Far too many paddlers are blown offshore (away from the beach and out to sea) resulting in rescues and assistance from the emergency services. If riders end up floating in the water, often inappropriately dressed, there’s even more danger to life.
It may sound extremely boring but having a grasp of SUP safety and how wind and weather interact with you whilst off on your paddles is very important. Yes, you need to be wearing a quick release belt and coiled leash. And yes, you need to be wearing the right paddle boarding clothing.
When discussing wind with paddle boarding and other watersports in mind there’s a degree of jargon to get your head around. Especially when looking at forecasts or talking to other paddlers and asking for advice. The following may help.
Headwind – wind blowing directly into you as you paddle forwards
Downwind – wind blowing onto your back helping to push you along
Cross shore – wind blowing left to right or right to left across a beach or launch point
Onshore – wind blowing directly onto the beach or point of launch
Offshore – wind blowing off the beach or your launch point away from land
Thermal wind – wind caused by the land heating and cooler air rushing in off the water to fill its place
Sea breeze – much the same as a thermal only more coastal
Additional floatation – such as a buoyancy aid – is also needed if you’re paddling on the sea. And carrying a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch is essential. You also need to have checked your equipment and be appropriately experienced for the route you’re choosing. Then knowledge about wind and weather can be added to your arsenal of knowledge for an even safer SUP experience.
Ultimately having as much information in your head about all aspects of SUP will see a much better overall experience of paddle boarding with less unfortunate incidents occurring. Here are a bunch of links relating to wind and weather that have been designed to help your understanding and aid SUP safety.
Common wind scenarios and how they can affect stand up paddle boarding.
The effects of wind and tide on stand up paddle boarding (a simple guide).
SUP, the Venturi effect and what this means for wind (and water) flow.
SUP weather: how to interpret forecasts.
SUP hazards and things to look out for before paddling.
Interpreting weather forecasts for your local stand up paddle board spot.
Wind can be the bane of all paddler boarder’s lives. If you don’t use it wisely. Or avoid it altogether. Being able to accurately assess whether a venue is too windy is a skill. But knowing what to look for in the first place is knowledge. and knowledge all paddlers need.
Before you head out next make sure you have a good understanding of SUP safety and wind. It could save your life.
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