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The 10 best paddle board leashes in 2024?

by Vinzent

sup_leash
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SUP boards are not cheap, but can drift away quickly in wind or currents.

The solution:

With a paddle board leash, the board stays close even in currents or waves and the fun is not interrupted.

Avoid buying mistakes:

BeyondSurfing shows you the advantages and differences of the best paddle board leash models in the following buying guide at 2024.

The best paddle board leash 2024?

In a hurry? Our favorite paddle board leash:

FCS Coiled Regular*
What characterizes the offer?

  • High-quality workmanship
  • Padded foot cuff
  • Light
  • 7 mm thick
  • Swivel

SUP paddle board leash Checklist

  • For what? Different paddle board leashes are used for SUP surfing or normal SUP.
  • What length? The length of the SUP board is important when choosing a paddle board leash.
  • Which structure? A padded foot cuff is a must when buying a paddle board leash.

Also interesting: The most popular SUP boards 2024.

Top 7 Coiled SUP LEASHES in 2024

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

1. FCS Coiled Regular

Advantages

  • High-quality workmanship
  • Padded foot cuff
  • Light
  • 7 mm thick
  • Swivel

Disadvantages

  • High price

Summary

The leash from FCS is 10 feet (3.05 m) long and has a high-quality finish. The board is optimally secured thanks to the 7 mm thick cord. The foot cuff, padded with soft neoprene, ensures sufficient comfort.

At 281 g, the leash is very light and barely noticeable on the SUP. The leash is equipped with two swivels to prevent knotting. The high-quality workmanship is also reflected in the price. Beginners should opt for a cheaper model.

Conclusion

A high-quality paddle board leash for ambitious SUPers who are prepared to pay more for quality.

Product details

Length: 10 feet (3.05 m) | Thickness: 7 mm | Key pocket: No | Foot cuff: Neoprene | Weight: 281g

FAQ

For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
For approx. 9.5 feet (2.9 m) to 10.5 feet (3.2 meters).
Can I SUP surf with this leash?
No, because this is a coiled leash, which is only used in calm waters. Find out why you should use a paddle board leash here.

2. Ion SUP Core Leash

Advantages

  • High quality finish
  • Padded foot cuff
  • Key pocket
  • Swivel
  • 7 mm thick

Disadvantages

  • High price

Summary

This paddle board leash has a length of 8 feet (2.44 meters). The experienced manufacturer is known for its quality work.

The paddle board leash is equipped with a padded foot cuff with a small pocket for keys or coins. The leash is 7 mm thick and has two swivels to prevent knotting.

The price-performance ratio of the paddle board leash is reasonable.

Conclusion

High-quality leash with key pocket.

Product details

Length: 8 feet (2.44 meters) | Thickness: 7 mm | Key pocket: Yes | Foot cuff: Foot cuff | Weight: 998 g

FAQ

For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
From 7.5 feet (2.29 meters) to 8.5 feet (2.59 meters).
Can I SUP surf with this leash?
No. This leash is designed for calm waters only (coild leash). A paddle board leash is more suitable for surfing.

3. FCS SUP Calf Essential Leash

Advantages

  • For wearing below the knee
  • High-quality workmanship
  • Light
  • Padded cuff
  • Swivel
  • 7 mm thick

Disadvantages

  • High price

Summary

The cuff of this model is wider than on conventional paddle board leashes and can therefore be worn perfectly above the calf.

The leash has a high-quality finish and is equipped with a swivel joint that makes the leash less likely to knot. It is 7 mm thick and a real lightweight at 227g. The cuff is padded with soft neoprene and is comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

Conclusion

Very light paddle board leash that can be worn below the knee.

Product details

Length: 10 feet (3.05 m) | Thickness: 7 mm | Key pocket: No | Foot cuff: Neoprene | Weight: 227g

FAQ

For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
For 9.5 feet (2.9 m) to 10.5 feet (3.2 meters).
Can I SUP surf with this leash?
No. A paddle board leash is more suitable for surfing.

4. Jobe SUP paddle board leash coil

Advantages

  • Price-performance ratio
  • High-quality workmanship
  • Padded foot cuff
  • Key pocket

Disadvantages

  • Thickness unknown

Summary

This paddle board leash is great value for money. For little money you get a well-made leash from a well-known surf brand.

The leash measures 10 feet (3.05 m) fully extended and is equipped with a neoprene padded foot cuff. This has a pocket with space for keys or coins.

The thickness of the leash is not specified.

Conclusion

Paddle board leash with a great price-performance ratio.

Product details

Length: 10 feet (3.05 m) | Thickness: N/A | Key pocket: No | Foot cuff: Neoprene | Weight: 350 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 100 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
For 9.5 feet (2.9 m) to 10.5 feet (3.2 meters).
Can I SUP surf with this leash?
No, because this is a coiled leash (for use in calm waters). Find out why you should use a paddle board leash here.

5. DAKINE Coiled Ankle Leash

Advantages

  • High-quality workmanship
  • Padded foot cuff
  • Swivel
  • Light

Disadvantages

  • Thin

Summary

This paddle board leash from DAKINE is well made and has a neoprene padded foot cuff. The built-in swivels ensure that the leash does not easily become knotted. The leash is 10 feet (3.05 m) long.

The disadvantage:
With a diameter of 5 mm, the cord/string of the leash is relatively thin and therefore more susceptible to sharp stones. But the leash is also the lightest in our selection. If you want a leash that you can hardly feel, this model is the right choice.

Conclusion

A high-quality but thin leash with a low weight.

Product details

Length: 10 feet (3.05 m) | Thickness: 5 mm | Key pocket: No | Foot cuff: Neoprene Weight: 218g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 100 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Customers praise the good workmanship and fast delivery of the product.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
For 9.5 feet (2.9 m) to 10.5 feet (3.2 meters).
Can I SUP surf with this leash?
No, because this is a coiled leash for calm waters. Find out why you should use a paddle board leash here.

6. aqua marina leash

Advantages

  • Inexpensive
  • Good workmanship
  • Padded foot cuff
  • Light

Disadvantages

  • Hardly any manufacturer information

Summary

This leash from Aqua Marina impresses above all with its low price. This makes it ideal for paddle boards for beginners and anyone who only wants to paddle through the water occasionally.

The leash is approx. 2.4 meters long and padded. The manufacturer does not provide any further information on the material of the upholstery. The weight is low at 222g and the leash is comfortable to wear.

Conclusion

Inexpensive entry-level leash for occasional use.

Product details

Length: 2.4 m | Thickness: N/A | Key pocket: No | Foot cuff: N/A | Weight: 222g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 90 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Customers are very satisfied with the workmanship and comfort of the leash.

Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

One customer stated that the installed screws begin to rust in seawater.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

How long is the leash in feet?
It is 7.9 feet (2.41 meters) long.
Can I SUP surf with this leash?
No, because this is a coiled leash. Find out why you should use a paddle board leash here.

7. NONMON paddle board leash

Advantages

  • Good workmanship
  • Available in various lengths and thicknesses
  • Padded foot cuff
  • Swivel
  • Inexpensive

Disadvantages

  • No Name Manufacturer

Summary

This leash is well made and available in several lengths and thicknesses, so you can find the right paddle board leash for your board. This leash is inexpensive and is perfect for occasional use by beginners.

The foot cuff is padded and swivels ensure that the paddle board leash cannot easily become knotted.

However, the leash comes from a noname manufacturer. This can have an impact on the quality of the leash.

Conclusion

Cheap paddle board leash for beginners.

Product details

Length: 8 feet (2.44 meters), 10 feet (3.05 meters), 11 feet (3.35 meters) | Thickness: 7 mm, 8 mm | Key pocket: No | Foot cuff: padded | Weight: N/A

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 90 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Customers are very satisfied with the workmanship of the product. They believe it fulfills its purpose.

Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 4% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Some customers are of the opinion that the product is too heavy and uncomfortable to wear. Others report damage after prolonged use.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
The spectrum ranges from 7.5 feet (2.29 meters) to 11.5 feet (3.51 meters).
Can I SUP surf with this leash?
No, because this is a coiled leash. Find out why you should use a paddle board leash here.

Top 3 surfing paddle board LEASHES in 2024

Want to ride waves with your SUP? Then these paddle board leashes are just the right choice!

1. Ion SUP Core Leash

Advantages

  • High-quality workmanship
  • Available in 2 sizes
  • Swivel
  • Padded foot cuff

Disadvantages

  • Can get caught

Summary

The leash has a high-quality finish and is equipped with swivels that give you more freedom of movement and ensure that the leash does not get knotted so easily.

The best:
Thanks to the neoprene-padded foot cuff, the paddle board leash is comfortable to wear. It is available in 8 feet (2.44 meters) and 10 feet (3.05 m). Despite the swivel, this leash knots more easily than coiled leashes.

The reason:
The leash hangs in the water and can get caught on seaweed, for example.

Conclusion

Ideal surfing paddle board leash.

Product details

Length: 8 feet (2.44 meters) and 10 feet (3.05 m) | Thickness: N/A | Key pocket: No | Foot cuff: Neoprene | Weight: N/A

FAQ

Can I SUP with it on the lake?
Yes, this is not a problem, but watch out for branches or other obstacles in the water.
For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
Depending on length from 7.5 feet (2.29 meters) -8 feet (2.44 meters) or from 9.5 feet (2.9 meters) -10 feet (3.05 meters).

2. FCS Regular Ankle Essential Leash

Advantages

  • High-quality workmanship
  • Padded foot cuff
  • 7 mm thick
  • Swivel

Disadvantages

  • Can get caught

Summary

This leash is not specially designed for SUPs, but is ideal as a paddle board leash due to its length. The leash is very well made and consists of high-quality materials.

7 mm diameter means that the leash is safe in waves from 2 to 8 feet (0.61 – 2.44 meters) and will not break. The padded foot cuff ensures a comfortable fit. Two swivels prevent knotting and give the rider more freedom of movement than a leash without a swivel.

Despite the swivel, this leash can knot more easily than coiled leashes because it hangs in the water.

Conclusion

An ideal paddle board leash for surfing.

Product details

Length: 7 feet (2.13 meters) | Thickness: 7 mm | Key pocket: No | Foot cuff: Neoprene | Weight: N/A

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 100 % of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can I SUP with it on the lake?
Yes, but watch out for branches or other obstacles in the water.
For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
The paddle board leash is suitable for paddle boards from 6 feet (1.82 meters) to 7 feet (2.16 meters).

3. DAKINE SUP Calf

Advantages

  • High-quality workmanship
  • Price-performance ratio
  • Worn under the knee
  • Swivel
  • 8 mm thick
  • Padded cuff

Disadvantages

  • Can get caught

Summary

This paddle board leash can be attached above the calf or below the knee and has the best price-performance ratio in this selection.

The cuff is padded, which makes it comfortable to wear and prevents pressure points. The two swivels rotate when moving with the leash. This guarantees more freedom of movement and the leash knots less quickly.

Nevertheless, it can become entangled more easily than coiled leashes that do not hang in the water like this leash. With a thickness of 8 mm, the leash is very robust and also holds in larger waves.

Conclusion

A thick calf leash with a good price-performance ratio.

Product details

Length: 10 feet (3.05 m) | Thickness: 8 mm | Key pocket: No | Foot cuff: Neoprene | Weight: 249 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 69% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Customers are very satisfied with the length and quality of the paddle board leash.

Around 0% are neutral about the product, while 31% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

It was not obvious that this leash is attached to the knee.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

What is the advantage of a Calf Leash?
It is worn above the calf and therefore provides more freedom of movement than conventional leashes.
For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
The paddle board leash is suitable for SUP boards from 9.5 feet (2.9 m) to 10 feet (3.05 m).

Bonus: SUP Waist Leash: Goosehill SUP Waist Leash

Advantages

  • Good workmanship
  • Leash with waist belt
  • 7 mm thick
  • Swivel
  • Adjustable waist

Disadvantages

  • Hip belt

Summary

If you find it uncomfortable to attach the leash to your ankle or knee, use this paddle board leash. With an adjustable hip belt, it can easily be worn above the hips.

The leash is 7 mm thick and equipped with swivels, which ensure that it cannot easily become knotted. The length is 10 feet (3.05 m).

Conclusion

Paddle board leash with waist belt and adjustable waist.

Product details

Length: 10 feet (3.05 m) | Thickness: 7 mm | Key pocket: No | Waist cuff: adjustable waist circumference from 50 to 120 cm | Weight: N/A

FAQ

What are the benefits of the hip belt?
This allows the paddle board leash to be attached to the waist, which many people find comfortable.
For which paddle board leash length is this leash suitable?
The paddle board leash is suitable for SUP boards from 9.5 feet (2.9 m) to 10 feet (3.05 m).

Bestsellers: The most popular paddle board leashes

What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

(**Last update 2024-09-16)

Buy a paddle board leash:
How to make the right decision

sup_leash_buy

With a paddle board leash, your SUP board is always close to you, even in currents or waves.

Find out here what you need to look out for when buying a paddle board leash and what the differences are.

What you need to consider when buying a paddle board leash

When looking for the best paddle board leash, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:

  • Kind
  • Length
  • Comfort
  • Processing

The 3 types of paddle board leashes

Paddle board leashes can be divided into three categories:

  1. Straight Leash
  2. Coiled Leash
  3. Hip leash
1 Straight Leash
  • SUP board does not get lost
  • For SUP surfing and normal SUP
  • Does not spring back
  • Freedom of movement
  • Can become knotted

The straight leash or surf leash is the classic attachment between the board and the person. This leash is a long cord made of urethane with an attachment for the board and a leg cuff, simple and functional.

As with each of the three types of leash, the leash is designed to ensure that the paddle board leash does not float away and get lost after a fall. The Straight Leash is used under special conditions.

What many people don’t know:

A straight leash must be used for SUP surfing. As SUPs are large and heavy, they can be a real danger in the lineup. With a straight leash, the paddle board leash will make fewer uncontrolled movements, guaranteeing the rider’s protection.

The straight leash also ensures freedom of movement on the SUP. It is easy to change position without pulling on the leash.

Caution: A straight leash can easily get caught in aquatic plants or stones, so it should not be used in flowing water!
2 Coiled Leash
  • Spiral leash
  • Expands only under tension
  • Does not hang in the water
  • Hardly knots at all
  • Not suitable for SUP surfing

A coiled leash is similar in material and construction to a straight leash. The difference: the leash is wound up in a spiral. As a result, it only expands under tension, i.e. when it falls into the water.

The best:

Thanks to its shape, the leash remains above water throughout, so it cannot get caught on water plants or stones. It is also very popular for SUP racing as it does not slow the SUPer down.

This SUP leash type is not suitable for SUP surfing:

The shape of the leash ensures that it remains under tension after a fall. If the SUP is swept along by a wave, it contracts again and can shoot back at the SUPer, which can lead to injuries.

3 Hip leash
  • Can be worn comfortably around the hips
  • Necessary for whitewater SUP
  • Inconvenient for some

The hip leash is a coiled leash that is worn around the hips.

When is a hip leash used?

A hip leash is much more suitable for whitewater SUP in flowing water.

Why?

If the paddle board leash gets caught under water, the SUPer can also be pulled under the surface. Then it is important to open the leash as quickly as possible. A hip leash is easier to open than the foot cuff of the other leashes.

The right paddle board leash length?

The leash should be at least as long as the SUP, but no longer than one foot (30.48 cm).

Why is this important?

  • Paddle board leash too short:

    Represents a danger in the event of a fall, the SUPer could land on his SUP and injure himself. The leash can be under tension and spring back to the SUPer.

  • Too long paddle board leash:

    Hangs far into the water and can get caught or snagged more easily. It slows you down as the water resistance of the SUP increases.

  • Optimal paddle board leash:

    Provides sufficient protection for SUP and SUPer without restricting movement.

Comfort with paddle board leashes

  • Comfortable fit
  • No friction
  • Neoprene padding

A good paddle board leash is also characterized by its comfort. The leash must sit comfortably on the ankle or over the calf and should not chafe or rub.

Chafed areas or wounds are particularly unpleasant on long tours. To make leashes comfortable, many manufacturers use neoprene padding for the foot cuff.

Processing paddle board leashes

This point goes hand in hand with the comfort of the paddle board leash. If the leash is poorly made, it is usually not comfortable. That is why the quality and workmanship of the materials is particularly important.

At best, a leash is equipped with a swivel. This small plastic joint connects the cord to the foot cuff and the rail saver. The joint can rotate and ensures that the paddle board leash does not get caught so easily.

The price-performance ratio plays an important role with the paddle board leash.

The structure of the paddle board leash

SUP-leash
The components of the paddle board leash are:

1 Rail Saver

This part is made of fabric and connects the leash to the paddle board leash. The cord of the leash plug is inserted, the railsaver is folded over it and then closed with Velcro. Good quality paddle board leashes are made of robust fabric and can be folded several times.

2 Cord/string

The cord is the middle section of the leash and connects the railsaver to the foot cuff. The cord is made of urethane and is indestructible under normal conditions. A swivel is often installed at both ends of the line as an intermediate piece. This ensures that the cord can rotate without getting caught.

3 Foot cuff

The foot cuff is the point at which the leash rests against the body. The paddle board leash is either attached to the ankle, over the calf or to the hip. Which position is chosen depends on personal preference.

Well-known brands and manufacturers

The best-known and most popular surf wear brands & manufacturers include


FCS, Ion, Dakine, Jobe


These brands are experienced manufacturers who have made a name for themselves through quality.

Paddle board leash test by Consumer Reports and Öko Test?

Consumer Reports and Öko Test have not yet tested the paddle board leash.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about paddle board leashes

Why do I need a paddle board leash?

So that the board stays with you and can’t float away.

How do I attach a paddle board leash?

The paddle board leash is attached in 3 simple steps:

  1. Attach the cord:
    First, the line is pulled through the leash plug with the unknotted side first.
  2. Knotting:
    The knot in the line is then pushed through the resulting loop and then tightened over the leash plug.
  3. Attach the Rail Saver:
    Finally, the rail saver is opened and pulled through the loop on the leash plug. The Rail Saver is then folded up again and fastened using the Velcro fasteners.

Which paddle board leash length is the right one?

As a rule of thumb, the paddle board leash should be at least as long as your board, and a maximum of one foot (30.48 cm) longer.

Where can I buy a paddle board leash?

Paddle board leashes can be purchased on Amazon.de or from sports stores such as Empty.

What is the difference between a surfboard leash and a paddle board leash?

Some SUP and surfboard leashes differ only in their length, others also in their shape and the way they are attached.

Which foot do I attach the paddle board leash to?

Depending on whether you are SUP surfing or normal SUP:

  • Normal SUP:
    The paddle board leash can be attached to both legs, as the feet are parallel to each other in the normal standing position.
  • SUP Surfing:
    The leash is attached to the rear leg, which stands on the tail. This can be the right (regular) or the left leg (goofy).

Conclusion: The most popular paddle board leashes reviewed

A paddle board leash is worthwhile for every stand up paddler and is often available for a low price. This will save you a lot of potential stress and keep you safe in the water.

Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

Vinzent

Expert for paddle and SUP adventures
Charlie doesn't surf, but Vinzent does. The books are thrown away and pens are swapped for board shorts. whenever his studies allow it. Otherwise, he likes to spend his time in nature, preferably by the water or in the mountains.

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