downwind paddleboard
lessons
we run downwind paddleboard training in west sussex
Downwind paddle boarding, has been a huge part of the paddling around the world, taking people out into the ocean to enjoy riding swells, aided by the wind. It is something I’ve done a lot, with a lot of success, but you need to build your skills up to make sure you’re prepared.
downwind paddle board lessons
Join us for great fun and the very best Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) lessons in West Sussex.
You might be looking to start from scratch or developing your paddle technique or even hitting open water.
group paddleboard lessons
Downwind paddleboarding is a real thrill, where you’re catching bumps and swell, with the wind on your back and gliding along.
Unlike surfing, you’re looking to catch a bump or small swell, then ride it along and then connect to another one as it pops up.
It’s a really technical side of the sport and requires balance, awareness and an understanding of the way the water moves.
When you first start, you’ll catch the occasional glide, but as you improve, those rides get longer.
Having a good awareness of the environment is crucial for the safety of you and others.
Group size: 1 - 4 ppl
What do we cover in this downwind sup lesson
The Downwind paddle boarding lesson is your gateway to safe openwater paddling. It’s a serious session that will drill you , so you can develop your current skills and pick up new ones.
Who should attend the downwind lesson:
You need to be comfortable paddling and being in deep water. We’ll be paddling in chop and rougher water, sometimes into the wind. Prior to your session, it is worth practising, moving around the board freely and doing step back turns.
The Open Water Environment
- Reading the conditions both water and wind
- Identifying hazards
Safety at Sea
- Planning the trip relating to the upcoming weather systems
- How to paddle as a team
- Paddle smart
- How to handle your kit in rough water and strong winds
- How to wipe out and remount
- Planning launch and exit points
- Safety signals and comms
- Emergency services processes
Dressing to be smart
- Choose suitable SUP downwind paddle board and equipment
- Identify suitable clothing to wear
- Identify safety equipment and accessories
Paddle Skills and Strokes
- Identify wave mechanics to maximize performance
- How to read the wind for best effect
- Catch and ride “bumps”
- Demonstrate correct paddling technique and stance
- Methods to vary stroke rate and length
- Rail steering
- How to maintain momentum and speed
Entry Requirements:
- Be able to swim 200 metres without stopping
- Must be able to paddle in choppy waters and able to remount quickly, without help
helpful information
Read more about where we teach downwind sup and some of the regularly asked FAQs.
where do we downwind sup
Chichester Harbour is great if it is super windy.
The harbour offers many different spots that work well for training downwind sup. Mainly beginner level paddling, we use the rib sometimes to do shuttle runs.
Bracklesham Bay can offer some great conditions.
Certainly, in more easterly winds, Bracklesham can provide some great runs. You do need to paddle hard into wind to then gain the run, but it is all good training.
Hayling has some interesting locations to paddle.
For a long time we’ve visited Hayling and paddled over on the Langstone side. A long run right through the harbour, we do this run when we can arrange shuttle run vehicles.
faqs
How do you book a downwind paddleboard lesson?
Let’s chat first, find out what you want to achieve, then we can sort out a plan. We will look for weather windows that work and go from there.
How old do you need to be?
It’s tough and we need to be realistic, so we only head out with 16+ year olds minimum.
How long are the lessons?
We run lessons for approximately 3 hours. They’re tough going, so we take breaks.
Does fitness play a big part in paddling on the sea?
It makes life a lot easier if you’re comfortable with paddling hard, especially when we have to head into wind.
How many lessons do I need?
Practice is the key and what you learn from me needs to be put into parctice.
Do you provide all the kit?
We have some inflatable Fanatic Ray Air Premium boards you can use.
What if the weather/tide isn’t suitable?
If it is going to be too windy, we will need to reschedule. No refunds given, just a rebooking. Same goes for the tide as we’re in the harbour.
Do you need to be able to swim?
Yes, about 50 mtrs minimum.
