Can You Surf with an Inflatable Paddle Board?

The inflatable paddle board has many advantages. More practical, it inflates and deflates according to your desires in no time. The inflatable paddle board is also very easy to transport and offers versatile handling. It is usually practiced on flat water, but it is possible to surf with an inflatable paddle board. Find in this article all our tips to start having fun in the waves with your inflatable SUP.

The Prerequisites for Surfing with an Inflatable Paddle Board

To start surfing with an inflatable SUP, it is advisable to already have a good balance on the board. The more comfortable you are on your paddle board, the easier it will be to surf with it.

Master basic maneuvers such as knowing how to paddle or turn around. Indeed, to catch the wave, you will have to make a quick and efficient U-turn. Know how to fall properly while paddleboarding. SUP in waves is much less stable than on flat water, and you are more likely to fall. So you have to know how to fall well and get back on your board easily.

What Equipment Should I Choose for Paddle Surfing?

To surf on an inflatable paddle board, it is essential to have good equipment to fully enjoy your session. When choosing your paddle, pay attention to several points:

  1. Choose Small SUPs: A small paddle board, without being too small, provides good maneuverability on the wave. An inflatable paddle board that is too big will limit your ability to have fun on the wave, and you will find yourself stuck on a linear trajectory.
  2. Choose a Paddle Board with Three Fins: This is essential to have a good grip and better stability. In wave conditions, having three fins will also allow for more maneuverability.
  3. Opt for a Rigid SUP: In order to have better rigidity, opt for a construction with three layers of PVC on the rails. The whole thing is assembled with advanced technology for perfect rigidity.
  4. Thickness of the Paddle: The thinner the SUP, the better the feel. The ideal is to have a 4′ or 5′ thick stand-up paddle. If your surf SUP is also used for cruising, it can go up to 6′.
  5. SUP with Rocker: Opt for a SUP with rocker to ride the wave comfortably and get past the chop. Ensure that the outline is rather rounded and the pads are grippy. This will make it easier for you to maneuver.

Surfing on an Inflatable Paddle: Crossing the Foam Barrier

To surf with an inflatable paddle, just like in surfing or with a hard paddle, you have to pass the foam barrier. If this is your first session in surfing, choose a beach where the conditions are not too big. It will be easier to learn on small to medium waves without too much power.

Passing the bar means going from the area where the waves break to the one where the waves move forward without breaking. To do this, you can stand or kneel, depending on how comfortable you are. For the feet, you can place them in a surf position, one in front of the other or with both feet parallel. You can try both positions and see which one works best for you. When you need to pass a wave, bend your knees slightly to cushion the movement.

What if the Wave is Too Big?

If you find yourself in front of a wave that seems too big to pass on your knees or standing up, jump into the water. Make sure that no one behind you could get caught by your paddle. It is important to wear a leash when surfing with paddle boards.

How to Behave with Other Surfers

When practicing inflatable paddle boarding as well as surfing, it is important to respect the rules of safety and courtesy. Here is a list of tips for a good session:

  1. Maintain Distance: Stay at a reasonable distance from other surfers. The spot is for everyone, please do not disturb them or put them in danger.
  2. Safe Passing: Be careful when walking past another surfer. Make sure you do this safely and without disturbing them.
  3. Stay Calm if You Fall: If you fall off your paddle, stay calm and try to bring your board back towards you as quickly as possible by pulling on your leash.
  4. Respect Wave Priority: If a surfer is already engaged on a wave, do not take it. The surfer who catches the wave first has priority.

By following these tips, you can start enjoying surfing with your inflatable paddle board and make the most of your time on the water.

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