How to carry a SUP board?
Generally speaking, a SUP should be loaded like a canoe: with the weight balanced more or less equally between the front and back, with a little less weight at the front. All the heavy things should be placed over the centre line of the board to prevent the board from leaning to one side. In summary, a SUP and a paddle board refer to the same watercraft used for the sport of stand-up paddleboarding. SUP refers slightly more to the activity, of actually standing, rather than solely the board being used.In general, longer boards are faster than shorter boards, but shorter boards are more maneuverable. Keep in mind your intended use when deciding what length SUP to buy: Short boards (under 10′) are great for surfing and/or kids.The first is that beyond the boards width, the length also plays a role in providing stability. It is both the boards length x width that will add to how stable the SUP will feel. The trade-off of this, though, is maneuverability. The larger the board, the less maneuverable it will be.
How many fins should SUP have?
SUP are the most typical type that you will find on the market, both of which have pros and cons. As previously mentioned, 1 fin creates minimal drag and makes the SUP easy to turn, 1 fin boards are also ideal for flatwater paddling and practising your skills on reasonably calm waters. The main con to a 1 fin SUP is that they can sometimes feel unstable, balance and control are a bit more reliant on the rider. A 3-fin setup, also called a thruster, promotes straight tracking on flatwater and offers good control in the surf.
What size SUP board is best for beginners?
Length: A board between 10 to 12 feet is ideal for most adults. Longer boards offer more stability and a smoother glide, while shorter boards are easier to manoeuvre. Width: Look for a board that’s 30 to 34 inches wide. Wider boards provide greater balance, making them perfect for beginners. Generally, the 11′ paddle boards can shoulder more weight, making them the ideal choice for slightly larger paddlers or those carrying additional gear. A 10′ board, while it has a lower weight capacity, still manages to handle a reasonable load and is a great fit for smaller paddlers.They are a good choice for those looking to do some touring or racing. If you want to paddle in a straight line for a long time, a 11′ board is a smart choice.Although falling off your paddle board can be frustrating, it’s important to remember that even the most experienced of paddle boarders will fall off every now and again and it is all part of the process of learning.The real world shows us that paddle boarders come in all shapes and sizes and people over 50 kg can play too. To anyone who is big-boned, burly, extremely tall or just plain overweight, there is a board for you.
