SUP for beginners

SUP is easy to try, but it becomes much more fun if the first trip happens in the right place. Pick quiet water, rent a stable beginner board and stay close to shore. The goal the first time is not to paddle far, but to understand the balance, the wind and how the board behaves.

Start on your knees

Put the board in shallow water, step up from the side and start on your knees in the middle of the board. Paddle a few metres, turn, stop and feel how the board moves. When it feels stable you can set one foot at a time where the knees were, stand up slowly and keep your gaze forward instead of down at the feet.

Pick the right weather

Wind is the beginner’s greatest surprise. A light offshore wind can quickly take you away from the beach, especially on an inflatable board. Therefore paddle preferably in the lee or with a light wind towards land. If you get tired or unsure: go down on your knees again, then you get a lower centre of gravity and more control.

Safety on SUP

Wear a life jacket, use a leash where it fits the place and do not paddle alone on cold or open water. A leash keeps the board close if you fall in, but moving water, jetties and obstacles need extra judgement. More in our guide on safety when paddling.

Rent or buy?

Rent first. Then you try a stable board, paddle and life jacket without having to pick a model yourself. Many rentals sit at bathing spots, lakes and city water, and self-service stations often make it possible to book short sessions. Find places via the SUP page or the map.