Actually you can, the board still comes down if you were to right yourself or worst case, you would use the line on your ankle like a rope to pull yourself up. Many paddle boarders do so in the ocean with waves which would be a more intense situation. The tether is the same concept as for a surfboard, if you’re knocked out or pummeled, it’s an extra safety precaution that allows others to find you in addition to keeping a floating device attached. Meaning you’re a few feet away from your deck vs being being further away in a dangerous situation.