So, you’ve decided to give stand up paddle boarding (SUP) a try — welcome to the club. It’s one of the most fun, peaceful, and versatile ways to spend time on the water. But if your first paddle session ends in frustration (or a faceplant), you might wonder what you signed up for.

The truth is, most beginner mistakes are totally preventable. A few small tweaks in gear, posture, and prep can be the difference between calling it quits and calling it your new favorite hobby.

Here are the most common beginner paddle board mistakes — and exactly how to avoid them, fix them, or recover from them like a pro.

You went for the cheapest inflatable board on Amazon or picked something sleek and narrow that looked cool — and now you can’t stay upright for more than five seconds.

Not all paddle boards are created equal, and for beginners, stability is everything. Look for a board that is:

• At least 32" wide (wider = more stable)

• Rated for your weight (check the manufacturer's weight capacity)

• Constructed from durable, rigid materials

Inflatable boards tend to be more forgiving and softer when you fall, but only if they're well-made. Cheap, single-layer boards often feel flimsy and flex in the middle, making balance way harder.

Pro tip: Glide’s Wander is a perfect beginner option — it’s lightweight, super stable, and built with high-quality materials at an affordable price.

It’s one of the most common rookie errors: paddling with the blade curved the wrong way, like you're scooping ice cream.

The paddle blade should angle away from you, not toward you. That angled shape is designed to give you a more powerful and efficient stroke. When in doubt, the angle should face forward, toward the nose of your board, not toward your feet.

Also, make sure:

• The longer side of the blade is on the top

• Your top hand is on the T-grip, not the shaft

• You’re paddling with your core, not just your arms

Standing too far back (on the tail) or too far forward (on the nose) throws your balance off and makes your board drag or spin in circles.

There’s a sweet spot on every paddle board — and it’s right over the carry handle. That’s the board’s center of balance. Line your feet up on either side of the handle, shoulder-width apart, and keep your knees slightly bent. You'll feel the board become more stable immediately.

Worried about balance? Start by kneeling, then move to standing once you’re comfortable.

You pumped up your inflatable SUP to 10 PSI because it “looked good enough.” Now it feels floppy and hard to paddle. Or worse, you overinflated it and damaged the seams.

Air pressure makes a huge difference. Under-inflated boards feel mushy and unstable. Over-inflated ones risk damage.

Most quality inflatable paddle boards, including all Glide models, are rated up to 25 PSI. We recommend inflating your board to 15–18 PSI for a perfect balance of stiffness and safety. Use a reliable pump (or even better, an electric one with a PSI gauge) to get it right every time. Don't worry, with a cross woven, drop-stitch core and several layers of fused PVC, Glide boards can handle this kind of PSI.

Want the easiest solution? Pair your board with Glide’s electric pump and battery system — no more sore arms before you paddle.

You fall in and your board floats 30 feet away while you dog-paddle after it. Not exactly a relaxing day on the water.

Always wear a leash. Whether it’s ankle or calf-mounted (or around the waist with a quick release button in whitewater), it keeps your board close when you fall off (and you will fall off). In calm water, it’s about convenience. In wind or current, it’s about safety — your board becomes a giant flotation device.

If you're paddling on rivers or in whitewater, consider a quick-release leash attached to a belt around your waist for safety.

You paddled out with the wind at your back, had a lovely time… and then realized on the return trip that you’re paddling into a headwind with exhausted arms.

Before you head out, check the wind direction and speed. Apps like Windy or even just your weather app will tell you what to expect. Try this rule:

Paddle into the wind first so the return trip is easier. It’s always better to be tired with a tailwind than to struggle home into a stiff breeze.

Also: Lower your profile in strong wind — kneeling helps reduce drag and keeps you stable.

Cotton T-shirts, jeans, or other water-absorbent fabrics that get heavy and chafe when wet.

Dress like you’re going to get wet — because you probably will. Choose clothing that’s:

• Quick-drying and moisture-wicking

• Comfortable and fitted, not too baggy

• Appropriate for the water temperature, not just the air

In warm weather, a swimsuit or rash guard works great. In cooler temps, opt for neoprene layers or a thin wetsuit. And don’t forget sun protection — long sleeves, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen go a long way.

Even if you’re fit and athletic, paddle boarding has its own learning curve. It’s worth taking a few minutes to learn:

• How to carry your board safely

• How to launch without falling in

• The best way to turn and stop

• How to fall correctly (away from your board, not onto it)

→ Watch our beginner how-to video — you’ll be surprised how much easier things feel after just a few pointers.