Paddle Board Safety Gear: Beyond the Life Jacket
Safety on a paddle board is more than wearing a PFD. Explore essential gear like leashes, helmets, footwear, and sun protection—plus Glide’s accessories that keep every paddler safe, stable, and ready for adventure on any water.
Go beyond your life jacket with this complete paddle board safety gear guide.
Learn about leashes, helmets, footwear, sun protection, and Glide accessories for safe, confident paddling.
Table of contents
Key Highlights of Paddle Board Safety Gear
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Safety Layers: Discover how leashes, helmets, and proper footwear enhance your PFD’s protection.
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Environmental Readiness: Learn how to adapt your gear to flatwater, rivers, and coastal conditions.
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Smart Add-Ons: Explore small items that make a big impact — like river knives, throw ropes, and first aid kits.
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Sun & Comfort Gear: Protect your skin, eyes, and energy with eco-friendly sun gear and hydration tools.
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Safety for Pets: Keep your dog secure and confident on the board with a fitted canine life jacket.
Start with the Core: Your PFD and Leash
If your PFD keeps you afloat, your leash keeps you connected to your board — your biggest flotation device.
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On flatwater or open lakes, use a coiled leash attached to your ankle or calf.
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For rivers or moving water, always use a quick-release waist leash to avoid entanglement risks.
Paired with the right life jacket — whether it’s a Type III vest or waist belt pack PFD — this combo forms the foundation of SUP safety.
Protecting What Matters: Helmets and Footwear
Helmets:
Essential for whitewater SUP or rocky rivers. A quality whitewater or surf helmet protects against shallow-bottom hits and gear impact during falls.
Footwear:
Proper shoes keep you steady and protected. Options include:
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Neoprene booties for cold water and rocky terrain
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Water shoes for warm weather and solid traction on inflatable decks
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Barefoot for yoga and calm flatwater paddling
The goal is a snug, flexible fit that provides protection without sacrificing balance.
Gear That Has Your Back: Knives, Ropes, and First Aid
Safety gear isn’t just about flotation — it’s about preparedness.
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River Knife: Vital for cutting tangled leashes, webbing, or fishing line.
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Throw Rope: A compact rescue tool for river paddlers that also doubles as a campsite clothesline.
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First Aid Kit: Often forgotten but always invaluable. Keep a waterproof kit on every trip for scrapes, sunburn, or minor injuries.
Every Glide paddler should have at least one of these in their dry bag before launching.
Sun Protection and Comfort Gear
Safety also means preventing exhaustion and exposure.
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Wear a Glide bamboo lifeguard hat and reef-safe sunscreen for eco-friendly sun defense.
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Keep drinks cold with the Glide Cooler Box, which doubles as a seat for breaks.
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Use polarized sunglasses (with a strap!) for glare reduction and water visibility.
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Consider a lightweight long-sleeve rash guard for UV protection and comfort in hot weather.
For Your Four-Legged Friend
If your pup loves joining your paddling adventures, make sure they’re protected too.
A well-fitted dog life jacket provides buoyancy and an easy grab handle for getting them back on the board. Glide’s boards are stable enough for pets — just make sure to introduce them gradually and keep sessions positive.
The Glide Approach to SUP Safety
Glide designs every board — from the all-around O2 Retro to the whitewater-ready Lochsa — with durability, stability, and safety in mind. Combine your Glide board with the right gear, and you’re equipped for confidence across any body of water.
Final Thoughts
Paddle boarding is freedom — but preparation keeps it fun. Build your safety setup around your life jacket, then layer on essentials that protect you, your board, and your peace of mind.
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Start with Safety: A PFD and leash are non-negotiable.
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Protect Yourself: Add a helmet, footwear, and UV protection suited to your environment.
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Be Ready: Keep a knife, throw rope, and first aid kit close.
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Stay Hydrated: Use the Glide Cooler Box for drinks and snacks.
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Share the Fun: Don’t forget your dog’s life jacket!
With the right equipment, every paddle feels as safe as it is exhilarating.
Ken Driscoll
Former whitewater kayaker and kayak designer. Founder of Glide.
FAQs
Do I need both a life jacket and a leash?
Yes — your PFD keeps you afloat, and your leash keeps you connected to your board, your primary flotation device.
What kind of leash should I use?
Use a coiled leash on flatwater and a quick-release waist leash on rivers to avoid entanglement.
When should I wear a helmet while paddle boarding?
Always wear a helmet on rivers, whitewater, or near rocks. It’s unnecessary on calm, deep lakes.
What are must-have safety accessories for SUP beginners?
Start with: PFD, leash, whistle, waterproof phone case, first aid kit, and sunscreen.
Do dogs really need life jackets on paddle boards?
Yes. Even strong swimmers can tire or panic in deep water. A dog life jacket adds flotation and a handle for safe retrieval.
How should I store my safety gear between paddle sessions?
Rinse all safety gear—especially PFDs, leashes, and footwear—with fresh water after each use. Allow them to air-dry completely out of direct sunlight. Store your gear in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and sun damage.
Do I need different safety gear for inflatable vs. hard paddle boards?
Both require the same essentials—PFD, leash, and sun protection—but inflatable boards benefit from items like electric pumps and repair kits. Hard boards typically need roof racks or padded transport straps for safe transport.
Is a whistle required for paddle boarding?
Yes, in most U.S. states the Coast Guard requires paddle boarders to carry a sound-producing device like a whistle when outside swimming areas. It’s lightweight, inexpensive, and can be life-saving if you need to alert boats.
