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Writer's picturePam Martin

Opinion Piece: Why Paddling Skills Are Essential for Safe SUP Adventures

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has exploded in popularity over recent years, transforming from a niche sport into a beloved pastime for many. Whether you're gliding across the serene waters of a lake or catching small waves at the beach, SUPs have become synonymous with relaxation and fun.


However, this increase in accessibility has also led to a dangerous misconceptions—my SUP can take me anywhere, I don’t need a lifekjacket or personal floatation device (PFD) (because my board is full of air) and it will never happen to me. 


Most people use SUPs as mere beach toys, not realizing the serious risks associated with venturing beyond the safety of the beachside swim zone. 


*Images like this ⬆️ abound on social media making SUP seem docile and not require basic safety equipment like PFD's.


The Illusion of Safety

SUP has an illusion of safety from its casual cottage use and beachfront enjoyment, enjoyed only on the warmest, low-wind summer days. When stand up paddleboards first hit the market, they were typically used by experienced surfers and in warmer places like Hawaii and the southern USA.


As they hit the mainstream market, they were more commonly used in calmer environments such as flat water environments like lakes and sheltered bays and because of it's surfing roots, PFD's are not common. However, as more people purchase these boards for casual outings, there is an increasing number of deaths as people underestimate the complexities and challenges that water presents.



*Images like this ⬆️ show exactly why people die - not dressed for immersion (its June in Jasper, AB and this lake is freezing), not wearing a PFD, not using her leash (attached to boar but not her ankle), and her board is barely inflated enough to hold her up. At least she is close to shore!


Paddlesports Deaths Remain High

In recent years, paddleboarding has surged in popularity, leading to a rise in related accidents. The Outdoor Foundation, reported that during the pandemic, 37.9 million Americans participated in kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding. This marks an increase of approximately 2.5 million new paddlers compared to pre-pandemic levels.


At the same time, the Water Sports Foundation (WSF), a non-profit organization promoting water safety, reported a record high of 202 paddlesport fatalities in the U.S. in 2020. These incidents accounted for 26 percent of the nation's boating deaths that year.


"One reason is that more Americans are paddling than ever before, and many of them are new to the sport. For example, an examination of Recreational Boating Safety Statistics reveals that nearly three-quarters (74 percent) of those who died in paddling accidents in 2022 had less than 100 hours experience in the activity, and well over one-third (39.7 percent) had less than 10 hours experience. In other words, the paddlers who are most at risk aren’t the young guns charging through whitewater rapids; they’re ordinary folks who bought a kayak on a whim." Water Sports Foundation (WSF)


We observe similar trends here in Canada, largely driven by paddlers' inexperience. Pair this with the low-quality inflatables being purchased that are nothing more than beach toys, and you have yourself a recipe for disaster. Just like any other water sport, SUP carries inherent risks that can be exacerbated by a lack of proper equipment, knowledge, and skills. According to Transport Canada, there were 18 reported fatalities involving SUPs and kayaks in 2023 alone.


A sobering reminder of the dangers came in the form of several tragic fatalities in Canada that could have easily been avoided;


These incidents, involving both SUPs and kayaks, underscore a poignant truth—lifejackets and PFDs could have saved MANY LIVES and open water (big lakes and the ocean) is not to be underestimated. Currents, winds, and weather can change rapidly, creating perilous conditions for the unprepared. Pair these with Canada's cold water temperatures, paddler inexperience, often remote locations, and lack of cell service, and you have a recipe for disaster.



The Importance of Safety Education

The alarming number of SUP-related fatalities highlights the need for increased safety education. While anyone can easily purchase an inflatable SUP or rent one on vacation, it takes more than just standing up on the board to navigate the water safely.


Paddling is a skill that, much like any other sport, requires time, practice, and continual learning. It’s critical to understand what safety equipment you need, how to read water conditions, recognize weather patterns, and utilize navigation techniques. Proper paddling skills can mean the difference between a safe outing and a dangerous situation.


In Canada, it's legally mandated to wear a life jacket and carry a whistle while paddleboarding, with fines imposed for non-compliance. Equally important, paddleboarders should always use a leash to attach themselves to their board. This ensures that if you fall off, your board won't drift away.




Elevating Your SUP Paddling Skills

Fortunately, there are many free and affordable resources available to help paddlers enhance their skills and knowledge.


Paddle Canada offers a range of courses designed to teach essential paddling techniques, safety procedures, and environmental awareness. These courses provide valuable information that every paddler should know before setting foot on a board.



Many websites (like ours!) have educational blogs and videos to help you learn for free.



Additionally, joining local paddling groups can be immensely beneficial. These communities offer support, shared experiences, and collective knowledge, which can significantly enhance your paddling prowess. They create an environment where individuals can learn from each other, fostering a culture of safety and respect for the water. Most groups require you to have a PFD, whistle, and leash in order to participate!



In Conclusion

While SUPs are an incredible way to enjoy the water and explore beautiful landscapes, they also demand respect and understanding. Treating them as nothing more than beach toys is a disservice to the sport and can have dire consequences. By recognizing the importance of developing and honing paddling skills, we can ensure that our adventures on the water are both enjoyable and safe.


Before you take your SUP past the beachside swim zone, ask yourself—am I prepared? If the answer is anything less than an unequivocal yes, consider investing in education and community support.


Your life depends on it.

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