Practicing Paddle Surfing in winter is not impossible but you must prepare very well to be able to enjoy it as you should. As part of your preparation you must mainly check the weather, sea currents, wave height and wind speed in the area where you will paddle before. to undertake this journey. Also, consider:
As a general rule, you should know that it is better that you do not paddle surf alone in winter, not because it is prohibited, but because in this season the weather conditions are more aggressive so accidents can be more frequent.
Especially if you are a beginner, go as a group to your paddle surf spot.
Winter equipment:
Sturdy boards and paddles:
In the winter season, boards and paddles can even crystallize due to low temperatures. When you buy your paddles, make sure that their material is resistant enough to allow you to move strongly.
Warm clothing and thermal clothing:
You must first identify the difference between these two types of clothing, one of them will protect you from the cold winds when practicing SUP, but it is important that under the warm clothing you wear thermal clothing that can also maintain your body temperature in the long term. .
However, this does not mean that you should wear too many layers of clothing, because you should be able to move and breathe during practice. So it is recommended that along with your pants and thermal sweatshirt you only wear a coat, hat, gloves, socks, and neoprene boots.
Waterproof backpack:
The backpack you carry should ensure that your things stay dry, there is always the possibility that it will start to snow or that your backpack could fall into the water by accident. Inside the backpack we recommend you carry:
Hydration.
Healthy food or snacks high in protein and probiotics. It is also advisable to bring dark chocolate.
Extra thermal clothing.
Wear a life jacket:
In many cases it is recommended, there is always a possibility of falling into the water, you can also use the leash of the board on your foot or hand, if you fall you can easily get back on the board.
Tips for paddle boarding in Winter:
Warm up before starting the practice, with these weather conditions your body will notice that it will have to make an extra effort, so you must avoid injuries to complete the route.
If you want to record, you can use a camera that can be fixed on your body or on the board, so that your hands are always free. It is also advisable to have an active GPS.
To practice this sport, you can always eat carbohydrates the day before, as it will allow you to maintain blood glucose levels for longer.
Always plan your route, do not improvise, remember that weather conditions can be changing and you must be clear about the entry and exit points of the route in case of emergency. Avoid being late while doing the tour.
Find out well about the spot where you will paddle surf so that you have references as to which is the best route to take and if it has escape or alternative routes.
Always inform your parents, friends or acquaintances if you are going to a paddle session, whether in a group or not, since during the tour it is better that you do not use phones, since you must be attentive when handling the paddle. This way they will have your location.
Once you get out of the water, change into warmer clothes, your clothes must be dry to maintain your body temperature, and even if you think that what you are wearing is fine, sometimes since you have been exposed to the low temperature for a long time, you do not you correctly feel the difference.
At the end of your paddle surf session in winter, do not drink citrus drinks, but rather warm drinks that allow you to acclimatize again.