Why am I so wobbly on a paddleboard?
The shaky leg sensation when paddleboarding mainly affects beginner riders and can put be down to several reasons; challenging conditions, under-inflated boards, inadequate equipment, nerves, incorrect stance, or incorrect technique. Avoid offshore winds. They will quickly blow your paddleboard far out to sea, which can make it extremely tiring and difficult to paddle back to shore. Avoid launching in windy conditions. You should wear a suitable personal flotation device.Wind is a major risk for paddleboarders. You may be setting off in smooth waters, but offshore winds can create breaking waves meaning you can end up in choppy seas faster than you think, or being swept out to sea .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.
Are inflatable paddle boards worth the money?
Yes — inflatable paddle boards are absolutely worth it if you choose the right one. This guide explains when they make sense, what to avoid, and why Glide’s inflatable SUPs deliver premium performance, durability, and value for paddlers of all levels. 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.Inflatable paddle boards are more convenient as they’re easier to store and transport. But a traditional hard paddle board—while not the most convenient—offers much better performance by having more agility and superior glide on the water.Longer paddleboards (11’–14′) glide better and track straighter. Shorter paddleboards (9’–10’6”) are easier to turn. If you’re between two lengths, shorter paddleboards are easier to carry and turn quickly in the water, while longer paddleboards feel track straighter, but may be harder to turn.The best inflatable paddle board is the Bote Wulf Aero. It manages to be both super stable and easy to maneuver. Plus, it’s half the price of similarly performing boards. If you’re on a tight budget, check out the Advenor Extra Wide.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.
Why not buy a cheap paddle board?
The cheaper inflatable paddle boards in the market tend to be constructed with glued seams which over time and constant inflating, deflating, folding up, and unfolding tend to loosen and cause punctures. This is dangerous. There’s nothing worse than being out on the water and realising that your board is deflating! Durability: Surprisingly, inflatable paddle boards are more durable than solid paddle boards. Quality inflatables are made from military grade materials, so if you knock or drop your inflatable board, it won’t dent or scratch. This also makes inflatable boards perfect for white water paddling or paddling rocky rivers.Paddle boards are durable and sturdy pieces of kit that can last you for many, many years if looked after correctly. The life span of your inflatable paddle board comes down to a few contributing factors like the way you use it, the way you care for it, and how you store it.Inflatable paddleboards have been proven over time to be more durable than epoxy SUPs. Quality inflatables are made from military grade materials that are not subject to the vulnerabilities of hard boards – dings and holes that require expensive repairs.With proper care and maintenance, a well-built inflatable paddle board can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or more. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the lifespan of your iSUP may vary depending on how often you use it, the conditions in which it’s used and stored, and the quality of construction.
What type of paddle board is most stable?
A wider board will always be more stable than a skinny board, but keep in mind that a wide board can be slower and, if the board is too wide for you, difficult to paddle. SUPs are made in widths ranging from about 25 inches up to 36 inches to accommodate a variety of needs. It’s not uncommon for some folks to have difficulty climbing on their paddle board especially inflatables. As a coach for 15 years I’ve seen folks struggle especially on 6″ thick inflatable boards. Here’s a few videos and blog posts I’ve done on this topic of how to get on your sup after a fall.Stand up paddle boarding is an excellent full-body workout, meaning, it works all the muscles in your body – your shoulders, chest, back, core, arms and legs. And while you’re getting fit, you get to be outside, in the sun, enjoying beautiful views and the sounds of nature.The Board: Traditional paddleboards are longer and narrower than SUP boards, typically between 12 to 19 feet long, making them more hydrodynamic. These boards are designed for either prone (lying flat) or kneeling positions and require a high level of balance and core strength.The truth? No — in many cases, inflatables are actually easier to balance on. Thanks to their extra width, thickness, and forgiving deck, modern inflatable SUPs provide stability that helps new paddlers gain confidence quickly.
Do inflatable paddle boards puncture easily?
Yes, inflatable paddle boards can burst, but this outcome is rare and typically the result of certain conditions or misuse. Over inflation, temperature variations, and material wear are the primary factors that could lead to a board bursting. Yes, seam splits do happen on inflatable paddle boards (and boats) with enough time and exposure to the elements, but it’s critically important to note that inflatable paddle boards vary greatly in terms of construction type, manufacturing quality, and factory expertise.
What is the difference between a paddleboard and a SUP board?
SUP Equipment The Board: A stand-up paddleboard is larger, wider, and generally more buoyant than a traditional paddleboard. It ranges between 9 and 12 feet in length and is designed to support a standing rider. 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.Is paddleboarding difficult? Paddleboarding is a fairly low-intensity sport – it just requires a general level of fitness and the ability to balance. With proper instruction – and it’s very important to book a lesson – it doesn’t take long to become a paddleboarding pro.Plus, the repetitive paddling motion helps tone and strengthen your arm, shoulder, and leg muscles. Mental Focus and Concentration: Paddleboarding requires concentration to stay balanced and navigate the water.Board Type: The term paddle board is often used as a synonym for SUP. It’s essentially the same thing, referring to the board itself rather than the activity of standing on the board whilst paddling.