SUP Winter - Where, how & what?

Where you can train and which board is ideal

Stand Up Paddling (SUP) in winter is a very special experience – the quiet, often almost deserted nature and the crisp air make paddling a great adventure. However, winter SUP has its challenges: cold, wind, and partially icy waters require necessary preparation. In this article, you will learn where you can go stand up paddling even in winter, which board is ideal for the cold season, and what you should look out for regarding your equipment.

Winter SUP spots: Where you can get on the water even in the cold

Can you go SUPing in winter?

Not every body of water is suitable for winter SUP, as many lakes and smaller rivers freeze over. However, there are some suitable spots where paddling remains possible even at low temperatures. In Germany, cities like Heidelberg on the Neckar, Bonn on the Rhine, and Frankfurt am Main are excellent SUP locations that often offer ideal conditions even in winter. Coastal regions on the North Sea, such as Sylt, as well as the Baltic Sea around Usedom are also perfectly suited for winter stand up paddling.

Autumn paddling: Stand up paddling in October

October often still offers mild temperatures and calm waters before winter begins. The colorful autumn landscape provides a particularly beautiful atmosphere on the water. Many paddlers enjoy the quiet and the golden sunsets, and the waters are already significantly emptier than in summer.

When stand up paddling in October, it can be advantageous to wear a light wetsuit to stay warm. A windproof jacket and thermal underwear are other options to protect yourself from the cold and wind, depending on weather conditions. Also remember your SUP leash for extra safety, SUP shoes, and a dry bag for your valuables. You should also ensure that your clothing fits well and offers you sufficient freedom of movement so that you feel comfortable while paddling.

When the frost comes: Stand up paddling in November

In November, it gets significantly colder, and you should approach your work with better preparation. Now, SUP spots like rivers or larger lakes that do not freeze even at low temperatures are a must. Paddling in November often offers you crystal-clear, mirror-smooth waters and an incredibly quiet atmosphere.

A wetsuit is already advisable during this time to protect yourself from the cold water temperatures. Also, be sure to wear special neoprene gloves, as the cold can quickly creep into your fingers. To avoid cold feet, neoprene boots that close seamlessly with the wetsuit are an excellent choice.

It is also particularly helpful to be back on land before sunset, as the days get shorter.

Mastering the cold months: Stand up paddling in December

December is the time when many bodies of water slowly freeze over and paddling becomes a real challenge. Only the real SUP pros venture onto the water at this time of year. Larger rivers like the Rhine or warmer coastal regions are often still the best choice. A winter SUP adventure in Southern Europe or the Canary Islands is also ideal in December to escape the frosty temperatures.

In December, it is crucial to have the right equipment. A high-quality drysuit that completely protects you from the cold water can be worn. For stand up paddling in winter, a wetsuit with 5/4 mm or 6/5 mm is recommended. These thicknesses offer special protection against the cold, with the body being more strongly insulated while the arms remain flexible. Neoprene gloves and boots round off the protection in very cold water. This combination ensures maximum thermal insulation in the torso area, while the arms retain sufficient freedom of movement. If you take these precautions, you can enjoy the special winter landscape on the water to the fullest.

Icy adventures: SUP in January

January is often the coldest month of the year. If you go on the water at this time, you are a real SUP pro. The icy temperatures and the mirror-smooth, empty waters offer an almost mystical experience. Especially in Southern Germany or in mild coastal regions, SUP in January is possible, but it requires special caution.

A thick drysuit with additional warming layers underneath is indispensable. Make sure to paddle near the shore and warm up regularly. The cold winter months require that you go out in pairs whenever possible, to have immediate support in case of an emergency.

Winter final spurt: Stand up paddling in February

In February, the cold temperatures often tend to reach their peak, with average values between -1 °C and 5 °C, but the prospect of an approaching spring makes winter SUP especially attractive once again. The paddling waters are still calm, and the cold ensures that you can often paddle undisturbed.

A wetsuit or a drysuit should still be part of your basic equipment in February. Heat-insulating accessories like gloves and boots are also essential for paddling in sub-zero temperatures.

Spring awakening on the SUP: Stand up paddling in March

March brings the first warmer days and is ideal for slowly coming out of winter mode. While the water temperatures are still cool, paddling in March has a special appeal. Nature comes to life, and you can enjoy the first rays of sunshine on the water.

With rising temperatures around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, you can enjoy March on the water in a relaxed way. Now is the perfect time to stay on the SUP longer and try out new paddling techniques without getting cold. A wetsuit is often no longer strictly necessary – instead, functional clothing is sufficient, depending on weather and water conditions.

Fresh waves in April: SUP season start

April is the official start of the SUP season for many paddlers. The days are getting longer, and the temperatures are rising noticeably. Now is the time to finally swap the winter gear for spring clothing.

With milder temperatures in April, often between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius, you can go on extended SUP tours again and start the new season full of energy. The water is still cool, often around 8 to 12 degrees Celsius, but with the right preparation and the appropriate board, SUP in April becomes a real highlight.

SUP in winter and every season: Which SUP board is the right one?

SUPs for winter should be specially suited for rougher conditions. For the cold months, particularly wide and stable boards are recommended, offering you plenty of buoyancy and safety. A board with high volume is ideal for not losing stability even when wearing extra winter clothing.

An all-rounder comfort SUP board is ideal for summer and winter months, as its wide and stable design offers better grip and balance, especially on colder and rougher water. Furthermore, the comfort ensures longer and safer sessions at lower temperatures.

The perfect winter SUP: Why the Favvity SUP is also ideal for cold days

The Favvity SUP board is your ideal companion for the winter months. Thanks to its robust Fusion Drop-Stitch technology, it offers outstanding stability, even in rougher conditions. With its high volume, the board remains stable and safe on the water even in icy temperatures and with additional clothing.

• Stability: The wide design of the Favvity SUP ensures perfect grip, even when the waves get a bit rougher.
• Half-carbon paddle: Lightweight and robust, the paddle allows you to glide efficiently through the water without much effort.
• Easy to transport: The board is easy to transport and can be set up and taken down in a few minutes – ideal if you want to paddle in different locations in winter.

Winter SUP accessories: What you need for icy adventures

The right equipment for winter SUP is the most important thing. Without suitable clothing and accessories, the cold quickly becomes a challenge. Here are some must-haves for your SUP winter equipment:

• Drysuit or wetsuit: A drysuit keeps you completely dry, while wetsuits keep you warm even in the water.
• Neoprene gloves and boots: Protect your hands and feet from the cold and allow you to paddle comfortably even at low temperatures.
• Safety leash: Safety first – in winter, you should always wear a safety leash to get back onto the board quickly in case you fall into the cold water.
• Dry bag: A dry bag is important in winter to protect valuables and clothing from wetness and wind, and to ensure they stay dry while paddling.

Warm winter escapes: The best SUP holiday destinations for the cold season

When temperatures drop in Germany, it's time for a warm winter holiday. In Europe, there are numerous beautiful holiday destinations that offer ideal weather for stand up paddling. Here are the top 4:

1. Mallorca, Spain: The picturesque bays and calm waters of Mallorca are ideal for SUP fans who want to enjoy the Mediterranean climate.
2. Sicily, Italy: The combination of rich culture and warm weather makes Sicily a great destination for an active SUP holiday.
3. Crete, Greece: This Greek island offers not only breathtaking beaches but also warm temperatures that are perfect for paddling excursions.
4. Algarve, Portugal: With its beautiful coasts and sheltered bays, the Algarve offers great conditions for stand up paddling in winter.

These four destinations guarantee you not only sun and warmth but also breathtaking landscapes that you can explore while paddling.