SUP: Wind is Your Enemy

Posted: 4 March 2026

HELP

Wind is the biggest danger for new and inexperienced paddlers  

The large surface area of the board makes it easy for the wind to blow the board across the water’s surface, with you on it.    

Before you know it, you can be far from land, or blown out to sea if you are paddling in a coastal location.    

The wind doesn’t have to be very strong to get you into trouble

When you are paddling with the wind, it pushes you along.  It feels easy to paddle and you can travel quite fast.   

However, if you have to paddle back the way you came, you have to paddle into the wind.  You may have to paddle hard and have good stamina.  Otherwise you can become tired very quickly and the wind will carry you away.  

Always check the wind direction

Is the wind blowing from the land out to the ocean? This is the most dangerous.  This wind can carry you out to sea very quickly and you may have trouble paddling back to shore.  

Check out our article on wind direction here: www.academyofsurfing.com/news/understanding-wind-direction-for-stand-up-paddleboarding

  • Spend time and work out the wind direction

  • Ask the lifeguards or ask Surf or SUP school instructors  

  • Check weather reports, flags on the beach and weather panes – they show which way the wind is blowing

  • If in doubt, stay close to the shore

  • Only go out in the ocean when there is little or no wind

  • Or stay in rivers and canals where you can easily get to shore if you start to feel tired

  • Always Be Aware, when you are paddling. Look around you to see how far you have travelled

Remember, wind is your enemy. It can change at a minutes notice.  

Don’t let your guard down.   

 

Visit an ASI SUP school and join in their paddles, have lessons or enrol in the ASI SUP Wise courses to learn more about paddling wind and weather. You know you are in good hands.  

See our video below for tips and advice on how to safely SUP if there is wind

ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding. ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, global opportunities, and adventure.