An inflatable paddle board is soft, stable, and easy to maneuver—perfect for Canadian lakes and bays. It’s also portable and fits easily into a car or storage bag, making it ideal for weekend trips and camping.
A Beginner's Guide to Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards in Canada
SUP is one of Canada's fastest growing summer activities, and for good reason! It's easy to learn, fun, and allows you to get out on the water and enjoy our stunning lakes, rivers, and coast. For beginners, an inflatable stand up paddle board (iSUP) is the perfect place to start.
Whether you're heading to Muskoka, exploring the Okanagan, or paddling in the tranquil waters of Nova Scotia, here's everything you need to know before stepping on your first paddle board.
An inflatable paddle board fits perfectly into the Canadian lifestyle. It's easy to transport, just deflate, roll it up, and throw it in a paddle board backpack or trunk.
Made from military-grade PVC, Funwater's inflatable paddle boards are built to handle most rock bashing.
For beginners, they're soft and stable, giving them excellent stability and maneuverability on the water.
Here’s what every beginner paddleboarder needs:
✅ An all-purpose inflatable stand-up paddleboard
✅ Adjustable paddles (single or double, depending on your preference)
✅ Pump (electric or manual)
✅ Safety rope (to prevent the board from drifting away)
✅ Life jacket (required in Canada)
✅ Dry bag (to store your phone or sunscreen)
Beginners need to start in calm, shallow water. For example, a lake or bay with flat water.
Inflate the board to 12-15PSI.
Get down on your knees and balance before standing up.
Keep your eyes on the horizon, not your feet, to help you stay upright.
Engage your core muscles to paddle, not just your arms.
Wear a wetsuit or quick-dry gear—Canadian waters can be cold even in the summer.
Don’t paddle alone—especially in unfamiliar waters.
Always check the weather and wind direction before heading out.
Start with short training sessions to build strength and confidence.
Funwater's inflatable paddle boards are made for beginners. Stability, safety, and fun are all part of the package. Whether you're planning a weekend at the cabin or a day trip to a local lake, an inflatable SUP is your passport to outdoor freedom in Canada!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an inflatable paddle board ideal for beginners in Canada?
An inflatable paddle board is soft, stable, and easy to maneuver—perfect for Canadian lakes and bays. It’s also portable and fits easily into a car or storage bag, making it ideal for weekend trips and camping.
Is a blow up paddle board durable enough for rocky Canadian waters?
Yes! A blow up paddle board from Funwater is made with military-grade PVC, giving it high durability and resistance to abrasions—great for the rocky shores and rivers across Canada.
What gear do I need to get started with a stand up paddle board?
To begin paddling a stand up paddle board, you'll need: a beginner paddle board (inflatable is best), an adjustable paddle, a pump, leash, life jacket (required in Canada), and a dry bag.
How do I balance on a beginner paddle board for the first time?
Start by kneeling in calm, shallow water on your beginner paddle board. Once you're stable, stand up slowly, keeping your eyes on the horizon and engaging your core for balance.
Where are the best places in Canada to use a SUP board for beginners?
Calm lakes and bays—like Muskoka, the Okanagan, or Nova Scotia’s coastal inlets—are perfect for first-time SUP board users due to their flat, safe water conditions.