Paddleboarding is a trendy sport that those who love water activities really enjoy. However, it is a good idea to use a paddleboard leash when it comes to paddleboarding. In this article, we show you how to attach a paddle board leash correctly. But why is it a good idea to use a leash? Probably the main reason is that it will keep your paddleboard within proximity without any fear of it drifting away.
In addition, using a paddleboard leash makes it a safer experience for you and those around you because you will be able to get on your board very quickly if you need to; let’s say you have a cramp, for example. Your paddle board leash also protects other people because your board won’t create havoc when they are trying to stay on theirs.
How to Attach Paddle Board Leash
There are three types of attachments when it comes to paddleboard leashes. They are proprietary attachments, a leash plug, and a D-ring. Most inflatable paddle boards will include a D-ring.
The leash string is the string that goes under the D-ring or similar attachments. You can keep it in place by knotting it. For example, run a part of the elastic leash string under the attachment and then loop it to knot it successfully. It is most common for leash strings to have Velcro for easy attachment. Now that you have attached your leash string to the board, you might be wondering where on your body the best place is to secure the leash.
There are different body leash attachments, including waist, calf, and ankle. Most people prefer attaching the leash to their ankles. This causes fewer tangles in the leash string and makes it easier to keep the leash out of your way while you are in the water. However, if you prefer attaching your leash to your calf or your waist, that is fine, too.
Is it really necessary to have a leash?
A lot of people feel that leashes aren’t necessary if the paddler can swim well. In fact, a leash is often considered to be another thing added to your board.
In addition, some people feel that leashes are a nuisance and often spoil the paddleboarding experience. However, those who were determined to stick to their leashes found that they became used to them very quickly and that they offer significant benefits.
The biggest of these benefits, of course, is safety.
An ocean or lake can be dangerous, and it is always best to be as safe as possible when you are in the water. If you are in the ocean and you have decided not to use a leash, and you lose your paddle board, you risk your safety and the safety of your fellow water lovers.
If you have become tired and still have access to your board, you can use the board and drift back to land. In addition, if you lose your board in rough waters, the board can be a projectile danger. Finally, unsuspecting swimmers, surfers, or paddlers can get seriously injured by your paddle board.
When you should not use a Safety Leash
There is one major exception in which you should not use a Paddle Board Leash: for Wildwater SUP trips, a leash can be counterproductive. On wivers, only use a coiled leash while in balancing water (lots of white water and deep riverbed) and only with a safety closure. Do not use the leash in blocked waters!
Sadly, there have been many deaths at sea because of this. Because of this, there are beaches where it is mandatory to wear a paddleboard leash. Not only is it a great safety feature, but it also adds to convenience in the water. If you don’t need to swim and dive to retrieve your floating board, you have more energy to spend on your paddleboarding.
Having a paddleboard leash can also mean the difference between life and death if you are paddleboarding in freezing water. Keeping your board close to you is vital since cold water can easily affect your blood flow and concentration.
The next benefit of having a leash isn’t one people like to think about, but it is essential to keep it in mind. For example, suppose something went wrong in the water, and you are unconscious. Fortunately, you have been spotted by someone. If you have your board close to you, it will be much easier for the rescuer to get you to safety. However, if your board has floated off, it will be so much harder for that person to save you, creating additional risk for you and your rescuer.
How long should my leash be?
It is standard practice for a leash to either be as long as the paddle board or slightly longer. Leashes are sold in feet, so you can measure your board and take it from there.
If you are tempted to get a shorter leash to minimize tangles, don’t do it.
Shorter leashes make it more likely that you will collide with your board in the water. It is much more probable that your board might recoil towards you after you fall off. In addition, contrary to what many people think, shorter leashes get much more in the way than long leashes.
This doesn’t mean you should go for a ridiculously long leash, either. In fact, a leash that is too long also increases the danger in the water. If your leash is too long, your board can easily float towards other people and hit someone. A longer leash also tends to drag more in the water, and this is not a feature you want in your leash. Therefore, stick to the rule of having a leash that is either the same length as your paddle board or slightly longer.
There are two kinds of leashes: straight leashes and coiled leashes. Straight leashes are great if you are paddling in calm water or surfing. Coiled leashes are perfect if you plan to race, do paddling for long distances, or go white water paddling.
Conclusion
A body of water is there for us to enjoy, but we need to do so responsibly. By investing in a paddle board leash and getting used to wearing it, you are not only taking care of your safety but also the safety of those around you. You will be able to enjoy the waves without concern.
Where to learn what you really need for sup boarding
It is often confusing to research and find out what accessories besides the board and a paddle you really need for Stand Up Paddling. If you’re not sure what you really check out the following two articles about the most essential SUP Accessories and SUP Clothing. Therein, we show you what you really need – and whatnot!
