Do you need a life jacket for paddle boarding?

Please note this information was accurate at the time of publishing however laws change regularly so always check the latest lifejacket laws and recommendations provided by your local Maritime or Water Authority prior to stand-up paddleboarding.

‘Should I wear a lifejacket on my SUP?’ It’s a question that comes up a lot and unfortunately, there isn’t always a clear answer. It depends on several factors such as where you are paddling, your ability, your conditions and more. So let’s explore these factors to help you understand what may best suit your personal circumstance. 

Many countries have varying laws about wearing lifejackets on a paddleboard depending on how a SUP is categorised by their maritime authority or coastguard. Sometimes these laws or regulations can even vary state by state. 

Let’s start by looking at Australia. Currently in New South Wales paddleboarders do not need to wear a lifejacket when they are paddling. This is because stand-up paddleboards are seen in the same category of surfboards (not boats or kayaks) and therefore it is considered that a full-body lifejacket/ PFD may interfere in a self-rescue scenario. If we then jump over the Pacific and look at the United States of America, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) officially classified stand up paddleboards as vessels back in 2010 as stand-up paddleboarding was gaining popularity. Therefore, adult stand-up paddlers are required to have a USCG-approved life jacket also known as Personal Floatation Device (PFD, Type III) for each person, a sound signalling device (whistle), visual distress signal and navigation light (flashlight).

The USCG goes on to say that your PFD doesn’t have to be on your body. “All persons 12 years old and under are required to wear a USCG-approved life jacket or PFD however all operators over 12 years of age are only required to have a Type III adult USCG-approved life jacket or PFD either attached to the vessel or on the operator’s person.” This information also differs for those who are SUP surfing, where simply having a leash attached to you at all times is seen to be sufficient. 

As each state or country’s rules differ and it’s often challenging to find the most up to date information, the easiest way to be confident that the information you’re receiving is correct is to speak to your local accredited SUP School or SUP retailer. 

Similarly, although in many circumstances you may not be legally required to wear a lifejacket/PFD, there may be many situations or circumstances where you may consider wearing one.