The question of all questions, and certainly a small challenge is to find the right SUP board. After stand-up paddling has become increasingly popular in recent years, there is now a wide range of different SUP boards. This has not made it easier, especially for beginners, to find the right SUP board. From SUP boards that are suitable for the whole family to all-round boards, touring boards and race boards – the right SUP board can be found for every requirement. So that you know how to find a suitable SUP board, what you should pay attention to and which boards are actually available, we have addressed the topic in this article.
WHAT IS IMPORTANT WHEN YOU WANT TO FIND THE RIGHT SUP BOARD?
Basically you have the choice between inflatable SUP boards and so-called hardboards. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, but inflatable SUPs are much more popular and have made the sport possible for almost everyone. They can be easily transported unfilled and easily inflated on site. Inflatable SUP boards are the better decision, especially for beginners and hobby riders.
In order for you to find the right SUP board, factors such as body weight, riding experience and areas of use play a central role. This determines the volume, length and width of the SUP board. Remember: The wider and stiffer the board, the more stability it brings and the safer the stance. The longer the SUP board, the more speed you can pick up.
FINDING THE RIGHT SUP BOARD – WHICH FACTORS PLAY A ROLE?
If you want to find the right SUP board, you will primarily come across the following models:
- Allround-Boards
- Touring-Boards
- Race-Boards
- Wave-Boards
- Mega boards
To find the right SUP board that fits in terms of length, width and stiffness, use your weight and your previous experience as a guide. The more body weight, the more volume the SUP board needs to lie on the water accordingly. Over time, SUP boards have been developed for different uses. Today you can find the right SUP- Board for almost every type of water and for every type of rider – from occasional riders to hobby riders to professionals. In order to find the right SUP board, you should know the area of use of your SUP. Touring, Race or Family? See for yourself.
FIND THE RIGHT SUP BOARD FOR BEGINNERS
See for yourself. Beginners should use a wider inflatable SUP with a length of at least 10 ft (305 cm). This makes it sufficiently stable and yet manoeuvrable and easy to handle.
FIND THE RIGHT SUP BOARD FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY
If you want to share the fun of riding with your whole family, the mega boards are a good choice. With a wide design and medium length, they offer the best conditions for a joint outing in nature.
FIND THE RIGHT SUP BOARD – ALLROUND BOARD
You may find the right SUP board among the all-round boards. They meet different requirements and are usually 11 ft (335 cm) or 11.6 ft (350 cm) long. The width is at least 30 inches (76 cm). They are a good choice if you want a good mix of all SUP board handling characteristics.
FIND THE RIGHT SUP BOARD – TOURING AND CRUISER BOARDS
You can find the right SUP board at Touring SUPs and Cruise boards, which are also suitable for long tours. Length starts from 11.6 ft (350 cm). The longer a model is, the more efficient the paddle pulls and the faster the progress. Plenty of space also means that you can easily backpack or take your dog with you on these variants.
FIND THE RIGHT SUP BOARD – RACE BOARDS
If you are looking for the right SUP board for competitions, you will find the appropriate models in the race boards section. Due to the narrower cut and a length of approx. 12.6 ft (381 cm), you can achieve high speeds and have good stability when changing direction. They ensure improved gliding properties so that you can ride even longer distances quickly with less effort. Race boards are only recommended to a limited extent for beginners, as they require some practice when balancing due to their structure. Maneuverability is also limited by the length.
FIND THE RIGHT SUP BOARD – WAVE BOARDS
Wave boards are special SUP boards that allow you to surf waves. If you plan to find a suitable SUP board for surfing, the short and less voluminous boards are just the right companions for your adventure. They are ideal for smooth and effortless gliding through the waves. Longboards with more volume are also ideal for riding smaller waves.
Tip: We have a large selection of high-quality SUP boards for different requirements. In combination with our tips, it is no longer that difficult to find the right SUP board. Have a look around with us at grandtoursports. If you have any questions or would like personal advice, we are here for you. Together it will be easier to find the right SUP board. Just get in touch with us.