SUP Mag UK lo-res free to readers July 2014 lo-res - free to read | Page 11

Leash, apparel and other bits

Sam Ross

It’s important when out paddling that you have your board attached securely – after all,
this is your main source of flotation. SUP specific leashes are available that have been
produced with the extra weight of your sled in mind. Out of the two types – coiled or
straight – the straight version is fine for initial forays into the sport. In time you may
want both in your kit box.

Sam Ross is one of the
UK’s top SUP coaches.
Here he gives us his take
on the learning process.
Sam says,

Unfortunately the UK isn’t blessed with a tropical climate and therefore you’ll need to
consider your paddling attire carefully. In most instances a wetsuit will be the garment
of choice. If you’re considering paddling through the off season then a good winter wetty
will be key. Bear in mind, however, that during summer months you’ll overheat and
therefore something less thick will also be required.

“It’s all about kit,
location and
training.”

Neoprene booties, gloves and hood/hat should also be considered – particularly during
winter. Staying heated is the key to happy paddling and hypothermia should never be
underestimated. In time you may develop the confidence to paddle in only boardshorts
and rash vest.

Kit –
An all-round board is a
pretty good place to start
even if you already know
that you want to get into
surf or racing. This way
you'll build up a few good
basic paddle skills that
don't end up being too
board-specific.

More than one way…
As much as spangly SUP specific kit is available for aspiring paddlers to
choose from, there’s more than one way to skin a cat – so the saying
goes.
People have been known to start their SUP journey using any old
craft they can lay their hands on. Battered 80s windsurf boards,
rubbish spent kayaks and homemade odds and ends have all been
used.
While these modes of transport will never match dedicated bits
of kit, it’s no issue to start. In particular, if you’re looking to get
your kids into SUP the emphasis should be on fun – even if that
means falling in and splashing about. Pressure to perform only has
adverse and negative effects. The more of a laugh the whole process
is the better.

Training –
SUP is really accessible but
a bit of help at the outset
will give you a massive
boost. You'll be set up with
some knowledge and best
practice so you can keep
reinforcing good habits and
making sure practice is
productive. Pop into your
local school or head out
with the person that
introduced you.’

Moving on up
Having mastered the basics of stand up there’s a whole diverse bunch of areas you can
offshoot into. You may fancy racing or it could be waves calling. River SUP is growing
increasingly popular or perhaps it’s none of the above – maybe you’re happy just floating
about.
Whatever type of SUP you ultimately plump for is down to you as an individual – the
main thing is have fun while enjoying the outdoors and being on the water.

11

s

t

a n d

Location –
Flat water and low wind.
The flatter it is, the more
you'll get out of it straight
away. Avoid places with
flow and try and get out of
the wind. It will give you a
good first experience and
you can focus on what you
are standing on rather than
what you are doing it in.

u p

p a d d

l

e

m a g

u k

You can find out more
about Sam by visiting
www.sam-ross.co.uk/sup/