If like us, you’ve recently taken up paddle boarding and spending more and more time on the water, you’ll know that having the right gear is essential to keeping you safe and comfortable. After testing so many accessories and bits of kit, we’ve rounded up our most recommended paddle board accessories that you will wish you’d had all along!
Must-Have Paddle Board Accessories
1. Dryrobe
Imagine stepping out of chilly waters and immediately being cocooned in warmth. The dryrobe does precisely that, merging function with fashion. For those moments when you need a quick outfit change or protection against the unpredictable coastal breeze, this robe proves itself invaluable. For paddleboarders seeking both privacy and protection, dryrobe comes highly recommended.
A staple for paddleboarders, dryrobes offer that swift transition from the cold embrace of the water to the warm hug of its fabric. Whether you’re seeking a wind shield or a quick-change sanctuary, dryrobes stand as an emblem of comfort and convenience.
2. Life Vest
Safety on the water has never looked so stylish. Today’s life vests seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality. Designed to keep you afloat and looking sharp, they embody the essence of responsible paddleboarding. Every boarder, whether a newbie or a seasoned pro, would do well to invest in the silent security a life vest brings.
There are so many good quality and affordable life vests available on the market now, the one I wear is by Helly Hanson (pictured above). This was £30 from Amazon, however there are cheaper products available to buy.
3. SUP Shoes
Picture the perfect paddleboarding session. The balance, the glide, the grip—especially the grip. SUP shoes are not just footwear; they’re the anchor between board and boarder. Made to tackle wet terrains while keeping those toes cosy, they’re an essential addition to any paddleboarding ensemble.
There are so many options available, I’ve tried and tested both budget ones and more expensive options, but my go to are the ones pictured above which I found on Amazon for £26.95. They have a rubber sole so you can walk on land and they will grip the board a little better when standing up; whilst they do claim to be waterproof, they’re only water resistant really – which is the case with most SUP shoes in all honesty.
4. Dry Bag
In the ever-surprising realm of the sea, it’s comforting to have certainties. Dry bags provide just that—a certain shield for your belongings against water’s whims. For those looking to merge adventure with assurance, the humble dry bag stands tall, promising a haven for your essentials amidst the unpredictability of the ocean.
This 20L Sack Drybag Backpack with Adjustable Straps is my go-to and costs just £16. Dry bags are great for storing anything that you want to take on the board with you to keep dry, things like car keys, mobile phone, or snacks if you plan to be out a long time.
Dry bags are also super handy for putting your wet clothes in after you’ve been out on the water, keeping all wet items inside to stop water getting onto other items in your backpack or for keeping your car clean. Simply pop all your items inside, fold the top over a few times and clip in place to secure. You can also get dry bags that double up to function as a float, perfect for wild swimming.
Other Paddle Board Accessories
So those are the four ‘must have’ items that I recommend, now below are some other items that I sometimes carry with me. These are not necessarily essential, but these products that will enhance your adventure and keep you more comfortable when out on your SUP, from a carry strap to make lightwork of getting your board down to the water, to a waterproof phone case so you can take some snaps.
5. Carry Strap
Wanderlust and paddleboards are a match made in heaven, but transportation? That’s where carry straps enter the scene. They transform the cumbersome task of transporting a board into a breezy affair. For those who live by the mantra “Have board, will travel,” a good carry strap is the unsung hero of their adventures.
Recommended: RED SUP Shoulder Carry Strap – £19.95
6. Waterproof Phone Case
Let’s face it: Our phones are extensions of ourselves. And while the allure of paddleboarding often lies in its detachment from the digital realm, having our devices close is sometimes non-negotiable. Enter the waterproof phone case. It’s more than a protector—it’s peace of mind in your pocket, ensuring memories are captured without the watery risks.
Recommended: YOSH IPX8 Floatable Waterproof Phone Case – £14.99
7. Electric Pump
Paddleboarding is all about the thrill of the water, the rhythm of each stroke, and the serenity of nature. What’s not part of the charm? Manual inflation. Thankfully, with modern electric pumps, pre-boarding fatigue is a thing of the past. A nod to convenience and efficiency, these pumps are a boon for those eager to hit the water without the pre-session workout.
Recommended: VACHAN Sup Electric Pump – £65.89
8. Detachable Seat
Versatility on the water is a game-changer. With detachable seats, paddleboarders can switch from a stand-up adventure to a seated sojourn with ease. Perfect for those days when the legs demand rest or when the waters beckon for a longer stay, these seats are all about enhancing the paddleboarding experience, one sit at a time.
Recommended: AQUATEC Paddle Board Seat – £22.99
9. Buoyancy Aid
Safety doesn’t mean skimping on style or comfort, especially with buoyancy aids like those from Red Paddle. Designed with the paddleboarder in mind, these aids strike the right balance between unrestrictive movement and essential flotation. For those who believe that every paddleboarding session should be both fun and safe, these buoyancy aids come highly recommended.
Recommended: Red Original SUP Buoyancy Aid – £124.95
10. Quick Release SUP Belt
Paddleboarding isn’t just about skill—it’s about being prepared for the unexpected. The Red Paddle Quick Release SUP Belt encapsulates this ethos beautifully. Designed for those who demand both safety and agility, this belt offers quick-release convenience at its finest. It’s a subtle companion that waits unobtrusively, ready to spring into action when needed.
Recommended: Red Quick Release SUP Belt – £18.95
11. 60L Voyager Duffel Bag
Every paddleboarder knows the importance of gear. And with the 60L Voyager Duffel Bag, that gear has found its perfect home. Robust enough to withstand the harshest conditions yet stylish enough to turn heads, this bag speaks of adventures waiting to be had and tales itching to be told. Whether it’s an impromptu weekend getaway or a well-planned expedition.
Recommended: Gill 60L duffel bag – £70
