9 Essential Waterproof Gear Picks for Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Imagine paddling out on a glassy lake or coastal bay, only to watch a passing boat’s wake flip your board and send your phone, keys, and warm layers straight to the bottom. Stand up paddle boarding exposes everything you carry to splashes, rain, and accidental submersions. Equipping a board with the right waterproof gear turns potential gear-ruining disasters into minor, easily laughed-off splashes.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

How to Keep Your Gear Dry on a Stand Up Paddle Board

Stand up paddle boarding inherently involves water, whether it is fine spray from a stiff headwind, water dripping off the paddle blade, or a full-blown capsize. Relying on standard gym bags or plastic grocery sacks is a fast track to ruined electronics and soggy clothes. Keeping gear dry requires understanding the difference between water-resistant materials, which repel light overspray, and truly waterproof gear designed to survive brief submersion.

The golden rule of SUP packing is categorization and layered protection. Critical items like car keys and phones deserve their own dedicated, submersible cases before going inside a larger deck bag or dry sack. Organizing gear by urgency also helps; items needed mid-paddle (like water or sunscreen) should sit in easy-access deck rigging, while emergency dry layers stay sealed tight at the bottom of a heavy-duty bag.

Dry Bag – Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag

A reliable dry bag serves as the foundational vault for extra layers, snacks, and keys during a day on the water. It must withstand being shoved under bungee cords, scraped against sandy shorelines, and baked in direct sunlight. The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag excels here because its 420D ripstop nylon fabric is highly abrasion-resistant, unlike flimsy lightweight bags that puncture on the first contact with a stray twig or gravel beach.

This bag stands out because of its heavy-duty, molded lash loops, which allow for secure strapping directly to the paddle board deck. The white TPU interior lining improves visibility, making it easy to find a headlamp or energy bar at the bottom of the bag. Keep in mind that a roll-top bag only remains waterproof if rolled tightly at least three times; rushing this step compromises the seal.

• Available sizes: 5L, 8L, 13L, 20L, 35L, and 65L
• Materials: 420D waterproof fabric with double-stitched, tape-sealed seams
• Best for: Storing dry clothes, lunches, and mid-sized gear on day trips

This dry bag is ideal for paddlers who frequent rocky rivers or rough coastal waters where gear takes a beating. It is not the right choice for someone looking for a hands-free backpack for long portages, as it features simple attachment loops rather than carrying straps.

Phone Pouch – JOTO Universal Waterproof Case

Phones are essential for navigation, emergency communication, and capturing photos, but they are highly vulnerable to saltwater corrosion and deep-water drops. A dedicated, floating phone pouch keeps the device accessible right around the neck or strapped to a PFD. The JOTO Universal Waterproof Case provides a simple, highly effective barrier using a dual-swivel lock mechanism that seals out water, dust, and sand completely.

The case features clear scratch-resistant windows on both sides, allowing for photo-taking and screen navigation directly through the plastic. While it is rated IPX8 waterproof for submersions up to 100 feet, touchscreens do not register inputs well when fully underwater due to water pressure. Paddlers should use the physical volume buttons to snap photos when the pouch is wet.

• Compatibility: Fits smartphones up to 7 inches diagonally
• Waterproof Rating: IPX8 certified (submersible to 100 feet)
• Included Accessories: Adjustable neck lanyard

This pouch is a must-have for every recreational paddler who refuses to leave their phone on shore. It is not suitable for those using bulky rugged phone cases, which may require removing the phone from its everyday cover before sliding it into the pouch.

Waterproof Backpack – OverBoard Classic Backpack

Launching a paddle board often involves a hike from the parking lot, navigating slippery launch ramps, or portaging around shallow river sections. A waterproof backpack consolidates gear and keeps hands free to carry the paddle and board. The OverBoard Classic Backpack utilizes high-frequency welded seams and heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin to create a Class 3 waterproof barrier that floats if dropped in the water.

Comfort matters when carrying wet gear, and this pack delivers with padded shoulder straps, an air-flow back panel, and a handy sternum strap. The roll-top sealing system provides a reliable barrier against waves and torrential rain, while the external mesh side pockets keep water bottles easily accessible. Note that because this is a true dry bag, the main compartment lacks internal organizing pockets, meaning small items can easily drift to the bottom.

• Available Capacities: 20L, 30L, and 45L options
• Material: 600D PVC tarpaulin with welded construction
• Key Features: Floating design, padded straps, and reflective patches

This backpack is perfect for adventure paddlers who combine hiking with boarding or face rough, splashy conditions. It is overkill for casual paddlers who only venture out for quick 30-minute floats near their launch vehicle.

SUP Deck Bag – Seattle Sports Deluxe Deck Pack

Traditional dry bags can be clumsy to access while standing on a paddle board, often requiring the paddler to sit down, unbuckle, and rummage through a deep sack. A dedicated deck bag mounts flat to the nose of the board, keeping essential items like sunscreen, hydration, and windbreakers right at your fingertips. The Seattle Sports Deluxe Deck Pack utilizes a low-profile design that minimizes wind resistance and keeps the board’s center of gravity low.

This pack secures easily to standard deck bungees or D-rings using its four quick-release lash straps. It features a splash-proof zipper with a protective storm flap, allowing for fast, one-handed access while afloat. However, because it relies on a zippered closure rather than a roll-top, this bag is highly water-resistant but not designed for prolonged submersion; sensitive electronics should still be double-bagged inside.

• Material: Heavy-duty vinyl with RF-welded seams
• Attachment System: Four corner straps with quick-release clips
• Bonus Features: External bungee web and reflective striping

This deck bag is ideal for touring paddlers who want immediate access to gear without interrupting their paddling rhythm. It is less suited for whitewater SUP or surf zones where the board is constantly flipped and submerged.

Waterproof Speaker – JBL Clip 4 Portable Speaker

Paddling down a quiet waterway is peaceful, but sometimes a group paddle or a sunny afternoon cruise calls for a soundtrack. Standard portable speakers will quickly succumb to rust and water damage from salt air and direct splashes. The JBL Clip 4 Portable Speaker solves this with an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, meaning it can survive a drop into shallow water and shrug off mud or sand.

The standout feature is the integrated carabiner that clips directly to deck rigging, D-rings, or a PFD strap, ensuring the speaker never drifts away. It delivers surprisingly rich audio and punchy bass despite its compact, travel-friendly size. Users should note that while the speaker floats briefly, the heavy clip can cause it to sink over time if it becomes detached, so keeping it clipped secure is vital.

• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge
• Waterproof Rating: IP67 (dustproof and waterproof up to 1 meter)
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1 for stable outdoor pairing

This speaker is excellent for casual paddlers who want lightweight, rugged entertainment on calm lakes or slow-moving rivers. It is not the right choice for audiophiles looking for deep, room-filling sound, as it is tuned for portable, directional outdoor use.

Sports Watch – Garmin Instinct 2 Surf Edition

Knowing the time, tracking distance, and monitoring changing weather patterns are critical for water safety. Carrying a phone in hand to check these metrics is a recipe for a watery loss. A rugged sports watch provides real-time data directly on the wrist, unaffected by wet hands or glaring sunlight. The Garmin Instinct 2 Surf Edition is purpose-built for marine environments, offering dedicated tide data and wind alerts that help paddlers plan safe routes.

This GPS watch is water-rated to 100 meters and built to military standards for thermal and shock resistance. It tracks specific stand up paddle boarding metrics, including stroke count, distance covered, and pace. Keep in mind that the extensive menu options and tracking features come with a slight learning curve, requiring some time to configure before heading out on the water.

• Battery Life: Up to 28 days in smartwatch mode; unlimited with solar charging models
• Marine Features: Tide data, surf activity tracking, and GPS navigation
• Durability: Fiber-reinforced polymer case with chemically strengthened glass

This watch is perfect for coastal paddlers, fitness enthusiasts, and long-distance touring paddleboarders who need reliable environmental data. It is not necessary for casual weekend paddlers who only need a basic timekeeper on calm, familiar ponds.

Paddling Jacket – NRS Riptide Splash Jacket

Wind chill and constant water spray can quickly turn an autumn or spring paddle into a shivering, hazardous experience. A standard raincoat or hoodie will soak through and restrict the shoulder movement necessary for efficient paddling. A dedicated paddling jacket blocks wind and water while allowing a full range of motion. The NRS Riptide Splash Jacket uses breathable Hyprotex 2.5 fabric to repel water while letting internal moisture escape during hard efforts.

This jacket features adjustable neoprene wrist closures that create a tight seal to prevent water from running up your arms with every paddle stroke. The articulated hood adjusts quickly to preserve peripheral vision, and the half-zip neck allows for easy ventilation when the sun breaks through. Remember that a splash jacket is designed to shed water and block wind; it is not a fully sealed drysuit and will not keep you dry during prolonged swims.

• Material: 40-denier Hyprotex 2.5 waterproof-breathable laminate
• Seals: Adjustable polyurethane wrist closures and drawcord waist
• Pockets: Two splash-proof sleeve pockets for small essentials

This jacket is ideal for shoulder-season paddlers who want to extend their paddling season into cooler, windier months. It is not suitable for mid-summer paddling in warm climates, where a simple rash guard or sun shirt is more appropriate.

Waterproof Duffel – YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel

For overnight camping trips or gear-heavy excursions, standard dry bags often fall short on volume and ease of access. A fully submersible duffel bag allows you to pack sleeping bags, dry clothes, and camp stoves together, keeping them bone-dry even if the bag sits in a puddle of deck water for hours. The YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel is a tank of a bag, constructed with a puncture-resistant ThickSkin shell that handles rocky landings and rough transport with ease.

The defining feature is the Hydrolok zipper, which creates an airtight, completely submersible seal that prevents even a single drop of water from entering. Heavy-duty DryHaul straps allow the duffel to be carried comfortably as a backpack over rough portages. Buyers must be aware that the heavy-duty zipper requires regular lubrication with the included wax to slide smoothly and maintain its airtight seal over time.

• Capacity: 50 liters of fully submersible storage
• Materials: High-density nylon shell with TPU coating
• Carrying Options: Removable backpack straps and reinforced lash points

This duffel is built for expedition paddlers and those taking multi-day trips where gear failure is not an option. It is not designed for budget-conscious paddlers or those who only carry a car key and a towel for quick afternoon spins.

First Aid Kit – Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight

Scraping a foot on a submerged rock or getting hooked by a stray fishing line can happen in seconds on any waterway. If your first aid supplies are stored in a standard cardboard box or nylon pouch, they will turn into a useless, soggy mush before you can open them. A waterproof first aid kit ensures that bandages, tape, and medications remain sterile and dry when an emergency strikes. The Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight / Watertight .7 utilizes a two-stage waterproofing system with an inner resealable DryFlex bag and a tough outer nylon shell.

This kit is packed with essentials specifically chosen for water sports, including blister treatment, wound care supplies, and basic medications, all without adding excess weight to the board. It is compact enough to slide easily into a deck bag or the pocket of a PFD. Paddlers should periodically inspect the inner contents to restock used items and check that medications or wipes have not expired.

• Waterproof System: Inner DryFlex bag with outer 200-denier ripstop nylon cover
• Weight: Extremely light at just 8 ounces
• Contents: Professional-grade wound care, blister prevention, and medications

This kit is a non-negotiable safety item for anyone venturing onto rivers, coastal waters, or remote lakes. It is not designed for large-group expeditions, which may require a larger, multi-person medical kit packed in a hard-sided dry box.

How to Secure Your Waterproof Gear to the SUP Deck

Simply owning waterproof gear is only half the battle; if a board flips, unattached bags will quickly float away with the current or sink under the weight of their contents. Most recreational paddle boards come equipped with a front nose bungee system, which is perfect for sliding lightweight dry bags or water bottles underneath. For heavier items like duffels, threading heavy-duty utility straps through installed D-rings provides a far more secure anchor than stretchy bungee cords.

Proper weight distribution is essential for maintaining the board’s stability and tracking efficiency. Heavy gear should be placed as close to the center of the board as possible, just forward of the standing sweet spot, to prevent the nose from diving or the tail from dragging. Make sure all loose straps are tucked away neatly, as dangling cords can snag on submerged branches or tangle around a paddler’s ankles during an unexpected fall.

Caring for Your Waterproof Gear After Saltwater Use

Saltwater is incredibly destructive, leaving behind abrasive salt crystals that act like sandpaper on zippers, seals, and fabrics as they dry. Rinsing all waterproof gear with fresh, clean water after every outing is the single most important step to ensure longevity. Pay special attention to zippers, buckles, and roll-top closures where salt crust and sand tend to accumulate and bind up moving parts.

Once rinsed, all gear must dry completely in a shaded, well-ventilated area before being packed away for storage. Storing dry bags while they are damp invites mold, mildew, and delamination of the waterproof inner coatings, which can ruin a bag in a matter of weeks. Roll-top bags should be stored loosely unrolled, and zipper-operated dry bags should have their zippers left slightly open to prevent the seals from compressing and losing their shape.

Investing in the right waterproof gear ensures that unpredictable weather or an accidental splash never cuts a paddling adventure short. With your essentials dry and secure, you can focus on the water ahead and paddle with absolute peace of mind.