Introduction to White Water SUP

Cumbria has some of the best white water rivers in the UK. It is the perfect place to start your white water SUP paddling obsession. If you love stand up paddling on canals and lakes our introduction to white water will add a new amazing environment for you to enjoy.

All courses start with an introduction to your equipment using a range of high quality boards. After a fitting session we will take you on some easy water and start to coach you in the skills required for white water paddling. From there we will move you on at your own pace setting challenges that will suit you.

Course content

On the course we will look at:

• Board design
• Use of leashes and releasable waist belts
• Using positive blade pressure to create stability
• Reading white water
• Using river features
• Simple rescue techniques
• Planning river trips and gauging river levels
• SUP Cumbria

Equipment

If necessary, we can provide you with a white water paddleboard and paddle.

You will need:

• Clothing to stay warm. Drysuits are often the best option for these days. Alternatively good quality steamer wetsuits work well and provide a bit of impact protection.
• White water appropriate buoyancy aid.
• White water helmet with plenty of side protection.
• Sturdy footwear that protects the sole of your feet and your ankles from impact on the river bed or sharp rocks.
• Knee, shin and elbow pads are also used sometimes.
• Drybag to carry your lunch in.

We have a range of buoyancy aids, drybags and helmets that can be borrowed if requested in advance.