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Hiring SUP equipment offers a convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly option for individuals who want to enjoy the sport. Platforms like ‘KitUp’ provide keen paddleboarders the chance to do exactly that, all over the country. But what should you be looking for when it comes to hiring the right SUP equipment to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience?
We’ve pulled together the key things to look for when self safety checking hired stand up paddleboarding kit.
Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP)
The stand up paddleboard is the most important piece of equipment you will need. When hiring a paddleboard, you should look for one that is the right size for your weight and skill level. It is also important to check that the paddleboard is in good condition and free from any punctures, cracks, dents or general damage.
Paddle
When hiring a paddle, you should look for one that is the right size for your height. An adjustable paddle option is a great place to start as it gives you the opportunity to see what works best for you. A paddle that is too short or too long can make paddling difficult and can lead to discomfort and possible injury. The paddle should also be in good condition and free from any cracks, dents or damage. If hiring an adjustable paddle make sure the collar, the area that allows you to adjust the length, is working properly and does not slip when pressure is applied.
Personal Floatation Device (PFD) or Buoyancy Aid (BA)
A Personal Floatation Device (PFD) or bouyancy aid (BA) is an important piece of safety equipment that you should always wear when stand up paddleboarding. It is designed to keep you afloat in the water if you fall off the paddleboard. When hiring a PFD, you should look for one that fits you well and is comfortable to wear and that has the correct flotation for your weight. It should be in good condition with all the buckles and straps in good working order and free from any damage.
For more information on fitting a PDF, take a look at this guide from Palm.
Leash
A leash is used to attach you to the paddleboard. There are two main types of leash: a straight (mainly used for surfing) and coiled leash (mainly used on flat water). You should ensure that you wear the right leash to suit the body of water you are intending to paddle on. When hiring a leash, you should look for one that is the right length for the board you are paddling and is in good condition. The main areas to check are the joints or swivels that connect the leash to the cuff and the rails saver near the back (tail) of the board. They should move freely and have little to no corrosion. You should also check that the velcro is in good working condition and does not fall off.
SUP Quick Release Belt
A SUP quick release belt or QR belt is an essential piece of safety equipment that works in combination with the leash. It is designed to allow you to quickly and easily detach from the board in an emergency. The QR belt should be used in any moving or flowing bodies of water. It should also be noted there are two types; one with a QR buckle and one that uses velcro.
When hiring a SUP quick release belt, you should look for one that is in good condition and free from any damage. The belt should fit you well and be comfortable to wear. It is important that the belt is the correct length for the person wearing it and when fitted there should be no more than 3cm section of webbing threaded through the buckle. It is also recommended that you test the belt before heading out on your paddle to make sure you have fitted it correctly and that is works the way it is intended to.
Please see our video guide which demonstrates the correct use of SUP quick release leashes and waist belts:
When hiring a stand up paddleboarding kit, it is important to make sure you have all the necessary equipment to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. If in doubt, we advise going to an established SUP school or center for lessons before heading out on your own.
By checking that you have all of the pieces of kit listed above, know how to fit and use them correctly and by following the list of self safety checks to perform before heading out on the water, you can ensure that your hired SUP kit is as safe and as fit for purpose as it can be.
Want to improve your SUP safety knowledge?
Taking a few minutes to SUP safely and watching our easily digestible video series with paddleboarder Cal Major, is a great way to broaden your awareness of safety considerations before heading out on the water. If you are looking to improve your practical SUP safety skills to protect yourself from unnecessary failings on the water that could put your life in danger, then Water Skills Academy offer an online iSUP Smart Course and an in-person iSUP Smart Workshop and SUP Safety & Rescue Course. Both of these are run throughout the year, at WSA Accredited Schools across the UK.