When temperatures begin to fall stand up paddling becomes a truly special experience. Nature shows its most colorful side, the water is calm and clear, and the peaceful atmosphere on the lake is simply priceless. Here are some essential tips to make your autumn SUP adventure safe and enjoyable.
The Right SUP Clothing
Even though paddling will warm you up quickly, don’t underestimate the cold.
The best approach is the layering principle: several thin layers instead of one thick one. Bring a sweater or windbreaker to protect yourself from wind and splashing water.
The best approach is the layering principle: several thin layers instead of one thick one. Bring a sweater or windbreaker to protect yourself from wind and splashing water.
What helps most are neoprene socks or Skinners to keep your feet warm, because cold feet can quickly lower your body temperature.
On very chilly days, gloves and a hat are highly recommended, since you lose a lot of heat through your head.
On very chilly days, gloves and a hat are highly recommended, since you lose a lot of heat through your head.
Warm Up Before You Paddle
A short warm-up routine is important before stepping onto your board.
Do a few stretching and mobility exercises to get your blood flowing. This helps prevent muscle tension and keeps you from cooling down too fast. Especially on cooler autumn days, getting your body moving before you touch cold water makes a big difference.
Do a few stretching and mobility exercises to get your blood flowing. This helps prevent muscle tension and keeps you from cooling down too fast. Especially on cooler autumn days, getting your body moving before you touch cold water makes a big difference.
Safety First – Always Use a Leash and Life Vest
Even experienced paddlers should never skip the leash and life vest during autumn SUP sessions.
The water is much colder than in summer, and falling in can quickly become dangerous. If that happens, your life vest and leash will keep you safe and close to your board. Always attach the leash to your board, not to your body or vest. This avoids tangling and makes it easier to manage in the water.
The water is much colder than in summer, and falling in can quickly become dangerous. If that happens, your life vest and leash will keep you safe and close to your board. Always attach the leash to your board, not to your body or vest. This avoids tangling and makes it easier to manage in the water.
Stay Energized with Drinks and Snacks
Even when it’s cool outside, your body loses fluid while paddling.
Stay hydrated! Bring a thermos with warm tea, it will keep you warm and energized. For longer tours, high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or granola bars are perfect. Cold temperatures increase your body’s energy demand, so make sure you fuel up properly.
Stay hydrated! Bring a thermos with warm tea, it will keep you warm and energized. For longer tours, high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or granola bars are perfect. Cold temperatures increase your body’s energy demand, so make sure you fuel up properly.
Enjoy the Autumn Scenery
Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons for stand up paddling.
Golden trees, crisp air, and calm waters make for an unforgettable experience. Take advantage of the last mild days and head out before winter sets in. Now is the perfect time for relaxed tours, quiet moments on the lake, or even photo sessions in the golden light.
Golden trees, crisp air, and calm waters make for an unforgettable experience. Take advantage of the last mild days and head out before winter sets in. Now is the perfect time for relaxed tours, quiet moments on the lake, or even photo sessions in the golden light.
Tip
Cooler temperatures also affect your gear.
Always check whether your inflatable SUP board has the right air pressure, because cold air can slightly reduce the PSI level. Make sure your pump, fin, and valve are all in good condition before heading out. After paddling, dry your board completely before storing it to prevent mold or material wear.
Always check whether your inflatable SUP board has the right air pressure, because cold air can slightly reduce the PSI level. Make sure your pump, fin, and valve are all in good condition before heading out. After paddling, dry your board completely before storing it to prevent mold or material wear.
With the right clothing, preparation and safety equipment, nothing stands in the way of your SUP adventure in autumn. Whether on the lake, river or sea; with a MINT LAMA inflatable SUP you are equipped for every season. Our boards are light, stable and durable: perfect for paddlers who do not want to give up being on the water even in autumn.