What is a SUP (Stand Up Paddle) board?
SUP is the acronym for Stand UP Paddle boarding, which literally translates as stand up paddle boarding and has become one of the fastest growing water sports in recent years. A combination of kayaking and surfing, surfboarding is a sport that allows us to propel ourselves over the water with the help of paddles. We can also fit a small electric motor that allows us to sail in a more relaxed way. SUP boards are usually longer, wider and with better buoyancy than normal surfboards, which allows us to balance comfortably on them.
How many types of SUPs are there on the market?
Basically there are 3 types of SUP boards: surf, all-terrain and flat water.
- Las Tablas Surf, are shorter, have a narrower nose and tail and are more curved than the other two. They are ideal if you plan to spend all your time surfing. The narrower end design makes them more manoeuvrable in the waves. On the other hand, they are slower and more unstable in calm water and in a straight line.
- Allaround boards or Allround boards, are typically thicker, wider and longer than surfboards. These versatile, multi-purpose boards are ideal as a first board as they allow you to better explore all aspects of the sport with just one board: they are wide enough to be stable, they glide and ride well over calm water and ocean waves, and they are even strong enough and perform well enough to surf normally. Some multi-purpose boards have a built-in mast foot which allows a windsurfing sail rig to be fitted, making these boards truly exceptional and versatile.
- Flatwater boards or Flatwater boards are designed for optimal sailing on calm water, open water paddling and for sailing "downwind" (with the wind at your back). They are longer than allarounds and have a nose that helps them glide better over the water and go in a straight line. Their sides are usually rounded for a better ride and higher speed. Most flat water boards are wide enough to be stable enough for a beginner, but race boards belonging to the same family are even narrower and can be surfed at higher speeds. The narrower boards are a challenge for beginners and are therefore not recommended for beginners.
Which type of Sup Board to buy, Solid or Inflatable?
Solid SUP boards
Solid stand up paddle boards are made of different materials, ranging from foam, fibreglass, plastic or wood. Most solid SUP boards have an air vent installed above the deck. Air vents are used to prevent delamination of the epoxy resin.
Advantages:
- They do not need to be inflated. You can go straight into the water with them.
- They are super stable even in strong winds or choppy water.
- Maximum performance in terms of speed and agility or tricks while surfing.
Inflatable SUP Boards
Inflatable paddle surfboards (iSUP) are made from layers of PVC plastic with woven fibres that connect to the top and bottom of the inside of the board and are surprisingly rigid once inflated. Inflatable SUP boards tend to be a little lighter than many solid boards because they are composed primarily of air....
Advantages:
- They require minimal storage space as they can be packed in a backpack.
- It can be easily carried or checked in when flying.
- They are perfect if you want to paddle in places that are not easily accessible by car.
- are more affordable in price than solid SUPs.
What size of board do I need?
Volume and length are two important factors to consider when selecting the correct SUP board size.
SUP board volume
Use the formula below to calculate the volume of the board you need.
Beginners- your weight in (kg) x 2 (e.g. 90kg x 2 = 180)
Intermediates - their weight in (kg) x 1.7
Advanced - your weight in (kg) x 1.3
SUP board length
Please use our SUP board length size guides below to find the best suited stand up paddle board for you.
Surf Stand Up Paddle Board Size Guide
Allround Stand Up Paddle Board Size Guide
Flatwater/Race Stand Up Paddle Board Size Guide
What paddle do I need?
Components of a Paddle
A paddle for stand up paddle boarding consists of three parts:
- Handle
- Shaft
- Blade
Handles
SUP paddle handles can have an ergonomic design to fit the palm of your hand or a straighter T-bar grip. The ergonomic handle design is more popular, but some people prefer the traditional T-bar grip.
Axis
The shaft is considered the most important part of the paddle and can be made of aluminium, fibreglass, carbon and sometimes Kevlar.
The material of a pallet makes a big difference in performance.
Carbon: most common material, providing rigidity and memory to the paddle.
Fibreglass: economical material, which can be bent further making the paddle softer on the stroke.
Aluminium: rigid material, which can be heavy.
Kevlar: high impact resistance, which behaves very similar to carbon.
Which paddle do I need?
The sizes of stand up paddle blades can vary from large to small. A large paddle will displace more water in the paddle stroke and therefore generate more power when paddling. However, in the hands of a beginner paddler, larger paddles can hurt or cause pain in the shoulder over time.
As a general rule, smaller paddles are preferred in surfing and are softer for all users, especially women. Larger paddles are used more for distance or downwind paddling.
Pallet height
To maximise your performance and enjoyment on the water, you must have the correct length/height of foot paddle for the type of paddling you choose to do.
Surf SUP paddles are usually 15 to 20 centimetres above the paddlers' height due to the lower posture adopted when surfing.
Flatwater SUP paddles or flat water paddles, are usually 20 to 25 centimetres above the height of the paddlers to improve the reach and power of each paddle stroke.
Racing SUP paddles SUP racing paddles are usually 25 to 30 centimetres above the paddlers' height to achieve maximum reach and power on each paddle stroke for greater speed.
If you want to stand up paddle board in both the surf and on the flatwater, you can either buy two paddles or buy an adjustable.If you want a SUP board that you can use in both the Surf and on the Flatwater, you can either buy two paddles or buy one adjustable paddle that fits both.
Palette size
The size and shape of a paddle has a big impact on the performance of a SUP paddle. The chart below explains this visually.
What other accessories do I need?
SUP leashes
While not always necessary, a leash is a good idea, as it is what keeps you attached to the board if you fall off. Paddleboard leashes are especially useful in choppy conditions or when catching waves.
There are two styles of straps:
Roller blindThis leash is designed to stretch when under tension (ensures your board is a safe distance away when dropped) and to wrap up compactly when paddling. This helps prevent the leash from dragging in the water.
StandardThis is a normal cord leash similar to surfboard leashes. They are less likely to tangle if you move around the board. They drag in the water, but are usually lighter than a coiled leash.
Strap length
A general rule of thumb is to have a leash as long as your board. For a SUP board this rule can lead to very long leash lengths. Depending on your skill level and paddling style, this concept may vary. A leash that is within one metre of the length of the board will suffice.
Longer: allows the board to float further, reducing the risk of the board hitting you. Ideal in surf or choppy water conditions.
Shorter: keeps the board closer to you if you fall off. Often preferred in calm water, as there is much less risk of a wave pushing the board towards you.
Buoyancy aids
A buoyancy aid is important even for the experienced paddler. Conditions can change quickly and you always want to be prepared. In some areas they are also legally required and you can be fined if you don't have one. Check your local laws for more information.
Buoyancy aids must always be approved by the coast guard to ensure that they comply with safety standards.
Neoprene wetsuits
A good wetsuit can allow you to extend your padel season well beyond the warm summer days and even into the cold winter. You can add booties, gloves and a hood to get you out even in winter conditions.
The warmth of a wetsuit is determined by its thickness, which is measured in millimetres. You will need to know the water and air temperature you will be in to help determine which is right for you.
How do I look after my new SUP equipment?
Once you have purchased your new paddle surfing equipment, the following guidelines will help you maintain and prolong the life of your equipment.
- Store your SUP equipment out of the sun in a dry, shaded area.
- Transport your SUP board and paddle in a protective bag to avoid damage.
- Be careful when putting the board in the water and taking it out. There may be stones or other sharp objects when leaving the board.
- Be careful when paddling, avoid any obstruction that may damage your board, paddle or fin.
- If you have a vent plug, close it when you go out on the water. This will prevent water from entering your solid SUP board and damaging the foam core.
- If you have a vent plug, open it when storing your solid SUP board. This will prevent pressure from building up inside and prevent the board from exploding.
- Wash your SUP equipment after submerging in salt water, make sure you get the fin boxes, sliding nut and screw as well as the platform rig.
- Check regularly for dents and cracks in your board and paddle.
- Pay special attention to the nose and rails of your board. These are the two most common areas to get damaged.
- If you find something that has the potential to let water into your SUP board, do it immediately. We offer products such as tape that provide a temporary patch if there is no serious damage or if you can't repair it right away.
