How to Stand Up Paddle Board Guide

Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is one of the fastest growing water sports in the world — and it's easy to see why. It's accessible to all ages and fitness levels, works your core, and gets you out on the water in a way that's both relaxing and exhilarating. Whether you're heading out on flat water, a river or catching small waves, this guide will help you get started.

What You'll Need to Get Started

  • A SUP board — For beginners, a wider, longer board (10'6" or above) gives the most stability. Inflatable SUP's are great for transport and storage.
  • A paddle — Should be around 6–10 inches taller than you. Make sure the blade angle faces away from you when paddling. Shop paddles.
  • A leash — Essential for safety. Attaches the board to your ankle so it doesn't drift away if you fall. Shop SUP leashes.
  • A buoyancy aid — Recommended for open water and required in some locations.
  • Appropriate clothing — A wetsuit or UV top depending on conditions. Water temperature in the UK means a wetsuit is advisable for most of the year.

How to Stand Up Paddle Board — Step by Step

Watch our helpful tutorial videos below to see the key techniques in action, then follow these steps:

  1. Start on your knees — Begin by kneeling on the board in the centre, just behind the handle. Get a feel for the balance before standing.
  2. Stand up one foot at a time — Place your feet where your knees were, hip-width apart. Keep your knees slightly bent and your gaze forward — not down at your feet.
  3. Hold the paddle correctly — One hand on the top (T-bar), one hand on the shaft. The blade should angle away from you.
  4. Paddle in long, smooth strokes — Reach forward, plant the blade fully in the water, and pull back to your ankle. Switch sides every few strokes to keep a straight line.
  5. Don't panic if you fall — Everyone falls in! Try to fall away from the board, and use the leash to pull it back to you.

Video Tutorials

These videos cover the key techniques for getting started with SUP:

Choosing the Right SUP Board

  • All-round SUP — The best starting point. Stable, versatile and suitable for flat water, light surf and touring. Shop all SUP boards.
  • Inflatable SUP — Easy to transport and store, durable and great for beginners. Modern inflatables are surprisingly rigid. Shop inflatable SUPs.
  • Touring SUP — Longer and narrower for covering distance efficiently. Better suited to intermediate paddlers.
  • Wave SUP — Shorter and more manoeuvrable for riding waves. For those with surfing experience.

SUP Accessories

Once you have your board, make sure you have everything else you need:

Need More Help?

Our team is on hand 7 days a week to help you choose the right SUP board and accessories. Contact us online or visit us in store at 368 Kingsway, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 4QT. You can also call us on 01273 411141. You might also find our Wetsuit Buying Guide useful if you're new to water sports.