Gear Recommendations

The Right Gear for a Better Paddleboarding Experience

Choosing the right equipment can make all the difference in your paddleboarding journey. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, having the right board, paddle, and safety gear enhances your performance, comfort, and overall enjoyment on the water.

Gear We Stand Behind: We don’t take our recommendations lightly. Every item on this page is gear we’ve personally used, trust, and continue to rely on. It’s been chosen for its quality, durability, and performance on the water — so you can feel confident it’s up to the task.

How to Use This Guide

✔ Click View Product to explore recommended gear

✔ Read Notes for expert advice on selecting the right items

✔ Check out Photos for a preview of each product

Note: Items marked with an asterisk (*) are personal favorites.

This guide is regularly updated—check back often for the latest recommendations!

Recommended Boards

Find the right board for your paddling goals, whether you’re chasing calm or building confidence.

Board Name	Web Link	Notes
Retro Elite 10'6"	Glide SUP Retro Elite	A lightweight 22 lb all-around SUP/kayak hybrid with a full-length deck pad, ideal for beginners and families. Stable and versatile with a classic look.
Lotus 3.0	Glide SUP Lotus	Designed for yoga and fitness, this 22 lb board features a wide 35" platform, soft deck pad, and a 400 lb capacity for on-water flow and balance.
*Quest 3.0	Glide SUP Quest	A 20 lb touring SUP with a 400 lb capacity, built for speed and efficiency over long distances on lakes, bays, and calm rivers.
Angler Elite	Glide SUP Angler Elite	A high-capacity fishing SUP that supports up to 500 lbs and includes a kayak seat, rod mounts, and gear tie-downs. Built for serious anglers and gear setups.

Recommended Paddles

Explore options designed to reduce fatigue and enhance your time on the water.

*Aqueous SUP is now a Black Project SUP retailer!*
We’re excited to offer high-performance Black Project paddles and accessories. We can place orders directly for you, and if you’d like help choosing the right fit, just reach out.

Paddle	Web Link	Notes	Photo
*Hydro TempoX	Black Project Hydro TempoX Paddle	This lightweight carbon paddle features a refined blade and adjustable shaft, designed to reduce fatigue during fitness, touring, and recreational racing.
*Lava	Black Project Lava Paddle	This versatile carbon paddle delivers balanced power and comfort for touring, surf, and fitness, with multiple blade and shaft options for a custom feel.

Safety Essentials

Stay secure with life jackets, leashes, and gear that puts your well-being first.

Item Name	Web Link	Notes
Ninja PFD	NRS Ninja PFD	A compact, low-profile lifejacket with a comfortable fit and full range of motion—perfect for SUP. The Ninja’s athletic cut and soft foam panels make it a favorite for those who prioritize performance and freedom on the water.
Vapor PFD	NRS Vapor PFD	A streamlined, entry-level lifejacket that doesn’t compromise on comfort. The Vapor is simple, reliable, and budget-friendly—ideal for beginners or those looking for a clean, no-fuss design with NRS quality.
*Quick-Release Leash	NRS Quick-Release SUP Leash	Designed with moving water safety in mind, this leash includes a reliable quick-release system for fast detachment if needed. Comfortable and secure, it’s an important upgrade for paddlers venturing beyond calm, flatwater conditions.
*Safety Whistle	Fox 40 Safety Whistle	A small but essential piece of safety gear. This pealess whistle is loud, reliable, and designed to work even when wet—making it a trusted choice for signaling in emergencies or getting attention quickly on the water.
*Navigation Light	Navilight 360 Magnetic Base	A rugged, battery-powered LED navigation lantern designed for paddlers and small-craft adventurers. Fully approved for use under both EU Wheelmark and USCG rules with a 2 nautical-mile visibility rating.
*Co-Pilot Knife	NRS Co-Pilot Knife	A compact, low-profile safety knife designed for paddlers, the NRS Co-Pilot features a blunt tip, serrated edge, and quick-release sheath for secure, accessible carry. Ideal for rescue situations or gear cutting, it’s built to perform without getting in the way.
Guardian Wedge Waist Throw Bag	NRS Guardian Wedge Waist Throw Bag	A streamlined rescue tool worn at the waist, the NRS Guardian Wedge Throw Bag offers 55 feet of floating rope in a compact, quick-deploy design. With a foam insert for buoyancy and a secure release system, it’s built for fast, effective rescues on the water.
*Paddler Medical Kit	NRS Paddler Medical Kit	A waterproof first aid kit built for life on the water, the NRS Paddler Medical Kit includes essentials for treating minor injuries on day trips. Packed in a durable dry bag, it’s a smart addition to any paddleboard or kayak outing.
Current Helmet	WRSI Current Helmet	A durable, multi-impact helmet for paddle sports, the WRSI Current features a secure fit and layered protection. Built for whitewater, trusted anywhere.

Paddling-Specific Clothing

Dress for comfort and performance with gear built for every season and condition.

Item Name	Web Link	Season	Notes
*Women's Gore-Tex Dry Suit	NRS Women's Axiom Gore-Tex Pro Dry Suit	Fall, Winter, Spring, Any	Top-tier waterproof protection when you’re paddling in cold, splashy, or windy conditions. Built with 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro for fully waterproof, windproof and breathable performance, it features latex neck and wrist gaskets protected by neoprene over-cuffs, a front-entry Aquaseal zipper, and integrated socks for serious all-day comfort.
*Wetsuit 3/2mm	NRS 3/2mm Radiant Wetsuit	Winter	A full-length wetsuit built for cold-water paddling, the Radiant 3/2 blends 3 mm neoprene in the core for warmth with 2 mm panels for mobility. With a paddle-specific cut and fleece-lined interior, it's designed to keep you warm without restricting movement on the board.
Women's Wetsuit 3mm	NRS Women's 3.0 Ignitor Wetsuit	Fall, Spring, Winter	Reliable warmth and flexibility for cooler days on the water. The 3 mm neoprene construction provides full-body insulation while allowing easy movement, keeping you comfortable during early-season paddles or windy conditions. Needs to be paired with jacket for winter.
Women's 2mm Wetsuit	NRS Women's Farmer Jane 2.0 Wetsuit	Fall, Spring	Reliable core insulation for cool-weather paddling. The 2 mm neoprene construction provides full-body warmth while retaining stretch and mobility—ideal for early-season sessions or transition launches when you need comfort without bulk.
Women's Wetsuit Jacket	NRS Women's Ignitor Jacket	Fall, Spring	Built for splashy launches and cooler-paddling days, this women’s form-fit jacket uses 2 mm neoprene insulation to offer lightweight warmth and comfort. It features fully recycled nylon interior and exterior, flat-lock seams, and a full-zip front entry.
*Boundary Boot	NRS Women’s Paddle Wetshoe	Winter	Durable, waterproof protection for cold or unpredictable conditions. The Boundary Boot lets you walk into the water without getting your feet wet, keeping your feet warm and comfortable with reliable traction on rocky or muddy shorelines.
Waterproof Beanie Hat	Sealskinz Waterproof Beanie Hat	Winter	A lightweight, fitted, waterproof beanie. It's a knitted toque hat for the cold, close-fitting and thermal.
Toaster Gloves	NRS Toaster Mitts	Winter	Premium warmth and waterproof protection when the water’s cold. With a 3 mm neoprene exterior, graphene-lined interior and fully sealed LiquidSeam seams, these mitts shield your hands from chill and keep paddle control strong.
*Women's HydroSkin Gloves	NRS Women's HydroSkin Gloves	Fall, Spring	Lightweight insulation for cool-weather paddling. These gloves feature a 0.5 mm neoprene core, a DWR-coated nylon/spandex exterior, and a silicone-patterned palm for reliable grip. Designed for early morning launches or breezy on-the-water sessions when you want dexterity and comfort without bulk.
Neoprene Cap	NRS Storm Cap	Any	Built for cold-water launches and brisk mornings on the board, the Storm Cap uses 2.5 mm neoprene with a titanium-laminate adhesive lining to reflect body heat and taped seams to keep water out. It features a quick-dry VaporLoft™ lining for comfort and a flexible bill that shields your eyes from sun or splash.
Neoprene Hood	NRS Storm Hood	Any	Full-coverage head protection for cold, splashy paddling. The Storm Hood uses 2.5 mm neoprene for insulation, features a barrel-lock draw-cord around the face opening to eliminate flushing, and has a long collar to seal into your dry-top or dry-suit — keeping warmth in and water out.
Women’s Paddle Wetshoe	NRS Women’s Paddle Wetshoe	Fall, Spring	A high-ankle neoprene boot built for colder conditions, the NRS Paddle Wetshoe offers extra warmth and protection with a durable sole and secure side-zip entry. Available in both women’s and men’s styles, it’s ideal for early-season launches and chilly water days. Great for pairing with dry suit.
Women’s Arroyo Wetshoe	NRS Women’s Arroyo Wetshoe	Summer	A low-profile wetshoe made for warm-weather paddling, the NRS Arroyo features a flexible sole and quick-drying upper for lightweight protection. Available in both women’s and men’s styles, it’s perfect for launch sites, rocky shallows, and casual shoreline adventures.
*Women's 0.5mm HydroSkin Jacket	NRS Women's HydroSkin 0.5 Jacket	Spring, Summer, Fall	Light-insulation layering piece for early-season or cooler-weather paddling. This jacket features 0.5 mm HydroSkin® neoprene for a thin thermal barrier, a premium nylon/spandex exterior that sheds water and allows stretch, and full-zip entry for easy on/off.
*Women's 0.5mm HydroSkin Pant	NRS Women's HydroSkin 0.5 Pant	Spring, Summer, Fall	Lightweight insulation for cool paddling days. These pants feature 0.5 mm Terraprene™ neoprene with a heat-reflective titanium layer, a premium nylon/spandex exterior for water-shedding and stretch, and a high-rise yoga-style waistband for comfortable coverage whether you’re seated or standing
*Splash Jacket	NRS Women's Endurance Splash Jacket	All	Lightweight, breathable protection for windy or wet days on the water. The Endurance Jacket offers a comfortable fit under your PFD and layers easily—keeping you dry without overheating when conditions shift.
Splash Pant	NRS Women's Endurance Splash Pant	All	These splash pants offer flexible, water-resistant coverage with a paddler-friendly design. Perfect for cool, breezy conditions, they layer well over wetsuit bottoms or thermals to help keep you dry and comfortable on the water.
Women’s Rashguard Long-Sleeve Shirt	NRS Women’s Rashguard Long-Sleeve Shirt	All	A sun-protective layer built for warm-weather paddling, the NRS Long-Sleeve Rashguard offers UPF 50+ protection with a stretchy, quick-drying fit. Available in both women’s and men’s styles, it’s ideal on its own or as a base layer for all-day comfort on the water.

Accessories & Extras

Add convenience and versatility to your paddleboarding setup with these must-have items.

Item Name	Web Link	Notes
*Dry Bag	NRS Ether HydroLock Dry Bag	Lightweight, durable, and fully waterproof—this dry bag keeps your essentials safe and dry with a HydroLock seal and roll-top closure. Ideal for day trips and quick-access storage on your board without adding bulk.
*Board Travel Bag	NRS SUP Board Travel Pack	Built for adventure, this rugged, padded pack fits your inflatable SUP, paddle, pump, and accessories in one organized, travel-ready system. Whether you're heading to the river or catching a flight, it's a convenient way to carry and protect your gear.
Keel Fin 5.5"	Vamo 5.5 Keel Fin	A durable, flexible keel fin that improves tracking and stability while reducing the risk of damage in shallow or rocky areas. The tool-less screw makes installation quick and easy on most standard fin boxes.

Maintenance & Gear Care

Extend the life of your gear with tools that keep everything in top shape.

Item Name	Web Link	Notes	Photo
Aquaseal Repair Adhesive	Gear Aid Aquaseal Repair Adhesive	A reliable fix for high-wear areas on water shoes, neoprene, and even inflatable SUPs—perfect for reinforcing seams and deck pads. This flexible, waterproof adhesive adds durability where you need it most, helping extend the life of your gear with confidence.
Wetsuit Shampoo	Gear Aid Revivex Wet & Dry Suit Shampoo	Keep your wetsuits, drysuits, and neoprene gear fresh and long-lasting. This gentle cleaner removes salt, chlorine, and odors without damaging fabric, making it ideal for regular post-paddle care.

Ready to Explore with Confidence?

The right gear doesn’t just support your paddle — it supports your journey. Whether you’re growing your skills, planning a new adventure, or simply looking for more comfort on the water, we hope this guide helps you make informed, confident choices. For more tips and insights, check out our gear-focused blogs to dive deeper into selecting the right setup for you.