This class established the foundation that all SUP paddlers need. Before hitting the water we discuss paddling safely, local destinations and equipment. On the water, we introduce the basic skills needed to efficiently move a Stand-Up Paddleboard through the water. We encourage students to practice a deep water rescue which is a safety skill every paddler should own!!
No previous experience required!
-Introduction to basic equipment and terminology
-Launching and landing from a dock
-Introduction to how body, board and blade work together
-Basic body mechanics and efficiency of stroke
-Forward
-Sweep strokes
Meeting Place/Directions:
Basic Skills SUP Classes meet at our Jantzen Beach Store in Portland.
Please arrive 10 minutes early to fill out paper work if you have not done so online.
200 NE Tomahawk Isl Dr. Portland, OR 97217
From the south: Take I-5 exit 308 (Jantzen Beach) get in the right lane and go east on Tomahawk Island Drive .7 miles, we are on the right. As you come off the exit follow the right lane around to the right so the Chevron is on your left.
From the North: Take I-5 308 (Jantzen beach, the first one in Oregon)get in the left lane off the exit, turn left at the stoplight, follow the road around the bend to the left as it passes under the freeway and comes around so the Hooters is on your left. At the stop sign turn right on Tomahawk Isl Drive and go .6 miles, we are on the right.
If you have any questions about what to bring please contact us.
Call for more information or if you are lost or late!
Portland: 503.285.0464
Customers have the option to use their own board and gear with approval.
We provide immersion wear in the form of either a neoprene wetsuit or nylon drysuit with latex gasket seals, neoprene boots and PFD's. In the hottest summer months we run courses without immersion wear.
What To Bring - Late Spring/Summer:
- Sunglasses with retention device (i.e. Croakies, Chums. Available for purchase at Alder Creek)
- Hat and/or Sunscreen
- Synthetic top (rashguard, poly or nylon shirt) NO COTTON!
- Nylon shorts and/or swimsuit
- Secure footwear that you don't mind getting wet (neoprene booties can be provided if needed)
- Water bottle and small snack
- Towel and change of clothes for ride home
What To Bring - Fall/Winter/Early Spring:
- Thermal Underwear - top and bottom (synthetic material. Nylon, poly or fleece) NO COTTON
- Insulated wool, synthetic or waterproof socks
- Neoprene booties (Can be provided if needed)
- Hat and sunglasses if desired
- Water bottle, small snack and thermos with a warm beverage
- Towel and change of clothes for ride home
-We include:
-Boards
-Paddles
-PFD's, Life Jacket
-Wet or Dry suit
-Booties
-Our great instructors!
Gratuity: It's NEVER expected but always appreciated. If you feel your coaches / guides have done an exceptional job and made your experience a memorable one, then you can certainly show your appreciation by giving a tip.
If your coach / guide was so exceptional that you want him or her to be your guide on all future trips, simply request them at the time you make your reservation. While we cannot promise he/she will be available, we will do everything in our power to accommodate your request.
-We do not provide food or drink.
The Pacific Northwest is a dynamic and often unpredictable environment. All activities are run/fun rain or shine. All programs are conditions dependent and may change at any time at our discretion. In order to keep our programs affordable a minimum number of participants may be required. If we are unable to fill a program to a minimum requirement level we reserve the right to cancel the program. A full refund will be provided in the event of a cancelled or re-scheduled activity upon request. Please allow 48 hour notice for any cancellations or changes in your reservation. Give us a call at 503-285-0464. Cancellations within 48 hours of the program are NOT refundable. To re-schedule a class you have cancelled within the restricted 48 hour period we will gladly credit you 50% towards the rescheduled class. Thank you for signing up! Please let us know if you have questions about this or any other policy here at Alder Creek.