SUP Downwind Basics

By Josh Chant | Insights from an Experienced Paddler

Downwinding is one of the most challenging and rewarding parts of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). It’s fast, physical, and requires solid planning and skill. You're not just paddling; you're reading the ocean, working with wind and swell, and staying sharp from start to finish.

This guide breaks down what you need to know before you head out - from essential prep and gear to the key techniques that will help you catch more bumps and stay safe doing it. Written by Josh Chat, a competitive SUP Paddler and Committee Member of Sydney SUP Club. 

Step One: Prepare Like a Pro

Before you step onto your board, step into planning mode. SUP downwinding is exhilarating, but conditions can shift quickly. Choose your route carefully. Study the forecast; but don’t stop there. Understand the “what ifs”: What happens if the wind shifts? Where’s your exit if you need to bail?

“Downwinding is 90% preparation and 10% glory,” says Josh Chant, who’s spent countless hours reading water and wind around Sydney. “If you get the prep right, the ride takes care of itself.”

Tell someone your plan. Estimate how long you'll be out. Pack water, snacks, and emergency contact tools like a waterproof phone case or personal locator beacon. It’s not just about safety; it’s about confidence.

Step Two: Build the Skills, Not Just the Muscles

You can't muscle your way through a downwinder. Technique beats brute strength every time. Unlike flatwater paddling, downwinding demands agility, awareness, and board control.

One of the key skills is board movement. You’ll need to walk back on the board to stop the nose from diving as you catch a wave. Practice this on calm water until it becomes second nature.

Then there’s stance. Josh recommends a dynamic approach: “I paddle in parallel stance, then switch to surf stance when accelerating onto a wave. I train to do this on either side to stay aligned with the wave direction. That’s the moment where timing and positioning make all the difference.”

Feel the wave lift your tail? That’s your cue. Drop into your surf stance, commit to acceleration, and go with the flow.

Step Three: Feel the Ride, Steer the Journey

Once you’re up and riding, posture matters. A soft knee bend, hips forward, and relaxed upper body keep you balanced and in tune with the water. Keep your paddle lightly skimming the surface, not dragging, just guiding.

Steering shifts depending on your speed. At planing speeds, think surfboard: lean and carve. At slower speeds, you’ll rail steer; apply pressure to one side of the board to turn.

Josh suggests starting small: “A downwinder doesn’t have to be a mission. Paddle 1 km upwind, then ride it back. Even simple ‘out and back’ sessions build confidence and open up a whole new level to your paddling.”

Gear to Go With the Flow

Here’s Josh’s personal gear list—simple but essential:

• Flap hat and long sleeves for sun protection

• Life jacket / PFD (preferably a fluro colour Vaikobi V4

• Hydration bladder that packs into the front or back pocket of your life jacket

• Leash waist or calf leash, coiled to stay out of your way

• Waterproof phone case a must for emergencies or last-resort taxi calls

• Polarised sunglasses to cut glare and enjoy the view

• PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) for safety

• And ideally, a paddle buddy - bonus if they help with car shuttles!

Josh paddles with the Sydney SUP Club, a community where there’s always someone ready for a downwinder when the forecast looks promising.

Downwinding doesn’t require you to be elite or extreme. It just asks for curiosity, respect for nature, and a bit of training. The payoff? A paddle session that feels like flying.

So start small. Practice often. Prepare well. And before you know it, you’ll be gliding across wind-kissed water, wondering why you didn’t try it sooner.

“With a little practice and some small steps, you unlock one of the most captivating parts of paddle sports,” says Josh. “You won’t look back.”