What Is A SUP Paddle Board? (Features & FAQs)

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a water sport activity in which surfing is done while standing. The paddler stands on the board and uses the paddle to cruise through the water. The sport originated in Hawaii in the 1900s and has spread to other parts of regions across the globe.

Key Takeaways

• The SUP paddle board is typically longer and wider than other types of paddle boards, which makes it more stable and easier to balance on
• The SUP paddleboard has a specific design that makes it well-suited for stand-up paddleboarding
• A sup paddleboard is made for use on open water and can be found at nearly every beach around the world
• What type of paddleboard is best for you depends on the length, width, and thickness of the SUP board

What Is A SUP Paddle Board?

SUP is an abbreviation for Stand-Up Paddle Board. This board is a self-propelled, narrow, short, and buoyant board that uses a double-bladed paddle to propel the user. SUP paddles have either a single- or double-sided blade. Generally speaking, single-sided SUP paddles have one blade on each side of the paddle while double-sided SUPs have two blades on each side of the paddle.

A sup paddleboard is made for use on open water and can be found at nearly every beach around the world. They are often used during recreation, especially by tourists to explore local beaches and help them travel to their destination without having to worry about their belongings getting wet or stolen from their hotel rooms.

The board is ideal for surfers looking to ride waves on their own as well as stand-up paddleboarders looking to hone their skills in preparation for competitions.

A SUP paddleboard can help anyone who wants to stand up paddleboard without fear of hitting their head on the bottom of the ocean like with other boards.

The popularity of the sport rose following the invention of inflatable SUP paddle boards that are portable and affordable. But, how exactly do you choose the ideal SUP paddleboard? Here are the features that will guide you:

What To Consider When Buying A SUP Paddleboard

There is something for everyone when it comes to SUP paddleboarding. You can relax in the calm water or enjoy the running waves in the ocean. Besides, you can do some workouts through a fast-paced paddle or enjoy SUP yoga right in the middle of the lake. However, you need to choose the right board based on your needs. Here we explain the basics that make it easy to select the ideal board.

1. SUP Size And A Weight Capacity 

When it comes to the size of the board, you need to look at its volume and weight capacity. The SUP board must support your size without toppling over.  It should displace the right amount of water to support you well and offer the needed stability. The right size is determined by the length, width, and thickness of the SUP board, which will also be discussed in detail.

The volume of the board is usually indicated under specs. More weight needs a SUP board that has a high volume. The volume and weight capacity are directly related. But no worry as the weight capacity is also indicated. You need to calculate the total weight i.e., your body weight plus that of any other gear or drinks put on the board. You need the right board that supports the load for smooth and easy paddling.

2. SUP Length

In regards to length, there are small, medium, and long SUP boards. The small ones measure less than 10 feet and are good for surfing and kids. They are easy to maneuver around, and those specifically designed for kids measure eight feet. The medium boards measure between 10 to 12 feet, which is an ideal multipurpose board and can work well for SUP yoga.   The longboards measure 12 feet 6 inches and above.  They are great for long-distance cruising and fast paddling.

The length of the board affects the volume and capacity. Long ones increase weight capacity and volume and are more stable. You will need a board that can fit in your car for transport and does not take up much storage space at home. Shorter ones are for kids or those that do not intend to carry additional items on board.

3. SUP Shape

There are two main shapes of the SUP boards; planning hull and displacement hull.  However, some combine the two designs to produce a hybrid of the two for better performance. Both shapes work well for beginners, but the one chosen depends on the activities you intend to do.

A planing hull is more similar to the surfboard featuring a flat and comprehensive design. It rides smoothly on top of the water and is easy to maneuver. If you plan to use whitewater, surfing, SUP yoga, or leisure padding, then planning hull-shaped SUP boards is the best option.

The displacement hull shape has a pointed bow or nose similar to that of a canoe or kayak. The sharp nose pushes through the water allowing for smooth and fast padding. Due to its efficiency, you can ride for longer distances at a higher speed. Though a little bit challenging to maneuver, the displacement hull rides on straight tracks, which are thus suitable for expert paddlers. If you plan to go for SUP racing, SUP touring, or fitness padding, the displacement hulls are the ideal option. 

4. SUP Width

The width of the SUP board affects its speed and the ease to addle. Wider boards are slower and can be difficult to paddle. The different widths which range between 25 and 36 inches are made to serve various needs. The ideal width depends on the paddling you intend to do, your body type, and your ability level.

For long tours that demand extra gear, drinks, food, and a tent, the wider boards are ideal since they provide ample storage space. If you are doing SUP yoga, then also wider boards of 31 inches or more are the perfect option. It gives enough space for doing poses and the stability needed. Racers and surfers should go for narrower boards due to their speed.

When it comes to body type, small people should go for narrower boards while big people should pick broader types. If you are a big person, then it may be challenging to balance a thinner board compared to how a small person can and vice versa. The beginners should go for the broader board since they are more stable and easy to control. Experts, on the other hand, are better off with narrower and faster boards depending on their needs.

5. Solid VS. Inflatable SUP Boards

The SUP can either be solid or inflatable. Robust designs are made of EPS foam core wrapped with epoxy and fiberglass, making them lightweight, long-lasting, and affordable. Others are made of carbon fiber, which is lighter but costlier. There are also some which feature affordable plastic construction though heavier with low performance.

Inflatable SUPS has PVC exteriors with air cores created through drop-stitch construction. The air can be pumped in and out, thus suitable for the traveler with limited storage space. When deflated, it can fit in a pack back and make it easy to transport and store. The performance is a bit low in inflatable boards compared to solid ones.

FAQ

What’s The Point Of Paddle Boarding?

Stand-up paddleboards are a great and versatile tool for skilled paddlers. They can be used for surfing, fishing, touring, yoga, and more.

While it is important to know how to use a stand-up paddleboard, there are some other things you should know as well in order to avoid any mishaps. So here are the 7 Usages of a Stand Up Paddle Board.

– Strapping it down: Stand-up paddleboarding has a lot of different uses. They range from physical exercise to relaxation and getting away from the city.

– Physical exercise: Stand-up paddleboarding can help burn calories without making you feel like you’re working out. It is also great for both body and mind relaxation, stress relief, or meditation.

– Small Watercraft: This handy tool makes traveling through rivers, bays, and lakes easier than ever before. If you’re looking to avoid crowds on your small boat travels then this is the way to go!

– Fun Entertainment: Stand-up paddleboarding offers a number of other forms of fun aside from just “riding the waves.” You can try out stand-up paddling, yoga, cycling, or hiking.

– The purpose of paddleboarding is to provide a fun and challenging way to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.

– Paddleboarding is a sport that can be done by anyone, regardless of skill or height. It can help people to get into shape while not being dependent on machines or other expensive equipment. It’s also an excellent way to enjoy the water without any danger of drowning.

Is Paddle Boarding Dangerous?

Paddleboarding has been rising in popularity as a recreational activity for people of all ages and physical abilities. Despite its growing popularity, it is important to know how to paddle safely when conditions are not ideal.

Paddleboarding is a popular activity in the summer months, but it can also be dangerous. You should be aware of the risks and wear the proper safety equipment when you paddleboard.

The SUP paddling guidelines can help make your trip on the water much safer.

This section is about the guidelines that you should follow to better enjoy your SUP paddleboarding experience.

1) Get A Lifejacket, It’s Mandatory: You must have a lifejacket if you are going to be on the water for more than an hour. A lifejacket will keep you afloat and will also provide buoyancy if you capsize.

2) Use A Paddle Board: The paddleboard helps you control momentum and provides stability on the water while staying high up in case of waves or rough waters.

3) Stay Cool, Keep Moving: You don’t want to get overheated when the temperature rises in hot weather because it could lead to heatstroke or even death.

Do You Wear Shoes When Paddle Boarding?

When you decide to go paddleboarding, barefoot, or in sandals is up to you. However, it’s important that your toes are protected from the saltwater and rocks that you might encounter on your adventures.

Some people choose to wear shoes when they go paddleboarding, but some people choose not to wear shoes at all while others opt for open-toe sandals or flip-flops. The decision is entirely up to you.

If you want more grip on the board, then wearing shoes is a good idea. However, if your feet are tired from paddle boarding around all day long and it’s time for a break at a nearby bar with your friends, then going without shoes might be just what you need!

Can You Paddle Board If You Are Fat?

Paddleboarding is a popular water sport. However, it requires the ability to use balance and coordination to move forward. Those who are overweight may not have this ability and could struggle with paddleboarding.

For those who do find themselves unable to paddleboard due to weight, there are alternatives such as kayaking or rowing. However, these activities are not as easy on the body as paddleboarding is because they do not put as much strain on the upper body or core muscles.

Do You Have To Be Fit To Paddle Board?

The answer is no, but it is important to be in shape and aware of your safety. There are many health benefits that can accompany paddleboarding.

As with any new activity, consulting your doctor first and learning the basics is recommended. Paddleboarders should wear a life jacket, know how to self-rescue, and know what to do if they fall into the water.

Final Take

Now, you know what a SUP paddling board is and how to choose one based on the features highlighted above. Choose the best SUP board and get the other necessary gear for an enjoyable experience in the water!

References:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standup_paddleboarding
• https://www.gilisports.com/blogs/sup-expert-advice/what-is-sup
• https://www.surfertoday.com/surfing/what-is-stand-up-paddleboarding-sup