Gear

Fins for paddling

yes you need fins You'll be swimming and kicking... not floating and paddling

Churchills - the only fins I've used.

Modifications made by George Greenough to his UDT fins

more about UDT fins

Fin(s) for your spoon

Sun protection

since only your head is above water there is not that much to protect.

Fitness

better be in shape. You'll be swimming and kicking, not floating and paddling.

Board bag/case

I want my spoons to last a long time.

Padding/floatation for deck

You may need padding on the deck, especially if you don't wear a wetsuit. I had to glue padding on my edge board to give it positive buoyancy so it wouldn't sink.