These four videos are the backbone of our SUP “how-to” help — the ones we send customers over and over because they solve the most common setup problems in minutes. Work through them in order and you’ll go from “unboxed” to “sorted” with fewer mistakes (and a lot less faff).
Shop Inflatable Paddleboards Shop SUP Accessories Book a Demo (Test Centre) Email: help@thesupco.com Call: 02380 172189
Jump to:
- Featured how-to videos
- Quick start checklist
- Shop the kit (by problem)
- Helpful reading & buying guides
- FAQs
Featured how-to videos (start here)
These are embedded for easy watching on mobile and desktop, and set up in a Shopify-friendly format (fast loading, responsive sizing, no clutter).
1) How to fit a SUP leash properly
Your board is your biggest flotation — a leash keeps it with you if you fall in. This quick video shows how to attach it correctly and where it should sit so it’s comfortable and does its job.
Shop related kit: SUP Leashes | SUP Accessories
2) How to fit a US fin (US fin box)
If your board feels like it won’t go straight, or it “snakes” from side to side, it’s usually the fin. This shows the correct way to fit a US fin so it’s properly seated and secure.
Shop related kit: SUP Fins | SUP Accessories
3) How to stop air leaking from the valve on an inflatable SUP
Before you assume the worst: many valve leaks are simple fixes (often a re-seat or a gentle tighten with the correct tool). This video walks you through the sensible checks.
Shop related kit: SUP Spares & Small Parts | SUP Pumps
4) How to assemble a 3-piece SUP paddle
This is the fastest way to avoid a wobbly shaft, twisted handle, or a paddle that just feels “off”. Ideal if you’re sharing a board with family or adjusting for different paddlers.
Shop related kit: All SUP Paddles | 3-Piece Paddles
Want the full How-To playlist?
If you’d rather binge the whole series, here’s the full playlist embedded:
Quick start checklist (unbox to first session)
- Inflate to the PSI printed on your board (don’t guess). If pumping is a struggle, upgrading your pump is the easiest win: SUP Pumps.
- Fit the fin properly (the fin does the steering). Miss this step and the board will feel unstable and slow: SUP Fins.
- Set your paddle length so it feels efficient, not exhausting: SUP Paddle Buying Guide.
- Wear the leash correctly so you stay connected to your board: SUP Leashes.
- Dress for the water, not the air temperature (UK conditions change quickly): What to Wear Paddleboarding and Wetsuit Buying Guide.
Shop the kit (by problem)
- My board won’t track straight → check your fin fit first: Shop fins
- I’m not confident with safety basics → leash + buoyancy aid/PFD: Shop leashes | Shop buoyancy aids
- Pumping is hard work → upgrade your pump: Shop pumps
- My paddle feels heavy / inefficient → the right paddle transforms your session: Shop paddles
- Small repair / valve worries → spares and service essentials: Shop spares
Helpful reading & buying guides
- Stand Up Paddleboard Buying Guide
- SUP Paddle Buying Guide
- What to Wear Paddleboarding
- Wetsuit Buying Guide
Try before you buy (and compare properly)
If you want to make the right call on a board, paddle, or fin setup, the easiest way is to try a few back-to-back. Our Southampton SUP Test Centre lets you compare boards and paddles on sheltered water.
Book a Test Centre Session Ask for Advice
FAQs
Which order should I watch the videos in?
We recommend: leash (safety), fin (tracking), paddle (comfort/efficiency), then the valve video if you’re troubleshooting a leak.
Do I really need a leash?
In most UK paddling, yes. Wind and current can move a board away faster than most people expect, and the board is your biggest flotation. If you’re unsure what leash type is right for where you paddle, contact us and we’ll point you in the right direction.
My board won’t go straight — what’s the most common cause?
Fin fit and inflation pressure. Start by fitting the fin properly (video above) and inflating to the PSI printed on your board. If it still feels off, your paddle length and stance can also make a big difference — we can help you dial it in.
Is an inflatable SUP valve leak a warranty issue?
Sometimes, but many “leaks” are quick fixes first. Watch the valve video above, then if it’s still losing air, email us with your board model and a quick clip of the valve area and we’ll advise the next step.
Can I get help choosing the right fin, paddle or accessories?
Absolutely. Tell us your height, weight, where you paddle (sea/river/lake), and what board you’re on — we’ll recommend a sensible setup and any upgrades that genuinely make your sessions easier and more enjoyable.
More videos: Browse the full channel here: The SUP Company on YouTube.