Stories
Original Vs. ULTRA™ Collection Paddle Boards
There is no right or wrong when it comes to how to explore waterways on a paddle board. And we have learned over the years that the size and weight of an inflatable SUP can affect those who live in cities, use public transportation, or explore the country in a van or camper.
We knew it was important to reinvent our most loved paddle boards into a lightweight compact package for convenient transport and storage and continue our mission in creating something for everyone.
It is time to discover what inflatable SUP is best for you and your lifestyle!
Original Technology for Inflatable Paddle Boards
Since 2013, the Original Technology has been tested and tried to create the best selling paddle board on the market today. The functional and durable build of the iROCKER makes it a reliable pick for people of all sizes, skills levels, and budget restrictions.
Construction
Why choose Original technology? Original technology can be found in all models excluding the ULTRA™ Collection. These lightest paddle boards are made with a double or triple layer PVC construction making these boards reliable and durable on your adventures; and will protect your board from rocks, fallen down trees, oyster beds and more.
Storage & Travel
How you transport or store your SUP can determine what type of paddle board best suits your lifestyle. Original Technology boards are going to take a up more room in comparison to ULTRA™ boards. Easily roll up your board and store in your SUP duffle and you're ready to go!
If you are someone who likes the option of rolling your SUP in a Premium Wheeled SUP Duffle or wearing it as a backpack, this is the best choice for you! The 41" x 16" x 12" SUP duffle allows you to store your 3-piece paddle, paddle board pump, fins, leash, repair kit and has extra room to pack clothes and gear for your next trip.
Why pay for two checked bags at the airport when you can check one with all your essentials?
ULTRA™ Technology in Stand Up Paddle Boards
In 2022, the ULTRA™ Collection was released as the most compact SUP on the market, reinvented to make hiking, biking, and traveling with your SUP that much easier. Getting to the water and on you SUP board has never been simpler, with more time to experience fun on the water.
Construction
New, innovative cross-threaded construction delivers multiple benefits. While the triple-layer PVC composite delivers the same dependable quality used in Original Technology, with this new type of construction, it has improved board rigidity and stiffness; plus it cuts down on the raw materials needed. Most importantly, allows the board to fold in half long ways before rolling, cutting down the size in half when rolling the SUP up to store away.
Storage & Travel
Are you limited on storage space or wanting to hike to remote destinations with your SUP board? Understanding what works for you is key to picking out what SUP is best for you. The ULTRA™ Collection enhanced backpack is 50% smaller than that of the Original Technology SUP duffle, making compact convenience the ULTRA™ Series most attractive feature, especially for those hiking, biking, backcountry paddling, road trips or even overseas destinations.
And hey, let us not forget about our minimal space paddlers. Compact convenience is not just for traveling it is also for those with limited storage. Those with smaller areas in their home, apartment, van, or camper to store a SUP will have an easier time finding space for a smaller 10" x 16" x 21" backpack.
Whether you are looking for an inflatable SUP to use right in your backyard or travel across the country with, we have options for you to pick from. Opportunities are endless and we want YOU to enjoy every moment you can on and off the water without a worry in the world about how you are going to bring SUP along for the ride.
About iROCKER
Since 2013, iROCKER has been the top online destination for all your paddle boarding needs. They have an inflatable paddle board for everyone. Explore their versatile line of all-around inflatable SUP boards. Or check out their ULTRA™ Collection. These lightweight boards are designed to go with you anywhere—no waterway is off limits. What about paddle boarding accessories? iROCKER has every angle covered. Find an electric pump for your blow up paddle board. Or get a cooler that straps right onto your board! Make your next adventure on the water an adventure to remember with iROCKER!
Get all the gear you need for an amazing paddle boarding adventure at The Gear Junky collection!
Take Things Up a Notch on Your Next Paddle Boarding Adventure
Warmer weather is almost here, it may be a few months away, but that does not mean you cannot start planning your paddle boarding adventures! With the season so close, you may be looking to shake things up a bit. You want to make the most of your time on your inflatable paddle board. How can you take things up a notch?
Here are a few quick and easy suggestions to really kick things up for your next on-the-water adventure. Put these tips to good use this weekend, or anytime you’re feeling spontaneous. If you want to kick off warmer weather with a paddle boarding extravaganza, these ideas are for you!
Explore Somewhere New
We all have our favorite paddle boarding spots. Maybe it’s the lake up the road, or it might be the reservoir with scenic views an hour outside of town. It’s the place you visit time and time again. But sometimes, your favorite paddle boarding locations can start to feel a little stale, especially as the summer wears on. Perhaps you just want to avoid getting tired of your local spots.
Spice things up with a new paddle boarding location you’ve never been to! Pack up your inflatable paddle board and make a day trip out of it. Go somewhere you don’t normally visit, or you are excited to explore more. There’s something exciting about exploring unfamiliar waters and breaking up your routine. You never know what you might discover. And who knows, maybe you’ll find a new favorite spot.
Find new SUP spots or mark down your favorite locations with the Blue Adventures app powered by iROCKER.
Also, take a look at our collection Spice SUP Your Life to enhance your next adventure!
Go SUP Kayaking
Stand up paddle boarding is fun, but have you tried SUP kayaking? It starts by turning your inflatable paddle board into a kayak. All you need is a SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit. This includes a kayak seat and a paddle blade that attaches to your existing paddle. How does this take things to the next level for your paddle boarding adventure? A SUP kayak unlocks all kinds of possibilities. For more information, watch this video.
You can take your SUP board to spots where you might avoid typical stand-up paddle boarding. This includes faster or rougher rivers. An inflatable SUP kayak isn’t necessarily designed for extreme whitewater rapids, but you can take it on rivers and streams where standing isn’t always an option. You can also use a SUP kayak for longer excursions where standing might get tiring. Take a seat and enjoy the ride!
Plus, if you don't want to kayak alone you can tandem kayak by attaching two kayak seats to your iROCKER paddle board!
Make a Party Out of It
Have you ever organized a paddle boarding party? It’s when you and your friends all get together on your inflatable paddle boards and bring coolers stocked with snacks and drinks. Find the perfect spot on the water near the shore and anchor all your boards together.
Play games, listen to some tunes with a waterproof speaker, and have a blast! It’s a great way to kick off spring or summer while having a memorable paddle boarding adventure at the same time. It might even become your newest summer tradition.
About iROCKER
Since 2013, iROCKER has been the top online destination for all your paddle boarding needs. They have a paddle board for everyone. Explore their versatile line of all-around inflatable SUP boards. Or check out their ULTRA™ Collection. These lightweight boards are designed to go with you anywhere—no waterway is off limits. What about paddle boarding accessories? iROCKER has every angle covered. Find an electric pump for your blow up paddle board. Or get a cooler that straps right onto your board! Make your next adventure on the water an adventure to remember with iROCKER!
Get all the gear you need for an amazing paddle boarding adventure at irockersup.com.
For someone who love to push their boundaries, explore new places, and paddle their way out of their comfort zone. Check out our Adventure collection!
The days have gotten shorter and cold weather might still be upon us, but warmer, sunnier days are just around the corner. And you know what that means—SUP season is almost here! Trade in your skis for a paddle board and start preparing for the best season on the water yet.
Get Ready with Us
How to Choose the Right SUP For You
Selecting the right SUP is the first step to making sure you have the most memorable paddle season with family and friends. So, how do you select the right SUP? Let us help you!
We have something for just about everyone no matter their skill level, body type, budget and activity preference.
The iROCKER series of boards are the perfect mix of lightweight materials and durability. Great for those who have been around the lake a few times, the iROCKER boards are built with explorers in mind who are looking to enhance their paddling skills while providing enough room and flexibility for yoga lovers to enjoy as well.
Are you an experienced paddler looking for features, speed, and a more premium feel? The BLACKFIN series is perfect for anyone looking to set the pace and show off their skills on the water. These premium boards have the most action mounts and accessories available, making every trip better and more convenient than ever.
The ULTRA™ Collection is perfect for those with the travel bug who want to bring their SUP on epic vacations to gorgeous destinations. Our lightest, most compact boards to date, the ULTRA™ boards are the perfect travel companion when you get the paddling itch.
Start Practicing Your Balance
Before you get back out on the water after the winter hiatus, make sure you have practiced your balance on land. Making sure you are comfortable on your SUP will make a huge difference in your experience, so make sure you plan your exercise or workout routines accordingly.
Paddling on the water will utilize your leg muscles and core muscles to keep you standing when the water gets rough, or the wind gets gusty.
For more SUP tips for those heading into your first paddle season with us, watch this video to help prepare yourself for a summer of fun on the water!
Plan Your Adventures
To get the most out of your water excursions, a great rule of thumb is to make sure you have properly planned out your day. Nothing is more frustrating than getting all packed up to waste time and not enjoy your day as much as possible.
Download the Blue Adventures App
Powered by iROCKER, this app is the perfect companion for a day on the water. Log, record, explore and evaluate all in one easy to use place!
Plan a trip with the Family or Friends
Make sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to location and duration!
Pack the Essentials!
PFDs, sunscreen, dry clothes, sunglasses, towels, hydration, cell phones, dry bags etc. Make sure you have everything you need for a full day on the water!
Traveling Far? ULTRA™ Boards are the Way to Go
Whether it's by car, plane, boat or train, super light and compact ULTRA™ boards are the perfect companions to bring for an awesome adventure.
Plan on the Water Activities
If you plan to fish, bring a pet, practice your downward dog pose, and anything in-between, make sure you bring the proper equipment and accessories to make things as simple as possible!
Gear Up for Adventure
You’ve got the board and it's all yours. Now what? Personalize your board and bundle your favorite accessories to make your time nothing short of perfect. No matter your hobby or skill, we’ve got the extras you’re looking for.
Looking to customize your board with a personal touch of color? You can swap out the bungees and handles with different colors to suit your mood.
Want to relax and enjoy the water without paddling? The Boost Fin battery powered electric propulsion kit takes the work out of paddling and puts the board in cruise control. To make things even easier, pair this with the Kayak Conversion Kit so you can sit back and relax while you cruise around the lake!
Looking for some rechargeable accessories? The VIBE Waterproof Bluetooth speaker lets you blast your favorite tunes wherever you are and the iROCKER Electric Pump Battery lets you inflate your board with ease. It also doubles as a power bank for your portable devices!
It's never too late to start living your best life on the water, regardless of your age or skill level! It's a new year, and it can be a new you, too!
We'll see you on the water.
Making natural connections with owner and adventure-lover James Headrick
Island Life Expeditions may look out over Desolation Sound, but there’s nothing desolate about the landscape you’ll find here. Founder and owner James Headrick can attest to that. “We’re right on the beach, my shop overlooks the ocean [ … ] I’m surrounded by beautiful islands and reefs, warm water and whales and dolphins and fishing and temperate rainforests. It’s a magical place people don’t really know about yet.” But with his tour company, offering boat charters, paddle tours, and even heli-paddle tours, people from across the globe are discovering the beauty of this little slice of Pacific Northwest paradise.
JOINING FORCES
“They call it the Gateway to the North,” James explains of his shop’s location on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. And while today he spends most of his time in and around the water, it wasn’t always like that for this outdoorsman. Growing up on a farm in southern Saskatchewan just outside of a small town of about 800 people, James was used to the prairie life and raising animals. But when tough times took hold in the 80s, his parents sold the farm - literally - and moved the family out to Vancouver Island where his great-grandparents had already set up shop. “I went to my meeting and I met Bastian Fleury. We were the only ones who showed up in puffy jackets,” laughs James. “It turns out he was a helicopter pilot for the marketing company he worked for, and I was this marketing guy and we both loved adventure and we became fast friends.” James had only recently begun a paddle board adventure tours and rentals business, offering paddle tours of the local waterways. It was while boat camping on a remote island one evening back in 2019 that the two decided to take James’ paddle tour idea to the skies.
PADDLE PERFECT
Catering to many of the area’s resorts, Island Life Expeditions takes guests from around the world to experience the beauty of paddling a glacial lake. “I’m still a farmer as it happens,” James laughs. “I have to work with the seasons. As soon as the lakes start to open up, we can start going up there.” “There” being the Coast Mountains of British Columbia. The small, but magical window where the snow begins melting atop the ice is especially popular with his thrill-seeking guests. “You get these crazy emerald channels you can paddle,” explains James. “And then once the ice starts to break up [ … ] you have these great big mountain top lakes that you can paddle with floating ice bergs and hanging glaciers.”
CONNECTION MINDSET
Always looking to take adventure to the next level, James is dreaming up new ways of immersing people in the entire landscape of the Pacific Northwest through an all-inclusive, potentially multi-day offering. “It’s a more sea to sky approach,” he explains, “where we do something on the ocean and then go to the mountains or vice versa.” The ultimate goal is for guests to spend their time foraging for ingredients in the rich landscape for an epic meal that caps off a day of wilderness exploration with a meal beside a fire. And he's already tapped several other guides in the area to help with this latest endeavor. “We all believe in having an activity, being in nature…having a mindset of connection is really the underpinning of what we’re doing when we take people out,” states James.
“There’s just so much to do in this landscape. So, I really want to take people out by boat, anchor, go paddle, get on land, there’s amazing little hikes to waterfalls and swimming holes [ … ] just stretch it out a bit longer, so people go home and remember more,” he says. As if anyone could soon forget the freedom and intense beauty of stand up paddling through a glacial lake high above the clouds…
Are you traveling soon and thinking about taking your inflatable paddle board along for the ride? Traveling with your paddle board can be an incredible experience. You get to explore new waters and enjoy new adventures. Sometimes, though, packing your paddle board for a trip can seem like a challenge. You’re already packing one or two bags of luggage. A paddle board adds another variable to the mix. But it doesn’t have to be daunting! Taking your inflatable SUP board on a trip can be a simple process and just about as easy as packing anything else. So, if you’re planning a trip and looking for the best way to bring your inflatable paddle board, here are a few ideas to make packing and traveling super simple.
Get the SUP Clean and Ready to Go
During the summer paddle boarding season, you may be out on the water every weekend. With all that time on the water, in the sand, on the dirt, and everywhere else, your board can accumulate all kinds of gunk. If you plan on packing up your inflatable SUP for a trip, be sure to give it a thorough cleaning before deflating and storing it. Warm soap and water are a great way to clean any paddle board. Or you can also use a dedicated SUP cleaner for a deeper clean.
The goal is to wipe away all dirt, debris, residue, and anything else clinging to your board. Then let it dry completely, and it will be ready to fold and pack up. This is a good practice any time you fold and store your inflatable paddle board. It’s also a good practice when you’re done paddle boarding for the season if you plan to put your board away for a few months or simply won’t be using it quite as often. It keeps your board clean and ready for the next time you head out on an adventure—and it helps extend the overall life of your SUP.
Deflate Your Inflatable Paddle Board for a Secure Ride
Never drive with your inflatable paddle board strapped to the top of your vehicle or in a truck bed. Inflatable SUP boards are designed to be durable and resilient on the water, but traveling down the highway can bend or misshape them. Then, when you get on the water, you’ll notice your board isn’t performing as you expected.
The best advice is simply not to risk it. Deflate your paddle board before heading out. If you have a travel bag, don’t hesitate to use it. Storing your inflatable paddle board in a travel bag adds another layer of protection in transit. Plus, it makes it so much easier to transport with your other luggage. If you don’t have a travel bag, they come highly recommended!
Inflate and Deflate with Ease
When you’re traveling, you probably don’t want to spend too much time inflating or deflating your paddle board. If you want to inflate your paddle board more quickly or efficiently, consider using an electric pump. Many inflatable paddle board models come with a manual hand pump. These work well, but they can take effort to get your SUP inflated. Electric pumps, on the other hand, inflate and deflate your SUP with the push of a button. Even better, many pumps travel well and are small enough to pack in your SUP travel bag.
About iROCKER
Since 2013, iROCKER has been the top online destination for all your paddle boarding needs. They have an inflatable paddle board for everyone. Explore their versatile line of all-around inflatable SUP boards. Or check out their ULTRA™ Collection. These lightweight boards are designed to go with you anywhere—no waterway is off limits. What about paddle boarding accessories? iROCKER has every angle covered. Find an electric pump for your blow up paddle board. Or get a cooler that straps right onto your board! Make your next adventure on the water an adventure to remember with iROCKER!
Get ready for your next SUP adventure at irockersup.com
As stand-up paddle boarding soars in popularity as a summertime sport, more paddlers are beginning to venture out in the winter as well. And for good reason. Summer in Canada is beautiful, but it’s also short. If you don’t want your paddle boards collecting dust for nine months of the year, you either have to fly south (like a Canada Goose!) or brave going out in colder weather. Fortunately, modern SUPs are fit for year-round use. And with the right skills and equipment, a reasonably confident paddler can extend their SUP season well into the shoulder months, and even winter. You can enjoy kaleidoscopic fall colors, bright snowy landscapes, or the budding freshness of spring, all from aboard your favorite SUP! And you also get to enjoy the added calm absent summer crowds.
Naturally, venturing out in colder weather presents a whole new set of risks and challenges for the intrepid paddler. The shoulder seasons are relatively easy to manage, but winter paddling can be more hazardous and warrants some extra caution. Falling in the water can be a dangerous possibility in sub-zero temperatures. The risks of hypothermia, frostbite, and drowning are all elevated, and the realities of dealing with cold, snow, and ice, might surprise you with unexpected difficulties. It pays to think ahead and learn from the mistakes of others. So, without further ado, here are some lessons we’ve learned over the years paddling throughout our cold, Canadian winters.
1. Clothing
For the confident paddler, warm winter clothing might seem adequate enough. A warm puffy jacket, winter gloves, a toque (that’s the Canadian name for a winter hat or beanie!) and some insulated pants and winter boots are certainly items you’ll want to bring along in cold temperatures. However, standard winter clothing will become heavy and burdensome if you fall in the water, making it hard to swim (no matter how infrequently you fall, you should always be prepared for it to happen!) and won’t do much to fend off the cold once soaked with water. For those reasons, you absolutely should wear a lifejacket (hey, it’s extra insulation!) and a leash to prevent your SUP board from getting away from you!
To really cover your bases, I’d recommend a winter wetsuit. Neoprene wetsuits are surprisingly inexpensive, readily available, and only a fraction of the cost of a dry suit—and there are options designed to keep you warm in freezing temperatures. They provide an excellent insulating layer and unlike standard winter clothing, will protect you in the event that you fall in. We’ve remained quite comfortable in 5mm neoprene wetsuits well into sub-zero temperatures, and you can always layer dry winter clothing on top to stay comfortable. These won’t keep you warm if you plan to get in and out of the water, as they’re not as effective in the air, but will at least provide enough protection that you can get safely back to somewhere warm, in the event you fall in.
Neoprene gloves, hoods, and footwear are also available, and will suffice for modestly cold temperatures. However, these items don’t perform as well in the air as they do in the water, and for that reason I most often elect for some winter work gloves, wool socks in waterproof hikers, and a nice warm toque instead.
Of course, the best option is a full dry suit, but a good one will likely cost you more than your board. If you plan to do a lot of winter paddling, it might be worth the investment.
2. A Dry Bag & Emergency Gear
In the event you do fall in the water, you’ll want to have a towel and a stash of backup clothing and additional layers readily available. If we are planning to go any distance, we keep these supplies in a dry bag on the front of the board. A dry bag is one item that I rarely go without. It provides a secure place to keep your essentials and car keys and can be easily accessed on the water if secured to the cargo straps on the front of your board.
Choose a good quality waterproof bag to ensure your items don’t get wet, and keep in mind some materials become brittle in colder temperatures. As a side-tip, when you roll up the dry bag to secure it, make sure to trap some extra air inside (like a balloon!). If it’s airtight, it’s watertight, and the added buoyancy will ensure it doesn’t sink.
3. Water Access
In colder temperatures, it becomes more important that you stay dry. In the summer, it’s easy to wade out into the shallows to find enough depth for fin clearance and then start your paddle. In the winter, you will most likely want to avoid this so that your feet don’t get soaked and subsequently become ice-cubes once exposed again to the cold air. You’ll want to think ahead, and plan entry and exit where deeper water can be accessed right from shore, so that you can mount and unmount your board without getting your feet wet. If there’s ice along the shore, additional precautions should be taken (see below!).
4. Beware of Ice
If temperatures are sufficiently low that you might encounter ice on the water, be extremely cautious planning outings. It’s critical to note here that you should NEVER go out on river, streams, reservoirs, lakes with a current, or any form of flowing water where ice is possible or has already accumulated. The risk of being swept under the ice in moving water is too great, and if you encounter an impassible section of iced-up water, you won’t be able to paddle upstream to avoid it. If there’s ice, only well-known, perfectly still bodies of water should be considered, and even then, with extreme caution. It is highly likely the ice will prevent you from swimming safely to shore, so you need to think ahead and always have a plan to get out of the water should something go wrong.
In icy conditions, access to the water becomes one of the biggest hazards. The shallows will most likely be frozen, and if they’re not, it might be because the water is flowing. Don’t ever attempt to walk across unknown ice unless you have the skills and tools to assess it. The best option is to find an ice-free, deep-water access point where you can get on and off your board without getting your feet wet. The best (and often only) option here is a dock, as steep embankments are guaranteed to be slippery.
5. Bring Sand or Light Gravel if Paddling in Icy Conditions
Paddling in sub-zero temperatures means that you’ll most likely accumulate ice on the deck of your board. Proper footwear can go a long way to providing grip, but you might need some extra help to have sure footing and traction. We’ve learned to take a small bag of sand or light gravel to sprinkle on the deck as it becomes icy. It’s an environmentally friendly solution and helps to prevent slips and falls.
6. Inflating / Deflating Your Board
Inflating and deflating a SUP in cold temperatures is substantially more difficult than in the summer. The colder the temperature, the stiffer and more brittle the material will become. In freezing temperatures, any water or moisture in the valve might freeze and cause it to leak. Most northerners know, the colder the weather, the more likely it is for equipment to fail.
With that said, in temperatures below freezing, it is best to inflate and deflate your inflatable SUP board indoors or in a warm environment. If you must inflate and deflate outside, let the material warm up in the trunk of your car before unfolding it. If it’s particularly stiff and difficult to fold up again, loosely toss it in the back of your car, and worry about folding it properly once it’s warm. You might damage the board by forcing it. Of course, the iROCKER Electric Pump can go a long way to making inflating easier!
7. Expect A Drop in Pressure
To best protect your equipment, it is best to inflate indoors, but there’s a caveat here. Since the air that you are pumping into your board will be significantly warmer than the air and water outside, you will most likely see a significant drop in board pressure once the board cools down outside. This is because the pressure of the gas (air!) inside the board decreases with temperature, as it cools and becomes more dense. A rule of thumb often used for car tires is that for every 10°C, you can expect a pressure drop of about 1-2PSI. For Fahrenheit, the rule of thumb is about 1PSI for 10°F. You may have noticed this paddling in the summer too! When you fill your board up in the warm air on land, and subsequently expose it to much colder water temperatures, you’ll typically notice a slight loss of pressure.
The solution to this issue in the winter is to fill your board inside, then top it up once it has cooled down outside with cold dense air, so that you have full pressure. If you do this though, you’ll have to remember to let some air out before the board warms up again indoors – otherwise you can expect the rise in temperature to create an over-pressure situation.
----
Hopefully these tips are helpful to any paddlers braving the winter season! Here in Calgary, we’ve learned many of these lessons the hard way in temperatures as low as -20°C. This winter, being particularly cold at the onset, has frozen most of our local water bodies solid, but once the ice starts to dissipate, you can be sure we’ll be out on the water again. If you have any comments or tips and tricks of your own, share them in the comments below!
As always, happy paddling!
Just getting into paddle boarding? Check out our best-selling SUPs.
If there’s anything we’ve learned from the past few years, it’s that maintaining a healthy immune system is key to staying well. And there’s a bit more to it than just washing your hands.
It’s important to exercise, get a healthy dose of fresh air, eat right, stay hydrated and care for your body from head to toe. And SUPing helps too! Discover 5 ways a healthy SUP lifestyle can help boost your immune system and help you live a fun and healthy life.
#1: PADDLE BOARDING STRENGTHENS ALL OF YOUR MUSCLES
If you’re a stand up paddler already, then you know stand up paddle boarding is a full body workout. From shore, it might not look like you’re working every muscle, but you are.
In fact, SUP works just about every muscle of your body, from your neck, shoulders, and arms, down to your legs and feet. Most of all—and best of all—it really works your core. Core strength is beneficial for all of your body’s functions, and healthy bodily functions are key to a healthy immune system.
SUP also improves your balance, another important factor in staying healthy. Learning to maintain a constant standing position on moving water takes full body concentration and effort. You’ll feel the effects of your workout and you’ll see it, too, with better tone and better balance on stable ground.
Whether you opt for traditional paddling or try SUP yoga or SUP surfing, you’re going to benefit with a leaner, stronger, healthier body.
#2: STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING BURNS CALORIES
With a good paddle session, you’re going to burn a lot of calories. On average, you can burn up to twice as many calories with SUP as you would with speed walking on a treadmill. The harder, faster, and longer you SUP, the more you burn!
Here’s a rundown on SUP calorie burn with different SUP activities:
SURFING ON STAND UP PADDLE BOARD
SUP surfing is a serious workout and a serious calorie burner. In one hour of SUP surfing, you can burn up to 600-to-750 calories.
PADDLE BOARD RACING
Racing will definitely get your blood pumping, and we all know that’s good for your heart. SUP racing also burns major calories. Depending on what kind of racer you are, you can burn 700 calories or more in just one hour.
SUP YOGA
SUP Yoga is one of the most popular forms of non-traditional SUP. It’s a great mind-body workout and a great calorie burner. An hour of SUP can burn around 400 calories and leave you feeling blissed out on the water.
#3: PADDLE BOARDING GETS YOUR HEART PUMPING
Let’s talk a little more about heart health. Exercising gets your heart pumping and in turn, your heart gets oxygenated blood to all of your muscles. By maintaining a healthy heart, you are taking giant strides toward boosting your immune system. Conversely, an unhealthy heart can lead to heart disease which can make you susceptible to all kinds of illnesses, including viruses like Covid-19. It’s extremely important to maintain a healthy heart by not smoking, eliminating bad fats and processed foods, and getting plenty of exercise.
#4: PADDLE BOARDING BEATS STRESS
Stress is another killer, and another contributor to heart disease. Unfortunately, while certain stressors are unavoidable, SUP is a proven way to help manage and relieve tension. It distracts you from your worries, forcing your attention on the process of paddling and balancing, and gets you in tune with Mother Nature.
#5: YOUR BODY GETS THE FRESH AIR AND SUNSHINE IT CRAVES ON A PADDLE BOARD
Did you know an estimated 40 percent of people have a vitamin D deficiency? And that number only goes up during the winter months.
Fresh air and sunshine are your friends when it comes to maintaining a healthy immune system, and the vitamin D we get from being out in the sun is hard to capture in pill form. Besides, stand up paddling is much more fun than a multivitamin anyway! Of course, we need to remember to protect ourselves from too much sun, but a little bit every day is healthy.
All of these factors add up to a healthier mind, healthier heart, and healthier immune system. So, what are you waiting for? Get outside and get on your SUP board!
Discover the benefits of the SUP lifestyle for senior explorers
If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “I just don’t think I could stand up on a paddle board,” or, “I’m too old for that,” think again! iROCKER paddlers range in age from young kids to senior explorers, all finding joy in living their best lives on the water. And for those more senior adventurers, paddle boarding is about more than just having fun on the water—it can actually help to improve balance and provide a low impact workout perfect for those with joint pain. If you’re looking for a new way to remain active, preserve muscle strength, and maintain your flexibility, get ready to SUP!
SAFETY FIRST
Like with any water sport, safety should be your first priority when paddle boarding. This means having the right gear—including a personal flotation device and the proper attire—as well as checking the forecast, using your SUP leash, and employing the buddy system. If you’re planning to paddle solo, let a friend or family member know exactly where you’ll be heading and when you plan to be back. Better yet, opt to take your phone with you in a waterproof case. At the very least, you’ll be happy to have it to take pictures of your latest hobby!
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
Again, as with any exercise routine, it’s important to know your skill set and your limits. Don’t set out to paddle further than you’re capable of, or in conditions you’re not yet comfortable in. Staying close to shore can help you feel comfortable and confident as you navigate paddling a SUP for the first few times. Plus, you can keep track of how far you’ve gone, and even have a friend keep a watchful eye from the shoreline should you need any assistance.
GO AT YOUR OWN PACE
Paddle boarding should be fun, not stressful! And no one becomes a pro overnight. It’s more than okay to start slow. Not sure whether you’re ready to stand up just yet? Opt for transforming your board into a kayak with the SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit. This versatile accessory allows you to start seated as you gain confidence and build strength on the board. Once you feel ready, you can try standing up—again, always going at your own pace and taking in the scenery rather than racing to keep up with others.
REAP THE BENEFITS
In our opinion, the biggest benefit to paddle boarding is the fun you’ll have on the water, whether paddling solo or with family and friends. In fact, you may be having so much fun you don’t even notice the other, more hidden perks to paddling. As you’ve probably heard your doctor say, staying active past the age of 55 is crucial, helping to support your physical and mental health as well as your independence as you age. Without regular physical activity, seniors increase their risk of life-threatening issues including diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and stroke, not to mention an increase rate of injuries.
Providing a full body workout, stand up paddling engages your core, helping to improve muscle strength as well as overall balance. And even just recreational paddling requires the use of your cardiovascular system, helping to improve your endurance not only on your board but also in daily activities like walking. And when it comes to mental health, paddle boarding can even help improve your mood. Just getting outside and in the sun can turn your entire day around, and paddle boarding is the perfect way to alleviate long-term depression and take a break from life’s daily stressors.
So, what are you waiting for? You’re never too old to pick up a new skill!
Find the perfect SUP for you.
A love of paddle boarding has no age limit. Whether you’re looking to get mom or dad more active or give them a new activity they can do together, check out our collection for The Senior Explorer!
We’re all about using creativity to take your SUP investment as far as possible. While every iROCKER board packs plenty of adventure opportunities, it’s always fun to take things to the next level. Get even more out of your board with our versatile SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit.
Test your limits in the ocean or Intracoastal by converting your SUP into a kayak and in less than five minutes you have a completely different piece of equipment and another sport!
Transforming your SUP into a kayak provides not only a different on-the-water experience, but also offers several benefits. If you’re paddling long distances, having the option to take a break and give your legs a rest means you can adventure further, longer. Having a dual-blade kayak paddle can also be helpful against strong winds or currents. The option to sit down while SUP fishing can also prove beneficial as a seated position can give you more leverage while reeling in your catch—not to mention can be more comfortable if you’re planning a long day of trawling on the water!
Follow this simple advice for your paddle/blade and SUP board and you’ll be kayaking before you know it.
“Even though I primarily like to stand up and paddle, I like the flexibility of being able to use the board as a kayak when my daughter is on board with me. We enjoy using our iROCKER as a kayak more than our actual kayak.”
– Justin N., iROCKER customer
FIVE SIMPLE STEPS TO TURN YOUR IROCKER INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARD INTO A KAYAK
Step 1: Purchase the Right Kayak Bundle for Your Board Type
We can’t stress this enough—make sure the kit you purchase is compatible with your SUP package. Our SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit is compatible with all iROCKER boards.
Step 2: Attach the Seat Straps to the Rings
Place the kayak seat facing forward in the middle of your paddle board. Attach the straps on the top of the kayak seat to the D-rings on the front of your board, then attach the straps on the bottom of the kayak seat to the D-rings on the back of your board.
Step 3: Flip the Seat Up and Adjust Straps to Desired Length
Once all the straps are attached correctly, flip open the seat. Adjust the straps accordingly to make sure the seat opens evenly. You may need to take the kayak out for a spin and adjust the straps to fit the posture that’s most comfortable for you.
There you go! Your board is now a kayak. Now it’s time to attach the kayak blade to your SUP paddle.
Step 4: Pull the T-Bar Handle Out of the Paddle
Simply flip the attachment piece on the paddle to remove the original top handle.
Step 5: Replace the T-Bar Handle with the Kayak Blade
Push the kayak blade from your kit into the open end of the paddle. Click the latch down to secure it in place. Now you have a dual-sided paddle perfect for your kayak adventures!
If you’d rather watch—check out this quick how-to video.
That’s all there is to it! The SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit is a great way to save hundreds of dollars on a traditional kayak and a great way to get more out of your SUP. Be sure to take your SUP-Kayak combo on your next trip for endless hours of water fun on your feet or on your bum.
OTHER ISUP ACCESSORIES YOU’LL LOVE
WATERPROOF/BLUETOOTH STEREO ATTACHMENT
If you crave music while you’re on the water, the VIBE Waterproof Speaker is the perfect accessory. Simply use the suction feature to securely attach it to your SUP.
ATTACHABLE COOLER DECK BAG
Gone are the days of relaxing in the middle of the water without a cold drink or snacks in hand. An advanced bungee system attaches the water-resistant Cooler Deck Bag to the D-rings on your board for on-the-go convenience.
ELECTRIC PUMP
Function is the name of the game with the fast-acting iROCKER 12V Electric Pump. Inflate your board to 15 PSI in 12 minutes or less and spend more time on the water.
Going on a kayak trip? Check out our kayak gear!
Our Promise, Beyond the Paddle
We're driven by purpose—and powered by the outdoors. From product quality to environmental action, here's what we stand for:
We guarantee the quality of our products.
With paddles in our hands and adventure in our soul, we focus on top-quality manufacturing, design, and functionality.
Learn moreWe are committed to keeping waterways clean.
We are a team of passionate outdoor lovers.
