Dive Into Essential SUP Skills From Home

Explore these fun videos and improve your stand-up paddling skills from a Doctor of Education.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

When you’re a first-time stand-up paddler, there are a few basic skills that everyone needs to learn. Fortunately, they’re about as easygoing as a paddle down a quiet stream or mirror-like lake. The Outbound Pursuit Series expert José González created a few easy videos to teach you what you need to know before you go.

How to get back on your board

It isn't a matter of if, but when. Everyone falls off their board, even the vets. When you slip into the drink, José explains the two ways you can clamber aboard again.

How to activate an inflatable emergency floatation device

Not all PFDs are inherently buoyant, and paddlers commonly use a hip-strapped emergency inflatable device. In a moment of panic, it's good to know exactly what you need to do to stay afloat.

How to paddle against the wind

Paddling against the wind is at times a necessary evil. José shows us how to stay low and reduce our profile to limit the impact of headwinds on the water.

How to rescue another paddler

In a series of photos, José depicts essential rescue techniques that might just help you save a stranger stuck in the waves.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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