A paddleboard is a paddler’s prized possession. Paddleboards are also not cheap. Few things are more painful than coming back to find your paddle board missing. It is a situation you wouldn’t even want to imagine.
A paddle board lock gives you peace of mind when you have to leave your SUP board. You can secure it to a tree, bench, or vehicle. You will be at peace, knowing that your paddleboard will be exactly where you left it when you return.
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But you have to choose a good one. As a paddler myself, I know the importance of having a reliable paddle board lock. So to help you out, I’m going to suggest my top five recommendations for the best paddle board locks.
I extensively researched and tried several stand up paddle board locking devices. Out of all the SUP locks I tested, the DocksLocks Jaws Lock device is my favorite. It is a strong locking system that will definitely not make it easy for a thief to take your SUP.
I love that you can attach the locking system to your paddle board’s fin box or leash plug. You can also use it for multiple boards.
The DocksLocks anti-theft locking system is built using tough materials. It features marine-grade stainless steel and a plastic nylon housing. The cable is coated with vinyl to protect it from the elements. Not only does it do a good job of securing your board, but it also lasts.
While this paddle board lock is my favorite, I found some other awesome ones too. So read on for more SUP locking system reviews.
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Best Paddle Locking Device – DocksLocks Paddle Lock
What do you do with your paddle after locking your SUP?
The DocksLocks paddle lock is your answer to that question. It is compatible with the DocksLocks anti-theft system for stand up paddleboards.
One of the best things about this paddle lock is how simple it is to use. All you have to do is clamp it around the shaft and use your paddle board lock cable to secure it.
It is affordable, high-quality, and will work with most paddles.
Lock Comparison Table
The Top 5 Locks for Paddle Boards in 2024
1. DocksLocks Paddle Board Lock – Best Lock for SUP
Imagine locking your stand up paddle board and losing the key to the device. How frustrating would that be?
Luckily, it is not something you have to worry about with the DocksLocks locking device. You won’t need a key since it is a combination lock.
The jaw lock can attach to the leash plug or fin box without damaging your paddle board in any way.
If you have multiple paddle boards, the cable is long enough for more than one board. But you will need to buy additional jaw locks for each SUP board.
The device can secure a surfboard too.
With your DocksLocks paddle board lock, you can secure your SUP to a park bench, roof rack, tree, bike rack, and any other stationary object.
The package includes a 10-foot coiled security cable, fin box cleat (for the fin track), and one DocksLocks jaws lock.
I’m impressed by the construction quality of this device. It is not cheaply made and it feels durable.
- No key required: You don’t have to walk around with a small key that you can easily lose because the DocksLocks is a combination lock.
- Can lock multiple boards: You can use this paddle board cable for multiple paddle boards so you won’t need to buy additional cables.
- Well-made and sturdy: I love the quality of the DocksLocks SUP lock. It’s sturdy and does a good job of securing your paddle board.
- Additional jaw locks for more SUPs: If you want to secure multiple boards you’ll have to buy a jaw lock for each one.
Check Price of the DockLocks Paddle Board Lock
2. DocksLocks Paddle Lock – Best Locking Device for Your Paddle
This DocksLocks paddle lock goes well with the above SUP locking system of the same name. You don’t have to carry your paddle around.
The lock clamps around the paddle; it’s a straightforward process. It fits most paddles and rods with a diameter of up to 1.5 inches.
Its anodized aluminum construction ensures that your paddle is well protected from theft. It also doesn’t rust—which is amazing.
The inner side of the lock has neoprene padding so it will not scratch your paddle.
- Quality, rust-resistant construction: The anodized aluminum is strong and reliable–it will keep your precious paddle safe. It is also rust-resistant so you know it will be a long while before you have to replace it.
- Neoprene padding: I love that the paddle lock has padding. It won’t scratch and ruin your paddle.
- Easy to lock: The process is as easy as it gets and it will fit any paddle with a shaft diameter of up to 1.5 inches.
- No security cable: You have to buy the security cable separately, so just be aware of this before you buy.
Check Price of the DockLocks Paddle Lock
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3. Red Paddle Board Lock
In addition to making some of the best paddle boards in the industry, Red Paddle Co also makes SUP accessories.
There are several reasons why I love their paddle board locking system.
The cable is built using marine-grade stainless steel with an abrasion-resistant coating. It is extremely hard to cut and it doesn’t rust. The cable is 11 feet long and you can use it for multiple paddle boards.
The combination lock is customizable, allowing you to set your own code.
- Works for multiple paddle boards: You can use the Red paddle board lock for multiple paddle boards without buying any extra accessories.
- Tough construction (difficult to break open): The 3.2 mm marine-strength cable has increased cut resistance. It’s really difficult for someone to cut it.
- Programmable lock: You can personalize the code to whatever you like and reduce the chances of your SUP getting stolen even more.
- Not very easy to set up: Setting the combination can be a little tricky and it may take a while. But once you figure it out everything is easy.
Check Price of the Red Paddle Board Lock
4. Thule Lockable Roof Rack Strap
Thule security cables are great for securing your SUP board to your vehicle.
The straps are made of a steel band with an outer nylon sleeve. They also have rubberized ends. They are rugged but they’ll not damage your paddle board.
One of the best things about Thule accessories is their quality and long warranty periods. This roof rack locking system comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
The package includes two locking straps, two one-key lock cylinders, and keys as well as an instruction manual. The straps are available in two sizes: 10 feet and 13 feet.
- Well-made so your SUP is secure: I love how sturdy this roof rack strap is. Your SUP board will be secure, safe from theft or even falling off the car roof.
- Nylon sleeve and rubberized ends: The roof rack strap may be heavy-duty but it won’t leave scratches on your paddle board.
- Unbeatable warranty: With Thule’s lifetime warranty, you know you’re getting a quality product that will last.
- Not the cheapest: The Thule roof rack strap costs a little more, but it’s definitely worth it in my opinion.
Check Price of the Thule Lockable Roof Rack Strap
5. KanuLock Lockable Stainless Steel Tie Down Straps
The KanuLock straps are like any other tie-downs but more secure.
They feature reinforced stainless steel for durability.
You can get the straps in four sizes: 8’, 11’, 13’, and 18’.
The paddle board lock system uses keys, which are included in the package.
- Different sizes available to suit you: You can choose the strap length that best suits you, from 8 feet to 18 feet.
- Almost impossible to cut: The thick reinforced stainless steel cannot be cut easily so your paddle board will be protected from opportunist thieves.
- Easy to use: The straps are just like regular roof tie-down straps, except they can be locked with a key for added security.
- Not cheap: KanuLock straps are on the more expensive side but they give you peace of mind by protecting your paddle board.
Check Price of the KanuLock Straps
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Lock System for Your Stand Up Paddle Board
When buying a locking device for your stand up paddle board, you have to make an informed decision.
So here is everything you should know.
Why You Need a SUP Locking System
You cannot walk around carrying your paddle board all day. You may need to leave it unattended, maybe to buy something, take a walk at the beach, etc.
A paddle board lock makes it harder for an opportunistic thief to take your precious SUP.
How Do Paddle Board Lock Systems Work?
This depends on the type of locking device you have.
The Red Paddle locking system, for instance, is pretty simple. It consists of a cable and an easy-to-use carabiner. Pass the cable through the carry handle and then around the stationary object.
The DocksLocks process is slightly different. It has a jaw lock that attaches to the leash plug or fin track. The video below explains it perfectly.
Factors to Consider When Buying A SUP Locking Device
1. Cost
As with every other product, the prices of paddle board locks vary. Some go for $50 or less while others cost $100 or more.
It all depends on your budget. Fortunately, high-quality affordable SUP locking devices are not hard to find.
2. Construction Quality
You will most probably be using the locking system outside, where it is exposed to the elements.
You want a well-made paddle board lock that will not corrode after a short while. The devices reviewed above won’t rust and neither will they scratch your SUP.
3. Number of Paddle Boards
If you plan on securing only one paddle board, any lock will work for you. But if you have several boards, you need a locking device that can accommodate them.
Some locking devices, like the Red Paddle and DocksLocks, can secure multiple SUPs. With the DocksLocks system, however, you will have to buy extra jaw locks.
Paddle Board Lock FAQs
What Is a Paddle Board Lock?
It is a locking device that lets you secure your paddle board to a fixed object to prevent theft.
How Do You Lock a Paddle Board?
This depends on the type of lock you are using.
Here is how you do it using the Red Paddle locking device.
Final Thoughts
A paddle board lock is one of those accessories that every paddler should consider having. It could save you a lot of trouble.
The DocksLocks SUP locking system is my top choice for 2024. It is well made and durable—you will be using it for a long time. It can accommodate more than one board.
The DocksLocks paddle lock is great if you want to secure your paddle too. It fits most paddles.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Get a locking device for your SUP today.
Happy paddling!
