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Paddleboarding: How to stay safe on the water

Paula Mckenna • Sep 26, 2022

We discuss some key considerations to help paddleboarders stay safe and enjoy their day

Paddleboarding is a great way to enjoy the amazing waters of Wales; whether it’s a leisurely float down a canal or a more adventurous trip along the coast – paddleboards are brilliant! However, although it’s easy to hop onto a paddleboard and get going, it’s also easy to get into trouble, so we’ve compiled a list of our ‘top ten questions’, which should help you have a safe and enjoyable time on your board.

Have I got the right paddleboard?

There can be a big difference between boards designed for surf, whitewater, touring, racing and yoga, so it’s essential that you have the right board for the type of paddling you want to do. And that it’s the right size for you (thickness, width and length). If you’re not sure what your board is designed for, or if it’s the right size for you, check the manufacturer’s recommendations (usually available online).

There can also be a big difference in cost, with boards ranging from £100 to £1000. Cheaper boards can be less stable and more flexible, however, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a quality board. If it’s made by a reputable paddleboard manufacturer or you’ve bought it from a specialist watersports retailer it should be good to go! Note to Members: check out the discounts you are eligible for here.

Before you head out check the attachment points are secure e.g. leash attachment. If it’s a hard board check there are no cracks, holes or UV damage. If it’s an inflatable board check it’s rigid when pumped and has no leaks. Make sure it’s inflated to the correct PSI (usually 18–25 PSI but check the manufacturer’s recommendation).

Having the right board, fully inflated, will make your trip much easier and more enjoyable!

Should my paddle float?

There are different sizes and designs of paddles, however, good quality paddles all have one thing in common; they float! If you’re not sure if your paddle floats or not, check before you head out (ideally in shallow water!). If it sinks seriously consider buying a new paddle from a reputable manufacturer/retailer.

Which leash should I use on my paddleboard?

This is an essential piece of safety kit – if you fall in it keeps you attached to your board, so it can’t get carried or blown away from you in current, waves or wind. The board is your transport and flotation, so you want it with you if you’re in the water! However, in certain environments there is the chance that the board/leash/you can get caught or snagged, in which case you want to be able to release from the leash and board quickly and easily. This is why having the correct leash is essential. If there is any flow or current (tidal or river) and there is a risk of snagging or entrapment e.g. buoys, jetties, trees, rocks etc then a waist quick release belt system with a coiled leash is the best option. If you do fall in and are caught or held by the water, you can easily reach and release it. If there is no risk of snagging or entrapment and no/slow flow then an ankle or calf cuff/knee leash is a suitable option, ideally with a coiled leash (straight leashes are generally used for surf).

Should I wear a personal flotation device, buoyancy aid or lifejacket?

If you’re heading out onto the water a buoyancy aid (BA) or personal flotation device (PFD) is strongly recommended. In the worst-case scenario of being separated from your board or your board deflating (or even being injured or incapacitated), this is what is going to keep you afloat. If you’re paddling on flowing water (tidal or river) a paddlesport-specific, foam BA or PFD is the best option, which offers immediate flotation and has been designed for paddling. For water with no/slow flow a waist belt or inflating PFD is a popular option, but it does have to be manually deployed to provide flotation. Make sure you know how to use it before heading out. Whichever type of PFD you choose make sure it’s ISO 12402-5 or ISO 12402-6 certified, so you know it has passed the tests to be safe and effective.

Lifejackets are not specifically designed for paddlesports and so can be difficult to paddle and swim in, so are not the best option.

What if I fall off my board?

The chances are you will fall off your board at some point, so you need to be confident that you can get back on it. Practice getting back on in ‘safe’ water, somewhere you can easily swim/wade with your board to the shore/bank to get out. There are lots of different techniques so find the one that works for you. If you’re struggling it’s worth considering getting some coaching (see our recommendations at the bottom of the page).

What should I wear and carry?

Dress for the weather and for if you fall in (will you stay warm if you’re soaking wet?). Wetsuits are a good choice, or layers of water-wicking clothes. Pack some spares in a dry bag just in case. Have some way of calling for help; a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch is perfect. This should be carried on you (buoyancy aid pocket), not on your board (in case you get separated from it). You’ll also need water, snacks and sunscreen. Also consider taking hand sanitiser, a small first aid kit and a ‘quick-fix-kit’ (duct tape and a puncture repair kit can save a trip!).

Don’t forget to tell someone where you going. For longer trips consider using a tracking/safety app e.g. RYA SafeTrx

What about the wind and weather?

Get the forecast and know what the weather will be doing whilst you’re on the water. It only takes around 12mph (force 3) of headwind to make paddleboarding difficult. For coast, lakes and open water will the wind blow you towards the shore (onshore wind) or carry you away from the shore (offshore wind)? Offshore winds should be avoided. For canals and rivers will the wind be at your back (helping) or in your face (hindering)? If you’re planning a return trip will you have to paddle back against the wind? Know what the wind will be doing and plan your trip accordingly.

The MetOffice is the go-to place for weather forecasts and includes wind direction and speed. If you prefer something a little more visual, Windy.tv is a great secondary resource; it shows live (and forecast) wind direction and speed on a map, so it’s easy to see the wind direction and how it will change during the day. It also shows waves and swell direction, which can be handy for coastal trips. Both of these are also available as apps for iOS and Android.

Is paddleboarding safe?

Yes! Although there are reports in the media of paddleboarders getting into difficulty, if you’re prepared and have the right knowledge, skills and equipment paddleboarding is a safe way to enjoy a water-based adventure. We’ve written some handy blogs that will help to make your trip safe and enjoyable on the sea, lakes, canals, rivers and estuaries.

Whether you’re paddleboarding on the sea or inland it’s a good idea to take your own water, cover any cuts and scratches, wash your hands before eating and drinking (or use hand sanitiser), and wash your equipment after use. Washing you kit will also help stop the spread of invasive species – check, clean, dry to protect our environment.

Where can I go paddleboarding?

Lakes, sea, rivers, canals … paddleboarding can take you pretty much anywhere! For some waterways you will need a licence and/or insurance – check out our blog on the waterways licence for more info. Check out our blogs on safety and equipment for paddleboarding on the sea, lakes, canals, rivers and estuaries, which will give some great info and advice on paddleboarding in different environments.

I’d like to build my paddleboarding skills and confidence, are there any groups I can join or courses I can go on?

Yes! If you’d like to join a group, canoe clubs are fantastic portal into the world of paddlesport. They usually have kit you can hire/borrow, run regular coaching sessions and trips, and are generally a fun and friendly bunch of people! Find your nearest club here.

If it’s a course you’re after the British Canoeing award scheme has them for all abilities, paddlecraft and waterways. They are certified, which is great if you want to prove your skills if you’re hiring kit or joining an organised trip. Alternatively, you could arrange a private coaching session – we’d recommend using a certified Training Provider – you can find one near you here.

Some great courses are: