I have just watched G Mans vid for the second time and am trying to imagine what i would do with the paddle when wiping out like that.

Is it best to just hold it where it is and try to penetrate the water as per normal?

Or can you change your hold on the paddle - perhaps to the handle end so the wave goes over it easier and it does not drag you further in ?

Maybe in heavy situations it would get ripped out of your hands completely ?

..... at least you can still paddle a sup laying down.

Yes - i think i need a wave paddle stategy !

Hold onto it with your other hand then it will feel like someone else is holding it.

Yes but sit on it first until it goes numb .

Always a 2 hand grip , never ever let go.If you are getting pitched from the lip go in handle first. When you are getting flogged push the paddle square out in front of your body and use it as a brake. When you get dragged back put the paddle straight out in front of you and push down on the blade it will make you surface to get a breath , if you are still getting dragged put it out front again in the square position and apply the brakes.

Warning this puts tremendous strain on your leg rope but it does rip the board out of the wave. Your paddle is also a floatation device so never ever let go , if you do you won't see it again until is washes up on the beach , it catches waves like a beach ball.

Sometimes it is better just to let go. My worst one was going Mach 10 and fell off and put the paddle in front it stopped my melon did not lots of stars. Judge each wipeout on its merits. Hang on if you can, easy to lose them.

Experience counts and the goat has it in spades. Nice work in the vid John.

Thanks Hilly

here's a funny shot with paddle still in hand: