Have you ever snapped a leash or become detached from your board, and had to swim after it? If you have then you’ll know that swimming with a paddle is not easy. The paddle swim is a great technique to allow you to swim efficiently, whilst still keeping hold of your paddle. The last thing you want is to have to ditch your paddle too! But remember that prevention is always better than cure. So remember to regularly check your leash for any wear and tear, so you can replace it before it breaks! A new leash is going to be cheaper than a new board and leash!

Great vid.. but remember if there's any current or wind forget your paddle instantly.. Go hard for the board and if you're lucky enough to catch your board then hand/prone paddle the board back to look for your paddle..

If you have board shorts on most of them will have a loop in the pocket that is big enough to thread the handle through and just let it drag.
Or the older type wetsuits with the back zipper usually have a long enough bit of material attached that you can tie around the handle.
Alternatively if your legrope has broken but still has a long enough piece attached to your ankle you can tie it with that.


I'd be trying one of these methods first I think

tightlines said..
If you have board shorts on most of them will have a loop in the pocket that is big enough to thread the handle through and just let it drag.
Or the older type wetsuits with the back zipper usually have a long enough bit of material attached that you can tie around the handle.
Alternatively if your legrope has broken but still has a long enough piece attached to your ankle you can tie it with that.


I'd be trying one of these methods first I think

Last winter I took a way too long 45 min swim after a leash break. Since then I have this same trick ready on standby for the next time.