There’s nothing quite like standing on a paddle board and gliding over the water. Whether you’re on a quiet lake or on the beach with surf, the right equipment can make all the difference. Although the paddle board is the most important thing, you can add a few paddle board accessories to your day on the water and turn it into a great one. Safety, comfort, and fun are three things you get when you buy high-quality equipment.
Must-Have Gear for Every Trip
Forget about cup holders and speakers for now. What you need are the basics. If you don’t have these, you can’t use your paddle board.
- A Quality Paddle: It’s probably the last thing on your mind, but moving from your standard aluminum paddle to a carbon fiber paddle is a big step.
- High-Pressure Pump: In case you own an inflatable SUP, an electric pump is probably the smartest paddle board accessory you can get for yourself. It allows you to spend your saved energy on the water rather than in the parking lot.
- Repair Kit: It’s inevitable that you will experience some wear and tear on your board at some point. Mistakes happen. Having a handy repair kit with patches and valve wrenches is a great idea in case a small puncture doesn’t ruin your trip.
Prioritizing Safety on the Water
Since water sports are so unpredictable, it’s a rule that your safety should be your top priority when you’re looking for paddle board accessories.
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD): A PFD is required in many areas. Consider a slim belt pack that won’t limit your paddling but can be easily and quickly used in an emergency.
- Leash: Your paddle board will serve as a flotation device. A coiled leash attached to your ankle is a good idea because if you fall into the water, you won’t be separated from the safety of your board.
- Whistle: Having a whistle that’s very loud but simple to use and attached to your PFD will be a matter of life and death in case of trouble or impending drowning.
Comfort and Convenience Upgrades
When you have all the necessary safety gear, then it’s time to think about comfort. You can increase your paddleboard miles just by having some of the following accessories.
- Dry Bag: It’s important to protect your valuables and snacks from water. A waterproof bag that’s secured to your board’s bungee system is beyond useful.
- Anchor Kit: Need to hold a yoga position or just chill? Throw out a tiny grappling anchor, and it will keep you fixed in one place so you won’t be carried away by the current.
- Cooler Deck Bag: Drinking enough water is very important. Insulated cooler bags are made specifically for paddle boards, keeping your water cold and giving your board a sleek look.
How to Choose What You Need
How do you decide among so many alternatives? The best way to start is by asking yourself what kind of adventure you usually have. If you mostly go for short, flatwater paddles near the shore, then getting a GPS unit or a heavy-duty anchor probably won’t be necessary. On the other hand, if you’re going on a tour, very high quality and storage capacity are top priorities.
You should also check that the accessories you choose are suitable. You shouldn’t expect to add the same paddle board accessories to different types of boards. For example, inflatable boards usually have different attachment points (such as D-rings) compared to hardboards.
Wrapping Up
Creating your dream paddle board setup is a process, but you begin to benefit right from day one when you start with your paddle board accessories that will keep you safe and comfortable. First of all, by putting leashes and PFDs on your priority list, you secure your safety. Then, by incorporating conveniences like electric pumps and rod holders, you increase your preparedness for water activities. So, gear up and get going!