Can You Use an Inflatable Paddle Board in the Winter?
Yes—you can use an inflatable paddle board in the winter, and it can be one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy the water. With the right gear, clothing, and safety precautions, cold-weather paddling becomes a peaceful, invigorating adventure. Glide’s durable inflatable SUPs perform exceptionally well in winter conditions, giving you stability, confidence, and year-round freedom on the water.
Paddleboarding in the winter is absolutely possible with a high-quality inflatable paddle board, and it often delivers some of the most peaceful, scenic sessions of the year.
The key is dressing for cold temperatures with thermal layers, neoprene booties, gloves, and a drysuit or wetsuit.
Glide inflatable SUPs are ideal for winter due to their stiff, multi-layer construction, excellent stability, and high weight capacity for extra gear.
Winter paddling offers solitude, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking winter landscapes—but it also requires safety essentials like a leash, PFD, and weather awareness.
With proper preparation and board care, your inflatable SUP can thrive year-round, giving you a unique way to stay active and connected to nature even in the coldest months.
Table of contents
Paddleboarding isn’t just a summer hobby—it’s a year-round adventure waiting to happen. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can use an inflatable paddle board in winter, the answer is a resounding yes. Cold-weather paddling delivers peace, solitude, and stunning winter landscapes—and with the right preparation, it’s safe, comfortable, and incredibly rewarding.
Why Winter Paddleboarding Is Worth It
Winter transforms lakes, rivers, and coastlines into serene, icy playgrounds. With fewer boats and people around, you can enjoy an almost meditative experience on the water. The crisp air, soft winter light, and occasional wildlife sightings make every outing feel special—like you’re getting VIP access to nature’s quiet season.
The key is preparation: protecting your body from cold temperatures and having the right SUP setup.
Gear Up: Clothing for Cold-Weather SUP
When water temperatures drop, the right gear is non-negotiable. Dress for immersion, not just the air temperature.
Winter SUP essentials:
-
A drysuit or thick wetsuit (4/3mm or greater)
-
Neoprene booties and gloves
-
Thermal base layers
-
Windproof outer layers
-
A leash and PFD (always)
Cold water accelerates hypothermia—gear is what makes winter paddling safe and enjoyable.
Choosing the Right Inflatable Paddle Board for Winter
Not all inflatables perform the same in winter. You want a board with durability, stiffness, and stability—because cold water paddling often means slightly choppier conditions and added gear weight.
Glide’s inflatables excel in winter because:
-
They use multi-layer construction (4-layer durability, unmatched stiffness)
-
Wider platforms offer added stability in rougher seasonal water
-
High weight capacities let you bring warm layers, dry bags, extra gear, and even a hot drink
-
ThermoFuse rails stay strong in cold conditions
A reliable board expands your winter paddling options safely—and gives you confidence on the water.
The Winter SUP Experience
With the right gear and board, winter SUP becomes magical. You might glide past ice-rimmed shorelines or watch steam rise from warmer lakes into the cold winter air. Wildlife tends to reappear once crowds disappear, giving you a front-row seat to nature waking up in unexpected ways.
Try:
-
Winter SUP yoga (gentle steam, calm water, zero crowds)
-
Early morning paddles when everything feels still
-
Exploring sheltered coves dressed in winter colors
It’s peaceful, restorative, and surprisingly addictive.
Caring for Your Inflatable SUP in Winter
Cold weather requires a little extra board care.
Winter inflatable SUP tips:
-
Always dry fully before storage (prevents mold)
-
Store inflated in a warm area when possible
-
If deflated, keep it in a temperature-controlled space
-
Never leave your SUP in a freezing car or garage
Glide inflatable SUPs are built for durability, but proper maintenance ensures long-term performance—no matter the season.
FAQs: Winter Paddle Boarding with an Inflatable SUP
Is it safe to use an inflatable paddle board in winter?
Yes — as long as you take proper precautions. Inflatable paddle boards (especially high-quality ones like Glide) remain rigid and durable in cold temperatures. The key is wearing the right cold-water gear such as a drysuit or wetsuit, neoprene booties, gloves, and always using a leash and PFD. Check weather, wind chill, and water temperature before heading out.
Will my inflatable paddle board lose air pressure in cold weather?
Yes, all inflatable SUPs naturally lose some pressure as temperatures drop. Cold air compresses inside the board, so you may need to add a few PSI before launching. It’s normal—and not a sign of damage. Always check PSI after your board has adjusted to outside temperature.
Can inflatable paddle boards freeze or get damaged in very cold temps?
Inflatable SUPs won’t freeze solid, but you should avoid leaving them flexed or folded in freezing temperatures. The PVC becomes less flexible below 32°F, so store your board either fully inflated in a garage or gently rolled only when fully dry and kept in a warmer area.
What should I wear for winter paddle boarding?
Cold-water apparel is non-negotiable. Depending on water temp:
50°F and below: Full drysuit
50–60°F: 4/3 or 5/4 wetsuit
Below 40°F wind chill: Neoprene hood + gloves + booties
Layer synthetic or wool base layers under drysuits and pack a windproof outer layer if windy.
How cold is “too cold” for winter paddleboarding?
The real danger is water temperature—not air temperature.
Use the 120 Rule:
If air temp + water temp is below 120°F, hypothermia becomes a high risk.
Some advanced paddlers still go out in these conditions with proper gear, but beginners should avoid it.
Are there special safety precautions for winter SUP?
Yes — winter paddling has unique risks. Always:
Paddle with a buddy
Carry a phone in a waterproof case
Use a leash at all times
Tell someone your route and return time
Bring a dry bag with warm clothes
Avoid offshore winds
Know re-entry techniques if you fall in cold water
Do inflatable SUPs perform differently in winter?
Slightly. You may notice:
More rigidity once warmed by sun
Slightly lower PSI at launch
A more stable feel due to denser cold water
Overall, performance remains excellent—this is why many winter paddlers prefer inflatables over hard boards.
Can I do SUP yoga or fitness training in winter?
Yes! Winter is a favorite time for experienced paddlers because the water is calm and quiet. Just make sure you’re dressed for immersion and choose sheltered areas free of wind and currents. Many paddlers anchor their boards to stay in place during yoga or breathwork.
What’s the best way to store my inflatable paddle board in winter?
You have two options:
Option 1: Store inflated indoors — best for long-term board health
Option 2: Store rolled — only if:
The board is 100% dry
Stored in a warm, temperature-controlled space
Never store your board damp or in freezing temperatures.
Why paddle board in winter at all?
Winter SUP has unique benefits:
Ultra-calm waterways
Solitude without summer crowds
Enhanced wildlife sightings
Great cardiovascular workout
Mental health benefits similar to cold-weather hiking
Beautiful winter landscapes you’ll never see from shore
Many paddlers say winter is the most peaceful and rewarding season of all.
Join the Glide Tribe—Winter Edition
Whether you’re new to cold-weather SUP or a seasoned winter adventurer, share your frosty sessions with us at #glidesup. We love seeing how the Glide community embraces adventure in every season.
Winter doesn’t close the door on paddleboarding—it opens a whole new one. With proper clothing, safety equipment, and a durable inflatable paddleboard, you can stay active, boost your mental health, and experience nature in a way that most people never will.
Ken Driscoll
Former whitewater kayaker and kayak designer. Founder of Glide.
