It’s time to say goodbye to lazy days at the beach, fun summer nights spent under the stars, and relaxing mornings. But wait, it doesn’t have to be! 
School might be back in session, but that doesn’t have to mean the end of your paddling adventures! Balancing the busy back to school season with laid-back SUPing comes down to having reliable gear that best suits your needs, as well as expert time management skills.  

INVEST IN GEAR TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR BUSY SCHEDULE 

FOR KIDS 

Ask any parent and they’ll agree—the school year is way more hectic than the summer months. More responsibility, more commitments, more stressors, more everything! That’s why making time to relax and spend time together as a family is so important.   
As kids return to school, they may be enjoying a new sense of independence, growth, and confidence. You can further their development at home by providing a way for them to adventure independently, as well as spend time with the family. With a scaled-down height and perfectly proportioned paddle for shorter arms, the NAUTICAL Kids Board allows young explorers to SUP solo and build their skills on the water. It’s the perfect way to wind down as a family after a long day of work and school. Even better? It’s hard for kids to paddle and be on their phones at the same time! 

FOR PARENTS 

When we think of back to school, we tend to think first of our kids. But what about the parents and caregivers who now have pick-ups and drop-offs to manage as well as school events, activities, and emails? You need a way to wind down as well!  
Whether you like to end the day with a good burn from paddling or a SUP yoga session to clear your mind, we have options to keep your routine fresh. Check out the CRUISER ULTRA™ 
if you’re in the market for a board built for yoga. With an extra-wide base and tail, this ultra-stable model strikes the perfect balance between to help with your downward dogs and headstands. Or just spend the session insavasanaif that’s your thing—although you may want to invest in an anchor.  

FOR THE FAMILY 

Doubling the versatility of any of our boards, it’s no surprise that the SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit continues to be our best-selling accessory. Ideal for riders of all ages, from young kids to senior explorers, this quick and convenient kit transforms your on-the-water experience, so you can go from standing to seated in a splash—perfect for longer paddle sessions or just switching up your perspective.  
You can even opt for a tandem experience with one board and two kits (Ideal boards for a tandem experience include the CRUISER ULTRA, ALL AROUND 11’ and BLACKFIN CX). Go for a nice sunset paddle with your S.O., or let the kids take the board out together. The hardest part is deciding who gets to sit in the front! Check out this guide and you and the family will be kayaking in no time. 

ADJUST YOUR SCHEDULE TO MAKE TIME FOR SUPING 

Let’s face it, what could be more important than some quiet time on the open water? School and everyday responsibilities may fill your brain, but paddle boarding fills your soul.The typical stress of the back-to-school season can be countered with just a couple hours a week on your paddle board. 

If you opt for an early morning paddle board sesh, it’s important to obey your alarm clock. Those prone to pressing the snooze button should probably stick to the afternoon or evening. Efficiency is the name of the game if you want to skip lunch and hit the water instead. Make sure you have everything you need packed and ready to go for a quick afternoon paddle. Most people choose to fit in their workout after school and work, which makes sunset paddling the preferred option. We couldn’t think of a more perfect way to end a busy day. 

A full schedule is just no excuse to skip your workout. Countless research articles prove regular exercise and self-care is crucial to brain function and overall happiness. When the facts are that strong, paddle boarding should be made a priority.