SUP is often seen by the mainstream as a general float about discipline in the sun. Not really going too far it’s a fun pastime to be enjoyed on fair weather days with family and friends.
But scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find there’s a whole performance orientated world waiting to be discovered. If you want it…
SUP surfing.
Perhaps the most obvious performance SUP discipline is riding waves. Taking off on swell and using your paddle for additional vroom it’s another way to make use of surf – big or small.
SUP surfing has waned in popularity during recent times. Even with the explosive popularity of SUP in general. But there are still those that do with certain spots around the country being awesome for it
SUP foiling.
Even more niche than SUP surfing is SUP foiling. Taking those skills learned in waves with a finned board the next step is attaching a hydrofoil. Using the wave’s power it’s then a case of lifting and flying above water.
SUP foiling is perceived by many as too hard. And whilst there’s certainly a period of falling and crashing as you learn it’s more achievable than you think. When you can foil waves that weren’t even on your radar (rubbish waves mostly) are suddenly nirvana.
Stand up paddle board racing.
With events lacking somewhat because of the pandemic SUP racing is set to make a comeback in 2022. Some riders may be vying for podiums but most will simply see SUP race meets as socials and a way to do battle with mates.
Racing can be a good way to develop paddle skills. And the camaraderie at gatherings is tangible.
White water paddling.
Another under the radar area of SUP is river paddling. There are hotspots around the UK perfect for river running. And groups of paddlers who whitewater SUP absolutely love it.
Commanding its own set of skills and understanding of conditions newbie river SUPers would be best with an experienced guide at first. But in time running through the froth can become quite addictive.
Downwinding.
Using wind and rolling swell to propel riders along the coast downwind SUP is a form of drift surfing if you will. Connoisseurs of the art absolutely love connecting swells together and covering distance.
And for those who want to notch it up a level it’s now possible to take those foiling skills and apply them to downwind runs.
These are just some of what’s available in terms of performance SUP paddling. There are other avenues to investigate if you do some digging. Likewise, should you simply want to stay put with recreational paddling then that’s fine too.
Check out more SUP knowledge articles here.