“The more advanced ‘touring’ boards, usually epoxy composites, begin in the high hundreds and go upwards to twice that,” says Ken Hayes, owner of Smith Mountain Wake. “You’ll also need a paddle, from $99 to $300. Last year was an incredible sales year for paddleboards of all types. I could barely keep them in stock.” Virginia law requires all paddle boarders to carry or wear a flotation device. Inflatable belt-pouch models are cool and comfortable and are a good alternative once you’re confident enough to stay standing on the board. Beginners will want to use a ski vest, either worn or carried on the board at your feet. An ankle tether to keep the board from scooting out of reach when you take a plunge is also a good idea. And for the Floater Who Has Everything…
Happy to be positioned at the bottom of the float-y toy sophistication scale is the new and appropriately-named “BumFloat.” Quite likely invented by an entrepreneur who observed boaters alongside their anchored boats, using life vests worn diaper-style for hands-above-water (the better to hold a beverage!) flotation support, this purpose-built solution works the same but is designed for comfort and easier on and off. You can probably be the first in your cove to have one of these; the conversation-starter value of the name alone is well worth the $50 ($60 in standard or pink camo) suggested retail at bumfloat.com. Or check out the even simpler O’Brien Water Saddle, available at the Bridgewater Marina store. Are you ready for summer at the lake? From splash pads to paddleboards, there’s a toy for kids of all ages.
Low on sophistication, high on fun: the Bumfloat allows users to bob hands-free.
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