For those who have wondered what it might be like to walk on water, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) is bound to intrigue. The origins of SUP are attributed to fishing practices in Polynesia, Peru, and Israel, which existed long before the supposed “discovery” of SUP on an early 2000’s surfing photo shoot in Hawaii.
The premise is simple: properly outfitted with a Personal Flotation Device, a paddler needs only a long paddle and a paddle board to take advantage of calm waters. A paddle is chosen based on the paddler’s height, and a proper paddle board depends on a combination of the paddler’s skill and the area’s paddling conditions.
SUP is similar to kayaking and canoeing in that it has a similar “wow”-factor of being close to the water, but SUP asks much more of the paddler’s balance. First-time paddlers might practice standing up on the paddle board, balancing during rocky waves, and climbing back on the board after falling. Water conditions (and just how many times a paddler might fall) really depend on the weather, as well as where the paddling takes place.
There are tons of epic places to paddle board, but really, as long as the water is calm enough, SUP can be done anywhere. Here are a few suggestions to get started:
Whistler, Canada: Once skiing season is over, break out the paddle board and get to know Whistler’s amazing lakes.
Florida Keys, FL: The laid-back Keys are known for SUP, a relaxing way to enjoy the calm waves.
The Islands of the Bahamas: Experience the wonders of coral reefs while SUP on crystal clear waters.
Oconomowoc, WI: Each year, Oconomowoc hosts the Midwest Stand Up Paddle Festival, with activities like SUP Yoga and 3-mile or 6-mile races.
Antarctica: Up for the challenge?