PFDs are very important when paddle boarding, if you end up in the water and struggling they will provide you with buoyancy. You should also make sure you have a SUP leash so that you're attached to your paddle board, the paddle board itself is the biggest floatation device you will have. Whether you have a waist belt, ankle or knee leash, please make sure you're wearing it. Leashes also mean that if you do fall into the water, your board doesn't go off on its adventure without you!

You can still paddle board during winter, which is a great experience! Picking out what to wear is important because you don't want to cut your SUP session short because you're too cold.

The key with paddle boarding in winter is to wear layers, so if you get warm you can take off a layer. There is a selection of options of things to wear during the colder months such as; a wetsuit, drysuit or leggings/hoodies with a waterproof jacket and trousers over the top.

You will also want to wear some shoes, whether that is wetsuit boots or water shoes to keep your feet warm and give you extra grip on your board. A beanie hat or hood is also a must-have, as well as gloves.

Shoes are a good idea when paddle boarding, especially in winter. When launching and walking in the water, they protect your feet from rocks or sharp objects as well as giving you extra grip when on your board.

In summer, shoes may not be necessary. SUPs are designed to be used barefoot so the deck pads offer enough grip to paddle without shoes. However, in winter you will most likely want to wear some shoes to keep your feet toastie. Anything from wetsuit booties to water shoes is great - please note, you shouldn't wear normal street shoes on your paddle board.