Expert Advice

Expert Advice
  • Nov 15, 2022

Can You Teach Yourself to Paddle Board?

Can you embark on the stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) journey by yourself? Absolutely! Many aspiring paddleboarders often ponder whether they need formal lessons to get started. While there are scenarios where lessons could enhance your experience, for many, the path to paddleboarding proficiency is well within reach through self-teaching. Key Highlights: Self-Teaching SUP is Feasible: Many beginners can learn paddleboarding without formal lessons, thanks to its straightforward and accessible nature. When to Consider Lessons: Group activities or advancing specific skills might benefit from professional guidance. Starting on Your Own: Learn the essentials of board positioning, taking your first steps, standing up, and mastering basic strokes. The Importance of Practice: Falling and trial are part of the learning process, emphasizing patience and gradual improvement. Embracing the Journey: Enjoy the freedom and fun SUP offers, and connect with the community for support and shared experiences.

  • Nov 11, 2022

What Type of Paddle Board is the Most Stable?

You may be wondering what type of paddle board is the most stable, and like many things on the internet, there is a lot of wrong information. Just because a paddle board is an inflatable does not make it the most stable. In this article, we introduce you to the two types of paddle boards that are the most stable stand-up paddle boards.

  • Oct 4, 2022

Life Jackets For Paddle Boarding: What's the Difference?

Embarking on a paddleboarding journey? The quest for the perfect life jacket (or PFD - personal flotation device) to accompany you is crucial. Whether you're a seasoned paddleboarder or just dipping your toes into the waters of this exhilarating sport, understanding the nuances between the waist-mounted belt pack PFD and the traditional life jacket is key. Let's dive into the essentials, making your choice clear and straightforward, without overwhelming you with the technicalities of life jacket testing. In the world of paddleboarding, three types of PFDs stand out: the waist belt pack PFD, the Type III life jacket designed for active wear with flotation in the front and back, and the iconic Type II orange life vest, known for its slip-over design. Each brings its own set of advantages and drawbacks to the table.

  • Oct 1, 2022

How about paddle boarding with dogs?

Here at Glide, dogs are an intricate part of our lives and are beloved family members. That is one of the reasons we make the most durable and best paddle boards for dogs. We strongly believe that the whole family should be able to go paddle boarding. We have hard boards that are perfect for both you and your dog. As well as inflatable paddle boards so you can paddle board with your dog. You and your dog will have so much fun on a Glide paddle board.

  • Sep 15, 2022

Hiking Paddle Board and SUP Camping

For a high-performance super lightweight inflatable paddle board that has the durability, you need in a backpacking paddle board Glide has you covered. Our two super lightweight paddle boards are the perfect choice for reaching isolated mountain lakes, going on a sup camping trip, or even running an isolated stretch of river. With the durability and reliability that Glide is famous for, means you won't spend your trip sitting on shore wishing you had brought a board better suited for the real world.  

  • Aug 26, 2022

What are the best paddle board accessories? What should I look for?

We are going to be going over some of the best paddle board accessories you can get. Some may not be obvious until you see the here. And some may only apply to inflatable paddle boards while leaving hard paddle boards out. We hope you enjoy our list of the best paddle board accessories and that it helps make your paddle boarding experience more enjoyable. Have fun and get ready to go paddle boarding. My absolute favorite paddle board accessory will be listed last, as the saying goes leave the best paddle board accessory for last. Hopefully this list will help you fill in some gaps and think on what the right paddle board Glide's list of the best paddle board accessories for all your paddling adventures.

  • Jul 15, 2022

What Size Paddle Board Do I Need for my Height and Weight?

One of the most common questions we get at Glide is what size paddle board do I need for my size? And trust me I get it, it's like a Dr. Seuss book when looking online at all the different paddle boards for beginners! Tall ones, short ones, fat ones, skinny ones, yellow ones and blue ones! So how do I know what the best paddle board for beginners and what size paddle board do I need?

  • Feb 23, 2022

How to: Paddle Board Transportation

The huge size of a stand up paddle board is great for providing stability to the paddler. It's not always the most convenient shape for moving it around, however, and many people find them awkward and difficult to transport. If you're looking for the best ways to get your paddle board from point A to point B, then this post is for you.

  • Feb 18, 2022

How Windy is Too Windy to SUP?

Wondering just how gusty conditions have to be before you reconsider your stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) plans? For newcomers to SUP, gauging manageable wind speeds can be a bit of a puzzle. Not to worry, though! We're here to demystify wind conditions for paddleboarding, ensuring you're prepped and ready for an enjoyable experience on the water

  • Feb 15, 2022

Paddle Board Fins: Everything You Wanted To Know But Were Afraid To Ask

Stand-up paddle board fins come in all shapes and sizes and most of you probably have put little thought into what each size and shape does. So for those of you out there who are my people and wanted to know everything about your board let's dive into the exciting world of paddle board fins. First things first we have to get the name right. They are fins, not skegs, rudders, "the thing that makes the board go straight". If you ever come across companies that sell complete paddle board packages that include the skeg, or rudder, that will be your first clue that these are not high-quality boards, and the people behind the brand are not paddlers. *cough* Amazon paddle boards *cough*.

  • Feb 1, 2022

How to Inflate an Inflatable Paddle Board

How do you inflate an inflatable paddle board? Should I use a hand pump or electric pump? Why isn't my pressure gauge working? Air escapes from my paddle board? What pressure should I inflate to? All of these questions will be answered here!  Key Highlights Starting the Inflation Process: Begin by placing your SUP on a smooth, hazard-free surface, ensuring the valve is in the closed position to retain air. Choosing Between Hand Pump and Electric Pump: Insights on how to securely connect the pump hose and the differences in inflation methods. Understanding Pressure Gauges: Tips for reading your pressure gauge correctly and what to do if it's not registering pressure. Optimal Inflation Pressure: Guidelines for inflating your paddle board to the recommended PSI for optimal performance and safety. Troubleshooting Common Issues: Solutions for air escaping from the board, inactive pressure gauges, and dealing with a noisy electric pump. Deflation and Storage: How to safely deflate and store your inflatable SUP to maintain its longevity and performance.

  • Jan 24, 2022

How Many Calories Does SUP Burn?

In the ever-evolving quest for fitness, paddle boarding, also known as SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), shines as a beacon of innovation and enjoyment. Before the global shift in how we approach personal wellness, many sought refuge from gym fatigue on the tranquil waters with a paddleboard underfoot. The pandemic only accelerated this trend, turning a once niche pastime into a full-blown fitness revolution.

  • 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 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 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.