At Coastal Life we have a great range of Standup paddleboards including Laird Standups, NSP boards, Adventure Paddleboarding, Gnaraloo inflatables, Walden, Ocean & Earth and D-Six.
We also offer Standup Paddleboard lessons in the calm waters of the Port Bouvard canals, Mandurah. Contact us today at (08) 9534 3978 or info@coastallife.net.au to book in a SUP lesson or ask about any of our SUPs and accessories.
Here is a great article by Laird Hamilton from http://lairdhamilton.com about what to do when starting out….
“LairdHamilton.com asked longtime SUP instructor Jeff Sweet to give him his top 5 commandments for new paddlers to remember before hitting the water. Here’s his list.”
1. Take a lesson from a professional. You’ll be happy you did. If you take one lesson from a good instructor, you’re golden and can learn everything in one shot. Finding a good instructor can be tough so locate your local surf shop, not a big box retail outlet, but a real, local surf or paddling shop and ask for a recommendation. Or listen to other paddlers in your community. Word of mouth recommendations are great.
2. Make sure you have the right equipment. If you’re not going to take a lesson, make sure you have the right equipment. I’ve seen a lot of people struggle when they go out and can’t standup. Again, ask at your local shop or do some research on the Internet.
3. If you’re out on your own, take flotation. Flotation can make all the difference if you become separated from your board. Quicksilver makes a great, low-profile vest and there are lots of good options out there.
4. Know where you’re going. Know the nuances of the place. Is it a beach break, a lake with unpredictable winds, what are the prevailing winds doing? I’ve seen paddlers head down wind and have to get out and walk because the winds are too strong to get back. Know the weather and what the forecast is calling for.
5. Have fun, you’re paddling. Go with a smile, respect the ocean or any water you’re paddling in.