Expert Advice

Expert Advice
  • Jan 11, 2022

How is a Paddle Board Designed?

Today we are going to go over how the design process works at Glide to create our paddle boards. The process is very similar in the planning and design phase for both hard boards and inflatable paddle boards. Today we are going to look at the O2 Retro inflatable board.

  • Jan 8, 2022

Best Stretches for Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is more than just a serene way to traverse water; it's a comprehensive, low-impact sport that engages major muscle groups. However, like any activity, it comes with the risk of repetitive motion injuries if not approached with care. That's where stretching comes into play. Effective stretching can significantly reduce the risk of injury, ensuring your SUP sessions remain enjoyable and pain-free. Whether you're navigating calm waters or taking on the challenge of whitewater SUP, protecting key areas of your body such as shoulders, lower back, and knees is crucial. We've curated a selection of SUP-specific stretches that are essential for keeping you agile and preventing common paddling injuries.

  • Jan 7, 2022

How to Decontaminate a SUP to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)

Aquatic invasive species threaten the biology of the lakes and rivers that we love and the economy of the recreation areas that we rely on. Decontaminating your SUP can slow the spread of aquatic invaders and can help preserve these areas for native wildlife and future generations. Follow this guide to find out more about aquatic invasive species and learn how to decontaminate your SUP to prevent the spread of invasive species. 

  • Dec 29, 2021

Taking Your Dog Paddle Boarding

Bringing your dog along for a paddleboarding adventure adds an unparalleled layer of fun and companionship to your aquatic explorations. GlideSup.com celebrates this unique bonding experience, offering practical advice to ensure you and your four-legged pal enjoy every moment safely and comfortably.

  • Dec 27, 2021

Tips on Planning a Multi-Day SUP Trip

Embarking on a multi-day SUP (stand-up paddle boarding) journey is an exhilarating way to explore nature's serenity, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're navigating down a meandering river or exploring the vastness of a tranquil lake, SUP camping offers an unparalleled experience. To streamline your planning process and enhance safety, we've compiled essential tips for a memorable SUP camping trip.

  • Dec 24, 2021

SUP Tips for Beginners

Embarking on your stand-up paddleboarding journey? Whether you're setting out to explore serene lakes or coastlines with friends and family, these essential SUP tips will ensure a smooth start. Let's dive into the basics of paddle boarding, from selecting your first board to mastering efficient paddling techniques, all while soaking in the beauty of your surroundings (and a bit of sun—don't forget the sunscreen!). Key Highlights Choosing Your First Paddle Board: Opt for a wider, longer board for stability. An all-around inflatable paddleboard is versatile and ideal for beginners. Embark with Confidence: Start on your knees to find your balance and gradually stand up. Utilize the board's handle for stability and control. Get Some Coaching: The paddleboarding community is welcoming and helpful. Seek out tips and guidance to improve your skills and confidence. Paddle with Purpose: Engage your core and use your torso for power to paddle efficiently, allowing for greater distances with less effort. Learn to Fall Safely: Falling away from your board minimizes the risk of injury. Remember, you're tethered to your board, so you can easily get back on.

  • Dec 23, 2021

Basic Guide for What to Bring Paddle Boarding

Embarking on a stand-up paddleboarding adventure, especially if it's your maiden voyage, can feel like navigating uncharted waters. Fear not, for Sam Tyler, our resident SUP safety guru, has crafted the ultimate checklist to ensure your first paddleboarding experience is nothing short of spectacular.

  • Dec 21, 2021

Skills to Master for Someone Getting into SUP

Embarking on a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) journey with GlideSUP.com offers the exhilarating experience of gliding over water and the rewarding challenge of mastering essential skills. Whether you're just starting or aiming to refine your paddleboarding technique, focusing on key SUP skills can significantly elevate your experience on the water.  Key Highlights: Mastering the Stand-Up Technique: Learn to transition from kneeling to standing with confidence, utilizing your paddle for stability and maintaining balance with flexibly bent knees. Paddling with Precision: Craft strokes that propel you forward efficiently, ensuring the paddle's blade is correctly oriented and your whole body is engaged. Navigating Turns: Master sharp turns to avoid obstacles with broad sweep strokes or by using your paddle as a rudder, enhancing maneuverability. Conquering Waves and Wake: Approach waves head-on with strategies for maintaining stability, including adapting your posture and lowering your center of gravity. Efficient Inflation for Inflatable SUPs: Utilize a dual-action pump for easy inflation, and consider upgrading to a high-quality or electric pump for convenience. Packing and Loading Like a Pro: Develop an organized system for your gear, streamlining setup and pack-up times for more enjoyment on the water. Sharing the SUP Experience: Enjoy paddleboarding with partners or pets by mastering balance and weight distribution for a smooth experience.

  • Dec 20, 2021

How to Plan a Spectacular SUP Vacation

Maybe you just got an inflatable paddle board under the Christmas tree and you want to take it on adventures next summer or maybe you just can’t wait to get out paddling. Here are some tips to plan an amazing SUP vacation.

  • Dec 2, 2021

How to Strap a SUP to Your Roof Rack

Heading out for a paddleboarding adventure? Transporting your stand-up paddleboard (SUP) securely to your destination is crucial, whether it’s a sturdy hardboard or an inflatable model. If you’ve got a car with a roof rack, you’re in luck! This guide, complemented by our visual tutorial on our YouTube Channel, will walk you through the process step by step.

  • Dec 1, 2021

How to Fall and Get Back on Your Paddle Board

Falling off a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) might seem like a daunting prospect, especially for beginners. However, it's an inevitable part of the paddleboarding experience that, with the right approach, can be managed safely and effectively. Whether you're navigating serene lakes or challenging ocean waves, learning how to fall correctly and get back on your board is essential for every SUP enthusiast.

  • Nov 19, 2021

Paddle boarding on a Windy Day

Paddleboarding on a windy day presents unique challenges but also offers an exhilarating opportunity to harness nature's elements for an unforgettable SUP adventure. Embracing the wind requires preparation, understanding, and the right techniques to ensure safety and enjoyment. Here's how to turn a blustery day into a thrilling paddleboarding experience. Key Highlights: Safety First: Emphasize the importance of wearing a leash and a personal flotation device (PFD) to ensure safety on windy days. Plan Ahead: Stress the significance of checking the wind forecast before heading out and opting out if conditions are too challenging. Understanding Wind Direction: Highlight the critical strategy of starting your paddle session against the wind to ensure an easier return trip. Strategies for Paddling into the Wind: Offer techniques for lowering your center of gravity and adjusting your paddle stroke to increase efficiency against the wind. Navigating Crosswinds: Discuss methods for maintaining direction in crosswinds, including the sweep stroke and zig-zag paddling.

  • Nov 10, 2021

How to Turn Your SUP

Turning on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) isn’t just about changing direction; it’s about fluidly moving with the water and enhancing your paddling experience. Whether you’re circling back to shore or dodging an unexpected obstacle, mastering various turning techniques is essential. From beginner-friendly sweeps to advanced pivots, this guide breaks down three pivotal turning techniques tailored to your skill level.

  • Nov 9, 2021

Winter is Coming

Winter brings a serene beauty to paddleboarding that Scott Knorp, co-owner of Glide Paddlesports, knows all too well. The crisp air, quiet waters, and the thrill of navigating through colder elements offer an invigorating SUP experience. Here, Scott shares his insights and tips for those daring enough to break out their SUPs in winter’s embrace.

  • Nov 8, 2021

3 Balance Practices to Improve your SUP Balance

As the chill of winter approaches, maintaining the superb balance you’ve honed over the sunny months on your stand-up paddleboard (SUP) is paramount. Not only does it keep your SUP skills sharp, but it also preserves that hard-earned physique. Here’s a curated set of balance exercises designed by the Glide Paddlesports team to enhance your stability on the board, ensuring you’re ready to glide smoothly when the waters call again.

  • Nov 2, 2021

Keeping your SUP in a Straight Line

For many paddleboard enthusiasts, achieving that perfect, unwavering line across the water is a coveted skill. It’s a hallmark of proficiency that transforms your SUP outings into more than just exercise; it becomes a dance with the water. Let’s dive into how you can refine your stroke for maximum efficiency and enjoyment on your board.