STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING ON THE OUTER BANKS

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Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the fastest growing watersports in the United States and for good reason. The versatility and simplicity of the sport lend it to appeal to a wide variety of participants. Whether you are looking to take on waves, paddle rivers, or cruise around in the bay or sound, Kitty Hawk Surf Co. has all the equipment, accessories, and lessons to help you get the job done.

Requiring just a minimal amount of gear, SUP delivers on offering a full body workout and relaxing activity for those interested in playing on the water. A great full body core workout, many SUP enthusiasts are some of the fittest people you’ll meet. Many first time SUPers will use just their arms to paddle, which will quickly tire your arm muscles out. The most effective way to paddle is to use your the strength of your core to paddle, not your arms.

Paddleboards come in all shapes and sizes, and are typically constructed out of epoxy and fiberglass wrapped around an EPS foam core. The boards typically have one to three fins to help the board track in the water. Paddleboards are much thicker than an average surfboards, and range in length from 8 to 12 feet. Most beginner stand up paddle boarders find longer boards to be easier to learn on. Once you log more hours on the water, transitioning to a smaller board will be much easier.

In addition to the board, you will need a paddle, leash, traction pad, and personal flotation device or PFD to stand up paddleboard.

Paddles – Typically constructed out of wood, carbon fiber, aluminum, wood or plastic, should always be 6 to 10 inches above the height of the paddler.

Leash – It’s important to have a leash as this will keep your board attached to you using a Velcro strap around your ankle. You wouldn’t want to lose your board if and when you fall off!

Traction Pads – Most paddle boards come equipped with a traction pad on the deck of the board which will help paddlers balance on the board. Traction pads are constructed out of a soft layer of foam which is grooved to provide additional grip and a soft cushion for your feet. These are especially helpful if you ever take your paddleboard out on the ocean to ride some waves.

PFD – This is a crucial item for staying safe while paddleboarding. You may have already worn a PFD if you’ve ever been on a boat or jet ski. It’s just a good idea to always have this safety measure in place in case you ever need it. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Kitty Hawk Surf Co. offers a couple different ways for residents and vacationers of North Carolina’s Outer Banks to enjoy a SUP.

For instance, we offer stand up paddleboarding lessons daily during the spring, summer and fall months, allowing first-time SUPers the chance to learn the basics of the sport from a seasoned pro. Kids lessons are also available on a regular basis. In addition to lessons, we also offer stand up paddleboard rentals from Corolla to Hatteras Island, with free delivery for week-long rentals made at least 48 hours in advance. SUP yoga classes are also available, which is a super fun way for novice to advanced yoga enthusiasts to get a workout while floating on top of the tranquil sound waters.

And if you’re interested in purchasing your own stand up paddleboard, Kitty Hawk Surf Co. offers a variety of different boards and paddles from some of the most trusted companies in the sport. Our flagship store across from Jockey’s Ridge State Park boasts the largest selection of SUP gear you’ll find anywhere on the Outer Banks.