Pool Sport Game Ideas, Maintenance Tips and More
The latest helpful articles and tips on pool maintenance, decorating ideas, and the latest pool sport equipment to enhance your outdoor water fun.
Pool Sport Game Ideas, Maintenance Tips and More
What Are the Best Places to SUP in St. Louis?
If you are thinking about going stand-up paddleboarding in St. Louis, you know that there are plenty of places from which to choose. At the same time, what are the best spots to check out? There are several beautiful locations you should think about if you are looking to go
mec River in St. Louis
Another location in St. Louis to check out is called the Meramec River. There is a lot of history behind the Meramec River, and there are some historical marker signs along it. As long as you remember to respect the river, you will have a rewarding SUP experience. Even though this is not the best place for beginners, the water is clean, clear, and provides you with ample access to check out numerous plants and animals. Keep in mind that this will be a workout. If you are hungry after paddleboarding, check out TJ Wings in the area. It's a popular wing joint with a family friendly atmosphere. SUP at Creve Couer Lake in St. Louis
If you are looking for gorgeous scenery when you SUP, check out Creve Coeur Lake, just west of the downtown St. Louis area. The sunset over Creve Coeur lake is breathtaking, and the lake itself never disappoints. This is a perfect location for SUP beginners. Furthermore, you don't even have to bring your own SUP, as you can rent one at the lake. If you have an inflatable SUP, you can push off from just about any location on the lake. You can also check out the water trail that is located near the southern edge of the lake.SUP St. Louis Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary
You can also check out the
Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary. As the name suggests, you will have the opportunity to check out a lot of the birds that live in the area. There are plenty of calm locations you can practice beginner stand-up paddleboarding; however, you are also close to the Mississippi River. Therefore, if you would like to get a workout, you may want to paddle out a bit farther. To launch your SUP into the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, check out the beach just down the road from the Visitor Center.SUP The Missouri River
Finally, you may want to check out the Missouri River as well. This is a Wilderness setting that is often overlooked because of the larger metropolitan area; however, if you would like to connect with nature, this is the best place to do so. Keep in mind that the water can move quickly, so you have to respect it. There are plenty of low areas you can get in, including the Lewis and Clark Boat House. If you get hungry afterward, you may want to check out the old Millstream Inn.
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What Are the Best Places to SUP in Seattle?
When people think about Seattle, they usually think about Orcas Island, the Space Needle, and Fisherman's Wharf. Seattle is also known for its beautiful outdoors. Therefore, there are lots of people who love to go
stand-up paddleboarding in the local area. If you are thinking about going stand-up paddleboarding in Seattle, what are some top places you should have on your list? Take a look at a few choices below.
SUP Seattle's Moss Bay
One of the first places you should go if you are stand-up paddleboarding in Seattle is Moss Bay. Moss Bay is an excellent place for residents and visitors alike. The water is calm, making it a great place for
SUP beginners. Once you have mastered the basics, you can venture out to rougher waters. Even though most people bring their own equipment, there is also a spot for you to rent SUPs at Moss Bay. When you get tired, pull off the side and relax at the beach. This is a great place to watch the sunset as well.
Discovery Park Seattle Largest City Park
Discovery Park is relatively close to the action. This is the largest city park in all of Seattle. It is entirely surrounded by water. The best place to launch from is the West Point Lighthouse. If you have your own inflatable SUP, then you may want to get off the beaten track a bit. There are some hidden beaches if you are willing to explore. Perhaps you can SUP all the way to Point Shilshole for an amazing adventure!
SUP Seattle Lake Union
Without a doubt, Lake Union is one of the most popular spots in Seattle to SUP. This is an outstanding place to meet up with family members and friends if you are trying to get out on the water with your stand-up paddleboard this summer. Furthermore, even if you are on a solo SUP adventure, it’s fun to make new friends with a common interest who are stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Union as well. Even though it can get crowded from time to time, the views of Seattle from the lake are absolutely breathtaking. Therefore, make sure you bring a camera with you. That way, you can snap a few photos of the beautiful scenery. If you are looking for a meal after your trip, be sure to check out Ivar's Seafood House and order the clam chowder!
Shilshole Bay and the Golden Gardens For SUP Camping
This is a beautiful spot with something for everyone. There are plenty of beaches that are a great place to take a break. You can even spend the night here if you want to pitch a tent;
SUP camping takes your paddleboarding adventure up a notch! There is a beautiful mountain backdrop that makes for some incredible photos. As you go out stand-up paddleboarding, be sure to take a look underneath the surface of the water. There are plenty of plants and animals that live just beneath the surface.
SUP The Ship Canal at Fremont and the U-District in Seattle
Last, but certainly not least in our Seattle SUP roundup, check out the Ship Canal at Fremont and the U-District. This spot is located in between Lake Union in Puget Sound. This is a relatively hidden location to go stand-up paddleboarding. Because the water is a bit rougher, this is good for intermediate and advanced athletes when it comes to stand-up paddleboarding. If you are looking for the best place to push off, you may want to check out S3 Maritime or the Fisherman's Terminal. Pause here for a second, and be sure to take in the sights. You should stay out of the middle of the waters, as this is where boats tend to hang out. Even a nearby wake can cause you to tip over. If you stick to the sides, you will be able to take in some incredible city views. Just remember that the water is a bit chilly!
Check Out the Selection of Inflatable SUPs!
If you want to get the most out of your stand-up paddleboarding trip in Seattle, then the right equipment is a top priority. That means investing in a solid inflatable stand-up paddleboard. Dunn Rite has several inflatable SUPs from which to choose. You can pick the perfect size, style, and color scheme for you. For example, one of our favorites is the new
white marble inflatable SUP! With the best inflatable SUP, you can take advantage of everything Seattle has to offer by way of the water. Check out the selection of inflatable SUPs from Dunn Rite today, and get ready for your stand-up paddleboarding in Seattle!
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The Best Waterproof Phone Pouches
Spending time in the water is a great way to enjoy the warm weather months. From spending time in the pool, to heading out on the water with your inflatable paddle board, having all of your essentials with you is important.
Dunn-Rite Products has a long history of innovative products developed to be of the highest quality. Since 1983, Dunn-Rite has been developing new products for water lovers of all ages, ranging from salt-friendly pool basketball units, volleyball units, and other pool accessories. When your company has a focus on water adventures and products, you find other brands and products that just seem like a good fit. If you want to add some additional swimming pool and water fun, check out these great products we have discovered for you.Waterproof Phone and Tablet Pouches
At ugo wear “Just Add Water” isn’t just a motto it is living life on or in the water and is the ugo™ way to adventure. The ugo™ phone and tablet packs are the perfect accessory for summer days by the pool or on the lakes or rivers. ugo wear has found some great products from people who also live their lives in and on the water - whether you choose to find your fun on the water with a stand up paddle board, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, fishing, jet skiing, pool parties, or just lounging by the pool, check out these great products we found for you to check out that go hand-in-hand with the ugo™ lifestyle.
With sports comes more splashing and ugo wear allows that to be a worry free day of fun.ugo™ Signature Collection Phone 2.0 - waterproof phone case
Designed to go where you go and carry just what you need, the new and improved ugo™ Phone 2.0 dry bag featuring our uZIP™ technology is small in size but big in functionality! Not only waterproof, ugo™ floats and fits smartphones of all sizes, use yours without removing it from the bag and there’s plenty of room for your keys, cash, cards, passport, and medications. The perfect accessory for your next adventure keeping you and your gear safe because if you don’t protect you can’t connect! Fits all phones.ugo™ wear Signature Collection Tablet and Tablet XL waterproof tablet cases
Nothing compares to the reliability and functionality of the 100% waterproof ugo™ Tablet and ugo™Tablet XL that floats featuring ugo uZIP™ zipper technology. With two options that fit tablets up to 11” or 13”, you can access apps, watch a movie or read a book, and even sign documents without removing it from the case. So whether you are going to work, going ashore, going to the beach, or headed to the cabin, we’ll keep your electronics safe and protected from the elements!
The spacious interior allows you to carry more than one electronic item, important documents, and extra chargers. The hook-and-loop panel lets you organize those essential items for easy retrieval and the inside zipper pocket provides additional storage. The included adjustable hand and shoulder straps along with the hypalon anchors allow you to wear, hold and even clip ugo™ and go!
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What Should I Wear To Stand Up Paddleboard?
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great way to enjoy time on the water and also a fun way to get a full body workout. There are some obvious pieces of equipment that you need to stand up paddleboard such as the paddleboard and oars. You probably have not spent much time thinking about clothing and accessory needs. I am going to give you some helpful information about the gear you need before you head out to SUP.
Basic Clothing for Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Weather can always be unpredictable, but you should be as prepared as you can be for the weather while you are on your stand up paddleboard. No matter what the weather conditions may be, the most important thing you must wear is a life jacket. Paddleboards are considered vessels by the US Coast Guard (USCG), so you must have a life jacket with you on the paddleboard. You should wear the life jacket, but the law only states it needs to be with you. It must be a USCG approved life jacket.
Gear For Hot Weather Stand Up Paddleboarding
The gear you wear for SUP changes based on the weather temperature and conditions. When you stand up paddleboard in warm weather, you want to wear clothes that keep you cool, allow you to move freely, but also protect you if you want to (or accidentally) take a swim. Men typically wear board shorts and women wear a bathing suit. Some ladies add a pair of board shorts over their suit as well for comfort and protection. You might also consider a short sleeve or long sleeve rash guard, these often will provide sun protection which is imperative. You should take a thin shirt or sweatshirt, especially if you want to go out on the paddleboard in the morning. You can wear it until the weather gets warmer and then take it off if you choose. If you take a dry bag with you, you can put any extra clothes in it to keep them dry. You can also put your phone, keys, and wallet in a dry bag. It's also a good idea to have a tether to secure your wet bag to your stand up paddleboard in case it falls off.
Gear For Cold Weather Stand Up Paddleboarding
In the cooler months, you should consider clothes to keep you warm. You may even want to wear wetsuit. A wetsuit is made of neoprene that traps a thin layer of water between your body and the wetsuit. Your body heat warms that water, which then keeps you warm. Wetsuits come in different thicknesses, ranging from 3 to 7 mm, to keep you warm in varying temperatures. During warm weather, you may opt not to wear shoes or flip flops. I would suggest making sure your flip flops float in case of a fall. In cold weather, you want to consider wetsuit booties which will help to prevent your feet from freezing in cold water temperatures. Booties also come in different thicknesses to keep your feet warm in varying temperatures. If you do not want to buy a wetsuit, you can opt to layer instead. You start with a base layer, such as long johns, to keep you warm. Then you wear a water resistant top and bottom. You may also want to wear gloves, they keep your hands warm and you do not have to worry about frostbite. You can still have freedom of movement in your hands and they will not be freezing. If you choose to wear warmer clothing, you should definitely consider wearing a life-jacket in the event you were to fall in the water.
Extras To Consider when Stand Up Paddleboarding
After you have gotten the perfect attire to wear while you are stand up paddleboarding, you should consider some accessories. You should bring a sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect you from the sun. You want to keep the sun out of your eyes and off your face. Make sure you use waterproof sunscreen that also has UV protection. If you are wearing sunglasses make sure you have a strap that helps hold them on your head, there are several different varieties, just find what feels best for you.
You also want to make sure you have a tether for your stand up paddleboard. This tether connects one end to your ankle and the other end to the paddleboard. Some, but not all, stand up paddleboards come with a tether. You definitely need one so if you fall off your SUP, it keeps it close to your body. You can use your stand up paddleboard as a flotation device, so keeping it near you is important in case you get in trouble.
A fun accessory you can get for your inflatable stand up paddle board. This will turn your SUP in to a kayak type of experience. This is a relatively inexpensive way to get more use out of your paddleboard and you only need to store one board instead of a SUP and a kayak. If you really want to consolidate on space, the paddleboard fits inside of a backpack and is easy to haul and store.
Before you go out on the SUP, you want to make sure you have all the gear you need to stay comfortable so you can have a great time and enjoy your adventure!
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Can you sit on a SUP?
One of the reasons people love standup paddleboarding is that its a great way to get a
whole-body workout while enjoying the great outdoors. But lets be honest. Sometimes, rather than exercising, we just want to bask in nature, and the extra dose of relaxation that comes with floating on water while doing it.
The great news is
SUPs aren't just for standing anymore. With an accessory or two, you can transform your SUP into a fishing boat, a place to bond with your partner, child or dog, or even a kayak (though kayaking will also give you a bit of a workout). Converting your SUP in this way maximizes its versatility, and expands the range of ways you can use it to have fun.
You can
sit on your paddleboard without accessories too. Paddling while kneeling, you can give your legs a rest. And if you're not in a hurry to go anywhere, you can simply sit or lie on your board while its stationary, soaking up the sun, reading a book, or enjoying a cool beverage.
Here's just a sampling of what you can do while sitting on your SUP for a change:
Can you use a paddle board as a kayak?
For a whole different kind of adventure using your SUP, try adding a
temporary seat and a different paddle to ride ocean waves or light white water river rapids. Convertible paddles are available that allow you to switch between stand up paddleboarding and kayaking using the same paddle handle.
Fishing From a SUP
By adding a removable seat to your paddleboard, you can transform it into a fishing boat. The SUPs weight-bearing ability and stability make it especially well-suited to dropping your line and leisurely waiting for nibbles. Some folks prefer to fish from a folding beach-type chair rather than the lower profile seat, and there are chairs like this specifically designed to attach to
SUPs via special straps or other attachments. These chairs allow you to bend your knees while sitting. Be careful when selecting this type of chair, though, as not all are ideal for inflatable SUPs, which generally have more flex than hard boards.
Paddleboarding for Two
Adding a seat gives you the option of bringing a passenger along on your SUP ride. Parents of children who don’t yet know how to stand up and paddle – or who simply aren’t strong enough to do it for long periods of time – find this is a great way to bring your little one along, spend time with them, and slowly introduce them to the sport. Other accessories, like an umbrella that attaches to the board, can make your SUP even more comfortable for you and your passenger.
Photography while on a SUP
Standup paddleboarding takes us to some beautiful settings. How many times have we looked around while paddling and thought, What an awesome photo this would make! Taking great pictures while paddling is awkward at best. When you want to take a picture, it's handy that you absolutely can sit on a SUP.
Resting on a SUP
Adding a seat to your paddleboard doesn't stop you from standing up on it. SUPs have plenty of room for both. What it does offer is a way to give your legs a break that is more comfortable than kneeling.
Standup paddleboarding is one of the most enjoyable whole-body workouts there is. But SUPs are so much more than exercise equipment. To take advantage of everything else the SUP has to offer, try sitting on it!
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Top 10 SUP Events this Summer
With the summer officially in full swing, everyone is looking for a way to get outside and experience the outdoors. One of the most popular ways to do this is through stand-up paddle boarding. Those who are experienced in the world of SUP are likely familiar with the numerous health benefits and the beautiful views that can accompany this fantastic sport. Anyone who is looking to take their stand-up paddleboarding activities to new heights should take a look at some of the top SUP events happening this summer. Where should people go to find a large SUP events this summer?
1. Tyler's Dam That Cancer
This is a large SUP event that is taking place in Austin, Texas. The event is happening on June 24, 2019 and is a large SUP race. The race is raising money for charity. All of the proceeds will be donated towards helping those afflicted by cancer.
2. The Great Lakes SUP Challenge
It is one of the largest SUP races in the world. It takes place on Lake Michigan on July 29, 2019. It is an amateur race event which means that almost anyone is able to enter.
3. The Battle Royale Head to Head SUP Sprint
It is a large paddleboard event that takes place at the National US Whitewater Center located in Charlotte, NC. This event takes place on July 4, 2019 and will involve racing and SUP yoga. The event is raising money for charity.
4. Lovely Laurel River Lake Paddle Blast
It is a large SUP race that takes place on Laurel River Lake in Kentucky. It takes place on July 6, 2019. This is an amateur event made for all skill levels.
5. Stand Up for the Cure
It is a large SUP event taking place in Muskegon, Michigan on July 13, 2019. The event will include both a race and a yoga session to raise money for charity.
6. The San Clemente Ocean Festival
It is a SUP event that takes place in San Clemente, California on July 20, 2019. This event is actually built around SUP surfing, offering a unique twist on all that SUP has to offer.
7. The Windemere SUP Cup
It takes place in beautiful Missoula, Montana. This event happens on July 21, 2019. This is a large paddleboard race that donates all of its proceeds to charity.
8. The Sea Paddle, New York City
It is a much anticipated SUP event that takes place in New York City, New York. The event happens on August 3, 2019. This is a large SUP race that is raising money for charity. This is an amateur event so people of all skill levels are able to enter.
9. The Na Pali Race
It is a large SUP race that takes place in Morse Reservoir, Indiana on August 25, 2019. This is a much-anticipated race that is raising money for medical service dogs.
Popular Events for Stand-Up Paddleboarding This Summer
Without a doubt, there are numerous SUP events happening all across the country. These are only a few of the top events; however, fun SUP events often happen in the local area! Even beginners can experience all that SUP has to offer. Many large aquatic centers offer equipment rentals and some even offer classes. Therefore, why not check the schedule and see if any of these events can be worked in? These events are a great way for those who enjoy SUP to meet new people, learn new skills, and experience SUP in a new way.
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Health Benefits of SUP
What is Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)?
Stand Up Paddleboarding, or SUP as it is affectionately called is becoming one of the fastest growing board sports all over the world. The paddle board is anywhere between 9 feet to 13 feet long. All paddle board paddles have a handle, a shaft, and a blade. The paddle is anywhere from 6 inches to 12 inches. A stand up paddle board is used in a similar way to a surfboard. The rider stands up on in the center of the board. The rider puts the blade of the handle in water to move the paddle board.
What are the Benefits of a SUP?
Paddle boarding uses your entire body and gets you up on your feet. It is beneficial physically and mentally. The physical benefits are fairly obvious, but many overlook the mental benefits it provides. It gets you out of your house and on the water. While the basics of paddle boarding are fairly simple, it can be difficult to become an expert at it. It takes time and practice, but it is worth it. You must first be able to balance yourself on the board, but in doing so, you become aware of your body and your movements. It helps you to slow down and breath. Being able to put yourself in this state of mind helps to elevate your mood, improves your focus and cognitive functioning.
What are the Short Term Benefits of SUP?
SUP uses your entire body, so you will work your back, core, legs and arms while paddle boarding. This is a low impact workout. That means you will not be doing high intensity exercises such as running or jumping. While you are working hard, this is gentle exercise and you will not be damaging your tendons or ligaments. Some athletes have used paddle boarding to help rehab after injuries. They can continue to work on strength without further damaging themselves.
SUP helps you to learn better balance. You have to stabilize yourself on the paddle board using your leg and core muscles. This also helps you to maintain your focus throughout the day. You must also use your arms and shoulders to move the paddle to push the paddle board forward. This increases your heart rate and release nitric oxide. This causes your blood vessels to open more and more oxygen gets to your brain which helps all of your organs function better.
What are the Long Term Benefits of SUP?
Paddle boarding has many long term benefits, such as being part of a long term weight loss plan. Paddle boarding is exercise and can help burn fat. It will not make you skinny overnight, but when done regularly, it can be a part of a long term weight loss plan. Paddle boarding can help to lower risk of heart attack or stroke. Paddle boarding increases your heart rate and therefore it is similar to other cross training activities but is lower impact on your joints. In addition,
SUP can help improve your endurance. It will improve the endurance of your breathing, as well as your muscles. You will notices you do not become as winded and that your muscles do not get tired as fast.
It is also a great way to reduce stress. While on the paddle board, especially if you are a beginner, you must focus on breathing and movement. It encourages you to slow down and take in the peacefulness of your surroundings. Breathing is a great way to push out negative energy and focus on calming energy. Over time, this can help you feel more relaxed and less stressed. In general, paddle boarding is a fun activity, so you enjoy yourself while participating in it. Try SUP today and begin to feel all the benefits of it for yourself.
Dunn-Rite Pool Products & Pool Accessories
3rd Generation Family Owned Company with a long history of developing innovative products of the highest quality.
Pool Fountains - Combo Units - Pool Volleyball - Pool Basketball