A Beginner’s Guide to SUP Surfing

What is SUP surfing, when and why did it get popular, and what portion of paddleboarders are surfing?

Having grown up surfing in Tofino, I thought SUP surfing would be easy the first time I tried it. In the warm waters of Mexico, our Hawaiian friends were showing up with their stand-up surfboards and encouraging us to try. I quickly realized it was a matter of two steps back, one step forward. First, I had to learn how to use my paddle; then the surfing came easily.

When I started SUP’ing and paddle surfing here in Tofino in 2009, most people had never seen it. While it’s still not as prevalent as prone surfing, it’s rare to paddle out in any lineup around the world and not have a paddler or two sharing waves. In Canada, where surfing is still a young sport, paddlers from across the country and the world are trying it for the first time or learning the subtleties of SUP surf.

SUP surfing history began when the massive old-school surfboard met the outrigger canoe paddle in Hawaii. Standing on something that floats while propelling yourself over the water using a paddle or pole goes back centuries and spans the globe. The forefathers of surfing—the Polynesian Hawaiians—surfing their outrigger canoes and later big wooden surfboards, really made the match in the 1940s.

Is SUP surfing easier than surfing?

The differences between surfing with a paddleboard and a surfboard: who might prefer SUP surfing over surfing?

Although SUP surfing might look different than regular prone surfing—given the use of the paddle and often a much bigger board—at its core, the wave riding is exactly the same. You’re flying effortlessly on the wave, with the energy of the swell pushing you as you lean from rail to rail, moving your board across the face of the wave while enjoying the changes in direction and speed.

Beginners or longboard-style surfers and SUP surfers often use bigger boards to start. The bigger the board, the more forgiving it is. Your positioning on both the board and the wave doesn’t need to be as exact on a bigger board, and these allow you to catch waves more easily with less speed as you begin to learn proper paddling techniques and positioning. Bigger boards are also more stable and easier to stand on.

As you progress to smaller boards with increased skill and wave experience, the boards become more maneuverable and easier to control on the wave, allowing you to ride the wave at its maximum fun capacity (speed and using the whole wave!). The downside of a smaller board is less stability and the need for very exact positioning.

The biggest difference between learning to SUP surf versus prone surfing is that, in the beginning stages, learning to SUP surf can be much more difficult. Having someone teach you a few tricks will make the experience far more successful, safe, and enjoyable, minimizing effort, unsuccessful attempts, and danger.

Although both prone and SUP surfing require a strong understanding of safety practices, SUP boards pose a bigger danger due to their size and speed, both to the surfer and others in the water. Learning how to navigate the lineup, understand surf etiquette, catch waves, and wipe out properly are the most critical skills to master before heading out.

What size SUP for surfing is best?

How to select the right size board for SUP surfing beginners.

Board selection can be both a science and a guessing game. Renting SUP surfboards from local shops allows you to experiment with different models, brands, shapes, constructions, and sizes that match your abilities and the conditions until you’re ready to own a small quiver of boards.

There’s no single board that works for all conditions, as the conditions dictate different shapes and sizes. Start on a board that is very stable, has a narrower tail, and lots of nose rocker. You should be able to comfortably perform advanced paddling skills like pivot turns and different foot stances on the board to paddle into waves with proper technique. As your skills improve, transition to smaller boards that are more maneuverable on the wave.

Can you surf an inflatable SUP?

Can you use an inflatable paddleboard for surfing? What are the pros and cons of using an inflatable vs. a hardboard for surfing?

Inflatable SUPs are great in many ways but tend to reach their limits in high-performance areas such as racing and surfing. Inflatable surf-specific SUPs work best in the waves but are still limited to catching waves and drawing straight lines, as the surfer cannot dig such a thick rail into the wave for sharper maneuvers. If you’re surfing an inflatable, make sure it’s surf-specific and pumped to the maximum PSI.

What size paddle for SUP surfing is best?

How to select the right size paddle for SUP surfing.

We generally use paddles with smaller blades for high-cadence paddling and less surface area when maneuvering on the wave. When sizing your paddle, going slightly shorter is ideal for two reasons:

1. Lower-volume boards sink further into the water, requiring a more compressed stance for balance.

2. A shorter paddle protects your shoulders during intense paddling to catch waves.

What is best to wear while SUP surfing?

What to wear while SUP surfing, including PFD, leash, and attire.

When SUP surfing, you’ll spend much more time in the water than flat-water paddling. Surfing wetsuits designed for maximum mobility and comfort are essential. Dressing down one grade of thickness compared to prone surfers is recommended, as you’ll spend slightly less time in the water.

For winter surfing in Canada, a hooded 5/4 or 6/5 wetsuit is best, while for summer, a shortie, 3/2, or 4/3 works well. Other essentials include functional leashes rated for SUP surfing or big-wave surfing, which should be at least the length of your board. Avoid coiled leashes, as they can cause the board to bounce back at you.

How does someone learn to SUP Surf?

SUP surfing can be both challenging and rewarding. The following steps break down the basics to help you get started, including foundational skills, positioning, and techniques.

1. Build a Strong Foundation: Master Flat-Water Paddling

Take formal instruction until you are a confident, advanced flat-water paddler. SUP surfing relies on speed, balance, and positioning, all of which begin with solid paddling technique. Learning on your own is not recommended—it’s essential to know how to paddle efficiently and maintain control before progressing to waves.

2. Get Comfortable in the Surf Zone

Spend time in the surf with a regular surfboard or boogie board. This equipment is smaller and easier to manage than an SUP. Practice playing in the waves, swimming, and observing the water’s movement. Familiarity with how waves break and the ocean behaves is critical.

3. Visualize Success

Watch videos of experienced SUP surfers. Observe their technique, positioning, and wave-riding styles. Understanding what you aim to achieve will give you a clear goal and make it easier to replicate those movements in the water.

4. Take a Lesson

When you’re ready, take a lesson from a reputable SUP surfing school. Make sure your instructor is experienced in SUP surfing and understands the nuances of teaching it. Hands-on guidance will help you avoid bad habits and accelerate your learning process.

5. Hone Your Decision-Making Skills

Learn to assess when and where to surf based on current conditions. This includes understanding wave size, wind direction, and crowd dynamics. Making smart decisions ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience.

6. Master Surf Etiquette

Learn and follow surf etiquette. This includes giving right of way to other surfers, avoiding crowded lineups, and keeping your head up to remain aware of others. Always look ahead and both ways before catching a wave to avoid collisions or disrupting others.

Basic Techniques

Foot Placement:

Start with your feet shoulder-width apart in a parallel stance near the center of the board. When preparing to catch a wave, shift to a surf stance by placing one foot slightly behind the other, angling your back foot perpendicular to the board. This stance provides better balance and control.

Positioning on the Wave:

To catch a wave, paddle out to where the waves are unbroken. Balance on your board while scanning for incoming waves. Start paddling early to match the wave’s speed, ensuring your board is aligned with its direction. Shift into your surf stance as the wave picks you up, using your paddle for stability and steering.

Using the Paddle:

Your paddle is an essential tool for both balance and maneuvering. Use it to adjust your position on the board and steer across the face of the wave. A smaller paddle blade is ideal for quick, controlled movements.

Where are the best SUP surfing spots?

Finding the right location is crucial for both beginners and advanced SUP surfers.

Beginner-Friendly Conditions:

Search for small, gentle waves with no significant consequences if you fall. Beaches with sand bottoms and gradual wave breaks are ideal for beginners. These conditions allow you to practice without the risk of injury or interference from aggressive wave action.

West Coast Options:

The beach breaks of the West Coast are perfect for SUP surfing, offering ample space and suitable wave conditions. Canada’s lakes and coasts also have excellent spots for learning and improving your skills.

Tips for Spot Selection:

•Consult Locals: Visit local SUP or surf shops for advice on where to practice.

•Watch and Learn: Observe the water before heading out. Avoid areas with crowded peaks where experienced shortboard surfers gather.

•Safety First: Always choose a location where your board won’t pose a danger to others. SUP boards are larger and heavier than traditional surfboards, so maintaining a safe distance is critical.

Final Tip: Look Before You Go

Always check ahead and to both sides before catching a wave. This simple habit will prevent collisions, misunderstandings, and disruptions in the lineup. By staying aware and respecting others, you’ll ensure a positive experience for yourself and those around you.