1. Wind speed and gusts
Wind is the number one factor for most paddlers. It makes chop, pushes you off course and tires you out quickly. Lighter wind means easier, safer paddling.
Look at gusts as well as the average. Gusts show how much the wind can spike, and a big gap between average and gust means less predictable conditions.
2. Wind direction: onshore vs offshore
Offshore wind blows from land out to sea. The water near the shore can look calm while the wind quietly pushes you away from land, and it is much harder to paddle back against it. Treat offshore wind with extra respect, especially on a SUP.
Onshore wind blows toward the land. It tends to make the sea choppier, but it usually pushes you back to shore.
3. Wave height
Wave height tells you how big the waves are. Small waves are fine for most paddlers, but taller waves make launching, landing and balancing harder, particularly on a SUP. Choose a height that matches your skill and your craft.
4. Swell period
Swell period is the time in seconds between waves. A longer period means more powerful, organised swell. A short period means steep, closely spaced, choppy waves, which are often more uncomfortable than a larger swell with a long period.
Other things to check
- Tides and currents in your area, which a general forecast may not cover
- Water and air temperature, and what you will wear
- Daylight hours and when the wind is expected to build
- Local warnings and restrictions
Use the forecast, then use your judgement
Forecasts can be wrong and conditions change quickly on the water. If it looks marginal, choose a more sheltered spot, go with someone, or paddle another day.
