Q? Is SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding hard to learn?
A. Anyone with a good attitude can learn SUP with the proper board and instruction.
Q? I’m out of shape!
A. You do not need to be in shape to paddleboard but you do need to be comfortable in the water. SUP works the entire body and you will be surprised how easy it is to learn and what a fun workout it is!
Q? What if I fall off?
A. You just climb back on! All paddlers are provided a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and are attached to the board with a leash. It doesn’t happen that often but wind, unbalanced yoga moves and other factors can contribute. It’s all part of the fun!
Q? What do I wear?
A. Dress for the weather! A bathing suit is the most popular choice mid-summer but on cooler days you can wear dry fit gear such as running/yoga tights and/or running/swim shirt. Anything that will keep you comfortable, can get wet and dry fast. Layers work great! Hats work well on sunny days especially if they float. Sunglasses & eye glasses should have something to secure them as there is always the risk of losing them in the water.
Q? What should I bring?
A. Always bring water, towel, snacks and a set of dry clothes to change into. Nothing is more uncomfortable than a long ride home in wet clothing! Plenty of sunscreen is also a great idea. Although we do not take responsibility for your valuables, keys, wallets and other small items can be secured in our trailer upon check in.
Q? How do I pay or register?
A. Depending on the class and launch site, registration and payment can vary. Sunset Paddles, Full Moon and SUP Yoga can be reserved through Washington County and exclusive Brown Dog Paddleboard Co. classes, private groups and events can be reserved by contacting us or our Square Market site. If you have any questions, please call to clarify. We do take last minute payment on site and cash is always preferred! The credit card swiper can be unreliable due to limited cell phone connections and WI/FI out at the lake!!!
Q? How is cell phone reception?
A. Service has improved over the years but can still be poor unless you have Verizon as a carrier. This means Brown Dog Paddleboard Co. may miss a text or call if out at the lake site.
Q? Can I just come and rent a board?
A. We do not provide rentals. Our company focuses on instruction and group paddles only! Our intention is to provide a richer paddling and social experience through scheduled classes, events, trainings, retreats and private groups.
Q? I have an intense fear of the water and cannot swim!
A. SUP is not your sport as you will be surrounded by lots of water and could potentially go in! Being able to swim is a requirement to attend our events.
Q? I have an injury, can I come anyway?
A. Although fairly easy to maneuver, clients need to be fully capable of handling a board AND climbing back on. Even though water rescue is exciting, we prefer your day and ours be without drama!
Q? What if I break or lose a board, paddle or any other equipment?
A. Let’s hope this never happens but you are fully responsible for all equipment while it is in your hands and under your feet! Replacements costs are as follows: Boards:$1000 Paddles: $200 Fins: $50 PFD:$25 Anchors:$25.
Q? Do I need to sign up ahead of time?
A. Yes! We highly recommend it as many of our classes are full and class size is limited. We will also be able to contact you in the case of inclement weather cancellations.
Can I bring my own board?
A. No. Our boards and gear are outfitted specifically for our events. In some circumstances we have SUP Fit Team Members that bring their personal boards to practice buoy turns for an upcoming race but this is a very specific situation.
Q? Can I bring my dog?
A. We obviously love dogs but our launch sites do not allow pets in the park. Please leave your 4 legged friends safely at home.
Q? Inclement weather!
A. Your safety is our utmost concern. Winds in excess of 14mph and lightning keep us off the water. Otherwise, we brave the conditions including clouds, rain and cooler temperatures. IF we cancel due to weather, you are given a choice to reschedule or receive a full refund. We try our best to give a 2 hour notice of cancellation but weather can change so quickly. Thank you for understanding!
Q? Where do I go to attend class?
A. We launch from different locations so check carefully before heading out! Please allow plenty of time to pay for a park pass, park and walk to launch site!
Q? Are parking fees included in class price?
A. No. All fees are minimal and are paid by students upon arrival and are different for every site. Pay and honor fees upon entering parks before we start our lesson as to not disrupt class.
Q? Do I have to wear a lifejacket?
A. Per Minnesota Boating Law a life jacket or Personal Floatation Device (PFD) must either be attached to the vessel or on the operator’s person. We require all beginner paddlers to wear a PFD as well as all paddlers in specific conditions (river launch, high winds and cold water temps). All persons 12 years old and under are required by law to wear the PFD at all times. All paddlers are required to wear the ankle safety leash at ALL times, no exceptions!
Q? What about kids?
A. For our regularly scheduled classes we require kids to be 14 years of age, at least 95lbs, swim, and able to follow instruction. All children must be accompanied by a responsible guardian while out on the water at all times. If you are a family with small children, we would love to have you out for a Private Lesson where we can customize equipment, instruction and pace for your children.
Q? Is there a weight limit?
A. Yes! Our boards can comfortably support individuals up to 240lbs. Keep in mind, that the closer you are to that top limit, the more challenging the balance will become!!! We have added a couple boards to our fleet that can support up to 400lbs. Please ask!!!
Q? What about alcohol?
A. Alcohol is not allowed in the parks where we operate. Our insurance and liability policy prevents us from allowing individuals who have been consuming alcohol to participate in programming. No exceptions! Downtown Stillwater and Marine on St. Croix have great restaurants for food and drink after your session.
Q? Do I need to sign a Safety and Liability Waiver?
A. Yes! Waivers are not electronic and must be completed and signed to participate in class. You will receive an email and link prior to your event.
Q? What is your Cancellation Policy?
A. We require a 72 hour advance notice of cancellation to obtain a full refund for our events. Last minute cancels and no shows will not be refunded For every student on our roster, we staff paddle techs, prep and set up equipment respectively. Waiting on a no show takes time away from our present participants and creates extra work for us with restocking equipment. We try our best to be fair and flexible without taking away from the experience of students who are present. Our partners all have various cancellation policies so check closely. If classes and events are cancelled by us, we will do our best to reschedule or refund your money.
Q? What if I’m late?
A. Please allow yourself plenty of time to find the location, park your vehicle and walk to the launch site. We need all students checked in and ready to go at start time. If you miss the safety brief/intro at the beginning of the session, you will not be able to join us on the water. We will consider you a no show and no refund will be provided. Plan accordingly!