Pics: Nick Kingston.
When it’s flat there’s no lack of forlorn-looking surfers, all glum-faced, dotted along the shoreline, staring longingly out to sea. Yet it doesn’t matter how hard you wish it there’s no pulse of swell in sight. So what to do?
It’s no secret here at NCW we love stand up paddle boarding. But we appreciate this isn’t for everyone. So in this instance what about prone paddling? Lying down, as you would on a surfboard, and paddling using your arms, as you would on a surfboard. No elongated ‘canoe stick’ and no looking like a kook (as is often the criticism aimed at SUPers). Instead, you’re doing all the same movements are you when surfing – well, at least when you paddle out.
For those already practising the art of proning you’ll know it keeps riders more in contact with the water, since you’re lying down, and is a great way to stay fit and keep your paddling muscles honed and trim. We’ll not lie: proning paddle boarding can be challenging. But with it being less like SUP and OC and more akin to swimming it can be a good choice for surfers when waves are scarce.
One of the biggest differences between stand up paddle boarding and prone paddle boarding (besides not having a paddle) is the board. SUPs are generally shorter and fetter whereas prone boards are longer and narrower. They’re therefore slightly trickier to initially get comfortable with. Starting on flatter water is a good idea with this in mind. Once up and running though some proners argue they’re actually more efficient through the water.
If you do fancy having a crack at prone paddle boarding then something to consider is that you’re much lower to the water so harder to see. in term of other water users it’s important to wear brightly coloured clothing and make yourself as visible as possible. Don’t be afraid to call out if you spot other craft getting too close.
A few top tips if you fancy having a bash at prone paddle boarding –
- Start on flat water.
- As long as it’s warm consider a sleeveless paddle top to reduce drag.
- Don’t start on too narrow a board.
- Length of board is your friend.
- Avoid mammoth offshore prone sojourns until you’re experienced.
- Wear a leash.
- Experiment with paddling position until you find comfort.
- Don’t paddle wide strokes – keep as close to your board’s rail as you can.
- Don’t go to your knees straight away. Get some momentum first.
- Have fun.
If you’re already into prone paddling and looking for some decent gear to paddle in then check out NCW’s range of long and short John suit, as pictured in this article – https://www.northcoastwetsuits.co.uk/product/2mm-thermal-lined-neoprene-long-john-wetsuit/