The last the two weeks we have had surf most days, and even had an epic session with a 22 second interval. Here at the Witterings we have lots of options of SUP surfing at different tide states; just before and after high tide at West Wittering, mid to low tide at East Wittering & Jolliffe Road or anytime at Bracklesham. The difference between neaps and springs is what decides when certain locations work better and there are times when to avoid the current. The big deal is the wind direction if there is a swell running – light offshore winds NE tend to be perfect down here – NW wind is cross off – and anything southerly is on onshore (it needs to be under 10 knots) and easterly is side shore from the left. The waves tends to be at their best when it’s on the push (so an incoming tide) but there are also variations to this rule as when the tide pulls out, the waves start improving in shape on the outer sand bars and at the entrance of the harbour mouth.
We have a good crew of SUP Surfers from the club who regularly go out when the surf arrives you have to watch the weather bouys http://2xs.co.uk/weather/
There is no real age limit to SUP Surfing you start as kid and as long as you have the right sized board and paddles. It is also very and you keeps your body moving at any age. I was SUPing with John Ash last week who is 68 and we were both really enjoying the surf. He has been paddle boarding for 3 years and started with a lesson at 2XS® which no doubt has helped build his confidence in the waves. Last week we SUPed every day and it felt really good being the ocean even in 1degree air and 6degree sea temperatures. The new winter wetsuits make winter SUP Surfing accessible for everyone.You don’t realise but on each session you covering around 10km and you’re burning around 300 calories per hour, and also having tonnes of fun.
If you need any advice on learning to SUP Surf, SUP Surf wave boards, or SUP paddles please give me a call at the club or shop 01243 512552 or 01243 513077.
Simon Bassett owner of 2XS®, paddleboarding since 2006, BSUPA joint Head trainer, BSUPA SUP Surf coach and trainer .
