Useful SUP Accessories - How to Enhance Your Paddling Experience
Did you know that there are many useful SUP accessories that can make your paddling experience even better? From safety and comfort to performance and convenience, there are a variety of accessories that can enhance your SUP adventure. In this article, we will introduce you to some of the most useful SUP accessories that you can buy to go along with your SUP board.
SUP Electric Pump
One of the most useful SUP accessories for inflatable paddleboard owners is a SUP electric pump. Manually inflating an inflatable paddleboard can be a real workout, especially if you have a large or high-pressure board. It can take up to 15 minutes and a lot of energy to pump up your board by hand.
A SUP electric pump can save you time and hassle by inflating your board automatically. You just need to plug it into your car’s cigarette lighter or a portable battery, set the desired PSI, and let it do the work for you. It can inflate your board in minutes, leaving you more time and energy to enjoy the water.
Check out our in-depth guide on inflatable paddleboard pumps.
Cooler Box
Another useful SUP accessory for long-distance paddlers is a cooler box. A paddleboard cooler is a specially designed cooler that can attach to your board’s deck with bungee cords or straps. It can keep your drinks, snacks, cold and fresh for hours.
A cooler box can also serve as extra storage space for your gear, such as sunscreen, keys, phone, or other items you want to keep dry. Some cooler boxes even have built-in cup holders or seats for added convenience.
For SUP anglers, a cooler box is especially useful for keeping your catch cold and storing fishing gear. Look for cooler boxes with rod holders to free up your hands while fishing. You can use the lid of the cooler as extra seating while you wait for a bite. Having cold drinks nearby is also a nice bonus while fishing under the hot sun. A cooler box helps you maximise your SUP fishing experience.
Paddleboard Cart
If you have a hardboard or a large inflatable board, carrying it from your car to the water can be a challenge. A paddleboard cart is a useful accessory that can help you transport your board with ease. The wheeled design of a paddleboard cart means that it can attach to your board’s tail or nose and allow you to roll it over any terrain.
A paddleboard cart can save you from back pain, scratches, or dents on your board. It can also free up your hands to carry other items, such as your paddle, pump, or cooler.
Belt Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Safety is always a priority when it comes to water sports, and SUP is no exception. A personal flotation device (PFD) is a must-have accessory for any paddler, especially in open water or rough conditions. A PFD can keep you afloat and visible in case of an emergency.
However, not all PFDs are comfortable or convenient for SUP. Some PFDs can be bulky, restrictive, or hot to wear. A belt PFD is a useful alternative that can provide you with safety without compromising your comfort or mobility. Specifically, a belt PFD is a slim belt that wraps around your waist and contains an inflatable bladder that can be activated by pulling a cord.
A belt PFD is lightweight, compact, and easy to wear. It does not interfere with your paddling motion or get in the way of your gear. It only inflates when you need it, so you can stay cool and dry while paddling.
GoPro Mount
If you love capturing your SUP adventures on camera, a GoPro mount is a useful accessory for you. A GoPro mount is a device that can attach to your board’s deck or nose and hold your GoPro camera securely. It can allow you to record stunning videos or photos of yourself, your surroundings, or the wildlife from different angles.
A GoPro mount can also be used with other action cameras or accessories, such as lights, speakers, or GPS devices.
SUP Bungee Cords
One of the challenges of SUP is finding enough space to store your gear on your board. SUP bungee cords are useful accessories that can help you solve this problem. SUP bungee cords are elastic cords that can attach to your board’s deck with hooks or clips. They can create a net-like structure that can hold your items in place.
SUP bungee cords are ideal for securing items that are lightweight, flexible, or waterproof, such as towels, jackets, hats, water bottles, dry bags, or paddles.
Stand-Up Paddleboard Leash
A stand up paddleboard leash is one of the most essential and useful SUP accessories that every paddler should have. A stand up paddleboard leash is a cord that connects your ankle, calf, or waist to your board’s tail. It prevents your board from drifting away from you if you fall off or lose your balance.
A stand up paddleboard leash can keep you and your board safe and together in any situation. It can also save you from swimming after your board, wasting energy, or losing sight of it. A stand up paddleboard leash comes in different lengths, thicknesses, and styles, depending on your preference and paddling conditions.
SUP Leash Types
- Waist leash: A waist leash is a leash that attaches to a belt around your waist. It has a quick-release mechanism that allows you to detach yourself from your board in case of an emergency. A waist leash is suitable for moving or flowing water, such as rivers, tidal races, or white water, where there is a risk of snagging or entrapment. A waist leash can also be used for SUP racing, where you need to dismount and sprint to the finish line.
- Calf leash: A calf leash is a leash that attaches to a cuff around your lower leg, just below your knee. It keeps the leash out of the water and away from your feet, reducing drag and tangling. A calf leash is suitable for SUP racing, where you need to perform quick turns and maneuvers. A calf leash is usually coiled to prevent it from stretching too much.
- Ankle leash: An ankle leash is a leash that attaches to a cuff around your ankle. It is the most common and simple type of leash, and it comes in different lengths and thicknesses. An ankle leash is suitable for flat water paddling, such as lakes, canals, or bays, where there is no risk of snagging or entrapment. An ankle leash can also be used for SUP surfing, where you need to catch waves and ride them. An ankle leash can be straight or coiled, depending on your preference.
No matter what type of leash you choose, make sure it is compatible with your board and paddle style. Always wear a leash when you go paddling, as it can save your life and prevent accidents.
Paddleboard Anchor
If you like to stop and relax on your board, fish, practise yoga, or snorkel, a paddleboard anchor is a useful accessory for you. A paddleboard anchor is a device that can attach to your board’s leash plug or handle and sink to the bottom of the water. It can keep your board from drifting away due to wind, current, or waves.
A paddleboard anchor can help you enjoy a stable and peaceful paddling experience. It can also protect your board from hitting rocks, reefs, or other obstacles. A paddleboard anchor is usually small, lightweight, and foldable, so you can easily store it on your board or in your bag.
SUP Backpack
Transporting your paddleboard from your car to the water can be difficult without the right carrying gear. An excellent solution is a purpose-built SUP backpack.
SUP backpacks have padded shoulder straps and waist belts to comfortably carry the weight of your board. They are designed to be water-resistant and hold your rolled-up inflatable SUP.
A good SUP backpack takes the hassle out of getting your gear to the launch point. It leaves your hands free and prevents back strain from awkward carrying positions.
For recommendations on choosing the perfect paddleboard backpack for your needs, see our detailed guide on what to look for in a SUP backpack. Investing in a quality backpack designed for paddleboards will make transporting your SUP much easier.
Waterproof Bags
One of the most useful SUP accessories for keeping your gear dry and protected is a waterproof bag. A waterproof bag is a bag that is made of waterproof material and has a sealable closure that prevents water from entering. There are different types of waterproof bags that can be taken onto a SUP, such as:
- Dry bags: Dry bags are cylindrical bags that have a roll-top closure and a buckle. They are designed to keep your items completely dry, even if submerged in water. Dry bags come in various sizes, colors, and materials, and can be attached to your board’s deck or carried on your back.
- Deck bags: Deck bags are rectangular bags that have a zipped closure and a rigid shape. They are designed to fit on your board’s deck and provide easy access to your items. Deck bags usually have external pockets, straps, or bungee cords for extra storage or attachment.
- Backpacks: Backpacks are large bags that have a zipped or roll-top closure and shoulder straps. They are designed to carry a lot of gear and provide comfort and support. Backpacks can be waterproof or water-resistant, depending on the material and construction.
Waterproof bags can help you store and organise your gear, such as clothes, towels, snacks, phone, camera, keys, or wallet. They can also protect your gear from water damage, dirt, sand, or sun exposure. Waterproof bags are ideal for any SUP activity, whether you are touring, fishing, camping, or exploring.
Kayak Seat
Another useful accessory is a kayak seat that can attach to your SUP deck. A kayak seat gives you a backrest for more comfortable long paddles. It also allows you to switch between standing and sitting. Some seats feature storage pockets too. See our in-depth guide on choosing the best kayak seat for your SUP.
Outfit Yourself for SUP Success: Must-Have Useful SUP Accessories
These are just some of the many useful SUP accessories that can enhance your paddling experience. There are many more accessories that can suit your specific needs and preferences, such as paddle grips, board locks, waterproof speakers, sun shades, or wind sails. You can find these accessories online or at your local SUP shop.
Also, don’t forget that while not an optional accessory, it’s worth considering what type of paddle you want – adjustable or fixed-length SUP paddle.
SUP accessories can make your SUP adventure more fun, comfortable, convenient, and safe. They can also help you customise your board and express your personality. So why not treat yourself to some useful SUP accessories and take your paddling to the next level?
