
Different Types of Footwear
From aqua socks, sandals, booties, and knee-high boots, to regular water shoes, the number of options is endless.
Feeling like a second skin and aqua socks might be ideal for summer paddle boarding. They’re light and won’t feel too warm. Booties and high boots are best used in winter or when paddling in cold water.
If you like open-toe shoes, water sandals might be what you’re looking for. While the sole provides a layer of protection, they’re breathable and allow the air to flow.
SUP Yoga Attire
While doing yoga on a SUP doesn’t require a unique set of clothing, here is what most SUP yogis wear:
- Sports bra or regular workout tee-shirt.
- Shorts or leggings.
- Aqua socks.
- In case the wind picks up, bring an extra layer.
- Change of dry clothes.
SUP Fishing
Storage space is usually a considerable challenge when practicing SUP fishing. Although SUP fishers can wear any clothing adapted to the weather, fishing jackets are generally convenient.
Whether as full jackets or sleeveless vests, they’re typically designed with pockets to fit your phone, water, and small fishing gear. Some models even come with an expandable pocket to keep your whistle and knife handy at all times.
In a Few Words
With the recent expansion of SUP activity, the number of accessories and possible outfits has increased drastically. From a simple swimming suit to wetsuits and drysuits, the determinant factor might be the water and air temperatures.
The number of choices can at first seem overwhelming, however, it’s to your advantage. SUP attire is now available within all budgets, shapes, and styles.