Stand-up paddleboarding has burst onto the beach scene in recent years and is the fastest growing water sport in the world.

With the rise in popularity, many paddleboarders often forget that being on a paddleboard requires the same safety precautions and vigilance as any other activity on the water. With National Safe Boating Week underway, now is a perfect time to brush up on some paddleboarding tips and most importantly, water safety practices.

The first thing to know about stand-up paddleboarding is that a paddleboard is a vessel when used “beyond the narrow limits of a swimming, surfing or bathing area.” If a paddleboard is used within a designated “swimming, surfing or bathing area,” the Coast Guard does not consider it to be a vessel.

What does this mean for you? When using a paddleboard beyond the limits of the swimming, surfing or bathing area, you need to be as prepared as you would be when using what is considered a traditional vessel, which includes wearing a life jacket.

Whether you are a seasoned paddleboarder or new to the activity, here are some other tips when it comes to using stand-up paddleboards.

1. Wear a lifejacket and carry a whistle
2. Be a competent swimmer
3. Know how to self rescue
4. Know how to tow another board
5. Know the local regulations and navigation rules
6. Understand the elements and hazards – winds, tidal ranges, current, terrain
7. Know when to wear a leash
8. Be defensive – don’t go where you aren’t supposed to be and avoid other swimmers, boaters, paddleboards
9. Use proper blade angle to be the most efficient paddle boarder
10. Take a safety course

And remember… have fun and be safe!

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According to the National Safe Boating Council, in 2016, the Northeast had 28 paddler deaths, more than double the national average. To date, there have been about 33 recreational boating fatalities, with 20 of those deaths happening in inland waters. Sixteen out of the 33 deaths were paddlecraft related.

Paddlesports continue to be the fastest growing segment of recreational boating, with more than 300,000 paddle crafts (canoes, kayaks and paddle boards) being sold annually.

However, just like boating, there is a skill level to the sport.

“Paddlers should know their skill level and not go beyond it,” said Walt Taylor, First Coast Guard District’s recreational boating safety specialist.

The Coast Guard will be looking for life jackets, a sound making device, and other safety equipment to ensure paddlers have a safe and enjoyable time on the water the rest of the summer.

Paddlers in Massachusetts are required to wear life jackets from Sept. 15-May 15; in Connecticut, Oct. 1-May 31, and in New York, Nov. 1-May 1. All mariners should be aware that most states require children under 12 to be in a life jacket at all times while on the water.

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One very minor downside is that it takes several minutes to pump the board up by hand, but you’re most likely getting a paddleboard to be physical, so suck it up! Or you can spend a few extra bucks and opt for an electric pump — your choice.

With an inflatable paddleboard, you’re ready to take your board with you just about anywhere.

Rigidity

The first time I ever tried out an inflatable SUP, I was skeptical. In my mind, there was no way it would feel as stable as a traditional board since it was just filled with air. Fortunately, I was wrong. The inflatable SUP felt just as firm and rigid as a hardboard. Inflatable SUPs are constructed with drop-stitch technology, allowing for greater air pressure and increased rigidity.

Durability

Although these boards are inflatable, you’ll rarely have an issue with tears and leaks – especially if you buy a high-quality board from a reputable brand. The outside layer of these boards is composed of the same types of materials used in the construction of military-grade inflatable boats, so they’re actually designed to take a beating.

Weight

Even when inflated to its full PSI, inflatable SUPS are really lightweight compared to hardboards (anywhere from 10 to 20 pounds lighter). Most can be carried by just one person under the arm. What’s more, many inflatable SUPs actually come with a bag for even easier carrying capabilities.

Size

If you don’t live on the water, these highly mobile alternatives make it easy to take your board on the road. They’re so mobile, in fact, that you can easily fly with them as well. When not in use, the inflatable paddleboards can be deflated and rolled up to about the size of a sleeping bag. This makes them perfect for traveling and small-space storage.

Versatility

As the popularity of inflatable SUPs has increased over the past few years, many companies have started producing various designs that are suitable for all types of stand-up paddleboarding. There are now inflatable SUPs for just about anything – flat-water paddling, touring, white-water rafting, yoga, and even wave surfing.

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A couple of things you’ll want to consider are how you’re going to be using your SUP and who is going to be using it. Answering these questions will give you a good starting point for size and shape.

Hull Shapes

There are a couple of basic options for hull shape. A planing hull is flat and wide, similar to a surfboard. It is designed to ride on top of the water and performs well in waves. Many beginners start on boards with planing hulls because they tend to be stable and versatile enough for recreational paddling, exercise and surfing.

Displacement hulls have a pointed nose or bow, similar to that of a boat. A displacement hull slices through the water, improving efficiency. SUPs with displacement hulls are usually longer and narrow, which makes them faster but tippier.

Sizing

When choosing the length, width and volume of your SUP, think about where you want to paddle. Riding waves in the ocean and racing on a calm lake are very different styles of paddleboarding.

Short boards are more maneuverable and great for surfing; they can also be a great option for kids. Medium-length boards in the 9- to 12-foot range are ideal for all-around use on lakes. Longer, narrower boards tend to track straighter and are great if you’re paddling long distances or even racing. Wider boards are stabler and easier to balance on, but have less overall glide speed.

Construction

The next factor to consider is the type of board construction. Most boards are built around an EPS foam core and feature either cut EVA foam decking or a soft-top design. If you have limited storage space or are thinking about traveling with your SUP, consider an inflatable board.

One important note: The U.S. Coast Guard classifies SUPs as vessels (when used outside the narrow limits of swimming or surfing areas), so it is required that you wear a PFD.

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If you don’t live on the water, check out one of the new breed of inflatable paddleboards. These highly mobile alternatives make it easy to take your board on the road.

Need to Know

From surf- and yoga-specific ­designs to specialized racing boards, there are a wide variety of paddleboards to choose from.

All-Around Boards

Since towed-watersports enthusiasts tend to spend most of their time on lakes and rivers, all-around boards are a great place to start. Designed for flat-water conditions and multipurpose performance, these boards are typically longer and wider, with a high volume. As a result, they’re super stable and a good fit for beginner paddlers.

Inflatable Boards

If you live on the water, managing a big, bulky paddleboard isn’t that big of a problem. If you don’t, transporting your board can be a bit of a hassle. Enter inflatable boards. These lightweight boards can be pumped up in a few minutes and collapse to a compact size that can be transported in a bag or backpack. Inflatables can be ­designed for a range of environments, but their easy mobility is a universal plus.

Yoga Boards

These wider, longer boards allow yoga enthusiasts and water lovers to combine their passions. Yoga boards typically sport soft tops to keep you comfortable while contorting your body and feature cargo areas to store exercise accessories.

Length

The longer your board is, the faster it will travel. The shorter your board is, the easier it is to turn and maneuver.

Width

The wider your board, the stabler it will be, but that additional width will make it harder to turn and maneuver.

Thickness

Thickness also affects stability. The thicker your board, the stabler it will be. Beginners and tall, heavy riders should look for a thicker board.

Volume

Wider, longer and thicker board designs will feature more volume, while shorter, narrower boards will have less. More volume translates to more stability, so it’s a good idea for beginners to get started with a long, wide and thick board. While you gain stability with bigger boards, you’re likely giving up responsiveness and maneuverability, so as you get more experience paddling, you might want to downsize to a smaller, nimbler design.

Hull Shape

There are two basic types of paddle­board hulls: planing hulls and ­displacement hulls. Similar to surfboards, planing hulls are flat and wide and designed to ride on top of the water. As a result, planing hulls are the best shape for beginners and for riding surf waves. Designed with pointed noses, displacement hulls slice through the water for improved efficiency. They’re typically longer and narrower than planing-hull boards, which makes them a good fit for racing or long-­distance paddling.

Fins

The vast majority of paddleboards have a single removable fin, though some surf designs have a three-fin setup for added drive and stability on waves.

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Lowdown: The 3D Softy combines the beginner-friendly benefits of a soft top with high-end features like a new recessed deck and tip channels.

• Recessed deck and wide design yield overall stability

• Full soft-top deck for tip-to-tail traction and long-paddle comfort

• Channels on the tip diverge water off the board, keeping cargo dry

Sizes: 9 ft. 6 in. and 10 ft. 6 in.

MSRP: $599.99 w/paddle

connellysup.com

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Lowdown: Sporting Connelly’s widest, most-stable outline, the Explorer provides max stability that will benefit everyone from yoga enthusiasts to beginners learning the basics.

• Soft-sanded EVA foam deck provides tip-to-tail traction and all-day comfort

• Slight V displacement nose yields increased paddle efficiency and quieter ride

• Lightweight EPS foam core with full-length wood stringer

Sizes: 9 ft. 6 in. and 10 ft. 6 in.

MSRP: $899.99 w/paddle

connellysup.com

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Lowdown: Available in 10’6″ and 11’6″ lengths, the Tahoe combines the take-it-anywhere convenience of an inflatable with a compact, easy-to-move package.

• When fully inflated, the rigid and stable platform is ideal for all skill levels

• Rolls up when deflated for compact storage in a convenient carry bag

• Packaged with a three-piece composite paddle, three fins, and high-pressure hand pump

Sizes: 10 ft. 6 in. and 11 ft. 6 in.

MSRP: $799.99

connellysup.com

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Lowdown: Combining the performance of a displacement-style hull with the convenience of an inflatable, the Denali is Connelly’s longest, sleekest inflatable.

• Wide-belly design and 300-liter volume yield stability even for inexperienced paddlers

• Rolls up when deflated for compact storage in a convenient carry bag

• Packaged with a three-piece composite paddle, three fins, and high-pressure hand pump

Size: 12 ft. 6 in.

MSRP: $899.99

connellysup.com

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• Packaged with a color-matched waterproof bag, aluminum paddle, leash, and pump.
• Wide 31-inch belly adds stability
• Bungee systems at the tip and tail stow your gear

MSRP: $999.99

jobesports.com

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