Published on : 26 June 20203 min reading time

Stand up paddle is a great way to explore the waterways around you. One of the most minimalist ways to travel on the water is quiet, fun and a great workout. Stand up paddle board or commonly abbreviated SUP, can be used for yoga, fishing, surfing and just about anything in between. If you are considering getting a paddle board, you have several options. However, it is important to consider the factors that make a paddle board ideal for you.

The Basics

When choosing a stand up paddle board, the most basic considerations are its dimensions and buoyancy, as well as their relationship to your weight, height and centre of gravity. In general, the heavier/larger you are, the bigger your board should be. This rule applies to the width, length and buoyancy of the board. In addition, your level of paddling skill and balance are other important factors that may affect your choice of board. For example, while a tall paddler would be recommended with a larger board, they may be able to use a smaller board because of their experience or balance abilities. On the other hand, a smaller paddler can always choose a larger board if they are concerned about their balance.

Touring paddle board

If speed is your game, a touring paddle board is for you. Designed for optimum efficiency. They’re ideal for covering distances on oceans, large lakes and waterways. Although the stability of this type of paddle board is close to that of a leisure boat, its V-shaped hull allows it to tip over a little more in the water. This requires a little more experience and balance for the paddler. It is synonymous with speed and efficiency. Its low water resistance and ability to cut through the water make it the fastest variant of the paddle board.

Surf paddle board

Choosing a surf inspired stand up paddle board is the best option for those who love the waves and use their boards to surf in coastal areas. Surfboards are a great way to learn to surf. Although surf-paddle requires certain skills, the same cannot be said for traditional surfing. The surf paddle board was developed in Hawaii and has gained considerable popularity in all coastal areas. They are ideal for small and medium waves in coastal areas or large lakes. Experienced surfers can even tackle big waves with developed skill. The speed achieved with a surf paddle board in open water is similar to that of a versatile leisure board. However, if you catch a wave, Mother Nature can propel you very fast using the right technique.