Life jackets recommended for stand up paddleboards

The Oregon State Marine Board is urging people operating stand up paddleboards (SUPs) on moving water (primarily rivers) to always wear a life jacket and never wear an ankle or leg leash designed for general flatwater use.

“There’s an emerging trend when we look at the causes for fatalities in recent years where a person, otherwise well outfitted, died because their leash to the SUP became entangled in brush or other debris on area rivers,” said Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. “Most ankle leashes used by SUP users are not designed for quick release. If you get it tangled on rocks or downed trees, the leash could hold you underwater.”

Most SUPs are equipped with a leash so the paddleboard can stay within reach if the user falls off. On a lake or other still water, this is an excellent safety tool when used in conjunction with a life jacket. On moving water though, the leash can be deadly. “Quick-release leashes are available and designed specifically for moving water. It’s worn around the waist or can attach to the life jacket. Leashes attached to a jacket are easier for the paddler to grab and deploy,” says Paulsen.

2024 is shaping up to be another high-fatality boating year. In June there were six fatalities and four so far this month. Combined with one in January, there have been 11 recreational boating fatalities. Tragically, many were preventable, had the operator taken a basic safety precaution, like wearing a life jacket.

“SUPs are very popular, available at big box stores, provide access to local waterways and are a lot of fun,” says Paulsen. “But understanding the basics is crucial.” Paulsen suggested people review safety information for SUPs and visit the Marine Board’s Paddling page for trip planning, with safety in mind. There’s also a FREE online paddling course in both English and Spanish that covers basic strokes, different environmental conditions to consider, and safety equipment.