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Stand-Up Paddling: The Essentials for a confident start on the water
- Flexa
- Jul 10
- 3 min read
Thinking of trying stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)? Whether you're drawn to the calm of early morning paddles, the autonomy of the sport, or the adventure of exploring hidden coves, SUP is one of the most accessible and empowering water sports around at the moment. But before you hop on the board, there are a few essentials you’ll want to check off your list.
Why Stand-Up Paddling Is Having a Moment
Stand-up paddling has surged in popularity for good few reasons:
It's beginner-friendly and low impact
It's a full-body workout (hello core strength!)
It allows you to explore lakes, bays, and coastlines at your own pace
It's as meditative or as adventurous as you want it to be
It's relatively low cost (other than the initial purchase of equipment)
Whether you're joining your first SUP yoga class or planning a coastal paddle, having the right gear makes all the difference (including your outfit).
First things first: Your SUP board
There are multiple things to consider before purchasing a board (we recommend renting in the beginning so that you can test out different types of boards before deciding):
INFLATABLE BOARD
Pros: You can take it with you EVERYWHERE.
Cons: It requires some assembly and pumping which can be a workout on its own.
HARD BOARD
Pros: Does not need assembly or pumping (or purchase of an electric pump).
Cons: It can be difficult to transport and may require renting storage space.
You will also need to consider the purpose you want your board to fulfil, the weight capacity, and other factors, such as the distances you will want to cover:
Casual paddling: All-around SUP board
Long distance: Typically longer, and narrower boards
SUP surfing: Surf-style SUP board
SUP Yoga: Wider and more stable boards
Fishing or adventure: Fishing SUP which comes with addons like a kayak-style seat, or bag space.
SUP Gear Checklist for First-Timers
Aside from the board, here’s what you’ll need:
✅ Paddle
✅ Personal flotation device (PFD)
✅ Dry bag for phone, keys, and snacks
✅ Reusable water bottle
✅ Waterproof sunscreen
✅ Hat and sunglasses with straps
What to Wear for Stand-Up Paddleboarding: SUP Apparel 101
When you're spending hours under the sun and on the water, your clothing should check three boxes: Comfort. Protection. Performance.
Here’s what to look for, and why Musa Sera’s pieces were made for this:
Rash Guard = Your UV-Blocking Armor
Spending time on a SUP board means full exposure to the sun. Even on cloudy days, UV rays reflect off the water and can lead to unexpected burns, especially on your shoulders, chest, and upper back.
A well-fitted rash guard with UPF 50+ blocks 98% of harmful rays while also protecting your skin from:
Chafing from paddle movement
Board rash or irritation from lying or kneeling
Wind and salt exposure that can dry and damage your skin
💡 Musa Sera’s rash guards are made from buttery-soft, recycled materials that hug your figure and dry fast, no clingy wet fabric here.
High Waist Bikini Bottoms = Confident Coverage
SUP involves bending, paddling, and sometimes falling, which means low-rise bottoms are a gamble. You want something that stays in place without needing constant adjustment.
That’s where high waist bikinis shine:
They offer secure coverage during movement
They’re flattering and supportive, especially if you’re combining function with style
They protect your midsection from sunburn — a commonly missed spot on the board
Our high waist bikini bottoms are double-layered for opacity, hug you in all the right places, and stay put through every wave and wobble.
For the Soulful Adventurer
SUP isn’t just about fitness, it’s about reconnecting with yourself, with nature, with movement. At Musa Sera, we design activewear and swimwear for women who move with purpose, whether it's through yoga, windsurfing, or a sunrise paddle.
You deserve to feel supported, sun-safe, and absolutely radiant.
Shop the Collection: www.musasera.com
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$50
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