For paddlers of all kinds, from seasoned experts to those just starting out, safety on the water is a priority. Paddling is an incredible way to explore and connect with nature, but unpredictable conditions, strong currents, and rapidly changing weather can turn a routine outing into a risky experience. PaddleLIVE®, one of Paddle Logger’s safety features, was designed with these challenges in mind. With real-time location tracking and automated alerts, it keeps you connected to your chosen emergency contacts, offering both you and your loved ones peace of mind.

Setting meaningful paddling goals is more than just jotting down a few numbers. It’s about challenging yourself and making every stroke on the water count. Whether you're a recreational paddler or an aspiring pro, having clear goals for your paddling journey can enhance your motivation and performance. With Paddle Logger, tracking your paddling progress has never been easier. Here's how you can make the most out of your 2025 goals.

What an epic year on the water! 2024 has brought awesome collaborations, new podcast episodes amazing new features and of course some fantastic paddling! What a way to celebrate 10 years on the water! As always paddlers can now access their annual data round up which this year includes goals achieved and reference to where across the year you were on the water most! Make sure you head to Year on the Water and share your stats with the community!

What to do when things go wrong

In previous articles we looked at the three main categories of unexpected occurrences which you might encounter while out on your paddleboard. Namely; issues with your equipment, your environment, or your wellness. Other than a few really extreme situations (such as a cardiac arrest or being run over by a speedboat), the vast majority of unexpected occurrences are not in themselves life-threatening. It is how you deal with them that will determine how they play out - which could be anywhere on a spectrum from minor inconvenience through to full blown emergency. 

This is our third set of excerpts from the series of SUP SAFETY books written by Bill Dawes, National Safety Officer for stand up paddleboarding in New Zealand.

Navigating open water can be exhilarating, but it also comes with challenges, especially for paddlers up for adventures in unfamiliar areas. PaddlePLAN® was released in Paddle Logger’s latest major update. It was designed with these adventurers in mind, bringing paddling navigation tools to your iPhone and Apple Watch.

PaddlePLAN® allows you to plot detailed routes, track your location in real-time, and stay safely on course with haptic feedback and on-screen alerts, even if you stray from your route.

Continuing our series with PaddleUK. Here are a mix of routes to check out next time you are in the NE of England. We asked Anna Little, to offer some suggestions. From river cruising to some advanced ocean paddling, this guide has it all whether you are local or just visiting. Keep an eye out for awesome coastal paddle events, the Big Dippa and Beadnell Belta too! For a range of abilities as always make sure to check the conditions before you go! Have fun!

Being safe on your paddleboard essentially comes down to two things:

1: Reducing the risks of something going wrong. In other words,  proper planning and preparation, and knowledge/understanding of your environment.

2: Coping better if something does happen. In other words, knowing what to do when things go wrong, and understanding your safety equipment. 

Over the next few regular blog articles we’re going to be focussing on the second of these; a topic which doesn’t get anywhere near enough coverage in safety discussion. However, to start the discussion off, we’re going to consider planning; one of the four cornerstones of paddleboarding safety [these four cornerstones are covered in much more detail in the SUP SAFETY books]. Because actually, proper planning is always the first link in the chain.  The reason why things go wrong when you’re out there on the water very often comes back to a failure at the planning stage. 

PaddleUK asked us to put together some Spot Guides for the season. Here are some of the best routes in the South West. While there is plenty of coastline, estuary and river to explore on your SUP or Kayak. These 5 offer a great starter for a range of abilities. Make sure to check the conditions before you go! Have fun!

Paddling offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, explore scenic waterways and enjoy moments on the ocean. Whether you’re kayaking down rapids, canoeing along tranquil rivers or stand up paddle boarding across coastlines, safety should always be a top priority for paddlers of all skill levels.