Wind is the thing most paddlers underestimate until they're already dealing with it. Here's what you need to know:

Before You Launch: Check the forecast, but don't trust it. Look at the water. Whitecaps? Chop? Trees bending? If flags are snapping, it's stronger than the app says. Rule of thumb: forecast says 10-15 mph, expect 15-20 on open water.

Paddle Into Wind First: Most important rule. Launch into the wind while you're fresh, then ride it back. Fighting wind when you're tired is miserable. Same goes for river paddling, go up river first (assuming the river terrain allows it)

Use the Shoreline: Wind is weaker close to shore. Trees, hills, and structures create wind breaks. Open water is much more full exposure. The shoreline provides a little more shelter.

Know When to Turn Around: If you're working hard to make progress and the wind's picking up, turn around now. Don't wait until you're gassed.

Get Low: Wind hits your body more than your board. If it's gusting hard, drop to your knees. You'll lose speed but gain stability.

A handheld anemometer gives you real wind speed at the launch site, many apps that track wind are 5-20 miles away from where you are launching. Clip it to your car keys, and check it before you unload. Make smarter decisions and go home if the wind is not in your favor

Why it works:

• Accurate real-time wind speed readings
• Pocket-sized and waterproof
• No batteries or calibration needed
• Removes the guessing

Price Range: $200-$300
​Verdict: Not essential, but if you paddle exposed locations or want to stop guessing, this removes the mystery.

Not all paddle spots handle wind the same way. Before you commit to a spot, look at the terrain. Are there hills or trees on the windward side? Is the water sheltered or wide open?

Local paddlers already know which spots are wind-friendly. Check online forums or ask at the local shop. Five minutes of research beats an hour of struggling.

Last summer I launched what the app called "light wind." Five mph. Barely worth mentioning.

Ten minutes later the wind picked up. Then it picked up more. I turned around and suddenly I was crawling back, fighting every stroke.

A kayaker passed me paddling easily along the shoreline, using the wind break from the trees. I was out in the middle getting destroyed. Same conditions. Different strategy.

Now I check the forecast, then I look at actual conditions, then I assume it'll be worse than both. Works better.

🔗 Apps that will Help your paddling​

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