Stand Up Paddle Wear ~ All Aboard
By Jennifer Cermak
Stand Up Paddle boarding is exploding in popularity in Minneapolis and St. Paul. With our abundant lakes and rivers, the Twin Cities are the perfect location for this new sport. SUP has a heritage tied to the birth of surfing in Hawaii, and I am thrilled to pick up my new board this week (a pair of NSP surf betty’s) for my sister and me to use on Medicine Lake just beyond my back yard.
Now that the board purchase is happening, I had to rethink my swim wardrobe for functionality. I myself will still wear the ultra-supportive JennaSea Mololo tankini, since it is wire free and gives my 32G the support it needs. But while partaking in SUP I may swing for a pair of board shorts to ensure total movability. After all, we are in this for the work out.
There are many brands catering to the active SUP community. Title Nine, Prana and Athleta all have swim collections on their shelves that pair with board shorts and rashies. My sport love? Carve Designs. As one of my all time favorites when it comes to functional surf and wearable clothing, Carve Designs got its start on a surf trip to Mexico in 2003 when two women surfers got tired of squeezing their rears into board shorts designed for juniors. (Been there…) With a focus on sustainable materials and a mission to manufacture products in the USA at an affordable price point, Carve Designs makes a big splash. (yes; pun intended)
Here are my summer 14’ must have pieces:
Cruz – perfect for Minnesota’s spanning temps, this rash guard is butter soft, easy to pull on and off (even when wet) and still flatters the figure. Love the adjustable rouching on the sides – a flattering feature. $52
Paradise Rash Guard – finally a tee shirt made out of swim material that does not hug the mid section. Still gives great top of shoulder protection while offering style to transition to the lakeside restaurant for a drink. $48
Waimea Short – a great little short surf short of quick dry micro fiber. This fantastic little style keeps you covered while on easy paddles. $54
Paddler Skirt – Falling to mid thigh, this drawstring micro-fiber skirt features a side pocket (yes, with a drain hole). This is what you will see me rocking. $54
In addition to great SUP wear, they offer swim and clothing that brings major style to functionality. I am totally crushing on Carve.
