FAQ
ISUP?
Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard. Inflated to 15-30 psi, these inflatable boards are super rigid and stable when inflated. Yet folded down and in the backpack bag, they are very portable, enabling paddling anywhere.
What does the SUP Bag contain?
Wheeled Backpack with carry straps
1 x Inflatable Paddle Board
1 x manual double pump
1 x fibreglass paddle
1 x leash (attaches the board to you)
1 x fin
1x bolt & screw (very important tiny item) for attaching Fin
How long does it take to inflate?
Learn from my mistake - I thought it looked inflated & the gauge on pump wasn't working, but 'looking inflated' is probably 1 psi, you've another 14psi to go! it was NOT inflated and my feet sank under water! It should take around 6 minutes to inflate to the recommended 15-18psi - at which time the manual pump's gauge on top will show you its working, as are your arms pumping!
How do you carry the board?
Its lighter to carry inflated & hold the centre handle in your dominant hand with the board by your side. Instructions are in the bag. Attach the fin. Then attach the leash to your body (ensure your able to quick release) when you are next to the water, but before popping the board in the water, so you are never separated!
How do you Paddleboard, do I need lessons and will I get wet?
I, and many novice friends, never had any training, we just googled/you tube hints and tips. We offer Taster Trips and can Guide you, plus can introduce you to local Instructor led classes. I only got wet after 1 year of paddling, which was a daredevil attempt to rescue a friends fin. My friends have never fallen in whilst learning this sport but we always plan for a spare change of clothes or pack a towel poncho, just in case! But like skiing, worth noting how to fall/climb back on from video tips too.
What are the River rules, what to wear, what to take?
Look up the rules but keep to the right on the River Thames, apply common sense (I opt for bright upper clothing for visibility) and by no means an exhaustive list, but do familiarise yourself with all appropriate info like weather/wind gusts on met office & local board warnings issued by Environmental Agency plus Tides at coastal places etc and know what this means before deciding on where you will paddle today.
Smile, enjoy the nice weather and wear quick drying clothes, take a drybag with shorts or a hooded robe, wear a buoyancy aid, maybe take a camera, go pro, picnic, warm drink/winter or water/summer, money for the pub/coffee shop and hopefully sun lotion will be needed. Flip flops to water wide & secure under the bungees.