Standup paddle boarding has grown a massive following in the last 5-10 years, and each year, that dedicated fan base continues to grow. Every year, more people are hitting the water on their brand new paddle boards to check out the sporty and leisurely activity for themselves. We’ve compiled the best standup paddle boarding gear that you need.

If you are just getting into paddle boarding for the first time in your life, you are probably well aware that you need some necessary gear to get started with stand up paddle boarding. There also may be some gear that you are less aware of, that can come in handy as supplementary items that may paddle boarding more enjoyable and convenient.

Just in case you already have your board and you want to make your paddleboarding experience even more enjoyable, here is a list of 6 essential sup gear items.

1) Waterproof Phone Pouch

A waterproof phone pouch is really handy for paddle boarding. Not only do they offer quality protection for your expensive tech, they also give you a convenient place to store your valuables while you are out on the water. When you are out on the water, accidents happen. Even if you are the most careful person on the planet with your smartphone, there is always a chance that you can lose it overboard or fall in while you are paddling.

Plus, you probably want to have your phone with you while you are boarding so that you can take video, picture, map out your route, and maintain communication in case of emergency. We highly recommend the Aquapac Whanganui electronics case. It has a clear bag so that you can see the content of the bag at all times, and the plastic that is used to protect your gear is made so that you can even use your touch screen, through the pouch. Extra precautions include that it will float if you drop it in the water, and it is totally waterproof up to 15 feet.

2) SUPpocket

When you are out for long days or long treks on your paddle board, it is nice to have some provisions to keep you satisfied. During a long day of paddling you may need things like snacks and water. You may also need a place to store an extra shirt, your sandals, a hat for hot and sunny days, and anything else that could keep you comfortable.

Thankfully, there are some great options for onboard storage that you can easily attach to your paddle board. The SUPpocket uses suction cups to safely fasten onto your paddle board, and uses a zipper pocket to keep your gear safe and easily accessible. This might even be the perfect place for you to keep your waterproof case for safety and easy access.

If you need something that is a little bigger than the SUPpocket, this same company also makes a SUPcrate pad. It is literally the size of a milk crate, so that you could virtually take a picnic for you and your friends in the SUPcrate.

3) Coil Leash

A coil leash is something that is absolutely necessary for every SUP occasion. Having a coil leash as opposed to a rope leash is going to keep your leash closer to you, and cause less resistance and drag in the water. It is also going to keep your leash out of the way of rocks and sticks that a rope leash might latch on to. Most coil leashes will sit flush on your board so that you don’t have to worry about it getting in the way, and will fasten comfortably to your calf.

In terms of what leashes we recommend, take a look at the BiC SUP Coil Leash.

4) Automatic Inflatable PFD Pack

When you are out paddle boarding, safety should be the first thing that is on your mind. Whether you like going solo on peaceful paddle board excursions, or you are out with a group of friends every time that you go, you need to make sure that you take safety precautions to protect yourself. That’s why we recommend getting an Automatic Inflatable PFD Pack. What looks like a fanny pack, is equipped with a rip cord that pulls open into an inflatable vest. Even if you have never had a serious accident or a scare on your board, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Plus, these are much more comfortable than wearing a full life vest, but serves the same purpose.

5) SUP Lock

(no link to Bikini Team product – can link out in text link new window)

It’s unfortunate that you need to worry about people stealing your paddle board, but with the growing popularity in paddle boarding it’s happening more frequently. Unfortunatly, theives are noticing that they can get away with swiping up boards and fetch a good price for them on the resale market. Since paddle boarding isn’t a cheap (investment) activity, you’ll want to make sure that you protect yours so that you don’t lose hundreds or thousands of dollars.  One way that you can protect your board from getting stolen is getting a SUP lock or Dock Lock. They work the exact same way a coil bike lock would, and give you the ability to conviniently lock your SUP to benches, bike racks, roof racks, and other heavy objects.

6) SUP Carry Sling

Now that you’ve got all best standup paddle boarding gear you’ll need to consider how you move around your Standup Paddle Board. It’s no surprise – Stand Up Paddle boards are typically large and it’s hard for men with longer arms, let alone women, to get their hands around to mid-board. There are lots of helpful accessories to help you transport your board from the car/bus/bike to the beach. Our favorite is the Carry Sling because it’s adjustable and folds up nice and small. The SUP Carry Sling makes your life much easier – especially if you have a long beach walk ahead!