SUP: What would cause you to ride your SUP rather than a regular surfboard?
ROB: Well one thing is the size. If it’s getting scary big then I’ll probably still opt for a surfboard but that’s changing as I get more comfortable with the equipment and the various aspects of big wave SUP surfing.
I actually believe that paddle surfing is the most efficient way of catching waves. You have increased vision, power and paddle speed so it’s got to work. In medium size and big waves that shift around a lot or have flat sections to deal with I find it way more rewarding than regular surfing. A paddleboard can make spots that are frustrating to surf really viable and enjoyable, even when it’s 15ft.
SUP: What would you consider the particular challenges you face riding a paddleboard at a place like La Santa?
ROB: For all the advantages a paddleboard gives you, it also opens you to some less positive things too. You get absolutely feckin’ flogged when you fall or get caught inside. At a wave like La Santa Right that has a lot of mass of water in it you’re going to get dragged a long way. Not to mention trying to hang on to your £250 paddle. It can get a bit rough after you’ve had a couple on the head and done a few underwater circuits of the bay. Other big factors are the sea surface and wind conditions. When it’s windy, choppy and huge you’re not going to have any nice little chats with the boys like you do between sets surfing. There’s no down time paddle surfing in those conditions, it’s 100% effort 100% of the time. Gets the heart pounding and the lungs gasping.
