Paddle boarding has many offshoots and hybrids these days. It isn’t just about standing on a board and paddling flat water. Although that’s perfectly fine if SUP is your bag. As with all watersports, however, paddle boarding has evolved and seen riders push the envelope of what ‘paddling’ actually is.
Land paddling – what’s that?
Now don’t get us wrong. We appreciate that for a god many pushing yourself round on a longboard with a ‘stick’ is going to be kooky. But for those with a broad mind land paddling does represent a different and fun alternative to conventional skateboarding.
We know a few skaters who can’t/don’t anymore because of dodgy knees. Land paddling may therefore be a good way to that rollin’ on fours fix and not cause unnecessary suffering with lower limbs.
What gear do I need?
Land paddling – or land SUP if you’d prefer – isn’t a new thing. But it’s definitely become even more niche in recent years. Back a few there were a number of dedicated land paddle brands producing gear specifically for the purpose. In 2023 it’s actually hard to find gear with a land paddling bent though. If you can source a land paddle specific sled then great. And bigger wheels will always give you extra roll.
But have no fear! For your sled, a conventional longboard skateboard will work fine. NCW sell a good line of longboards that all work well for land paddling which you can find here. For the paddle (stick) you could get all crafty and make your own or alternatively sniff out a specific land paddle ‘tool’ online. A chopped down SUP paddle with a dog ball on the end can work great.
What’s the point?
As we said above some skaters can’t push with their legs and feet so land paddling may be an alternative to getting that fix. Equally, stand up paddle boarders looking for a land based activity would find favour with the discipline. It’s a good work out and keeps that SUP muscle memory going.
For those wanting to do something different land paddling ticks the box. It’s great on flat ground and you can even take it to the skate park if you’re so inclined. Ultimately you can make land paddling whatever you want. It’s all just fun after all.
If you fancy some land paddling action then check out NCW’s range of longboard skateboards here. Equally, ride them in standard mode without a stick. The choice is yours!