As SUP riding continues to climb in popularity, a lot of different aspects of the activity have been expanded. As the modern form of SUP riding took off, basic boards and general swimwear were all anyone really thought of.
Now, the boards are made to an incredibly detailed spec list with a wide variety of specialized features, and every little thing has been optimized to allow for better performance.
Part of that optimization has hit the clothing department.
Now, you might be a bit on the fence about whether or not you actually need special SUP clothing. So, we’ve created a brief list of situations where you will and won’t. Then, you can decide on your own.
Do: SUP Fishing
If you’re using a specialized SUP in place of a boat to fish, it’s a good idea to get some proper SUP clothing before you hit the water. When you’re fishing, you’re not focused on riding your SUP. You’re focused on catching fish and not stumbling over your gear. As such, you can more easily get into situations where a swimsuit just isn’t adequate protection.
On top of that, you might not be fishing in the best weather. Sometimes, hitting the water right after a cool rain, or as the temp drops, is the best way to catch fish. Unfortunately, those cold water temperatures can easily become a threat to your safety. SUP clothing will help with that.
Don’t: Casual Calm-Water Rides
If you’re just enjoying a bit of riding on calm, warm water, it’s not necessary to wear more than your swimsuit. As long as you don’t go out too far in ocean water, the water temps shouldn’t suddenly dip. For shallow areas, lakes, and riding along the beach, you can follow the surfers and just enjoy some time in your swimsuit.
We briefly mentioned that water temps can suddenly drop as you go deeper into the ocean. That’s true, and if you plan to go too far off the shore, you should wear proper SUP clothing to avoid getting a sudden shock when you’re inevitably knocked off your board. That is typically more advanced riding, though. So, a beginner shouldn’t be going too far out, anyways.
Do: SUP Surfing and Racing
Another time you need to be wearing proper SUP clothing is when you go SUP surfing or racing.
To get out and hit the big waves, you’ll have to go further out into the water. You’ll also usually do so on days when the weather isn’t exactly perfect, and you can easily be subjected to some fairly cold water temperatures. Those temperatures can cause serious problems when you’re away from shore.
Racing might not have you flying up massive waves and getting flung off, but you will be riding your SUP at high speeds, and you’ll usually end up going into deeper water where the temperature drops.
Keep a Pair Around for When They’re Needed
Even if you don’t use your SUP clothes all the time, you should keep a high-quality set around at all times.
If you ever find yourself doing any of the activities we mentioned, or if you just want to use your SUP after dark or during a colder season, you’ll be glad you picked up the right SUP clothes.