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One of the best things about paddle boarding is that you don’t need much training or experience to enjoy the activity. In fact, all you have to do to get started is find a board and try your hand! However, you might not realise that there is also a huge range of SUP accessories out there to help make your time on the water more enjoyable. To give you the best advice, we spoke with SUP Performance Coach, Tom Westaway, who provided his expert insights on essential accessories. In this article, we highlight some of our favorite SUP accessories that can elevate your paddle boarding experience to the next level.
1. The Nomad Battery Powered Pump
The standard manual pump that comes in your kit will always do a great job of inflating your SUP, but when pumping up more than one board, this can become a real workout. This is where the Electric Pump Nomad comes into its own. Battery-powered for convenience, this pump allows you to sit back and relax anywhere (even without a car) while it does all the work! Perfect for those spontaneous paddle boarding trips where you don’t want to spend precious time (or energy) inflating your board.
Tom Westaway (SUP Performance Coach): “I use my electric pump pretty much every time I need to inflate my board. Being able to have my board inflate whilst I sort out my gear takes the stress out of rushing around trying to get out on the water. Being able to also pump the board up away from your car with a battery power pump means it doesn't have to be loud and noisy near you whilst you're getting ready. I'm also more likely to head out for a quick paddle if i know i'm not having to pump it up myself.”
2. Kayak Conversion Kit
Why not paddle with a different point of view by converting your paddle board into a kayak? With a kayak conversion kit, you can simply clip the seat onto your board, sit down, and relax. This versatile setup lets you switch between standing and sitting, offering a new way to enjoy your SUP adventures. It’s perfect for those longer journeys when you might want to take a break and paddle while seated. Important note: make sure your paddle board has the relevant D-rings as not all boards have them.
Tom Westaway (SUP Performance Coach): The kayak seat is a great option for those who are not steady on their feet yet but still want to get out on the water. This allows you to be in a seated position without getting a backache from holding yourself up for a long time.
3. Pro Buoyancy Aid
Water can be unpredictable, so we always recommend wearing a buoyancy aid whenever you paddle and carrying a phone in a waterproof case at all times. Never underestimate the power of water. This Aquaplanet Pro Buoyancy Aid looks great, keeps you warm, has pockets for your phone, includes a 2L water bladder and comes in three adjustable sizes.
Tom Westaway (SUP Performance Coach): A buoyancy aid is an absolute must when on the water, not only does it keep you afloat should you get separated from your board but also, depending on which type you get, it can allow you to keep useful bits of kit on your person such as a phone, safety equipment and food.
4. Roof Rack
Who says you have to pump up your SUP every time you go on an adventure? Leaving your board inflated and using a roof rack to transport it is an excellent way to cut down the time it takes to get out on the water. These self-inflating roof bars fit any car and include everything required to fix your SUP in place—no need for roof rails. They fold down neatly into a carry bag when not in use, making them convenient and easy to store.
5. Phone Case
Conditions on the water can change rapidly, so it’s always a good idea to have a phone with you for safety. A waterproof phone case is an essential accessory to keep your phone safe and dry while you’re out on the water. This case not only protects your phone but also allows you to use it without removing it from the case, ensuring you can capture those amazing paddle boarding moments or call for help if needed.
Tom Westaway (SUP Performance Coach): “Having your phone with you is an absolute must when out on the water, but nobody likes the idea of getting their phone wet. Having a waterproof case can put you at ease knowing that you can make a phone call should you need to.”
6. Hurley Fusion Paddle
If you’re looking to enhance your paddle boarding performance, consider upgrading to the Hurley Carbon Fusion Paddle. Its ultralight carbon shaft and expertly-shaped reinforced nylon low cadence blade offer excellent stability and seamless strokes, making your time on the water even more enjoyable.
Tom Westaway (SUP Performance Coach): “My paddling always feels more efficient if I've got a good paddle in my hands. Having a good paddle that is more suited to the type of paddling that you are doing can make all the difference and allow your paddling to feel more effective.”
About Tom Westaway (SUP Performance Coach)
I am a white water SUP performance coach as well as a coastal SUP leader. I run a SUP coaching business in Devon where I come across a wide range of paddlers all at different abilities. Being able to be on the water so frequently as well as be a part of paddlers progression allows me to have a good insight to what works for beginners and experienced paddlers, it also helps me understand what bits of kit help the day run smoothly. Find out more about Tom here.
Conclusion
Investing in the right accessories can transform your paddle boarding experience from good to unforgettable. Whether it's the convenience of an electric pump, the versatility of a kayak conversion kit, or the safety provided by a buoyancy aid and waterproof phone case, these accessories ensure you're well-prepared for any adventure. So, gear up, hit the water, and make the most of your paddle boarding excursions with these must-have additions!
Happy paddling!
