A little close, but comfortable

Big wave pro surfer, Jamie Mitchell, who has ridden sixty foot waves off the CA coast, recently had a up close and personal meeting with a pod of whales.

This is not something most surfers get to see unless they also enjoy getting out on a stand up paddle board as well. This 8X World Paddleboarding champion witnessed the enormous mammals coming up for air not far from his paddleboard while Jamie was being filmed for a new t.v show called “Living in Liquid”. Even Jamie had to admit that he was a little stunned when they surfaced so close to his board.

Long before the stand up paddle phenom blew up in San Diego, Jamie Mitchell was already killing it out there and dominating the paddleboarding pack. The Australian has won the Molokai to Oahu race for ten years running.

Happy Valentines Day!

Featured Board - Cruiser Eco ACS 11'4

Without a doubt the most versatile, more durable, and best value SUP on the market.  Don't just take our word for it - check out these testimonials:

I did demo a $1,500 Hobie epoxy board and another epoxy board. I liked those fine, but can honestly say, not any better than my $799 Cruiser ACS board! Today I practiced stepping back and doing pivot turns on my board (watched a youtube of the manuever) and that was really cool! But I love this board and would recommend it to anyone.

The Oxbow Cruiser ACS 11'4" is AWESOME!!! It tracked so well today, even with a light wind and the entire paddling experience was amazing...I didn't want to quit! Really love it and the great service you all provide. Thank you so much again for all of your assistance and all the good tips (fin placement, etc) you gave me (total newbie that I am!).

Click on the image above for more details!

Old Schooler going aerial

Might be a new name to some, but Mickey Eskimo is one of the orignal old school shortboard windsurfers - landing front and back loops before a lot of people even knew what they were.  Taking it aerial SUP style now....

Great Article from Surftech's Marissa Miller!

Marisa Miller: The Secret to Living a Sexier Life

Follow this supermodel's simple tips to feel fitter, look sexier and strengthen your bond

By Caroline Schaefer

Marisa Miller has a confession to make.
"I'm very shy," says the 5'8" blonde stunner in a friendly voice that seems to contradict the statement. "I know it's weird for a person who models lingerie and swimsuits, but I don't like to be the center of attention!"

Too late for that. Soon after being discovered by famed photographer Mario Testino on a California beach in 2001, she landed a coveted spot in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, which led to a Victoria's Secret contract and numerous endorsement deals. Now the 33-year-old is in Boston filming her first movie, R.I.P.D., with Jeff Bridges and Ryan Reynolds.

Making the switch to acting was a major leap--professionally and personally. "Eighty percent of the things I do are not natural for my personality. I believe you have to fake it till you make it. Act like you're confident and you'll get there," says Marisa, who lives in L.A. with her husband of five years, music producer Griffin Guess. There are more words of wisdom where that came from. Check out Marisa's plan for getting everything you want--starting now!

Diet Tricks That Really (No, Really) Work
Marisa's stay-slim strategies are anything but garden-variety.

Eat naked.
Sounds kooky, but she has a point: "Eating smart is all about having an awareness of your body. The most obvious way to do that is by seeing it. So when you're trying to lose weight, spend more time wearing less. I don't think I could eat a plate of nachos naked--could you?"

Prep ahead of time.
"I'll cook a batch of brown rice or quinoa and keep it in the fridge, so when I get hungry, I can easily dress it up with olive oil, lemon, and salt and pepper, and then add veggies," says Marisa, who often has zucchini and spinach.

Practice portion control.
"I usually say no to the bad things at Whole Foods, but then I get to the register, where they have individually wrapped chocolates. I'll grab five and keep them at home. If I need something sweet, I've got it!" she says.

You can see the full story at http://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/marisa-miller

Seasons Greetings from Paddleboard Direct

From Mike, Glenn, Sonia, Bill, Al, Justin, and the rest of the crew at Paddleboard Direct.  All the best for safe and SUP filled holiday season.

SUP'ing Santa

Only 10 shipping days left!

Lots of great deals to be had -call 888-291-9905 or visit www.paddleboarddirect.com