Want to have an amazing day outdoors AND on the water? Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) offers a ton of different adventures. Whether you’re into surfing, racing, touring, fishing, floating or even yoga, you can do it all on a paddleboard. This activity offers a unique way to connect with nature, stay active and enjoy the water with your furry friends or loved ones.
While paddleboarding has become increasingly popular over the recent years, the sport has been around for ages — historians even discovered wooden paddleboards in ancient Polynesia, South America and Africa. Modern-day paddleboarding has been said to come from surfing instructors in Hawaii sitting or standing on their boards while watching students, eventually turning stand-up paddleboarding into a sport of its own.
Even though we’re faaar away from the ocean, today you can find a passionate paddleboarding community here in Calgary and throughout Alberta. But interestingly enough, regulations, water flow, overall experience and possible activities differ depending on where you go. So if you’re new to or interested in this sport, we’ve compiled everything you need to know, including:
- How to choose the right paddleboard for you
- Where to rent a paddleboard in Calgary
- What you should bring for a day on the water
- And so much more!
Wanna know where to paddleboard in Calgary and throughout Alberta? Read our blog here!
How Do I Choose My Paddleboard?
One of the most commonly asked questions about paddleboarding is, what type of board should I get? If you’re looking to purchase a board, you’ll find both hard and inflatable paddleboards, and the kind you choose varies on a variety of factors.
Hard paddleboards are best for racing and maneuvering around obstacles. They tend to be faster, offer better glide, and generally have more customizable options. These benefits make them a top choice for people who like to surf, paddle in windy areas, and/or want a long-lasting board. However, hard paddleboards do take up a lot of space, require a vehicle large enough to transport them, and tend to be more expensive than their inflatable counterparts.
Therefore, if you’re new to the sport and/or you plan to paddleboard more as a hobby, an inflatable board might be a better fit. A lot of people worry about the durability of inflatable boards, but the material is actually very sturdy, and is less likely to damage than a hard board. Inflatables tend to be more stable, are easier to stand on for longer periods of time, and they’re extremely lightweight, making them ideal for trying out new locations. The only major downside of an inflatable board is that you do need extra time and energy to inflate and deflate it each time you go out.
If you’re looking to purchase a stand-up paddleboard, I ordered my Nautical board online (and the electric pump is a game-changer!). However if you’re looking to rent a board, we have plenty of great local shops right here in the city.
Where Can I Rent A Paddleboard In Calgary?
If you’re just starting your paddleboarding journey or you don’t go very often, renting a board may be the best way to go. There are plenty of local shops that offer SUP rentals in Calgary, so find one that works best for you, and make sure to reserve it in advance if that option is available.
University Of Calgary Outdoor Centre
Offering courses and equipment rentals for outdoor sports, the University of Calgary is a great spot to rent your SUP, as well as other outdoor gear. We’ve been renting rafts, cross-country skis and more from them for years, and their affordable equipment is always high quality. If you choose to rent from here, make sure to reserve your gear in advance. Walk-in requests aren’t accepted.
Sports Rent
If you’re headed out of the city on an adventure, Sports Rent in Bowness is located right on 16th Avenue and is a quick, easy pitstop. Make sure to call ahead and reserve your gear if you want to guarantee there’s some left. We’ve rented paddleboards, cross-country skis, river rafts, snowshoes and more from here — with really affordable rental rates.
SUPnFlow
Experience our very own Carburn Park by SUP when you rent your board directly in the park. This small business offers full-day and multi-day paddleboard rentals, interactive classes, themed events and even SUP yoga. Reserve your paddleboard online and make sure you sign up for any classes or events early!
Paddle A Board
Offering free delivery and pick-up within Calgary, Paddle A Board provides easy access to inflatable paddleboard rentals and equipment. You can also take courses, book expeditions and buy your very own paddleboard from this local company — they might just do it all!
Bow Valley SUP & Surf — Canmore
If you’re headed to the mountains this summer, stop in at Bow Valley SUP & Surf. They carry inflatable paddleboards of all sizes, and your rental includes a life jacket, leash, paddle, pump, tie-down straps and foam roof racks. If you’re looking for a unique experience, check out their SUP that fits up to 8 people!
What Should I Bring When I Go Paddleboarding?
Once you’ve chosen your board, now it’s time to start preparing your gear before you hit the water. While most of your packing can remain the same each time, there are varying safety regulations depending on where you decide to paddle. So always look up your SUP spot before you go.
Safety Regulations In Calgary
- You must wear a lifejacket (PFD) at all times when you’re on the water.
- Review all City of Calgary safety regulations and guidelines here.
Safety Regulations In Parks Canada
- You have the option to wear a PFD while carrying a whistle OR carry a PFD, whistle AND a floating throw rope on board.
- Review all Parks Canada safety regulations and guidelines here.
Our Additional Recommendations
- A dry bag to keep your belongings safe
- Sunscreen (sport or water-resistant)
- Bug spray (can be especially bad on the water)
- A water bottle (remember, it’s a workout!)
- Insulated beverage cup (pro tip: with ice cubes)
- Water shoes or sandals that you don’t mind getting wet
- Water-proof phone case to snap those pics!
- Appropriate clothing. We generally opt for a swimsuit on warm days, but water in and around Calgary can be cold year-round, even in the heat of the summer. So consider bringing layers that are safe to wear in the water.
Where Should I Go Paddleboarding?
Your experience level will dictate where you should go paddling, for the first time or the fiftieth time. You’re likely not going to be a paddleboard pro the first time you go. So expect to slowly work your way from sitting, to kneeling, to standing (potentially with plenty of falling in the water!).
While paddleboarding doesn’t require previous experience or training, make sure your first paddles are in calm waters. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of our favourite places to go: Best Spots To Paddleboard In Calgary & Alberta.
Did we miss anything? Let us know what kind of board you prefer, what you like to bring and if you have any questions in the comments below!
One Response