Let’s discuss the recent guidance changes from Gov.UK, Canal and River Trust and British Canoeing
I’ve certainly done a lot of paddling during the Lockdown’s
A tough one to write about and discuss.. Paddling during Lockdown 3.0.. With many outlets including the Canal and River Trust and British Canoeing saying it’s OK to paddle.. Is it? Let’s take a look..
Outdoor exercise is still permitted, but should be limited to once per day
Outdoor exercise should be done locally wherever possible, but you can travel a short distancewithin your area if necessary to find an open space to exercise (such as a publicly accessible place to launch)
Organised and structured outdoor sporting activity must not take place
All indoor and outdoor sports clubs, centres, venues and facilities will need to close
Solo paddles or with your household, in local areas only..
Paddling for exercise is permitted within the government measures, so long as you are:
Solo
Paddling with people you live with
With your support bubble (if you’re legally permitted to form one)
When on your own, with one person from another household while following social distancing and I would advise no sharing of equipment
Personal equipment – It has been confirmed that collecting personal equipment belonging to an individual, from a facility such as a boathouse, to enable individual exercise is permitted.
Canal and River Trust’s website stating the navigations are open for paddle sports..
Main Guidance Notes:
Social distancing – Stay 2 metres apart from anyone not in your household. It sounds daft but I would take a face covering out on the board, some people may be isolating on a boat or barge – you just never know..
Outdoor exercise limits – Exercise should be limited to once per day. It is clearly stated on the Gov.uk site under Exercising.
Travel – Outdoor exercise should be done locally wherever possible, but you can travel a short distance within your area if necessary to find an open space to exercise (such as a publicly accessible place to launch).
Waterways licence – Paddlers are reminded that a waterways licence is required to paddle on licensed waterways. This is paramount as always, regardless of the license provider.
British Canoeing website and their Guidance
“If you break the rules…”
“The police can take action against you if you meet in larger groups. This includes breaking up illegal gatherings and issuing fines (fixed penalty notices)”.
“You can be given a Fixed Penalty Notice of £200 for the first offence, doubling for further offences up to a maximum of £6,400. If you hold, or are involved in holding, an illegal gathering of over 30 people, the police can issue fines of £10,000” –This is a direct extract from the Government website.
Probably the most Solo paddle I can show you!
Be sensible, those paddles will wait. There is absolutely no need to go exploring right now. Much like the first Lockdown – we are advising Stay at Home and to follow government guidance. You should not be attending waterways you do not know, which in turn could cause further, unnecessary stress on the NHS… Be sensible.
In my opinion and this isn’t guidance..
We are in a National Lockdown so you must follow the Government rules whether you agree or not – not Facebook, not some chaps on Instagram – the Police will simple say you aren’t following the rules and fine you as explained above. Some people will have to accept they cannot paddle right now – harsh reality, but true. Many people that paddle are land locked and cannot get to the waterways – there are other forms of exercise. Looking at the guidance of ‘local’, I would say in your village, or within walking distance.. Driving 15-20+ minutes for water isn’t local, a couple of miles within the same town would seem acceptable but I’ll try to get clarification on this..
When we get more updates through @StandUpPaddleUKwe will share them and I will update this post!
A Review of the Bluefin SUP 2020 Sprint Carbon for @StandUpPaddleUK
Ok so I’m a little ‘behind the 8 ball’ on this one as I’ve had this board since around August (well, a prototype) and then had the SUP Package for a couple of months now. So after a few trips away, and some lake & river testing. I am ready to write this.
Say hello to the redesigned, new and improved, 2020 Sprint Carbon
The 2020 Updated Colourway
I knew the folks at BlueFin SUP were looking at 2020 changes. In fact I had a sneak preview some time before they all were dropped – so to see the colour way and deck design changes was awesome. They have not disappointed when you open that box – it is all new and improved.
Even the Swans wanted to see this Board
This is their next generation of Tourer. As a user of the 2019 Sprint I can safely say the upgrade and change is apparent, but not just in its visuals. Coming in at 14ft long, 30inch wide (30.3 to be precise), and 6.2inch thick.. She’s quite a beast. A more flat profile has ensured the nose doesn’t stick too high from the water so you aren’t fighting head winds for the fun of it. They’ve opted for a US Box Fin over last years smart lock central fin – something I agree with as the choice to change fin is something the more experienced paddler will often do (you don’t want to always use the standard surf fin….) and the intro of the smaller side fins is a good idea as they do provide additional stability when on board.
The Board Rake is now much flat than its predecessor, meaning you don’t find yourself fighting the board when in a head wind, something I always found an issue with the 2019 Sprint.
They’ve also upgraded similarly to my 10’8 Cruise Carbon, adding dual chambers ie the ‘Carbon’ standard. This makes the board much more stiffer. I’ve also noticed the board glides in a straight fashion when paddling, something the 2019 suffered with but also could have been some poor technique on my part..
What’s it like to ride?
Well, as I said in my opinion this is the best board I’ve ever ridden in the Tourer class. Before you even get out on the water you will notice how well constructed the board is. You can see that the ‘Carbon’ is the flagship of their range. Five different handgrip positions for carrying the board (nose, tail, central grab, either side of centre by the rails), Several different D ring positions (same as last years cruise Carbon and Sprint, I haven’t attached the kayak seat as yet but this will work on this board). It’s not too heavy to carry solo which is obviously quite good considering generally you paddle solo! Weighing in at approximately 22kg* when pumped up, it definitely isn’t the lightest board but you can tell the difference in the rigidity. (*Bluefin confirmed the pumped weight is 22.4kg)
While we’re on the subject of rigidity, this thing is bloody stiff. That was one of my gripes last year with the 2019 model, it didn’t seem stiff enough and When trying to perform a step back turn you could feel the board bowing, that is not the case this year! I’ve knocked out a few step back turns on the 2020 and feels like more of a solid unit. The dual chamber of the board definitely helps.
The stiffer board, and lower rake profile make riding this board a real enjoyable experience
Given the boards profile this is a touring board, the Sprint name is quite deceptive thinking it might be a race board but it is more for long-distance tours. Given that I predominantly use Rivers and Canals where I live this board is perfect for me. The profile is very much set up for cutting through the water and so far I’ve got nothing but good things to say about using this board on the river.
A River Touring Beast
I was recently in the Lake District and obviously the board came with me. Myself and my girlfriend were staying right next to Ullswater lake so this was a spot I had to paddle. Given that the water was so flat here you really can ride any board, but I was on the Sprint Carbon, so getting up some speed and burning it around the lake was very much on my agenda! As I said previously, super stable even when getting bashed with roller waves from the Ullswater Steamer and local boats, the Sprint cut through all of it with ease, remaining stable in the process.
Standard UK raining on my Paddle days in Ullswater – bloody Moody
As you’ll see on the front of the board, there’s a white attachment – for your camera. There’s been so much uproar and complaint, to various brands, that have moved to this threaded attachment. The attachment for use is simple, a threaded M8 (something like this – https://www.irockersup.com/gopro-compatible-mount/) however if you email BlueFin they will send you one out. The threaded attachment is much safer than the last moulded GoPro mount as they were always prone to snapping after overuse. It’s also a more versatile mount for things other than a camera – I’ve recently seen some cool gear like cup holders, Garmin mounts, Phone holders (I wouldn’t recommend one of these haha!)
Things I Like
The new Design and Colourway
It’s a beast on Rivers, Canals and Lakes. I have been chewing up the water and haven’t got a complaint about how it has handled
The flatter profile of the board at the nose
Ultra stable and very rigid
It’s a complete package again with added new extras
The new Paddle is quite good, as someone who uses a paddle from another brand it has made me think twice about my paddle choice (rumours of a new stand alone paddle from BlueFin are out there……)
A great deal to like about this Board
Things I Didn’t Like
Not actually board related – more package..
Sadly yes, there are a couple things, but that is the same with any piece of kit. I love the GoPro Hero 9 but there was many things I wasn’t pleased about!
The Pump – still feels like a cheap alternative in comparison to something like Red Paddle’s Titan pump. When putting the BF pump under pressure, say 15-18psi, when standing on the ‘feet’ of the pump it somethings feels like you’re going to snap the body from the base. The intro of the ‘Triple Action’ is great as it relives user tiredness but the double action mode (ie pumps on push and pull) makes the pump feel weak as a unit.
The Hose for the Pump – still not properly connecting to the valve access. You really have to get it into the right position to get the hose working right or it pings out. I’ve actually ended up using my old Red pump or my electric charger, which is BlueFin, to make sure I’m not wasting time chasing the hose around. I’ve never found any hose on any BlueFin board I’ve had or used to be flexible.
The Bag – bit of a catch really as the Carbon range has wheels which is very handy but the back and arm strap padding isn’t the best especially if you have far to walk with a 20kg+ bag. Don’t get me wrong, the bag is durable – last years bag on the 10’8 Carbon is similar and has no damage whatsoever, just a padding issue!
Pricing
As with most of BlueFin SUP boards they come as part of a package deal. The board, a triple action Pump, US Box Fin/Smart lock fin 2x, Ankle leash, Board carry strap, Repair kit – all in a Carry Bag. And even now they have upgraded their Paddle to a super lightweight carbon, which is 100% an improvement on last year.
That is the high end of their board range, and I would suggest for anyone looking to get a Tourer but can’t afford this, you should look into the 2019 Sprint. It may have some flaws but it is still an great board which will serve you well.
The versatility and ability to pack your board, paddle, equipment into a single bag is really priceless
Possible 2021 Improvements or Changes?
I have a couple of suggestions, and to be honest it is items which we say to several brands..
Extend the Deck Pad Grip to the very rear of the board, even if there’s a cargo net. Mainly because I want to step back all the way. Plus it adds grip to your storage area!
A better pump. The ‘bigger’ brands have put a lot of time and effort into making a sturdy, beast of a pump, this isn’t quite there yet
Cargo Nets – would prefer to see an adjustable strapping or webbing as current type will become saggy over time which will need altering / cutting.
QR Belts and waist attachment with every board sold. That’s not a BlueFin SUP gripe, that’s an Industry gripe.
More guidance – information about SUP safety in the bag, as above – Industry gripe..
On the whole this is a very solid package and at the top end of a complete board package. I personally took the decision to use these boards a couple of years ago and I haven’t regretted it.
It really does need to be pointed out that even now, several months along, Coronavirus has really put a strain on production of all manufacturers including BlueFin being no different. I have seen a lot of negative commenting on places like Facebook but I think a lot of people need to realise that every part of the supply chain is stretched at the moment so you may well have to wait a few more additional days to get your board. Often issues aren’t from the manufacturer of the board, it’s actually the delivery service. Be Patient Paddlers!
LifeJacket Skin Protection is a company doing their best to prevent Cancer in Men. Get your Discount Code inside! Article by Darren Farrar
Sun Protection and Skin Care is absolutely paramount, especially when your out on a bike, hiking or paddleboarding. It’s never been more important to protect yourself from the sun. Today I wanted to bring this brand to everyone’s attention. Say hello to LifeJacket. Skin Protection designed for Men.
Introducing LifeJacketSkin
These guys are focused on helping to prevent cancer in Men. Did you know almost twice as many men died from skin cancer versus women all over the world? In the past 20 years skin cancer in men has certainly become a more regular thing, with the forecast over the next 20 years estimating that it will double. That is a crazy statistic, especially against something that is preventable if you protect yourself correctly..
As a very outdoor orientated person I’m forever out on my bike, paddleboard, even walking and hiking, sunscreen is something you almost forget about, even take for granted that your skin is not protected. Billy at LifeJacket contacted me after seeing that I was an outdoor person on Instagram. We had a good chat about the products, the brand and most importantly what I took most of the conversation was how much he cared about getting people protected.
Now before I get into the chit chat about the products and the brand. For those that are interested in the science behind the product click here. LifeJacket have gone into depth about skin protection in this article. These guys are backed up by science and medical professionals, the link is really worth a read..
Sunscreen generally is expensive. It’s expensive because it’s tested and formulated in a lab, cheaper alternatives do not provide you with the same protection and it is a product you shouldn’t cheap out on when purchasing! The products I’ve been testing over the past few weeks have really been great. LifeJacket sent me over the daily protection moisturiser, the daily repair Moisturiser and the 50+ Sun Gel – the Weekender Pack. Sachets were also sent, these are great to put in your bike bag for when you’re out and about.
Generally I don’t suffer with sunburn very often. Lucky in some ways however having dark hair and relatively tanned skin does often mean that you forgot to apply – I’m at fault for that. As I say I’ve been using the products for a few weeks now, it was the ideal time as we have had some very hot weather, over +30° for several days.
Satchets are really handy for when you’re out and about
I went to the lake local to where I live and the weather was 34°, the perfect test for this kit. I used the 50+ Sun Gel before I went out on my paddleboard. Usually even when I apply a factor 30 and I go out paddle boarding, often I get redness on the shoulders and collarbone. After using LifeJacket by didn’t experience any form of redness, soreness or skin irritation. This was really surprising as pretty much every suncream/sunscreen I’ve used doesn’t fully protect me or irritates my skin.
Second test was while out on my road bike. I used the 50+ Sun Gel. Again, quite a warm day it was between 32 and 34°, there was a slight wind also. I cycled approx. 40 miles so I was out for just over 2hrs. I had the Sun Gel applied. I always find after I’ve been out in the sun my quads and upper arms usually get a little bit burnt. Not on this occasion. The Sun Gel protected me very well – which is great as the ‘cyclist’s tan’ often is a burn line rather than a healthy tan line..
Third test was during a weekend away in Kent. I was out paddle boarding with my mate at Joss Bay, well over 30° with a coastal breeze. We were out on the water for about an hour and a half. I was more than expected to have a little bit of burnt skin, especially with the coastal breeze but I woke up the following day with absolutely no irritation or burnt skin. The 50 Sun Gel is brilliant – who knew I would be saying that about suncream..
I’m not a Doctor, not a medical expert or a specialist in skin but what I can say is these products are working for me and I feel obligated to share this and the brand with the community. StandUpPaddleUK are in discussions with LifeJacket about giving our community a discount on their products at checkout, and we will be giving away some of their products in the near future! Stay tuned to our Instagram for this..
Fourth test was the most important one yet, a trip to Sardinia with my girlfriend. Projected 30+ degrees for a week.. LifeJacket’s products were about to get tested!
As you can imagine I’m off paddleboarding for hours on end, hiking and generally putting my skin through its paces but LifeJacket really had me covered. First day was 34 degree, obviously opted for the 50 SunGel. Probably through my own mis-care I had slightly burnt legs but applying the Daily Moisturiser really helped. I woke up the next day feeling pretty good and not really burnt.
I spent most of my day in and out of the sea water.. You should be reapplying sun screen every 2 hours and after getting out of water…
This is not really a review. This is me saying that I absolutely approve and agree with what this company is trying to do. Never has it been more important to apply sunscreen and I genuinely hope the people that read this agree. Myself and Dale (StandUpPaddleUK) have been using the products are really hope to help educate paddleboarders about protecting their Skin.
LifeJacket have been kind enough to provide the following for StandUpPaddleUK Followers;
1. The discount code is now LIVE: standuppaddleuk10 gives 10% off the entire shop and, Unlimited use.
2. LJ have set-up a survey for our followers. First 500 people to complete it get our welcome pack sent out to them for free. It contains x3 sachets plus a card with a message from LifeJacket, and a 15% one-off discount code. CLICK HERE FOR THE SURVEY. It is really quick and simple to complete.
LifeJacketSkin sell various products other than sunscreen and they have a shed load of info about effective skin care and sun protection. You can find them below, and don’t forget to use our discount code !
Ranging in various sizes for Hold Bags and Carry On…
Find out more on their site. That’s enough from me, the products work and speak for themselves. I’m happy to be working with these guys to really combat the issue of Skin Cancer!! Ciao, Darren.
@darrens_visuals 