EXPERT ADVICE

Before you paddle off into the sunset, take note of the following tips

1. HAVE A LESSON

“This is top of the list,” says Adam Chinery from Brighton Watersports, which has been running SUP trips for 17 years. “Go with someone who can give you all the information you need.”

2. BEWARE MISINFORMATION

“There’s a lot of false information on social media,” says Chinery. He cites poor advice about equipment as an example. If in doubt, ask an expert.

3. LEARN ABOUT TIDES

“During a spring tide, the water moves faster and you’ll be hard pushed to paddle against it,” says Chinery. Always check tide timetables to stay safe.

4. UNDERSTAND THE WIND

“Among SUP newbies, most issues are caused by the wind,” says Chinery. “It’s easy to get caught out thinking it’s calm, before turning and realising just how strong it is. Make sure you know about the effects of wind direction wherever you’re paddling.”

5. REMEMBER CONDITIONS VARY

“Knowledge of local tides, currents and weather isn’t necessarily transferable to another location,” warns Chinery. Your local patch will differ from another spot, so spend time reading up about what to expect if you’re heading somewhere new.

6. PACK OR WEAR A WETSUIT

“It’s better to have a wetsuit with you and not need it, than need it and not have it,” says Chinery. If it’s warm, pull it on over your bottom half only.

7. PLAN AHEAD

Make a plan for your route, taking into account local conditions. “Knowing what’s going to happen throughout the day is vital,” says Chinery.

8. CONTACT SOMEONE

“Communication is essential,” Chinery adds. Put your phone in a waterproof case or invest in a VHF radio. Remember phone signal may be patchy, so tell friends or family where you’re going beforehand.