SUP Skills: How to Perfect Your Launch and Landing Techniques

episode 1 | watch episode 2 here

Hey, it's Kimberly Kenyon here, standup paddleboarder, certified instructor, and AQ Outdoors ambassador. Welcome to our Basic and Intermediate SUP Skills Series. In this episode, we cover how to launch and land your paddleboard safely from shore. These techniques will set you up for a successful day on the water and are fundamental skills all paddleboarders need to know!

What you'll need to get started

• A Calm Location (Flatwater or large eddy if in the river)
• Paddleboard (specific to your paddling style and chosen waterway)
• Paddle
• A PFD: Safety first!
• Leash (flatwater), no leash or quick release (River)

How to Launch

Carrying Your Paddleboard

• Fins First: Carry your paddleboard down to the water fins first. This method helps you avoid that awkward turn at the bottom and keeps the fins safe.

Placing Your Board in the Water

• Knee-Deep: When placing the board in the water, make sure you're knee-deep. This depth is ideal for stability and ease of getting on the board.

Securing Your Leash

• Attach the Leash: Once you're in the water, secure your leash to the board. This step is crucial for safety.

Please Note: Ankle leashes are NOT for use on the river!

Getting On

• Brace with Your Paddle: Place both hands across the board, using your paddle to brace yourself. Position one knee on one side of the handle and the other knee on the opposite side.

• Paddle Backwards: Paddle backwards to deeper, safer water where you can stand up comfortably.

Standing Up

• Get on All Fours: To stand up, get on all fours, creating a square around the center handle. Place your hands down, then lift one foot up, followed by the other.

• Straighten Up: Once you're stable, straighten up and stand. And just like that, you're ready to paddle away!

How to Land

Return to Your Knees

• Lower Your Center of Gravity: When it's time to come in for a safe landing, lower your center of gravity. This means getting down on your knees.

• All Fours: Place both hands down, as well as your knees to maintain balance.

Approach Shore Slowly

• Smooth Approach: Bring the board in nice and smoothly to the shore. Avoid rushing to ensure a controlled landing.

Getting Off

• Brace with Your Paddle: Using your paddle as a brace, get one foot off while keeping your knee in the middle for balance.

• Move the Board: Pick up your board and pull it a little onto the shore to secure it.

Removing the Leash

• Take Off the Leash: Once you're on shore, don't trip over your leash. Take it off to avoid any mishaps.

Final Tips

Thanks for checking out this video. It's important to remember to have the right safety gear with you. Wear your PFD, choose a safe location to practice, and remember, an ankle leash is not for use in the river.

If you want to learn more and check out our educational content, you can catch us at AQ Outdoors on YouTube or subscribe to our newsletter at the form below.