Sorry winter-dwellers, spring is here! Which means summer is right around the corner. For those who thrive in colder temperatures, this might mean that you’re dreading the upcoming days of sweltering heat. What better way to beat the heat than by getting out on the water? If you haven’t already gotten on board (pun intended) with water sports, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is the perfect place to start.
It can be intimidating to enter into a new sport, so let us be your guide! We’ll cover what you need to get started, where to go, and some things to keep in mind before heading out.
What do you need to start paddleboarding?
The great part about paddleboarding is that once you have the gear, you can head on out! No ski pass required. We've covered the basics of what you need to get started, and a few additional items that will make your experience that much better.
What you'll need:
Paddleboard! These are a hot commodity during this time of year, so make sure to check out Gear Hut early to snag one!*
Paddle
Personal Flotation Device (PFD) even if you know how to swim, a PFD is required to be on your boat when paddling in Lake Tahoe.
Drybag to store your keys and phone, gotta keep it dry to get the ig pics!
Water
Snacks are obviously a need, because how can you have a great day outside without snacks?
What's nice to have:
Water shoes can be helpful when you’re putting your board in and out of the water on rocky shores.
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hat
Sunshirt to cover up and protect your post-winter glow.
SUP rack makes it easier to transport your SUP from home to water. For those who have an inflatable paddleboard, a rack is usually not needed.
Where to paddleboard in Reno/Lake Tahoe:
Lake Tahoe- One of the most picturesque spots in the Reno/Tahoe area to paddleboard is the infamous Lake Tahoe. With multiple spots to put in at (Kings Beach, Sand Harbor, and Zephyr Cove to name a few) you’ll get great views and lots of shoreline to explore. Make sure to get on the water early as you’ll likely encounter traffic, choppy waters, and a lot of other people doing the same.
Boca Reservoir-Located just outside of Reno, Boca is a great option for those who want to get out for a paddle while also avoiding the Tahoe crowds.
Donner Lake- One of our favorite spots to paddle! You get great views of the Sierras, and crisp water to jump into when you work up a sweat. It can get busy during the summer, so we recommend you arrive early and secure your parking spot.
Sparks Marina- Only have an hour before work? The Marina in Sparks can be a good option to get on your board when you’re in a time crunch.
Truckee River- PADDLERS BEWARE! We recommend that you get a few paddles in a lake before diving into a river float, because the current can be a little trickier to balance in. That being said, paddling the Truckee River is a fun time and allows for a more dynamic day on your board. Make sure to do your research first, and it’s recommended that you have an inflatable paddleboard.
Before you go!
As with most outdoor recreation, it’s always a good idea to check the weather before you head out on the water, especially if you can expect unusually high winds or lightning as these can cause less than ideal conditions on the water.
Paddleboarding can be a pricey sport, so buying used gear is a great option for those who want to get on the water without breaking the bank. Gear Hut is a great place to start your search for everything you need to get out on the water!
*Note that GearHut is a consignment store, and we cannot guarantee stock of items. Give us a call or come by our store to check inventory!
Comments