SUP Safety at The Houses of Parliament

Firstly, what an experience. For two guys who are not political, this was a one-off attendance. Hats off to Sam Foyle for getting this issue into the forefront. I’ll say now, as myself and Dale did at the meeting, Sam has the full support of our platform and we are 100% behind this effort and commend the work he has done, along with several other campaigners in the industry.

The conversations from our pre-meeting point to the Houses of Parliament felt constructive. I had the pleasure of speaking to Will from Sea Lion Boards. He had a progressive way of thinking about his business, and it hit home with me how he wants to ‘be better’.

The 30+ strong group walked by the River and the discussions were excellent

Following our pre meeting breakfast we entered the Houses of Parliament

The background of this Meeting;

As you’ll be aware, we have always tried to champion safety and the education of products. None have been more important to understand than the use of the Quick Release belt. In 2020, after a whole summer of deliberation about posting an article about Leashes and QR, we were convinced to proceed following an incident in Cornwall..

The article in question was several months in the making during 2020

In August 2020, a teacher named Simon Flynn was in Cornwall with his friends, including Sam Foyle. Simon was out paddling in the Camel Estuary, became entrapped by his ankle leash in a mooring, was unable to free himself, and subsequently lost his life. Notes from the coroner pointed to this being an ‘issue for manufacturers to look at’… A tragic accident.

*Courtesy of the BBC* – Many people would have seen similar articles online

We were concerned about the sheer grey and unclear guidance that was available

Mid 2020, myself and Dale had been discussing, writing and deciding whether to post the Leash article (Link Here) – we were concerned about the sheer grey and unclear guidance that was available but following the above incident we felt we could no longer stand by and allow ‘grey guidance’ and had to act as a duty of care as paddlers. We’ve always been VERY cautious about advice or guidance we issue, speaking to training providers to gain the correct advice. We are aware that our platform is followed by many paddlers nowadays!

We’ve always been very, very cautious with advice on Safety, and we practice what we preach – @StandUpPaddleUK paddling in Cardiff

Upon completing the article. We published it, received thanks and the community on the whole confirmed clearer guidance had helped them. We did receive some negative comments but this is the world we live in, everyone has an opinion.. We then contacted several brands. When I say several, I mean the bulk of brands based in the UK selling boards. We will not name the names of who refused or didn’t respond but we can safely say, FatStickSup picked up the mantle immediately. Dale called Andy Warner, co-owner of FatStick, who instantly said he agreed that QR Belts should be a part of the SUP package and free within them. Within days, we had a FatStick prototype belt being tested. Soon after, he had contacted customers to let them know they would retrospectively issue them a belt. How amazing is that? Andy is a legend at the best of times, but this was peak Andy. So hats off to him and Reuben for this.

Ben, from Pandaboard Sports has been doing huge things in the community with QR Belts and making them accessible to all, including other brands for a low cost. It’s a no-brainer. The ‘cost over safety’ discussion isn’t worth the words – it’s a minimal cost to the manufacturers. We have tested his belt and can confirm it is an excellent budget belt.

The Meeting:

Hosted by MP Alex Chalk, with attendance from the likes of RNLI, RLSS, UK Harbour Masters Association, Water Skills Academy, British Canoeing, various brands / companies including FatStick, Red Paddle Co, Active 360 London, Pandaboard Sports, Sealion Boards, Sandbanks amongst many others! We met in a Chamber, and the speeches followed. MP Alex Chalk spoke well on the matter, and it was clear to see he had a connection with Sam and Simons story and the incident. Lee Heard from the RLSS then spoke and commented “It was a monumental event to consider how a collaboration of organisations can continue to support the growth of Stand Up Paddleboarding whilst ensuring that safety is first and foremost”. This was followed by a short outline of paddleboarding by John Hibbard, Red Paddles’ own QR belt, and their P.L.O.T campaign.

MP Alex Chalk introducing Sam Foyle and other MPs

This was followed by discussions between all parties in the room. How to improve, what other companies are doing that they weren’t or maybe doing differently. The general ethos was that within that room was the recipe for change. Several brands on discussion all said the same thing, this is a big day and the time for change is upon us. Comments of incorrect use of QR belts were quickly brushed aside, with the correct education. It is a simple tool that is potentially life-saving.

Andy of Fatstick (Centre right) and Darren of @StandUpPaddleUK (Far right) discussing the matter with Sam Foyle (Far left)

There are various belts out there, some independent of board manufacturers. I’ll list a few with some links – this is not extensive, or in any means a ranking or endorsement that StandUpPaddleUK has tested them. Personally, I own 3 different ones, all different brands.

FatStick QR Belt / PandaBoardSports / Red Paddle/Red Equipment / Peak UK Guide Belt / HF SUP Buddy Belt / Quroc Belt / Hatha QR Belt and Coil

Out wearing a Yak QR Belt and HF coiled Leash on the Grand Union Canal – a slow moving body of water which in our view, requires a QR Belt

Heres something we’ve worked on since the meeting. A list of brands who do and do not provide a QR Belt with a Board:

This list is not extensive but has been based on the research over the past week, since the Parliamentary meeting. We are aware of many smaller brands who are in the industry. So we’ve contacted as many as for information, so any later inclusions may be possible – at the time writing, our list is up to date and Updates will follow up with any changes within the industry.

Provided with a Board:
FatstickSup
McConks (Pandaboard Sports QR Belt – other brands optional on site also)
Family Sup (Pandaboard Sports QR Belt)
Because Sup (Pandaboard Sports QR Belt)
Quroc
Hiks (Pandaboard Sports QR Belt)
Freshwaterbay Sup Co

Doesn’t provide with a Board:
Red Paddle Co (w/ a White Water Board they do)
Hatha (Has own QR Belt but an extra)
Aquamarina
BluefinSup
O’Shea
TwoBareFeet
Gladiator
Turtle Bay (Will provide a QR with last of current range; the next range of 2022 boards will come with a QR)
Starboard Sup
Sea Lion Boards (pending inclusion of a QR Belt – TBC on dates)
Sandbanks (an option for Pandaboard Sports Belt at checkout currently, may change – TBC)
AW Sups (offers a lesson with a Board sold, no QR)

Manufacturer that Sells a Standalone QR belt:
Hatha, Quroc, Red Paddle Co

Non Board Manufacturer selling a QR belt:
HF
Peak UK
Pandaboard Sports
Palm
Whetman
Yak
Zennway

Educate yourself when it comes to your own kit

Brands need to take away the chance of a user ‘neglecting the right choice‘. What I mean by this is, people want to spend as little money as possible and get as much as possible for their money. At the point of sale, brands / manufacturers should be noting their boards come with the ‘traditional’ ankle leash and a QR Belt – it has been banded around that it should be an option at point of sale, as an accessory, but an option would likely come with a lower price point – we believe this ‘option’ should be removed and the brand / manufacturer makes an informed decision on the grounds of safety to the end user. That brand or manufacturer should then be providing education of the provided QR belt and how to wear it, including adjustment and removal. We believe, as do some brands, that they should be offering lessons when you buy a board – this was discussed at the meeting but logistics I fear would be tough, and hard to police – but a great prospect.

We think that’s a paramount point; if you’re buying a paddleboard, have you had a lesson with a qualified instructor?

Do you know how to use all of the kit?

Overall Governance?

For many in the industry, you gain your information from your chosen or trusted place. StandUpPaddleUK gain their information from all areas but trust the comment and guidance of the Water Skills Academy. This is based on our experience with them and others in the same position. In terms of governance, some are claiming to be the leading figure when, in reality, there is no lead governance. What was clear from Mondays meeting was that the governance needed to be independent. Not solely a brand, charity, or training provider. Maybe an amalgamation of all parties on a Board of Trustees for the sport. It is clear the sport needs to be Stewarded by parties who do need to receive financial gain from it. We will see how it follows up in the next meeting..

We feel the meeting was a huge step forward to the Sport

Our Stance:

Every board sold should be with a QR Belt as standard, included in the list price. That is our goal, along with several others. We also believe a Governing Body or Board of Trustees for the sport is required. How that shapes up, we are unsure currently, but StandUpPaddleUK will assist in any way possible.

Brands and Manufacturers – We continue to want to work with you on this – Contact us!

Our message is clear!

@StandUpPaddleUK‘s Advice remains the same as it did in 2020:
• Straight Ankle – only option for SUP surfing. Can include Sea (if open water and not setting off or returning to areas like ports / moorings) + Never in White Water.
• Coiled Ankle – Flat Water ie a lake, the open Sea and when Racing. Never in White Water, not for fast moving Rivers
• QR belt with Coiled Leash – Any type of water, always in WW, but never for SUP Surf. We would also note use on fast moving rivers due to the water speed, even slower canals due to the likelihood of below water dangers. The ability to remove it easily and fast is live saving.

Also, a note on Bauer Media, they’ve done amazing work covering this and working with Sam. Andrew Kay (Greatest Hits Radio), who shot everything on the day, is also due credit on this.

Click the image for his Article

As ever, stay safe out there. Educate yourself, educate your friends and always, always be safe on the water.

Thanks – Darren and Dale @StandUpPaddleUK

A few days in Cardiff for @StandUpPaddleUK

Well it had been a while since I last posted on here but we’ve been busy! So, here’s @StandUpPaddleUK’s weekend away in Cardiff.. Enjoy!

It got to Friday and we were ready for another SUP adventure. Car packed with Stand Up Paddle Boards and gear so we hit the road. Both Dale and Darren setting off from different locations. Dale leaving Nottingham at 4pm and the journey was a breeze, driving into Cardiff Bay and arriving at Voco St David’s Hotel at around 7pm. Darren was coming in from Bedfordshire so an additional hour of travel for him.

The Voco St David’s looked epic when lit

Parking was easy and plenty of it in the hotel car park or a large public car park next door. Arriving at the Hotel it was clear to see why this is a 5* hotel. The lobby was quite spectacular and we were greeted by amazing hospitality. As we came by car we left our gear in the car but I’m sure the hotel would have stored them for us if needed. As Darren was arriving later in the day, Dale and his family took a short walk to Mermaid Key a very short walk from the hotel, within quick access to a lot of restaurants and other bars in the bay. Dale had a wander around and even took his family on Cardiff’s version of the Big Wheel, gaining sights over the bay during sunset which was spectacular! A quick bite to eat and back to the hotel for a good nights sleep for Dale and the family. Darren arriving slightly later, but a very smooth check in was greatly appreciated!

Mermaid Quay is a Hive of activity!

The rooms at Voco were amazing, both had huge views over the bay and what a view it was! Big rooms with excellent facilities this was a good night’s sleep.

The Balcony View over Mermaid Quay

We wanted to check out Cardiff and were drawn to the fact that albeit a city has a wide offering of watersports access. Cardiff hosts CIWW Cardiff’s White Water Centre and here you can paddle on the local river or try paddle boarding on the lagoon, whitewater rafting, and various other water based activities. They even have a surf wave!

A Quick Dinner Tip: Darren recommends the Yakatori1 restaurant in Mermaid Quay.. “Some of the best Sushi I’ve experienced”.

Saturday. We got up and checked out the hotels excellent cooked and continental breakfast offering, socially distances and well managed by hospitable staff, even going out of their way to entertain and make Dale’s daughter a little hot chocolate and talk to her.

After breakfast we headed to CIWW to check in. It was pretty close to our hotel, 5 minutes by car. We prepared our boards in the car park then headed down on to the water. If you want to paddle on the river it’s a small £5 payment and sign in at reception, so that’s what we did.

Plenty of space to prep kit in the car park

The plan was to head up the River Ely for around 2 miles as the weather was a bit dubious and we had afternoon plans with our partners. We changed in the car park, however there is access to changing facilities and toilets at the centre. We carried out boards through the side gates and down some steps to the pontoon which was an easy get on. It was really nice to launch in the marina. Heading right, the river was well protected from winds so it felt like an easy paddle. It is a pleasing start, heading through the boats in the marina and high rise buildings of Cardiff Marina.

A very cool back drop of Cardiff Marina on the Ely

The River was empty so it was plane sailing for us. We did a shade over 4 miles in 1hr 20 mins. Once we got off the water it was a quick deflate of our boards, pack up the kit and drive back to our hotel.

Our route courtesy of Komoot

Whilst paddling, Dale’s wife took their toddler to Techniquest, a science attraction next door to the hotel and played for hours their until we returned. One thing about escaping to a city break to paddle is keeping the family entertained. We even managed to book into the pool and spa in the evening and have a swim and sauna before dinner.

Darren and Becky sampled some of the shopping in the area. St David’s Dewi Saint shopping centre was vibrant, busy and full of shops.. As you’d expect! Lots of parking and plenty of options for lunch.

The Stable Cardiff was a great Lunch spot

On Sunday we enjoyed another great breakfast and recharged our batteries before meeting at Channel View Leisure Centre. £5 to access the river per board, free parking and easy access, not bad at all. We met with a couple of local paddlers and headed up the River Taff. This route is excellent, especially for those who love a stadium. We cruised past the Principality Stadium, the views from the water were very, very cool.

Cruising past the Principality Stadium
📷 Dale Mears

Certainly a different back drop to other paddle routes! A very wide river at the base of Cardiff Bay which narrows down and gets quite shallow after you reach Cardiff Castle. We did a 5.5 mile route in 2hr20mins. Just watch out for those river boats ferrying passengers up and down the Taff.. they will leave you in a meaty wake!!

This section of river in constantly in use, remember to always stay to the Right

Just before getting off we also paddled out into the bay to check out the views over the hotel and large sailing boats the water here was glassy and definitely very different from a river paddle. Worth noting to make sure you understand the buoys to make sure you have a safe paddle.

Cardiff Bay was very calm and a nice flat paddle to end the session

The Sunday route from Komoot

After the paddle we head our separate ways. Darren heading home with the longer journey, with Dale and his family heading to Cardiff Castle another great attraction whilst in the city.

Millie seemed to enjoy herself!

If your looking for a trip away and want to check out some easy city watersports we definitely recommend adding Cardiff to your list!

Better yet.. CLICK HERE to enter Visit Cardiff’s completion for a SUP adventure much like ours! Visit Cardiff have teamed up with partners Cardiff Harbour Authority, Cardiff International White Water & voco St. David’s Hotel to treat the winner and their guest to an exciting 2 day water sports break this October including accommodation, tuition and equipment!

Please note, you must be available to claim your prize experience on Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd October 2021. Get entering for an epic trip away!

Ciao for now! Darren and Dale

BluefinSup Sprint Carbon 2020

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

Click here for a quick IGTV video of the 2020 Sprint Carbon..

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.

Price £899.99 (Use the code ‘Darren10’ at Checkout for a little discount)

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!

Ciao, from a happy Paddler. Darren

Don’t forget to read my article about Quick Release Belts and Leashes – It’s an important one for all paddlers..

Straight, Coiled, QR.. What’s What?? SUP Leashes and Safety

The debate rages on and on, so here we go. @StandUpPaddleUK see so much incorrect info being chaffed around the Facebook paddle groups . You know the groups we are talking about. Firstly, leashes aren’t a choice, it’s an obligation as a paddler. Let’s explain What’s What…

StandUpPaddleUK believe it is time for firmer guidance and Manufacturer intervention

There are so many cross over scenarios with leashes and use.. generally a Coiled leash is the most common ‘everyday use’ leash for those we see on inland areas using rivers, canals and lake riders. But there is a valid and just argument for a Quick Release Belt when on any type of water, and we agree – moving bodies and murky waters are dangerous places, you never know when you’ll need a quick release..

The Types:

The Straight Ankle Leash – mainly used for Surf, also useable on flat water. Great for SUP Surf as these won’t allow the board to ping back (like a Coiled). Straight leashes trail in the water and leave the deck pad clear for movement. This is the only leash for SUP Surf.

I often opted for a Straight Leash in my early days, with less information, as it was provided as standard with my board

The Coiled Ankle Leash – Most commonly used, but it’s for flat bodies of water and when racing. The coil sits on deck, clear of the water, which means you have much less chance of snagging it on unseen dangers under water / branches / seaweed / strapping / ropes / moorings. You’ll most often find these provided with SUP packages as they are versatile but that doesn’t mean it is the right leash for every trip. The Coiled Ankle Leash has become the standard leash being sold with boards, probably due to the position they take on the board when in use (not dragged in the water therefore slightly safer but still a risk).

A coiled Leash provided with many Brands of Board

The ‘QR’ Quick Release Belt w/ Coiled Leash – mainly used on white water (referred to as WW), but you will often see the more skilled or informed paddlers using a QR belt and leash on all types of water (Not Surf). The leash can be attached to a QR belt or sometimes your buoyancy aid if it accepts that attachment. When in white water the QR is pivotal, in a moment when you need to get detached from your board very quickly, it is the only option. Dale has done a few IGTV videos on @StandUpPaddleUK. We do suggest investing in a QR and leash for all water types, and always using this option in WW.

Dale with his QR belt and Coiled Leash on a gentle Canal paddle

A Quick Release belt is exactly that, a belt with a quick release buckle and pull cord / release strap (usually velcro with an adjustable resistance). Some brands are selling more of a setup which would be the belt, a split ring and key, a leash (which can be switch between the belt and ankle), and Restube. This link will connect you to a site selling the setups as above, as a belt only and a full setup. Take a look to see the difference.

FYI – a Restube is a safety backup on the water. Due to their small size the restube pocket can be worn around your waist or at your harness. If necessary, pull the trigger and restube inflates within seconds.

We are urging all paddlers to invest in their equipment, buy a QR belt and leash. The beauty of the QR belt is it is very quickly removed and stripped from the body when caught in danger.

When should I use a Leash? Trick question. There isn’t a scenario when a leash isn’t used. There are so many things to consider when getting out on the water, your leash isn’t a choice.

If SUP surfing a minimum is the ankle leash, to stop the board being flung in any direction, hitting others or yourself. *We are not suggesting QR with SUP Surf*.

Many of our followers paddle rivers and canals – murky, dirty and near impossible to see beneath the surface. Unseen dangers lurk! If you are on a fast moving segment of water, for example the River Wye (which also has white water) then really the best option is a QR belt with a Coiled leash. You need to remember, fast moving water places a constant flow against an object – If your leash is caught round, say a branch under water, you’ve past the point of being able to get back to the branch due to the flow. You’d need to Quick Release at this point.

We honestly feel the Quick Release Setup is the safest all round option regardless of water type.

With the exception of SUP Surf

Dale wearing a QR on the Canal in Leicester

• @StandUpPaddleUK‘s Advice
• Straight Ankle – only option for SUP surfing. Also Deep Lakes / Sea (if open water and not returning to areas like ports / moorings) Never in White Water.
• Coiled Ankle – Flat Water, the Sea and when Racing. Never in White Water.
• QR belt with Coiled Leash – Any type of water, always in WW, but not for SUP Surf. We would also note use on fast moving rivers due to the water speed, even slower canals due to the likelihood of below water dangers. The ability to remove it easily and fast is live saving.

We have a duty of care as paddlers, for ourselves and the ones we are paddling with. Brands have a responsibility of course. They do provide us with nice new leashes when buying a new board, but it is YOUR responsibility as the paddler to assess your needs for EVERY paddle. Assuming your current leash is a ‘one type fits all situations’ is incorrect.

Always assess your paddle route and water quality / clearness before heading out

We see hundreds, yes hundreds of tagged images on @StandUpPaddleUK of people incorrectly wearing leashes, using the incorrect leash for the job and more importantly, not wearing one at all – it is unacceptable, however I do not doubt that is due to lack of information.

We would like to see paddleboard manufacturers to change how they sell boards and what they sell with them. We are suggesting an option on websites when purchasing a board, a simple drop down box that shows leash options; Straight Ankle Leash, Coiled Ankle Leash, or QR Belt with either option + the Ankle strap. This is the best way for manufacturers to promote good practice, choice for the varied paddler and ensure their duty of care.

We are also urging manufacturers to stop providing just an ankle leash – @StandUpPaddleUK are suggesting all brands move to a Quick Release belt with a Coiled Leash, on top of the standard ankle leash. As I am writing this, one British manufacturer has switched up from just selling an ankle leash to providing a QR belt also. I wasn’t going to name names but FatStick, you are setting the bar in the industry.

We are hoping this helps push the industry in the direction it needs to go. Correct information for all levels of paddler, not just a generic image showing standard use of leash types. This hasn’t been not written for likes or kudos. It’s been written because every single person in this industry has a duty of care and obligation to protect paddleboarders.

Brands – WE WANT TO WORK WITH YOU ON THIS. We don’t have allegiances – the only allegiance is to safe SUP. We want you providing the industry with good equipment, the correct safety equipment and informative advice – that’s where we can come in.

We have ideas, and we think we can help. Get in touch.. @StandUpPaddleUK / Darren and Dale

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LifeJacket Skin Protection #GotYourBack

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.