What is a good wind speed for paddle boarding?
Emma Payne
Published Jan 18, 2026
The strength of the wind has a big impact on stand up paddling so as a 'rule of thumb': Less than 15 knots (less than 27km/h) is ideal flat water conditions. At 15 knots small waves and whitecaps start to form. At 20-25 knots (37-46km/h), more experienced paddlers may want to use the wind to surf downwind.
What wind speed is safe for paddle boarding?
As a general rule of thumb, if the wind is traveling under 10 knots, it is typically safe for you to paddle out at any skill level. However, when wind exceeds beyond 10 knots, you may want to think twice before you paddle out.
What are good conditions for paddleboarding?
70 to low 80 degrees. Advanced paddlers like a nice, comfortable temperature to be on and in the water. This range is not too cold if you fall in, and not too hot to be out on the water. 60 to low 70 degrees.
Is onshore wind good for SUP?
Strong on shore winds when paddleboarding are best avoided. However light wind, on shore conditions are the safest conditions because there is no risk of being blown away from land. Cross shore winds can also produce challenging paddling conditions.
How do you paddle board with choppy water?
Here are some techniques for stand up paddleboarding in rough surf.
- Steer clear of obstructions. Don't enter near rocky shorelines or areas crowded with swimmers and surfers. ...
- Don't get in over your head. ...
- Walk first. ...
- Protect your head. ...
- Adjust your stance. ...
- Keep paddling.
Is low tide or high tide better for paddle boarding?
In most locations, the worst and least safe tide state for beginners to go paddleboarding will be mid-tide. At high or low tide the water is slack and the current is weak, whereas during mid-tide the body of water is moving at its quickest and most powerful.
Is it too cold to paddleboard?
Water temperatures between 60-70F will create difficulty breathing and potential immediate shock. Water temperatures between 50F-60F are extremely dangerous and represent a significant risk from rapid cold water immersion.
What is the best time to go paddle boarding?
Paddle Boarding in Summer
Most paddlers favor the summer months because the air and water temperatures are at their warmest. Typically, there is less wind and rainfall during the summer, leaving you with clear days and amazing water conditions.
How do paddle boarders stay warm?
The wetsuit is ideal if you think you will end up in the water. The neoprene will trap the water against your body and keep it warm. If it is unlikely you'll end up in the water then a drysuit will be warmer and more comfortable as you can layer underneath. For calm lake and river paddling this is what I normally wear.
How do tides affect paddling?
As Low Tide approaches, the water is moving back out to sea and away from the mainland. If you are on the beach, you will notice that more of the sand is exposed at this time. In a bay or river, this may mean lower water levels in addition to the flow of the river running out to sea.
Can you paddleboard in winter?
Winter Paddleboarding in London. Yes, you can SUP all year round in London.
Do I need a wet suit for SUP?
Keeping warm on the water/ what to wear paddleboarding
In the lead up to summer, other seasons of the year or if you often feel the cold, a wetsuit is advisable. This will keep you warm whilst on the board as well as if you fall in the water! Being warm will enable you to paddle for longer too.
Is it safe to paddleboard in winter?
Enjoy Paddle Boarding All Year Round
Just because there's snow on the ground doesn't mean you can't be out on your paddle board, enjoying time on the water. With these tips, and some good judgement, you can hit the water year round on your SUP.
Can I leave my sup inflated?
LEAVING THE BOARD INFLATED
The answer is yes you can BUT please store it away from the elements, in a cool area out of direct sunlight and ideally off the ground. All inflatable paddle boards will lose some air pressure over time if the board is left inflated day after day.
Can you paddle board in rough water?
You certainly can paddle board in choppy water, choppy water will make paddle boarding more challenging both technically and physically. Paddle boarding in choppy water can be a great way to improve your overall ability.
Can you lose weight paddle boarding?
Whether you're drifting over still rivers or ripping through waves on your board, stand up paddleboarding is one of the best ways to shed a few extra pounds with a fun activity that you actually enjoy.
Can you paddle board in the rain?
Stand up paddle boarding in rain – yes, you can!
How fast do tides come in?
Because the Earth rotates through two tidal “bulges” every lunar day, coastal areas experience two high and two low tides every 24 hours and 50 minutes. High tides occur 12 hours and 25 minutes apart. It takes six hours and 12.5 minutes for the water at the shore to go from high to low, or from low to high.
What is the difference between ebb tide and flood tide?
As the tide rises, water moves toward the shore. This is called a flood current. As the tide recedes, the waters move away from the shore. This is called an ebb current.
What is the best tide to go kayaking?
Spring tides bring greater tidal ranges, stronger tidal flows and potentially more challenging conditions for kayak fishing and paddling. On the flip side, neap tides are often much easier paddling and fishing conditions. Make a note of the time of high and low tide at the venue on the day you want to launch and fish.
Can you use inflatable SUP in winter?
If you have an inflatable SUP, deflating it and storing it in a travel bag or cover will keep it safe and out of the way all winter long. Just make sure your board is clean and dry before you store it to avoid any accidental damage or mildew.
How do you paddle board in cold water?
When stand up paddleboarding in cold water during the summer, you can wear a rashguard and board shorts, a shorty wetsuit or separate wetsuit pieces like leggings or a vest. During the cooler months, you may want to wear a full wetsuit or drysuit to stay warm.
What is a strong wind speed?
Strong Breeze. 25 to 31 mph. Large branches in continuous motion. Whistling sounds heard in overhead or nearby power and telephone lines. Umbrellas used with difficulty.