In addition to a Stand Up Paddle board, what do you need in terms of extra paddle board accessories to get started on the water?
In theory you could go out on the water with only a paddle board, but for extra safety and comfort there are a number of paddle board accessories recommended to make your paddle board trip a lot more pleasant.
SUP paddle
Of course a SUP paddle is highly recommended on this list of paddle board accessories, so you can move faster on the water than if you lie on the board and paddle with your arms.
There are different types of SUP paddles available, depending on the material used. If you use a carbon paddle instead of the standard aluminum one, you will feel the difference.
The carbon paddle is a lot lighter and easier to move in the water, making you a lot less tired.
However, these paddles are also more expensive and will require a larger investment, which is especially recommended for people who are sure that they will use the paddle board more often in the future.
Manual pump or electric pump
Another very handy thing on the list of paddle board accessories is a hand pump or electric pump, so you can quickly get started on the water.
It is strongly discouraged to inflate the entire paddle board by mouth. You are completely exhausted after inflation, and the paddle board will not be inflated hard enough to be able to use it optimally on the water.
With an electric pump, your paddle board will be inflated rock-hard within minutes, which you can always check with the built-in pressure gauge.
With a hand pump it will take about 5 to 10 minutes before you have the board on the right rigidity, but for sure you are already warmed up!
The manual pump also has a handy pressure gauge where you can check whether the SUP is on the right hardness, for almost every board this is 15 PSI.
Read more about these pumps on the page “The best paddle board pumps of the year”
Dry bag
Yep, this keeps your stuff dry.
Do you want to bring you valuable possessions with you on the water? Perhaps your phone, keys, camera, or even clothes? Having a dry bag is the solution for this. These are light weight bags that keep your valuables dry. They come in different colors and sizes and are easy to carry. Most of the time they have adjustable shoulder straps but if you buy a small one, you can put them under the bungee cords of your board.
Tip: do NOT make the same mistake as I did, buying them for just a few dollars on a random market. A couple of years ago I forgot to bring my dry bag to my holiday destination and decided to buy one locally. This didn’t end up well. My passport got soaking wet and I had to throw away my phone.
Goosehill 3-pack Dry Bag
The dry bag package of 3 by Goosehill includes lightweight bags made of 70D Nylon. With their seamless design and rigidity, the bags are perfect for all sorts of activities such as paddleboarding, backpacking, hiking, camping, trekking, kayaking, and anything else where you’re active and you want to protect your valued belongings.
They come in three different colors and three different sizes: 5L, 10L, and 20L. The bags are waterproof, and you can easily roll their top and clip them to keep your belongings dry at all times.
Tired of the monochromatic design? Here Goosehill has more colorful options:
For additional dry bag options, we recommend Bluefin, too. Check them out here.
Paddle board leash
The most important accessory for paddle board safety is the paddle board leash. An elastic cord that is attached to your ankle with a Velcro fastener.
If you fall off the board and end up underwater, you will never lose your board, and you can’t get too far below the surface.
Because there can be very strong currents underwater, a paddle board leash is of vital importance, so you can always pull yourself back on your board.
Restube Classic
It is important to go out onto the water as safely as possible. You can for example choose a life jacket, but this can be quite heavy to wear all the time.
A good alternative is the Restube Classic. You can wear this self-inflating lifebuoy on your swimming trunks and it weighs only 260 grams.
In case of emergency, pull on the cord and the Restube will inflate itself within seconds, so that you can always come to surface.
When stuck in a strong current under water it can save your life, so we see it as a highly recommended accessory.
Extras paddle board accessories: SUP Board seat / Aqua Marina Bluedrive Power Fin
An extra accessory that is less necessary but a nice option is a paddle board seat to transform your paddle board into a kayak.
This allows you to paddle on the water while sitting down, and you need to put in less effort to move forward. Please note: you will also need a kayak paddle for this.
Check out the Bluefin Cruise package that includes a 2-in-1 SUP and kayak paddle and a kayak seat.
As a last and extremely luxurious option, there is the Aqua Marina Bluedrive Power Fin, an external engine that lets your paddle board move forward by itself to relax while your paddle board keeps moving forward.
With this, you don’t have to put in any effort yourself, and you can focus on other activities, such as watching the fish and the beautiful surroundings.
Conclusion Paddle Board Accessories
When you purchase all-around paddle board accessories you will have all the most important gear in-house, with an (aluminum) paddle, manual pump, backpack, and ankle cord.
A dry bag and a self-inflating lifebuoy are recommended to buy, and a carbon paddle and electric pump are designed to offer more comfort if you plan to use a paddle board more often.
When you buy a paddle board, take a look at the whole package, and as a beginner always buy a board that has all the paddle board accessories included, these accessories are often more expensive, and you will have to buy them to make the most of your SUP.
Frequently Asked Questions about Paddle Board Accessories
Why do I need paddle board accessories?
Paddle board accessories enhance your safety, comfort, and overall experience on the water. While you can technically use a paddle board without them, these accessories are highly recommended to make your trip more enjoyable and secure.
What types of paddle board accessories should I consider?
SUP Paddle: A stand-up paddle (SUP) paddle is crucial for propelling yourself efficiently on the water. Carbon paddles are lighter and more efficient but may be more expensive.
Manual or Electric Pump: Inflating your paddle board by mouth is not recommended. A manual or electric pump is essential for quickly and effectively inflating your board to the correct pressure (usually 15 PSI).
Dry Bag: A dry bag is essential for keeping your valuable belongings, such as your phone, keys, camera, or clothes, dry while you’re on the water. It’s a must-have accessory to protect your items from water damage.
Paddle Board Leash: The paddle board leash is a safety accessory that attaches to your ankle, ensuring you don’t lose your board if you fall into the water. It helps you stay connected to your board, which is crucial in strong currents.
Restube Classic: The Restube Classic is a self-inflating lifebuoy that’s lightweight and can be worn on your swim trunks. In emergencies, you can pull the cord to inflate it quickly, helping you stay afloat.
Optional Accessories: Depending on your preferences, you can consider additional accessories like a SUP board seat, which transforms your paddle board into a kayak, or even an external engine like the Aqua Marina Bluedrive Power Fin for effortless movement on the water.
Can I buy a paddle board package with all the essential accessories included?
Yes, many paddle board packages come with all the necessary accessories, including a paddle, manual pump, backpack, and ankle cord. These packages are a convenient choice for beginners and often offer good value for money.
What’s the recommended PSI for inflating a paddle board?
Most paddle boards should be inflated to around 15 PSI (pounds per square inch) for optimal rigidity and performance. You can check the pressure using the built-in pressure gauge on your pump.
Are there different sizes and types of dry bags available?
Yes, dry bags come in various sizes and colors. They are designed to keep your belongings dry and are often equipped with adjustable shoulder straps for easy carrying. Choose a size that fits your needs and consider a reputable brand to ensure waterproof protection.
How do I choose the right paddle board leash?
Look for a paddle board leash with a comfortable ankle strap and a secure Velcro fastener. Ensure it’s of sufficient length to allow you to move freely on the board but still keeps you connected in case you fall into the water. Brands like Santa Barbara Surfing and Bluefin offer reliable options.
Is a carbon paddle worth the investment?
A carbon paddle is lighter and more efficient than an aluminum one, making it easier on your arms and wrists during paddling. While it’s a more significant investment, it’s recommended for those who plan to use their paddle board frequently for added comfort.
How can I transform my paddle board into a kayak with a seat?
You can convert your paddle board into a kayak by adding a paddle board seat. Make sure to also have a kayak paddle for this setup. Some paddle board packages may include a 2-in-1 SUP and kayak paddle along with a kayak seat.
Is the Aqua Marina Bluedrive Power Fin suitable for beginners?
The Aqua Marina Bluedrive Power Fin is an external engine that propels your paddle board forward without the need for manual effort. While it offers a luxurious and relaxing experience, it’s not typically recommended for beginners, as it may not help you develop essential paddling skills.
Where can I find these paddle board accessories?
You can find paddle board accessories at outdoor sports stores, online retailers, and specialty paddle board shops. Be sure to research and choose reputable brands for quality and reliability.
Remember that safety should always be a top priority when paddle boarding, so consider your skill level and the conditions of the water before venturing out.
Review written by: Tom
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