For the Sporty Explorer: Our 10’ 6” SUP Set in grey or blue is for SUPers of all ability levels. It has excellent stability, balance, and maneuverability.
For the Cool and Stylish Adventurer: Our 10’6” SUP Set in Maori Hawaii is perfect for those who want to SUP in comfort and style.
For the Lover of Aesthetic: A gorgeous board that glides through the water well. Our 11’2” Tribal Samoa in blue is our biggest board - perfect for taller SUPers who love a little flair.
For the Thrill Seeker: Our 11’2” FT double-skinned touring board in bright blue is the perfect choice for paddlers that are serious about getting out on the water. For the moderate to advanced SUPer, this board will take you places.
]]>FIND THE RIGHT BOARD
It’s you and your pup on the water now, so make sure that your board can accommodate the two of you.
When you’re SUPing with your pup, the bigger the board, the better. Longer and wider boards provide more stability and can carry more weight.
The 11'2" SUPs are our biggest boards with 150 kg max user weight. This is recommended for when you're bringing your dog on a SUP trip. Find the right HIKS board for you with this guide.
INTRODUCE YOUR DOG TO THE BOARD
New things can be stressful for your pup, so get them acquainted with your board before hitting the water.
Let them sniff around and walk over your board so they can get familiar.
You can also put treats on and around the board for encouragement.
KEEP THEIR NAILS TRIMMED
Minimize the chances of your pup scratching you or your board while you are out on the water by keeping your dog's nails short and dull.
This could also prevent them from easily slipping and falling off your board when you hit a wave.
BRING A POOCH LIFE JACKET
Pups are natural swimmers, but we always opt for the extra safe route.
Bring a personal floatation device (PFD) for you and your dog for your peace of mind. Yes, they do make PFDs for pups (and they're super cute!)
Life jackets not only make it easier for your pup to swim, but they also have a handle so you can pull them out of the water easier.
Match your pup and pick the right PFD for yourself here.
START IN CALM WATERS AND PADDLE ON YOUR KNEES
If it's your pup's first time on a paddleboard, focus on stability and making them feel safe.
Start on your knees so that you’re on their level and they can see you. SUPing is a new thing for your pup. If you stand up right away, they might feel overwhelmed and jump off the board.
Starting in calm waters, staying close to shore, and keeping your first SUP session short and sweet is recommended for you and your pup’s safety.
STAY HYDRATED
This goes for you and your pup. Whether you and your furry sidekick ventured far from shore or stayed close, bring a water bottle and a collapsible bowl.
Never let your pup drink the lake, sea, or river water! They might get a tummy ache.
BE PATIENT
Even if your dog loves swimming and water adventures, SUPing is a whole different experience.
The board can feel wobbly and unstable to them at the start. Give them time (and lots of treats) as they adjust.
SUPing is a fun and relaxing activity, don’t stress yourself and your pup out. If it’s not working out on your first try, there’s always a next time.