Best SUP Leash

Best SUP Leash (Paddle Boarding)

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This is a review of the best SUP Leash.

I am Mako, a huge paddling fan. I had been kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding since I was a child.

Losing your board at sea is the last thing you want to happen when doing standup paddleboarding. Over the years, I have tried different types of SUP leashes.

Kayak leash can be considered a great accessory when it comes to SUP leash? It’s a must-have item! Without a leash, your board could get carried away by the wind and the waves.

A leash keeps you and your board connected, so if you ever fall into the water, you can easily get back up.

I highly recommend BPS Storm Leash as the best overall SUP leash. It’s durable, padded, and very secure. Of course, there are other great options suitable for different needs too, and I will take a deep look in this article.

Are you ready for a great SUP trip!?

Quick Summary

Best 4 SUP Leash (Paddleboarding) Reviewed

Here is my top 4 recommended SUP leashes and their detailed reviews.

BPS Storm Leash

  • Key Features: Adjustable velcro strap, quick-release tab, 10 ft coiled cord, 7.2 mm thick, double stainless steel swivels, hidden pocket
  • Material: Neoprene cuff, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) cord
  • Best for: Overall

BPS Storm Premium SUP leashes are made with a heavy-duty, yet light coiled cord that can be extended to 10 feet. This greatly reduces the risk of getting snagged by submerged objects when you fall off your board.

It has a padded neoprene ankle cuff and its lightweight material makes it super comfortable to wear. You won’t even notice it’s there. It also has a secure and adjustable velcro strap, so there’s no chance of losing it accidentally.

Durability and safety won’t be an issue as well because of its double stainless steel swivel. It also has a triple-wrapped rail saver that supports the whole leash.

BPS’ Storm also includes a hidden key pocket and a waist bag, ensuring that your valuables remain safe and secure.

Own the Wave Coiled ‘Nemesis’ Leash

  • Key Features: Lightweight, adjustable velcro strap, padded cuff, handy hidden key pocket, triple wrapped rail saver, 7.2 mm thick
  • Material: Neoprene cuff, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) cord
  • Best for: Comfortability

A SUP leash shouldn’t cause you any inconvenience or reduce your mobility. With the Premium Nemesis, comfort and ease are guaranteed. Thanks to its TPU cord, this lightweight, but heavy-duty leash allows you to enjoy the activity without having to worry about getting strangled by a heavy cord.

This coiled leash from Own the Wave provides the paddler with plenty of moving space on the board which allows for more range of motion. This reduces the possibility of tripping and snagging. It also has stainless steel swivels that enhance the cord’s durability.

The Nemesis is supported by a padded neoprene cuff to protect against chafing and blistering. It also has a strong adjustable velcro strap that can be tightened to your comfort and provide extra security.

Lastly, it has a hidden pocket on the strap. This is useful when you’re on the run and need a compartment to store your keys without worrying about losing them. The only downside to this is that the pocket isn’t waterproof, so its contents will get drenched in the water.

Own the Wave Premium Leash

  • Key Features: Double stainless steel swivels, 10 ft long easy-stretch cord, 7.2 mm thick, waist bag
  • Material: Neoprene cuff, thermoplastic polyurethane cord
  • Best for: Durability

If you’re looking for a leash to last you a long time, Own the Wave’s Premium SUP Leash is definitely worth a look. Its double stainless steel swivels contribute greatly to its durability. It allows for a stronger grip on the leash and also prevents the cord from getting tangled together.

Its coiled cord, easily stretching up to 10 ft, significantly reduces drag. It is made from durable thermoplastic polyurethane that is tough, long-lasting, and buoyant by nature. Additionally, the cuff is comfortable and secure to wear, even when you’re out in the water for hours.

The leash also has a pouch bag where you can put your valuables such as your keys when you’re in the water. It is not completely waterproof, so we don’t recommend putting your phone in there. Nevertheless, you can choose whether to wear it around your neck, shoulder, or waist as its strap is easily adjustable.

NRS Quick Release Leash

  • Key Features: Stainless steel D-ring swivel, carabiner for easy attachment, hook and loop velcro belt strap, 9 ft coiled cord, detachable belt bag 
  • Material: Thermoplastic polyurethane cord
  • Best for: Lightweight

Your SUP leash doesn’t need to weigh much for it to be considered heavy-duty. That is why the NRS Quick Release SUP Leash is here. It is an incredibly lightweight leash that offers full mobility and ease of use. Its cord can stretch up to 11 feet and its waist belt can even turn into a calf strap if needed. 

It has a carabiner connected at the end of the leash that can be hooked on your strap or life vest. What makes it more durable is its stainless steel, D-ring swivel which allows the cord to move in any direction without it getting tangled. 

The quick-release mechanism can also be accessed through the waist belt, making it convenient to reach. It also has a detachable belt bag to put your valuables in. The bag is hooked onto your waist belt strap, ensuring the safety of your belongings. 

The only downside to this leash is that the tail of the belt straps sometimes hits the quick-release ball. Similarly, wearing the leash as a belt isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

Best SUP Leash – What to Consider

It is paramount to ensure the safety and security of paddlers when doing SUP, so picking the right leash for your activity is crucial. Below are some things to consider when you buy a leash.

Material 

In looking for quality leashes, flexibility and durability always come first. They are typically made of nylon or polyurethane. Nylon cords have a high resistance to heat, pressure, and chemicals like liquid ammonia. On the other hand, polyurethane cords are great for colder conditions and higher humidity.

Padded neoprene ankle cuffs are also attached to the end for added protection. It connects you to the leash and provides extra security. 

Length

Choosing your leash’s length is another crucial factor. Depending on the board you use, using the wrong length can be dangerous for you and for those around you. It is important to look for the right size to prevent unwanted accidents.

Ideally, the length of your SUP leash must be as long as your board or a foot longer. That said, the standard measurement ranges from 8 to 10 feet, but there are also shorter ones like coiled leashes that can stretch up to the standard length and spring back to their original size.

Thickness

The durability of the cord doesn’t only depend on the material, but also its thickness. 

Professional paddlers suggest picking a leash that is more than 6 mm thick. The weight of your body exerts a lot of pressure on the leash which is why a thickness of 7 to 8 mm is recommended. That thickness should have enough strength and durability to handle your weight well. 

Leash

Different types of leashes are designed for different types of water activities. The most popular one is the straight leash, as it is basic yet versatile. Another type is the coiled leash which acts as a spring that pulls the board towards you when you fall.

There is also the hybrid leash that is half straight and half coiled. The innovative design combines the best of both types and reduces cord tangling and dragging.

Lastly, there is the breakaway or quick-release leash. As the name implies, it’s a leash that has a convenient and easy-to-access release mechanism in case of any mishaps. This has been gaining in popularity as an additional safety measure, especially in competitive races.

Wrapping Up

We have recommended the very best SUP leashes in the current market and the best overall pick is BPS Storm Leash.

For sure, other options we’ve recommended come with great quality too and they will keep you safe and sound no matter where you paddle to.