Leashes Save Lives—But Not Always: What You Need to Know About Wearing a SUP Leash in Moving Water

If you’ve spent any time paddleboarding, you’ve probably heard the advice to “always wear a leash.” And in most conditions—like flatwater lakes or calm bays—that advice is spot-on. A leash keeps your board close if you fall, helping prevent long swims and keeping your most buoyant piece of gear within reach. But in moving water like rivers, creeks, or tidal currents, that same leash can become a deadly hazard.

This blog will break down the dangers of wearing a leash in moving water, provide real-world drowning statistics, and explain why a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and a quick-release leash could be lifesaving alternatives. Our goal is to help you paddle smart, stay safe, and enjoy your time on the water with confidence.

Why Wearing a SUP Leash in Moving Water Can Be Dangerous

Unlike lakes or calm ocean conditions, moving water presents dynamic hazards. Rivers and tidal currents often contain submerged rocks, trees, and other obstacles. If your leash gets snagged on one of these objects while you're being swept downstream, it can trap you underwater. With a standard ankle leash, you might not be able to reach it in time to release yourself.

Even strong swimmers and experienced paddlers have found themselves in life-threatening situations because of this. In moving water, your leash can act more like a noose than a lifeline.

Real Incidents and Sobering Statistics

This isn’t just a theoretical risk. Tragically, there have been multiple drownings directly linked to leash entrapments in rivers.

According to American Whitewater and other water safety advocacy groups:

• Between 2015 and 2023, over a dozen documented stand up paddleboard (SUP) related deaths in the U.S. involved ankle leashes in moving water.

• In many of those incidents, paddlers were otherwise well-prepared but unable to release their ankle leashes after becoming trapped.

• A 2021 review by the UK’s RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) showed that leash entrapment was a key factor in several river-related SUP fatalities.

• One of the most well-known cases involved a group of paddlers in the U.K.’s River Cleddau, where four experienced women tragically drowned due to entrapment from their ankle leashes.

These heartbreaking accidents have led water safety organizations across the globe to revisit leash recommendations and reinforce the importance of proper gear in the right setting.

When to Wear a Leash—and When You Shouldn't

Use a leash:

• In flat water (lakes, calm bays, slow-moving water)

• In the ocean on calm days or surf

• When conditions are predictable and entrapment hazards are minimal

Avoid a standard leash in:

• Rivers with current or rapids

• Streams with rocks, logs, or debris

• Any moving water with potential for entrapment

If you do want or need a leash in moving water, use a quick-release leash worn at your waist or PFD. These leashes allow you to detach quickly and easily if you get caught. Many whitewater paddlers and river surfers use quick-release belts that offer both retention and emergency release without requiring you to reach your ankle.

The Importance of Wearing a PFD (Personal Flotation Device)

In any SUP situation, especially in moving water, a PFD is non-negotiable.

Why?

• It keeps you buoyant even if you get separated from your board.

• It provides flotation if you're injured or exhausted.

• It gives rescuers something to grab if you're pulled into a rapid or under strain.

There are different types of PFDs for paddling—low-profile, high-back, and even inflatable belt options that are comfortable and practical. While inflatables can be great for flat water, we recommend a Type III or Type V (rescue-rated) vest-style PFD in rivers and other high-risk zones.

What Is a Quick-Release Leash and Why Should You Use One?

A quick-release leash is exactly what it sounds like: a leash system designed to release easily under pressure, even if your hands are occupied or your body is underwater. These typically attach to a belt worn at the waist or over your PFD and can be pulled free with a tug on a toggle or cord.

They’re essential for paddling safely in moving water. Many models are compatible with rescue vests or come as an integrated system with the leash and belt together.

Key benefits:

• Easy to access (you can always reach your waist)

• Fast detachment under strain

• Keeps your board close in calmer zones but lets you break free in an emergency

At Hydrus, safety is always part of our design process. If you're looking to explore rivers or variable current conditions, we strongly recommend upgrading to a quick-release leash and ensuring it fits properly with your PFD.

Paddle Smart: Tips for Safer SUP in Moving Water

1. Scout your route
   Always check river conditions, hazards, and put-in/take-out points before paddling.

2. Paddle with a buddy
   A partner can help in emergencies or call for help if needed.

3. Wear a PFD
   Not on your board, not clipped to your backpack—on your body.

4. Use a quick-release leash
   Never wear an ankle leash in moving water.

5. Take a river safety or swiftwater rescue course
   These classes can teach self-rescue skills and help you read water safely.

6. Know your limits
   Conditions change quickly. Turn back or skip sections that feel risky.

Final Word: Stay Safe, Stay Hydrus

We love pushing the limits and exploring wild places on our boards—but not at the expense of safety. Paddleboarding is supposed to be fun, freeing, and adventurous. That only works when you’re prepared and informed.

So let’s all do our part. Share this info with fellow paddlers, make quick-release leashes a standard in your group, and never underestimate moving water. If you’re unsure about the right gear for your paddling plans, shoot us a message. We’re happy to help.

Your life is worth the right equipment.
Choose wisely, paddle smart, and we’ll see you out there.

About the Author

Angela Nichole leads customer experience and creative direction at Hydrus Board Tech. A CrossFit and yoga instructor with a background in functional fitness and wellness, Angela writes to empower paddlers of all levels. With a passion for movement, community, and quality gear, she brings a grounded and inclusive voice to the Hydrus blog. Angela plays a key role in shaping the Hydrus experience on the water, behind the scenes, and through every customer connection. Get to know Angela here.