Paddle Boarding with Chris

• Posted on 21 February 2017
• By Izzy Woodman
• Posted in Boylos, Lyme Regis, Red Paddle Co., Stand Up Paddle Boarding, SUPing
• 0

Stand up paddle boarding (SUPing) is now one of the most popular board sports in the watersports world, and here at Boylos we are crazy about it. But, we wanted to know what you guys love about it so much and why the British can’t seem to get enough of it. So, I interviewed a local SUPing enthusiast Chris Woodman to discover what it is about paddle boarding that’s got him hooked...

To start with, tell us who you are and what you do?

My name’s Chris Woodman and I’m a local pastor at Lyme Regis Baptist Church.

How long have you been SUPing for?

I tried SUPing for the first time three years ago and have been an enthusiast ever since!

And what got you first interested in SUPing?

I became interested when I saw more and more people out on the water SUPing and wondered what all the fuss was. I then saw Boylos were holding SUP Lessons in Lyme Regis, so I gave it a go and instantly loved it! I was able to try out different boards to find out exactly what suited me. They gave great advice and the best brands and prices.

What was your first time SUPing experience like?

It was great fun! I thoroughly enjoyed it and just wanted to get back out as fast as possible!

So, what is is about SUPing that you love so much?

I love the sensation of floating on the water on a board. When it’s flat and clam it feels like you’re flying. Its a fantastic complimentary watersport to surfing when its calm, and you just want to be out on the water!

You mentioned surfing, how long have you been a surfer, and how does SUPing compare for those skeptical surfers out there?

I have been surfing for 30+ years now and initially, I was a little skeptical about SUPing but now, having tried it, I couldn’t recommend it enough! The beauty of SUPing is that you can gain more skill and satisfaction quicker than surfing but, both SUPing and surfing require equal amounts of skill in the long run and that's why it appeals to me the most.

Having tried a number of boards, what would be your board of choice?

Every board I tried was fantastic but, purely on quality and ease of use, I would recommend the Red Paddle Co. boards. Having tried the 10’6 Ride SUP and 10’8 Ride SUP, I was seriously impressed. They were great all round boards and are very stable and reliable.

Finally, for those who haven't tried it, would you recommend giving SUPing a go?

Of course! I would recommend it to anyone who loves getting on the water or just likes having a lark around! Its so much fun and great exercise!

It was difficult not to feel Chris’ enthusiasm when he was chatting to us about SUPing. But if you’re still not convinced, why not try out one of our lessons in the summer and see for yourself? If you're already convinced and keen to get some kit, check out our stand up paddle boarding equipment including the popular inflatable SUP packages at Boylos.co.uk.