Unless you reside 6 ft underground, I’m sure you have seen or at least heard of Stand up Paddle Boarding. Everyone from bent over 80 somethings, little grommets, big wave chargers, celebrities, and every other type of athlete are stand up paddle boarding these days. “SUPing,” as its called by it’s participants, can be seen everywhere there is water (70% of the earth!) from lakes, rivers, ponds, streams, floods, and oceans. There are even nutters attacking rapids on these things. Paddle boards are what I consider water sport multi-tools; you can take advantage of any condition mother nature dishes out with just one piece of equipment. When there are waves, you surf it. If there is wind, you sail it. When it is calm, you cruise, dive, or fish it. Not only is paddle boarding a blast, it can also be a top-notch piece of workout equipment. How many other exercises can you think of that utilize your entire body, are fun, and strengthen your core and balance along with being low impact on all of your joints?? Not to mention allowing you to be outdoors in nature not watching some juicer scream at a piece of iron like it’s a red headed stepchild.
If after getting this far into my post you are still not interested in SUPing, it means that you hate fun and should stop reading and resume your W.O.W game. For those of you who are not hermits and are still interested, this is what you need to know to get into the sport.
Board Type:
For your first board you’re going to want what is called an “all around” shape. All around boards are, as advertised, designed for all types of conditions and people. They have the stability to get you started but also allow you to enjoy a variation of conditions. I know you want the small sexy surf design, everyone always does, but if you’re not an avid surfer already and you don’t live where there are consistent waves, then its just not the right board for you (feel free to grow out your flowing locks to compensate).
Board Shape:
All around paddle boards come in different shapes just like the people using them, long and skinny, short and fat, long and fat, and short and skinny. The characteristics of the different shapes can be broken down simply. Longer shapes track (go straight) best. Shorter shapes are more maneuverable. Wide shapes are stable. Narrow shapes are the fastest. Sure it can get much more technical than that, but for now that’s all you will need to know. With that knowledge you can pick the ideal board for you. If you want a stable board that tracks well on distance paddles you know to pick a longer wider board. If you want a maneuverable and stable board to cruise around on with the goal of getting into surfing, then you will want a shorter, wider shape to start.
Paddles:
Paddles are easy. Your paddle should measure 8-12” over your head. Carbon paddles are best due to their light weight, rigidity, and flex. Aluminum paddles are inexpensive and not big on performance but get you in the water. Fiberglass paddles fall in the middle. There are two types of paddles, fixed and adjustable. In my opinion adjustable paddles are the way to go. This way multiple people can use the same paddle. Also, depending on the marine conditions, you need different length paddles. When you’re surfing or paddling in windy conditions, a shorter paddle is used because you have a compact bent over stance. When you are distance paddling in calm conditions you will have a more upright stance, so therefore a longer paddle.
The best part about SUPing is that you don’t have to be a pillar of fitness to participate. With the right equipment and an open mind you’re good to go. If you stumble upon a place to give it a go you should, you will not be disappointed.
