What is downwind paddle boarding?
Downwind paddle boarding is moving downwind on open water in heavy winds that produce swells you ride from one location to another specific location.
Although riding the swells is similar to surfing, with downwinding you are moving in a straight line covering long distance.
Downwinding is fast and exhilarating. You can downwind for 10 minutes or for hours. But your exit location needs to be predetermined. You need a vehicle/shuttle waiting for you at your exit point. It would be impossible to paddle back.
Downwinding may be the most fun you can have on a paddle board.
Do I need a special paddle board for downwinding?
No. Although you will go faster and ride swells better on a board designed for downwinding. Downwind sup boards are long and narrow with plenty of rocker. 14′ long x 28″ wide is a popular size of downwinding board.
But don’t let the lack of a perfect board stop you from getting started. If all you have is an all-around paddle board you can still go out and have a lot of fun.
Can I use an inflatable paddle board for downwinding?
Yes. Inflatables do not ride swells as good as hard paddle boards. In fact, they ride swells poorly. But you can still use an inflatable and have a lot of fun.
Do I need a special paddle for downwinding?
No. You can use any paddle as long as it is strong.
Where can I go downwinding?
You can downwind pretty much anywhere you have a good entry and exit point. The best places to start are rivers and lakes. Downwinding in the ocean is popular but better for experienced paddlers.
SUP Downwinding Gear Checklist
1. A Friend
It is wise to downwind with a friend or group. Downwinding with a friend or a group makes the whole experience much safer. And when downwinding you need a vehicle at your exit location. With a friend you can workout the logistics easily. Plus downwinding with friend will be more fun.
When paddling with a group you need to paddle to the speed of the slowest paddler so you can stay together.
2. Coiled Board Leash
Always wear a board leash when downwinding. A board leash is absolutely crucial to your safety.
If you fall off your board, and you most likely will, without a leash the board will fly downwind and you will never catch it. You will be alone treading water in windy, choppy and typically rough waters.
A board leash is mandatory. Wear a coiled leash around your back leg or ankle. A coiled leash is shorter and won’t drag in the water behind you like a straight leash will.
3. Extra Leash
Pack a straight leash on your board. Wind it up small and tight, strap it near the nose of your board. This will give you an extra leash and a tow line.
4. PFD
You should always wear a personal flotation device when downwinding. An inflatable waist belt is the least restrictive and my preference.
5. Clothing
Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Basically wear what you normally would wear but pack along one extra top. A hat with a chin strap is always a good idea.
Don’t over dress. Wetsuits are great. But don’t wear a thick wetsuit or you will over-heat. Err on the thin side with a wetsuit. A windproof top is good because if you begin to over-heat you can wrap it around your waist.
6. Cell phone or Emergency Radio
Always bring a mobile phone in a dry bag. Some PFDs have a small watertight compartment for cell phones.
7. Water
Strap a water bottle near the nose of your board or a small, light hydration camel pack.
8. Energy Bar
Not mandatory but a good idea.
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