Winter, often perceived as a deterrent for outdoor activities, actually opens a new chapter for paddleboarding enthusiasts. The serenity and unique beauty of wintry waters offer a refreshing perspective to the sport. But, can you paddleboard in the winter? Absolutely! With the right gear and precautions, winter paddleboarding can be a thrilling and safe experience.
Why Would You Want to SUP in Cold Weather?
Winter transforms waterways into tranquil, uncrowded playgrounds. Imagine gliding over a mirror-like surface, surrounded by snow-capped landscapes and the crisp, cool air. It’s not just about the physical activity; it’s an immersive experience that rejuvenates the soul.
Essential Winter Paddleboarding Gear
The key to enjoying winter paddleboarding lies in staying warm and dry. This is where winter wetsuits come into play.
For colder waters of 15°C and below you’ll want to opt for a Full-Length wetsuit with a thick neoprene. A 5/4 wetsuit offers solid protection throughout winter and a 4/3 wetsuit will offer increased flexibility, while still fending off the cold. Boots, gloves, and a hood are also recommended if hitting the water in the winter.
Winter Wetsuits
Neoprene, the material used in wetsuits, is excellent for insulation. It traps a thin layer of water between the suit and the skin, which is then warmed by body heat, forming an insulating layer. For more detailed information on choosing a wetsuit, refer to our Wetsuit Buying Guide.
For men, we recommend the Thunderclap 5/4mm Men's Winter Wetsuit. This suit is designed to keep your core warm with 5mm neoprene, while offering optimum flexibility for paddling.
Women can explore options like the ones available at Women’s Winter Wetsuits. These suits cater to a woman's specific fit and ensure comfort and warmth during winter paddling.
For children, safety and warmth are paramount. The selection at Kid’s Winter Wetsuits offers both, ensuring young paddlers can enjoy winter waters safely.
Weatherproof Changing Robes
As you venture into the world of winter paddleboarding, one essential item to add to your gear is a weatherproof changing robe.
A changing robe is a loose fitting, insulated robe that you can pull on like a coat, allowing you to get changed and warm and dry as quickly as possible. Typically used before and after paddleboarding, they make changing in public areas comfortable and convenient. In the winter, when you need to keep warm the most, these robes make a huge difference to your experience.
Two Bare Feet offers a variety of weatherproof changing robes designed to keep you warm and dry before and after your winter water adventures.
Key Features:
- Warmth and Protection: These robes are crafted to provide warmth and shield you from the elements, making them perfect for use in colder, wetter conditions.
- Variety of Styles: Available in a range of colours and designs, these robes cater to individual preferences, ensuring both functionality and style.
- Convenience: The robes are designed with ease of use in mind, making changing in and out of wetsuits by the water's edge a hassle-free experience.
- Durability: Made with high-quality materials, these robes are built to last, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Whether you're a seasoned winter paddler or just starting out, a weatherproof changing robe is an invaluable addition to your paddleboarding kit, enhancing comfort and convenience during your winter paddling sessions.
Winter SUP Accessories
Two Bare Feet offers a diverse range of rash vests, wetsuit gloves, boots, and hoods, essential for enhancing your winter paddleboarding experience. Each category features products designed for both comfort and functionality:
Rash Vests
We stock Rash Vests in various styles and sizes. Rash vests provide an extra layer of warmth and protection, and they are suitable for both adults and juniors.
Wetsuit Gloves
These gloves are designed to keep your hands warm and protected in cold water conditions, available in different thicknesses. Find the perfect pair in our range of Two Bare Feet Wetsuit Gloves.
Wetsuit Boots
We offer a range of Wetsuit Boots for cold water paddleboarding. These boots provide warmth and protection for your feet.
Wetsuit Hoods
Wetsuit Hoods are essential for retaining heat and protecting your head in cold waters.
Lowest Safe Water Temperatures for Paddleboarding
With a Wetsuit:
- Temperature Range: Paddleboarding with a proper wetsuit is generally safe in water temperatures as low as 7°C. High-quality wetsuits, like those designed for winter, can provide adequate insulation and safety in these conditions.
- Wetsuit Thickness: For temperatures between 7°C to 13°C, a wetsuit of 5/4mm or 6/5/4mm thickness is recommended for optimal warmth.#
Without a Wetsuit:
- Temperature Range: Paddleboarding without a wetsuit is generally safe in water temperatures above 16°C. However, individual tolerance to cold varies, and conditions should be assessed based on experience and comfort level, therefore, if a wetsuit is favoured in thinner thickness, then 2.5mm may be preferrable.
- Risk of Hypothermia: In water temperatures below 16°C, the risk of hypothermia increases significantly without protective gear. Hypothermia can set in quickly, and symptoms include shivering, slurred speech, lack of coordination, and confusion.
Safety Tips for Winter Paddleboarding in the UK
- Always check the weather forecast and water conditions before heading out.
- Always assess the water depths dependent on your swimming abilities.
- Always wear a SUP leash when using your SUP and a quick release waist belt if in fast flowing water.
- Use appropriate gear, including a suitable wetsuit, gloves, boots, and a hat to retain body heat.
- Be aware of shorter daylight hours and plan your trips accordingly. On the shortest day of the year, the UK will get less than eight hours of daylight.
- Always inform someone about your paddleboarding plan and expected return time.
Great Places to Paddleboard in the UK During Winter
- Windermere, Lake District: As the largest natural lake in England, Windermere offers stunning views and a serene paddling experience, especially enchanting during the winter months.
- River Thames, London: Paddleboarding on the Thames in winter offers a unique perspective of the city. The quieter winter months can make for a more peaceful journey along this famous river.
- Loch Lomond, Scotland: Scotland's largest lake, Loch Lomond, provides a breathtaking backdrop for winter paddleboarding, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and clear winter skies.
- Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales: For those seeking ocean paddleboarding, the Pembrokeshire coast offers dramatic and beautiful landscapes, even in winter. The region's natural beauty is accentuated by the winter light.
- Norfolk Broads: This network of rivers and lakes in East Anglia offers a tranquil paddling experience, with calm waters and a variety of wildlife that can be spotted even during the colder months. Be advised you will have to pay toll fees to paddleboard here.
The Unique Joys of Winter Paddleboarding
Winter paddleboarding isn’t just about braving the cold; it’s about embracing a unique experience. The stillness of winter provides a peaceful escape from the hustle of everyday life. It’s an opportunity to witness nature in its most serene state, from the gentle rustling sound of leaves blowing in the wind to the occasional sight of winter wildlife.
Yes, winter paddleboarding is challenging, but that’s part of the appeal. It tests your skills, resilience, and adaptability. It's a chance to grow as a paddler and an individual. The sense of accomplishment after a winter paddle is unmatched.
With these winter paddleboarding locations and safety tips, combined with the right gear, it can make winter paddleboarding a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember, respecting the power of nature and understanding your own limits is crucial, especially during the winter months.
