An In-depth look at Paddle Boards

Paddle boarding is gaining a lot of popularity worldwide. Let’s face it, a large percentage of mankind is drawn into water related fun activities. Water symbolizes tranquility, it sustains life, one of the driving essences of nature, it heals, it purifies, and has calming effect on everyone.

As they say, water can be your BFF! People’s getaways are those pristine beaches, lakes, rivers or even the oceans that makes you become one with nature! They are there for the taking, for the adventure of the lifetime.

There are the old water activities like canoeing, kayaking, surfing, boating, jet skiing, and wakeboarding.  A very exciting addition is paddle boarding. It offers positive health benefits to paddle.

What is Stand Up Paddle Boarding Aka SUP?

Stand up paddle boarding aka SUP is a fun packed and relaxing adventure. It permits you to explore the water without having to swim or float in it. This fastest growing sports is actually a spin-off of surfing. The variation though is in SUP, you stand up on a paddle board and you have a paddle.

What is a Paddle Board?

A paddle board basically looks like a large surf board. The only thing is you will propel or push yourself to navigate your way through using a single paddle. The paddle looks like a canoe paddle but it is longer. The features include a handle on the top part, the shaft and a blade at the bottom. It could be solid or an inflatable kind.

What materials are paddle boards made of?

Paddle boards are made from different materials such as:

• Hard and Rigid boards - They are made from glass reinforced plastic or wood, and epoxy fiberglass. These are the traditional solid boards.
• Soft Boards – They are made using foams. Can be a hollow core board or polyurethane foam which is heavier but cheaper. They have a semi rigid integral foam that makes them softer. There are a lot of foam soft board to choose from.
• Inflatable - Made from durable PVC drop stitch material. They are often the most durable and more lasting.
• Plastic - Made from Polyethylene plastic, a durable plastic. They have a hard thermoplastic shell molded around either a foam core or a hollow core.

What Are The Different Types And Uses Of SUP Boards?

There are ten types of popular stand-up paddle boards and their uses:

1. all-around
2. fishing
3. flatwater / touring
4. flatwater / open ocean
5. racing
6. surfing
7. whitewater / river riding
8. wide SUP
9. windSUP
10. yoga

All-round - They are generally wider, thicker, and longer type of paddle boards. This board has the versatility that can serve multi-purpose functions. You only need this type to be able to explore all the avenues and aspects of this sports. Good for flatwater, ocean, beaches, and river. A very good board for beginners and can be tried on all water fronts. All round boards are dependable to be stable, wider, have better gliding properties may it be on flatwater and touring the vast ocean deep. The average length is 10′ – 12’6” and the average width is 30” – 34”.

Fishing - A very challenging combination of stand up paddle boarding and fishing. These boards are built-in platforms for fishing. The nose of the board is pointed rather than being rounded. The pointiness will help not to scare the fish away because they don’t create waves when being maneuvered or navigated though the water. The barer the board is, the better it would be.

Flatwater / Touring - This type is developed and enhanced to be used for flatwater, open water padding, example on the beach or the ocean, and for longer paddling distance from one point to another especially if the winds direction is behind you. The longest and has a pointed nose area as compared to the rest. It helps in going through the water more smoothly. It also increases the glide and it makes the board go on straight line. Although the side is typically rounder for better speed and gliding. The average length is 11′ – 14′ and the average width is 28” – 32”.

Flatwater / Open Ocean - These boards are very similar to touring boards. They are longer, narrower and has a rounded pointed nose as compared to the all-around SUP boards. It is capable to go through the waves smoothly. The main difference is solely on the lift in the nose for better coping with the waves. This greater rocker feature however can make you slower in flatwater. Also good for longer paddling distance experience. The average length is 11′ – 14′ and the average width is 28” – 32”.

Racing - These SUP boards for racing are longer, narrower, and has a pointy nose as compared to all –around SUP boards.  They will be able to slice through the water with so much efficiency, smoothly, and faster. There are two categories for SUP racing paddle boards: For sprint races, the board size is 12’6” and under and for long distance races it’s 14′. The average width though is 25” – 29”.

Surfing - This type is shorter, has a narrower nose and tail. It has more curves too than the rest. The purpose of it having a narrower shape makes maneuvering it easier on the waves. The downside is that it is slower, and it becomes less stable at times. The narrower the better but it would really demand more effort to balance. The first choice is a hard board. An option could also be an inflatable one for easier mobility. The ideal size for surfing is with an average length: 7′ – 10’5” and with an average width: 27” – 32”.

White Water / River Gliding - This board is smaller with a lift on the nose comparable to all-round boards. For this an inflatable SUP is highly recommended. It’s much durable in more rigid environments. Especially in rapids. Surprisingly, inflatable ones are sturdier in these situations than hard boards. The average length should be 10′ and under and the average width is 30” – 35”.

Wide SUP - Basically just a wider SUP.

WindSUP - Board that is purposely built for windsurfing and paddle boarding combination. The average length is 9′ – 12′ and the average width is 30” – 34”.

Yoga 

Since you are using it for yoga, choose a board that has a comfortable deck mat similar to a yoga mat. The best choice should have a wider area for more stability. The ideal size would be 10’-12.6’. Any board is good for yoga or fitness to get the maximum exercising experience. But the bottom line is, the wider the better!

For Beginners

If you are just a beginner in paddle boarding, it’s best to get an inflatable one. This will ensure better stability because of its uniform thickness from its nose to the tail. This enables paddlers to balance their weight on the board.

You can read more about Best Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Beginners.

Paddle Board Height Chart

Knowing the right size of paddle board is very important for a more meaningful and right paddle boarding adventures. Please click on our link for a more detailed article about: paddle board height, volume, length, size and weight chart.

What other important factor should I look into in a SUP board?

Body Type

The body of your paddle board is a hull. It plays a big role in how your board will perform in the water. You need to know if you will need a planing hull or a displacement hull. There are a lot of new hybrid designs. Knowing where to use your SUP can be more beneficial to you.

Planing Hull

The planing hull is flat and wide. It’s like a surfboard and it’s maneuverable. Very ideal for beginner paddlers. You’ll want to get a planing hull if you will do these activities. Please refer below.

Displacement Hull

This is a good touring board. It has a look like a kayak or canoe. It comes with a pointed nose in the front end. This enables the board to go through water more easily and navigate smoothly.   They are slightly more difficult to maneuver, but it can lessens your paddling fatigue, this way, you can surf longer and faster. 

Fins

Another very important accessory to a SUP is fins. They the key to the navigation of all SUP boards. Compared to a fish with no fins, a board can’t go will have a hard time navigating! 

Fins are very essential to every SUP board. They are the reason why your board goes where you want to take it than where the wind, waves, and water current want to take it. There lies the great difference. The number of fins vary from 1-5 fins.  It should be partnered to what kind of board you need for water activities you’ll be making.

So aside from other factors, look at what style and combination of fins you’ll need.

Fins for Flat Water

SUP boards to be used for flat water should have only one long fin. This kind of fin is good for shore-to-shore paddling, casual paddling, or if you go paddling with your child or pet. A single fin should be mounted on a longer and wider board for utmost stability. They function to make the board to navigate more straight especially during those long touring, racing, and downwinder paths.

Fins for All-around Multi-Fin and Thruster board fins

There are boards that have 3 fins to make maneuvering easier for them.  It makes their boards easier to turn and go through those waves. And there are boards with 3-5 fin set-ups and they are being called thrusters. They enable the boards to move really faster while surfing through those waves.

Experienced paddlers would know that a 3 fin set-up is not very good or advisable to use for flat water. Good technology allows most of the designs that has an option to remove the two fins on the outside.

If you remove 2 fins, you transformed it to a flat water board. There is another great way to maximize your board by simply removing the fin in the center and change it to 1 longer fin. It will even be better for flatwater. That is one essential reason why an all-around board are very good for intermediate and as well as beginner paddlers. It’s versatile and can be used in different activities and water surfaces.

Fins for Racing

There are fins available solely for racing. The shape is in between a flat water and fins for waves. They help the paddler have stability when racing.

4 fins or Quad Fins

A lot of paddle boarding enthusiasts swear that a SUP quad fin set-up is faster. Depending on your skill level, it can handle all waves. It’s the most flexible and most versatile. There are boards that are super flexible and can be used with 2, 3 or 4 fins. This type of board gives you more choices and options and can be used in different water situations. Getting the most out of paddle boarding! They are even easier to handle and easily respond to one’s navigation.

Fins for Downwinder treks

These fins are recognizable because they are longer and narrower. They also has lesser curves from the base to the tip. They can prevent spinning due to the currents specially in going downwind through rivers, oceans, and lakes it rapids.

Fins for blow ups or inflatable boards

The usual fins for blow ups are flexible fins made from rubber or the detachable semi-rigid ones that can be removed.

What paddle should one buy?

The basic components of a paddle are the following:

Handle - It is designed to fit the palm of the hand. Check also the grip.

Shaft - It’s considered the most vital part of a paddle. It can be made from different materials. The performance shall be dependent of the materials used in a paddle. 

Here are the materials used for the shaft:

• Carbon - most common material used and it’s stiff
• Aluminum - makes it heavier because of the bulkiness of the material.
• Glass fibre – budget friendly material, more flexible and can bend more and softer strokes.
• Kevlar – safe performance capabilities as carbon and highly resistant to impact.

Blade - Sizes are from small to large. A larger blade can boost more water but will stir the water more. A larger blade will give displeasure and shoulder pain to beginners.

One thing to remember, smaller blades will serve well in surfing since it’s gentler. Ladies are advised to use smaller blades. Larger blades are better for distance and paddling downwind.

Smaller blade: Speed/racing - more power

Regular blade: Less strong paddler - endurance

Larger blade: Power bigger waves - strong paddlers

What should be the height of the paddle?

To be able to get the right size of the paddle, there are two main factors: the height of the paddler and what is the primary use of the SUP.

There are also adjustable paddles that are available in the market. If you wish for a specific

height, here’s the main guideline:

Surf SUP paddles are 6-8 inches above the paddler’s height mainly because of the lower stance needed in surfing.

Flatwater SUP paddles are 8-10 inches above the paddlers height so it can improve the reach and the power of every paddle stroke.

Racing SUP paddles are 10-12 inches above the paddlers height to help to reach the maximum and aid in powering the speed in every paddle stroke. 

Everything is looking good with the paddle board and the paddle but what other things do you need to enjoy paddle boarding to its fullest potential? Let’s find out!

What other accessories do I need aside from the board and paddle to enjoy SUP?

Additional accessories needed for your basic paddle boarding:

• leash – to ensure that you are not separated from your board.
• life jacket (PFD) - to ensure your safety if something unavoidable could happen.
• wetsuit - to keep you warmer on colder days.

These are optional accessories and add-ons:

• protective gear - such as helmet, knee pad, and aqua shoes.
• whistle - for signal, and in cases that need to relay a sound to others.
• flashlight - for lighting especially when it becomes darker.
• phone / GPS locator beacon - for communication, location, and emergency needs.

What are the ways to take care of a SUP? An iSUP?

Proper ways to take care of your iSUP: (Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board)

1. Storage of an iSUP board should be in dry and area that has shade. Keep it out of the sun’s exposure.
2. Extra care should be taken to avoid damages due to rough surfaces.
3. Take special care when paddling to avoid any damage to any of the following; board, fin, and paddle.
4. Make sure you wash it every after each use.
5. Avoid dragging it at any time.
6. Avoid putting thing on your board while on it.
7. Randomly check before each use for holes or any damage.
8. Even if not in use, try to have a regular schedule cleaning of it.

Proper Ways to take care of a Solid SUP

1. Storage should be in a dry and area that is shaded. No direct exposure to the sun when not n use.
2. To mobilize or in transporting your SUP, cover it or have it wrapped to prevent damage.
3. Always be careful when you put your board in the water. Check if there are obstructions underneath.
4. Be extra careful when paddling to avoid causing damage on your board, fin, or paddle.
5. If your board has a plug for vent, close it as soon as getting out of the water. This will ensure that the water will no longer go to your SUP.
6. Wash your board after every usage.
7. Have a regular checking of your board and paddle. Check if there are dings or cracks. Check the board’s rails and nose for they can be easily damaged.
8. Have a ding tape in handy for minor damage or as trouble-shooting solution before having it repaired. Have your board repaired asap for your safety.

What are the benefits of Stand Up Paddleboarding? 

Stand Up paddle boarding is the new IN water sport but it offers a lot benefits. They are good for your body, mind, and whole being. You will be surprised how it can be very beneficial for everyone.

1. Makes you have an outdoor life - Being on your toes and getting out for this activity will help you physically. There is the opportunity to be on the water and at the same be fit. There is also the very minimal need of just a paddle board and off you go to have fun!

2. Helps you maintain your balance - This is very helpful not just to be able to balance on the board but your life as well. You will develop having your equilibrium in everything. It will also teach you the virtue of patience.

3. Anti-Stress - As they say, water has therapeutic properties that induces calmness, serenity, and relaxation. Problems have no way of bothering you once you’re on your board. Your worries fly away and you seize the moment.

4. It is a whole body workout - The whole body is in use in SUP. The movements involve your lower and upper body. In paddle boarding you use your arms, legs, back, core, shoulders, and your torso. Your adrenaline will rise too in paddling, keeping your balance, propelling your way through the water, and going pass those waves!

5. It is not a high impact sport - Definitely paddle boarding is a low-impact sport. You have your own phasing. You can rest and it’s not strenuous as compared to other sports. It can’t cause serious damages to the tendons and ligaments.

6. Makes you lose those unwanted pounds - A very good way to lose weight without going through hard exercises, crash dieting, and taking weight loss pills. You can still enjoy eating your favorite meals and at the same time have that low impact though paddle boarding. And it’s a fun activity to lose weight too. Studies have shown that paddle boarding can help in lowering the body fat as compared to dieting and weight loss pills.

7. It’s good for the heart - It can aid in your cardiovascular health. It helps prevent and lower the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Simply for the reason that paddle boarding is comparable to aerobics, running, and cross training.

8.  It is meditative - Being surrounded of water, the sound of the waves, the breeze, and the calmness makes it very meditative. You feel relaxed and just flow with the moment and water. You get to exercise, to learn to master SUP, and at the same time to meditate for more serenity for your whole being, mind, body, and soul.

The Best Solid SUP’s

1. Isle Cruiser Soft Top Stand Up Paddleboard is an all-around solid board that is 

10 feet 5 inches, it’s 4.5” thick, and can carry 235 pounds the most. It’s good for all levels, flat water, and small waves. Has vibrant colors and considered a very comfortable board. Being an all-around board makes its fore rounder thus adding for more stability. This board is good for beginners and as well as experienced paddlers needing the assurance of stability.

It’s 32 inches wide and quite thick at 4.5” which adds to its buoyancy and being more stable.

Solid boards are heavier than blow ups but this one is very portable at around 28 pounds.

It is covered in a soft-touch polyethylene skin that is good for paddlers to have a good grip and padding features. This Isle SUP reviews have very high ratings.

Special Features

• • Good entry board
• • The structure of the board is EPS (expanded polystyrene) which is what keeps the board lightweight.
• • Has a hybrid paddle that floats
• • Inclusive of a detachable fin with an easy attach and remove mechanism. 
• • soft top deck and high density bottom

https://www.amazon.com/ISLE-Cruiser-SUP-Package-Adjustable/dp/B01CKPZ0AW

2. ISLE Versa Rigid Epoxy Stand Up Paddle Board

This is another solid board that is 10 feet 5 inches, 32” width, and has 4.5” thickness. It can accommodate up to 275 pounds. It’s an epoxy board that is lightweight and super durable. It has a very in design that will appeal to everyone! It comes with a traction pad, adjustable carbon shaft and plastic blade paddle, and a center fin. It’s easy to carry everywhere with the grooved carry handle.

This rigid epoxy boards targeted skill brackets are the beginners and intermediates paddlers. This board boosts stability over speed. Very good for SUP yoga, and fishing.

Special Feature

• Has sizable traction pad

• Lightweight, weighing only 27 pounds

• Easy to maneuver

• Gentle cruising with ease

• More rigid, faster, and responsive than the ISLE cruiser

• Adjustable hybrid floating paddle

• Detachable center fin

https://www.amazon.com/ISLE-Standup-SUP-Package-Adjustable/dp/B01DMTERVS

3. Peak Escape Stand Up Paddle Board | Rigid Hard Soft Top SUP Package

This very attractive solid board is made from EPS foam core with wooden stringer. It measures 10 feet 6 inches, 32’inches in width, and has 4.5” thickness. This SUP is lightweight at 23 pounds. It has a maximum weight capacity of 250 pounds. It comes with 2 piece aluminum paddle, deck bungee cords, 9”detachable fin, leash, and even a smartphone case.

This board can be great for more advanced paddlers too. It has a large traction pad that allows

more flexibility and stability.

Special Feature

• All-around soft top

• Great for All Skill Levels

• Includes a color matched accessory bundle with smart phone anti-wet pouch

• Detachable 9” fins

• Comfortable ride due to soft construction

• You can ride with an extra person, dog or even  a cooler with you

• It is wrapped in a soft EVA shell with an ABS bottom.

https://www.amazon.com/PEAK-Soft-Stand-Paddle-Board/dp/B0791VRPZ6

4. BIC Sport TOUGH-TEC Performer Stand Up Paddleboard

This BIC SUP comes in 3 sizes: 9 feet 2 inches, 10 feet 6 inches, and 11 feet and 6 inches. Have the same width of 31.5 inches, and 4.5” inches thick. The weight of this board is 41 pounds. Made from Polyethylene plastic, a durable plastic and it is a strong and built to last board. It has a maximum weight capacity of 240 pounds. It also comes with a 10” removable center fin.

Special Feature

• • Has integrated deck pad for safety
• • Great for family and beginners of all ages
• • Very stable
• • It’s a surf inspired shape for all-purpose use for flat water and small waves surfing
• • Has a classic long board design
• • The 11’4″ size is a top contender for the best SUP.

https://www.amazon.com/BIC-Sport-TOUGH-TEC-Performer-Paddleboard/dp/B01N1VAVHU

5. CBC 10’6” Classic Foam Paddle Board SUP Package: Adjustable Paddle, SUP Leash, One Center Fin, Camera Mount, Protective Tail Cap & Roof Racks!

This  CBC paddle board is a 10 feet 5 inches solid paddle board can hold up to 300 pounds. It’s 30 inches wide and 5 inches thick. It comes with an adjustable aluminum paddle, leash, roof rack, and a detachable 9 inches center fin. There is also a camera mount inclusive for those fun pictures! Very good for beginners and intermediates for flat water paddling.

Special Feature

• • Has a molded-in nylon leash plug for easy leash attachment
• • High Density EPS foam paddle board with its waterproof core
• • Weighs only 25 pounds
• • A camera mount for great pictures while paddling
• • Adjustable paddle made from aluminum and carbon fiber
• • Has a molded nylon SUP handle that has grooves for easier carrying it
• • Very rigid board

https://www.amazon.com/Classic-Foam-Paddle-Board-Package/dp/B007722X40

Stand Up Paddleboarding can be one enjoyable ride to fun, excitement, and adventure. It’s a total body and mind experience. Indulge and enjoy on this soulful connection with water.
 
Always have a happy paddling day!