1 / 2 · Packing for a cold-region expedition
2 / 2 · An experienced paddler on offshore expeditions
This material comes from paddlers experienced in cold-region and offshore expeditions. Using two leashes is a personal example, not a method recommended for every rider.
This picture features a beanie, a drysuit and warm drinks. It isn't a packing list for a short summer taster session; it's the story of experienced paddlers on expeditions in cold regions and on the open sea.
01. Think about falling in, not just the air
Bruce Kirkby's picture includes a beanie, gloves, a drysuit, an insulated jacket, fleece pants and insulated boots. Read it as a gear list that takes into account the water, the wind and ending up in the water.
Buying the items in the picture doesn't mean your expedition prep is done. You need to check clothing and training suited to the water temperature, the environment and the chances of rescue with an experienced instructor.
02. Plan to eat, drink and get back
A leash, a flotation device, food and warm drinks appear too. Beyond the distance, you need to plan places to rest, changes in the weather and a way to turn back partway.
Keep in mind the file's 2021 date and the expedition context. For a typical first SUP tour, it makes more sense to start with the separate getting-ready guide below.
03. Two leashes is one person's expedition practice
The second picture is a quote in which Bart de Zwart talks about the risk of losing the board offshore and a personal practice of using two leashes. It isn't standard advice recommending two leashes for beginners or for all waters.
Choose a leash to suit the water, including the risk of snagging and whether it can be released. Read expedition stories as material on the importance of preparation, and don't assume that having the same gear means you can do the same activity.
Sources and scope
The artwork is Starboard's original infographics: Bruce Kirkby's 2021 cold-expedition packing list and a Bart de Zwart quote about the open sea; the explanation is Starboard Korea's commentary. We don't recommend doubled leashes universally, and we don't present expedition gear as essentials for beginners.
- Starboard HQ infographic: What to pack for SUP travel_2021_V1-02.jpg · Bart Quote_V1-02.jpg ↗
- RNLI safety preparation for different waters ↗
The illustration is Starboard's original artwork; the explanation is Starboard Korea's editorial guide, translated into English here. Sources checked: 2026-09-08.
