Stand-up paddling in autumn – how to enjoy the colder months on your board
Why let cooler temperatures and wind spoil the fun of stand-up paddling in autumn? If you think SUP is only for the warm months, this beginner’s guide is for you. Find out how to get on your board safely in fresh autumn air and quiet nature, without giving up comfort or safety.
1. Clothing – the key to a safe and warm paddle
Wetsuits are designed for water sports where you are IN the water. When paddling, the wind-chill effect and the lack of a water layer between skin and suit can make them uncomfortable quite quickly and even dangerous. So if you don’t plan to move a lot or get very wet, we recommend a drysuit. Depending on the air temperature, you can combine it with functional clothing, thermal underwear and water-repellent layers so that your body keeps as much heat as possible.
You lose a lot of body heat through your head, hands and feet. Here you need to gain some experience and find out what clothing works for you. As a rule, neoprene still gives a little protection from the cold when wet, but when dry you soon start to overheat. For beginners, who may get wet more quickly and more often, a neoprene hood and thin neoprene gloves are the better choice.
Your feet are closest to the water, so they are the part of you most likely to get wet. Neoprene boots or waterproof shoes keep them dry. Neoprene boots come in many versions – fully sealed or rubberised, with special laminated linings or a titanium coating. The main thing is that they are as thick as you find comfortable; for winter we recommend 6 mm. Your feet are now dry, but they also need to stay warm. You can line your boots with waterproof inner socks; neoprene socks and merino wool socks are excellent foot warmers. Now you are ready for weather down to freezing point.
2. Don’t forget to warm up!
Before you step on the board, get your circulation going. Warm up with a few stretches beforehand, ideally already in warm clothing. That helps you stay warm and prepares your muscles – especially on cooler autumn days.
3. Follow the rules!
Remember that the rules for stand-up paddling in winter can be different from the rest of the year. For example, some areas are closed and others limit how far you may go from the starting point. Check the local rules beforehand to make sure you follow them.
4. Stay hydrated!
Even when it is cool outside, your body loses a lot of fluid while you paddle – and if you get dehydrated, you cool down faster. A large water bottle is a must. For stand-up paddling in autumn, a thermos with warm tea is great too – it keeps you warm from the inside.
5. Enjoy the scenery!
The whisper of the wind, the gentle splash of your paddle strokes, snowflakes dancing around you and the sun glittering on tiny ice crystals. One of the biggest advantages of stand-up paddling in winter is that the landscape is usually quiet and peaceful. So enjoy the magical view – and bring an extra line to tie up your board. While you relax and admire the scenery, you want your mind to drift, not your board.
6. Keep your energy up!
Once you have found a nice spot, it is a great time for a little break. A proper winter picnic includes a hot thermos of your favourite tea to warm up, well-filled sandwiches for nutrients, and protein bars, biscuits or similar snacks to keep your blood sugar up.
PS: and of course you will find the board and/or kayak you need at our self-service stations ; )
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Conclusion: stand-up paddling in autumn – a quiet adventure
With the right equipment and a little preparation, stand-up paddling in autumn becomes a real highlight.
Choose the right clothing and take enough drinking water. Then nothing stands in the way of your winter trip by SUP and/or kayak. #staysafeandgopaddling
