Common SUP surfing blunders.

SUP surfing isn’t the main focus of paddle boarding but it’s a unique aspect of the sport that draws many paddlers in. Having (hopefully) learnt the basics of SUP alluring, clean peelers are understandably attractive. And small waves – as far as paddle boarding’s concerned – are great fun.

With the UK’s run of warm weather we’ve seen a lot of paddlers migrating from flat water to swell environments. We’ve also observed a bunch of faux pars that newbie SUP surfers make. Including some of the following.

• Putting wetsuits on back to front – zip at the rear peeps! (Unless it’s a mini chest zip).
• Wearing a leash on the wrong foot – attach to your trailing ankle.
• Not wearing a leash!
• Using too small a SUP – bigger is still better, even in waves (for the majority).
• Adopting surf speak after one SUP surfing session – drop the Johnny Utah isms bro.
• Using surf speak in the wrong context e.g. ‘yeah, I stoked that last wave!’ – if you do use it, know the right way.
• Not getting a lesson – guidance is always best, especially from the experienced.
• Riding into too shallow water and stacking it unceremoniously when you ground out.

• Dropping in on others – know and abide by surf etiquette.
• Paddling out straight into the main peak – other riders won’t appreciate this (see etiquette point).
• Being a wave hog – you definitely won’t make many friends doing this.
• Ditching your board during the paddle out as waves and white water pulse in – if it’s too big to paddle out then it’s too big for you.
• Forgetting to apply sunscreen – looking like a lobster ain’t cool!
• Telling a member of the opposite sex you’re a pro in full earshot of your beginner surf instructor – honesty is always the best policy.
• Not enjoying yourself – this is s’posed to be fun!

There are plenty more mistakes we see being made when paddlers begin riding waves. As with all aspects of SUP learn everything you can so best prepared for your sessions. That way you’ll maximise fun and remain safe.

Find more SUP surfing posts over on te McConks blog here.