Kneeling Paddle

Kneeling paddling is a practical longboard technique for wind, chop, or crowded lineups. It trades a bit of speed for stability and visibility.

When to Use It

• Windy or bumpy surface conditions
• Navigating crowds or whitewater
• Quick repositioning further outside for early entry

Basics

• Keep hips over the stringer and knees slightly apart for balance
• Neutral spine; eyes up for reading sets and traffic
• Hands forward catch; shorter, quicker strokes than prone

Tips

• Transition fluidly between prone and kneeling to maintain speed
• Combine with Positioning to sit further outside on a longboard
• Return to prone for sprint speed when the set approaches

Use kneeling paddle as a tool — not a crutch — to stay composed and in control on a longboard.