Lakes, seas, oceans, and rivers are some of the best water bodies you can consider. However, most people prefer areas with enough space for practice and trying new stand-up paddleboarding skills.
The most common water bodies are lakes and the beaches. Here, you will have enough space, try new skills, and mingle with other paddlers. However, most people are not sure whether to go paddleboarding at the beach or at the lake.
Here is the difference between beach and lake stand-up paddleboarding.
Lake stand-up paddleboarding vs. Beach stand-up paddleboarding
There is a big difference when someone is paddling at the beach and when paddling on a flat water body such as a lake. This is because oceans are harsh, strange, and very unpredictable. On the other hand, lakes are predictable, mostly calm throughout the day, and friendly.
This means you need to be well-prepared when paddling on either beach or lake. You need to know what you should have and what to look out for when on a lake or ocean.
Beach stand-up paddleboarding
Even though beach stand-up paddleboarding is fit for all people, it can be dangerous. Sometimes, the ocean can be calm and friendly and other times it can be windy and rough.
Therefore, if you are planning to go stand-up paddleboarding at the beach, make sure you are well prepared because the weather can change unexpectedly.
There are several things you need to put into consideration before you go to the beach. First, you need to know that the beach is prone to rough waters, gusty winds, and several waves. Also, keep in mind that tides and currents can change at any time.
Therefore, before you head out for beach paddleboarding, make sure you have checked the weather forecast. Additionally, monitor the tides, climate, and know the SUP safety tips.
Furthermore, depending on the ocean and where you live, having a wetsuit might be a good idea. This is because most oceans are cold throughout the year. Make sure you wear a life jacket as well.
But the good news is that beaches normally provide perfect conditions for stand-up paddleboarding. You may find light winds, sunny days, and some dolphins swimming around your paddleboard. Stand-up paddleboarding on the beach is one of the best experiences you can have.
Apart from ocean paddleboarding, you can consider bays. They are more protected and there are no strong waves. Bays are SUP-friendly and a good option for beginners, kids, or when paddling with your dog.
Best SUPs for beach stand-up paddleboarding
Beach paddleboarding is fun but can turn dangerous after just an hour of calm weather. It could be calm in the morning and then rough and windy in the afternoon.
Thus, you need to be ready for the worse by having the right paddleboard that can handle the challenging conditions.
For example, the touring paddleboards are some of the best boards you can consider for beach stand-up paddleboarding.
They are less wide, long, and have a pointed nose. This will be a good board that will provide stability and great performance when you are paddling against waves.
In addition, it will provide the speed and steadiness needed when paddling through rough waters, windy conditions, and also help you enhance your paddling skills. Also, you need to consider the hand paddleboards for your ocean paddleboarding.
Lake stand-up paddleboarding
Lake stand-up paddleboarding is also referred to as flat water paddleboarding. It is much easier than beach stand-up paddleboarding. One of the reasons why it is easier is because it is predictable.
A normal day at the lake is customarily calm, especially in the morning and in the evening. In the afternoon, you may experience a slight breeze.
In addition, there are no currents, tides, or strong waves. However, you can expect strong winds in the afternoon. The best way to have a great paddleboarding day is to monitor the weather.
Best SUPs for lake stand-up paddleboarding
Shockingly, all stand-up paddleboards are good for Lake Paddleboarding. This is because the water is calm and ideal for any type of paddleboard.
However, the most recommended ones are the inflatable paddleboards.
The inflatable paddle boards are great for beginners and experienced paddlers. In addition, they are easy to use, transport to and from the lake, to store, and they are very durable.
Moreover, there are different inflatable paddleboards on the market to consider. You can get the small ones for the kids and the large ones as well.
Conclusion
Lake and beach stand-up paddleboarding are different from one another. Therefore, you need to be well prepared before you head to the lake or the ocean.
Even though beach stand-up paddleboarding is exciting and full of fun, you need to be very cautious. It can turn dangerous within a short time. Therefore, be ready by checking the weather and having the right items.
Lake stand-up paddleboarding is simple and full of fun. It might not be as challenging as beach paddleboarding. However, you need to be prepared as well. Make sure you have the right safety equipment and monitor the weather as well.
