Stand-Up Paddle boarding (SUP) is all the rage these days and that’s ok. After all, I’ve even been contemplating buying one for myself too. But it has come to the point where I have to say something to the SUP riders of the world: just because you’re not on a surfboard does not mean you can drop in on people!
I know this doesn’t apply to all SUP riders (some of you are awesome) but it definitely needs to be said because it seems many have not got the memo:
Dropping in is not okay under any circumstances
Many SUP riders haven’t come from a surfing background, so it’s understandable that no one has shared with you the wisdom of the line-up system before. For those of you who think you’re bigger than the line up this applies to you too. Not only is respecting the line-up the decent thing to do, but it will also avoid people getting hurt! So please take note:
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Dropping in is not cool
What is dropping in? If someone is already on a wave inside you (closer to the white broken water or peak) then it is their wave. Just because you are already upright on your board, does not mean the wave is yours. It is the person on the inside who owns the wave always!
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No one likes a snake
You’re on a boat, so all that volume makes it easier for you to get on a wave. But if someone is paddling for a wave don’t duck inside them and snake it out from under them. Surfers don’t like conflict and we don’t mind sharing waves as long as it’s fair. Let’s stick to a wave for a wave environment so everyone can leave stoked.
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Be careful bailing
Since you’re the ones who carry your boards around you are obviously aware of the sheer size and weight of it (with some of you even needing a set of wheels to get your board from A to B). With all that foam it can make it hard to get through waves and letting go may seem like the best option. But please look around before you let it fly, because that thing can do some serious damage to those around you.
I don’t want this to be a sermon and I definitely don’t intend to preach to you about surfing etiquette, just please heed the above so we can enjoy the surf together.
Remember to share and care, let’s have fun!