For newbies and those looking to gain knowledge, I will cover some important information about them and the sport in general. Overall, the aim of my article is to help you enjoy paddleboarding by helping you pick the right gear.
Let's get started!
See Also:
- 15 Best Surfboards for Beginners
- 10 Best Bodyboard Fins
- 13 Best Surf Wax
- 17 Best Surfboard Travel Bags
- 15 Best Board Shorts for Surfing
Contents
- What Is a Stand Up Paddle Board?
- Types of Stand Up Paddle Boards
- What Is the Best Stand Up Paddle Board?
- Where to Buy Stand Up Paddle Boards Near Me?
- Comparison of Top 17 Best Stand Up Paddle Boards 2020
- The Best Stand Up Paddle Boards
- SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- ISLE 10'5" Cruiser Stand Up Paddle Board
- Vilano Journey Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- ISLE Versa Rigid Stand Up Paddle Board
- Bluefin Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board
- iROCKER All Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- CBC Hydra Foam Stand Up Paddle Board
- iROCKER Cruiser Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- TOWER Inflatable 10’4” Stand Up Paddle Board
- GILI All Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Atoll Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Goplus Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- ISLE Explorer Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Pathfinder Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- SourceBIC Sport Stand Up Paddle Board
- Stand Up Paddle Boards Buying Guide
- How to Stand up Paddle Board?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- WindSurfingMag Overview
What Is a Stand Up Paddle Board?
In stand up paddleboarding, the main gear is called the stand-up paddle board and may be abbreviated as SUP. The board has a close resemblance to surfboards, bodyboards and, even windsurfing boards but without sails.
The basic position is standing and riders make use of paddles for locomotion or rely on the waves. Stand-up paddle boards are available in many designs which explains why the sport is so versatile and popular.
See Also: 15 Best Surf Watches
Types of Stand Up Paddle Boards
Stand up paddleboarding is one the best way to push up the fun and, as well, boost your workout regime. Evident from increasing interests, it is one cool watersport that offers so much versatility, available to all ages.
Asides being inflatable or not, SUPs are classified based on function. Here are the various types of SUPs.
- All around paddle boards – They are the multipurpose, most stable paddle boards and are ideal to start paddling. They can be used by almost all skill levels in almost all conditions. They are characterized by their rounded noses and can be 9’ to 12’ long.
- Touring paddle boards – They are designed for long-distance and calm waters. They offer a lot of speed. They are identified by their pointy noses and can measure between 11’6 and 12’6.
- Women’s paddle boards – They are usually attractive, lighter, and smaller. Their length ranges between 9’5” and 11’.
- Surf paddle boards – They resemble surfboards but they are smaller in length and width to increase maneuverability. Length ranges between 6’ and 10’8.
- Fitness paddle boards – They often have a large surface area, very stability, and offer better grip for rider’s balance. Length ranges between 10 to 12 feet and width between 32” and 34”.
- Fishing paddle boards – Stability matters here too but they are often loaded with a lot of attachment points for fishing rods, etc. Length generally ranges between 11’ and 12’6 and width between 32” to 36”.
- Beginner’s paddle boards – They are versatile with a rounded nose. They offer stability and can be longer and wider.
- Kids paddle boards – They are small-sized and lightweight. Often between 8’ and 10’ in length and may come with shorter paddles.
- Family paddle boards – They are bigger with great stability. They allow one or more users or even pets. They always have a higher weight capacity.
What Is the Best Stand Up Paddle Board?
If you are interested in checking out some products, below are some of the best stand up paddle boards that will help you enjoy the most out of your paddling.
- Best Overall: SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
"Inflates easily, good quality, easy to use and transport, offers great value for price." - Best Budget: Goplus Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
"Sturdy construction, nice stability, easy to inflate, offers portability and durability." - Best SUP for Beginners: ISLE 10'5" Cruiser Stand Up Paddle Board
"High maneuverability, impressive stability, easy to carry, highly recommended for beginners." - Best SUP for Ocean: Vilano Journey Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
"Great price, great board, takes about 15 minutes to inflate or less." - Best Inflatable SUP: ISLE Versa Rigid Stand Up Paddle Board
"Lightweight, anti-slip¸ comfy deck, easy to control, ideal for most skill levels." - Best Advanced SUP: Bluefin Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board
"Reliable construction, UV-resistant, versatile, supports GoPros, comes with a five-year warranty." - Best All Around SUP: iROCKER All Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
"Multiple color options, top-notch quality, supports action mounts, features a triple-action pump and floating paddle." - Best Non Inflatable SUP: CBC Hydra Foam Stand Up Paddle Board
"Great value, great maneuverability, adjustable paddle, best for flatwater." - Best SUP for Big Guys: iROCKER Cruiser Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
"High performance, high-quality, large weight limit, high-powered pump, all three fins are removable." - Best SUP for Surfing: Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
"High quality, anti-slip, lightweight, offers more value than price tag." - Best SUP for 300 lbs: TOWER Inflatable 10’4” Stand Up Paddle Board
"High stability, durable construction, good for all skill levels, comes with a non-slip deck." - Best SUP for Women: GILI All Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
"Comfy, sturdy build, lightweight, tracks well, four-color choices, has a larger bungee storage area." - Best Value for the Money: Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
"High durability, great performance, features a tri-fin system, can be converted to a kayak." - Best SUP for Lakes: Atoll Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
"Portable, many D-rings, floating paddle, ideal for calm water and small waves."
Where to Buy Stand Up Paddle Boards Near Me?
Inflatable SUPs can get punctured and the non-inflatable ones can get damaged during delivery. Considering this, it is best to buy from a nearby store since you can check for faults prior to payment. Also, there is no need for shipping and other costs, and warranty and return programs can be utilized conveniently.
However, if an online store seems fine for you, make sure they can handle your goods properly especially during shipping. Check out their reviews on reputation, delivery, and customer service prior to purchase. To find the closest shop to your location, kindly use the map below.
Comparison of Top 17 Best Stand Up Paddle Boards 2020
To help speed up decision-making, see the important features of the 17 best stand up paddle boards I researched.
The Best Stand Up Paddle Boards
Stand up paddling is a good core workout and a nice way to have fun outdoors on lakes, oceans, rivers and seas. It can be done by anybody with any skill level but with the best stand up paddle boards.
Below are the detailed reviews of the 17 best stand up paddle boards you should consider.
SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best Overall - Editor's Choice)
The SereneLife Inflatable stand up paddleboard is an attractive and quality option. It is available in four different color schemes but only in one size - 10.5 feet by 30 inches by 6 inches.
Made primarily from tough PVC, the paddleboard has a double-layer fabric, a reliable drop-stitch core, and EVA foam deck. It has a weight of about 20 pounds and a carrying weight limit of 275 pounds.
Furthermore, it is well-balanced between speed and control, especially on calm waters. Even on light waves, the SereneLife SUP, thanks to its three-fin setup offers high stability.
Notable features include the bungee cord storage for storing things, D-rings for attachments, and a slow-sinking paddle.
Pros
- Available in four colors.
- D-rings for storage and attachments.
- Great maneuverability and traction.
- Three-fin setup for stability.
- One-year warranty.
Cons
- Susceptible to puncture.
See Also: 15 Best Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards
ISLE 10'5" Cruiser Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best SUP for Beginners)
The ISLE 10’5” Cruiser Stand-up paddleboard is a great, versatile choice for beginners and average riders. It is a soft-skinned board with a textured surface that allows a better grip.
The core is made from epoxy and the deck is made from polyethylene. The maximum weight limit for this board is about 235 pounds, decent enough to accommodate average paddlers.
It is 10.5 feet long and 32 inches wide, hence, you should enjoy absolute control and enough space on deck. Coming 4.5-inch thickness weight of 23.5 pounds, the ISLE Cruiser is easy to handle.
However, it has just one large center fin which means less stability and also includes a floating paddle.
Pros
- Texture offers a great grip.
- Paddle is lightweight and floats.
- Versatile and easy to use.
- Ideal for beginners.
- Hard bottom for smooth motion.
Cons
- Not for bigger paddlers.
- No leash included.
Vilano Journey Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best SUP for Ocean)
The Vilano journey inflatable stand up paddleboard is one product you are going to be happy with. Made from high-grade PVC, it flaunts great durability and even lesser susceptibility to puncture.
It is an all-round type, hence, it offers much versatility and can be used even for fitness and fishing. At 15 PSI, the board is rock ready to roll and its lightweight allows easy handling and high speeds.
With a 260-pound weight limit, the board has a length and breadth of 10 feet and 31.5 inches respectively plus a thickness of 6 inches. The Vilano Journey SUP has a single, removable center fin and provides moderate stability.
On purchase, you also get to enjoy a non-adjustable aluminum paddle, gauge-fitted hand pump, an ankle leash, and a one-year warranty.
Pros
- Bungee cord, leash, and D-rings present.
- One-year warranty.
- Ideal for recreation.
- Tracks and glides faster.
- Pump is fitted with a pressure gauge.
Cons
- Might be stressful to inflate.
- Non-adjustable paddle.
ISLE Versa Rigid Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best Inflatable SUP)
Unlike the other ISLE SUPs on my list, the ISLE Versa is a rigid one that can be used by most skill levels. It is available in two dimensions – 10’5” x 32” x 4.5” and 11’2” x 32” x 5”.
The weight limits of the small and big dimensions are 275 and 300 pounds respectively. In terms of construction, it features an EPS core and a polyethylene skin which are able to guarantee durability.
You will also enjoy a high paddling experience with the anti-slip deck, lightweight, adjustable paddle, and a center fin. The ISLE Versa is also available in three color schemes.
Pros
- Adjustable paddle.
- Available in two sizes and three colors.
- Excellent construction.
- Reputable brand.
- Ideal for most skill levels.
Cons
- No action mount or D-rings.
Bluefin Stand Up Inflatable Paddle Board
(Best Advanced SUP)
Heavy paddlers have gotten a heavy-duty choice to cater for their needs with the all-round Bluefin Stand up inflatable paddleboard. The highlight is the weight limit of 287 and 309 pounds for its 10-foot and 12-foot long variants respectively.
It has an excellent construction – dual-layer PVC, reinforced drop-stitch layer, high traction deck, and UV-resistant coating. With a tri-fin setup, 33-inch width, and 6-foot thickness, it is very stable and easy to pivot.
The Bluefin Stand up inflatable paddleboard glides and tracks smoothly. The dual-action pump included helps you achieve higher PSI easily but 15 to 18 PSI is recommended.
It has many D-rings, GoPro mount for cameras, smart-lock fin, storage area, lightweight fiberglass paddle, backpack, and leash. It is convertible to a kayak and has a 5-year warranty.
Pros
- High weight limit.
- Reliable construction and UV-resistant.
- Features GoPro mount.
- Dual-action pump.
- Five-year warranty.
Cons
- No repair kit included.
iROCKER All Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best All Around SUP)
The iROCKER all-around inflatable stand up paddleboard is a fantastic board that will be appreciated by most skill levels. An area of 10 feet by 32 inches and a 370-pound limit seems enough for solo and more riders.
With its 6-inch thickness, the board is stable in flat and calm water conditions and moves at a moderate speed. The stability is undeniably great as it is further enhanced by the three-fin arrangement.
The iROCKER SUP has a tough construction consisting of four layers of PVC. Inflation is made easy with the triple-action pump and one can store more in the large bungee storage.
One notable feature is the action mount that supports GoPro cameras. It also comes with a number of D-rings, a safety ankle leash and handles for kids, and a floating paddle.
Pros
- Triple-action pump.
- Fantastic design.
- High-quality construction and performance.
- Action mounts
- Anti-slip, safety handles, and three fins.
Cons
- Non-adjustable paddle.
CBC Hydra Foam Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best Non Inflatable SUP)
The CBC Hydra Foam SUP is probably the best non-inflatable paddleboard on this list. It is a fairly wide dimension (10’6” x 30” x 5”) and has a maximum weight limit of 300 pounds.
It is made from heat-laminated EPS for durability and features a tri-fin set up for stability. It can be used by beginners and intermediates as it glides easily and tracks well.
The CBC Hydra Foam SUP has a number of interesting features such as a camera mount, roof rack, adjustable paddle, leash, and a bungee storage system.
Pros
- High quality and affordable.
- High weight capacity.
- Tri-fin system.
- Adjustable paddle.
- Features a camera mount.
Cons
- Not for kids.
iROCKER Cruiser Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best SUP for Big Guys)
Are you looking for a good inflatable stand up paddleboard for a heavy or more than one paddler? Checkout the iROCKER cruiser which has a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds.
The board measures 10.6’, 33” and 6” for length, width, and thickness respectively and weighs 25 pounds. The iROCKER cruiser is incredibly durable with a 4-layer PVC and it is available in several color options.
The board isn’t for really for speed but it is very stable, tracks slickly, and glides perfectly. The deck is made anti-slip and even all the fins are removable for better control over stability.
It comes with a triple-action pump for easy inflation, safety handles, large bungee storage, adjustable paddle plus other useful accessories.
Pros
- High performance.
- High-grade construction and large weight limit.
- Anti-slip and stable.
- Triple-action hand pump.
- All fins are removable.
Cons
- Poor control at high speed.
Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best SUP for Surfing)
Considering its pricing, you may never see a product that offers better performance than the Roc inflatable stand up paddleboard. Interestingly, it also has a massive weight limit of about 300 pounds.
It offers a top-notch construction which includes military-grade PVC, UV-resistant coating, triple sidewall, drop-stitch core, and an anti-slip deck. It is available in two colors and a size of 10’ x 32” x 6”.
It is an all-around/touring board and, due to its lightweight, it is easy to control. In addition, the stability is above average as the tri-fin setup keeps it balanced.
When you buy the Roc inflatable stand up paddleboard, you get a paddle, pump, leash, backpack, waterproof bag, and a one-year warranty.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Tough PVC material, UV-resistant, and triple sidewall.
- Anti-slip deck.
- Three-fin setup for stability.
- Large weight limit.
Cons
- Might be difficult to inflate.
TOWER Inflatable 10’4” Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best SUP for 300 lbs)
The Tower inflatable Stand up paddleboard is one of the smallest on my list with dimensions, 9’10” x 32” x 6”. Nevertheless, it is able to accommodate paddlers of up to 350 pounds whilst weighing just 25 pounds.
The board is easy to set up as it comes with a hand pump and requires just 11 PSI to make it rigid. It comes with two fixed side fins and removable large center fin.
It might not be fast enough but it glides smoothly, remains stable and it grips firmly on the feet. Like many small boards, the Tower inflatable SUP is highly maneuverable.
Pros
- Two-year warranty.
- Easy to pivot and maneuver.
- Soft anti-slip deck.
- Large weight capacity.
Cons
- One color design.
- No backpack, leash, or bungee cords.
- Not for saltwater.
GILI All Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best SUP for Women)
The budget-friendly GILI all-around inflatable stand up paddleboard is another decent product you might want to have. Depending on your choice, you get to pick from four color options – blue, teal, light blue, and green.
Weighing 19 pounds, it has a PVC construction and drop-stitch core hence expect durability. It is easy to inflate and has a length of 10.6 feet, 31-inch width, and 6-inch thickness.
It is a good choice for beginners of about 270-pound weight for a light cruise on lakes and its paddle length is also adjustable. The board allows easy quick turns, tracks well, glides smoothly and its three-fin arrangement allows great stability.
Pros
- Easy to inflate.
- Larger bungee storage area.
- Four color options.
- Affordable and lightweight.
- Tracks well and stable performance.
Cons
- Heavy paddle.
Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best Value for the Money)
Looking for a product that offers a great value for money, try the Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana Stand-up paddleboard. It is an inflatable, all-around paddleboard that is easy to inflate to an optimum 15 PSI and even deflate.
The board is made from high-quality PVC and perfected with the drop-stitch technology to ensure durability. Overall, it has a weight of about 30 pounds and will accommodate a paddler of about 243 pounds.
Due to its stability, the Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana Stand up paddleboard is ideal for beginners and intermediates. The highlight of the board is its versatility and you can convert it into a kayak.
Pros
- Easy to inflate and deflate.
- Bungee storage system.
- Convertible to a kayak.
- High durability and performance.
- Tri-fin system and a non-slip surface.
Cons
- Paddles can sink.
Atoll Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best SUP for Lakes)
The Atoll Inflatable Stand up paddleboard is a versatile board that will be best enjoyed for touring. It has a large surface as it is 11-foot long, 32-inch wide, and 6-inch thick whilst weighing just 21 pounds.
Like many inflatable SUPs, it is made from a double-layer PVC and will stay rigid at about 15 PSI. The paddleboard offers decent tracking, stability, speed, and paddling is somewhat easier with its lightweight paddle.
There are many D-rings, large bungee storage, two fixed side fins, a removable center fin, and a two-year warranty. The maximum weight limit is 400 pounds and you also get to pick from several color options.
Pros
- Several D-rings.
- Easy to control.
- Multiple color options.
- Three-fin arrangement.
- Lightweight, floating paddle.
Cons
- No D-ring for towing.
Goplus Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best Budget)
The Goplus Inflatable Stand up paddleboard is an all-around type with a massive weight capacity of 265 pounds. It is 11 feet long, 30 inches wide and 6 inches thick but still has another 10-foot long variant.
The paddleboard comes with a high-traction EVA deck pad and a tear-resistant PVC construction for durability. It also features a drop-stitch core for added rigidity and a PSI of 15 is optimum.
Performance-wise, it is lightweight, moves smoothly and control is effortless but might be less stable for heavy riders. It is designed for anyone weighing less than 265 pounds for flatwater conditions.
The Goplus Inflatable SUP comes with 6 D-rings for various forms of attachments including leashes. It includes a pump, a fit, repair kit, manual, a backpack, and an adjustable paddle.
Pros
- Tear and UV-resistant.
- Responsive and silky performance.
- Durable construction.
- Easy to inflate.
- Ideal for all skill levels.
Cons
- Less stable.
ISLE Explorer Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
The ISLE Explorer is quite an exceptional, travel-friendly inflatable SUP for all skill levels including newbies. Made from military-grade PVC material, the paddleboard is tough, lightweight, well-stitched, and needs 17 PSI to keep you going.
It has a design similar to a touring paddleboard and it is available in two lengths, 11 and 12 feet. The width and thickness are 32 and 6 inches respectively, and it is also available in two color schemes.
Based on performance, the width allows stability and will accommodate riders of about 275 pounds. The board glides well, traction and controls are great and the center fin is detachable.
Pros
- Tough PVC construction.
- Features a number of useful accessories.
- Detachable center fin and universal fin box.
- Strong paddle and leash.
Cons
- Side fins are irreplaceable.
Pathfinder Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best for Small Riders)
Small paddlers may want to consider the Pathfinder Inflatable Stand up paddleboard. Asides being budget-friendly, it is beginner-friendly and is suited for short-distance and all-around functions.
Like other similar products, it has a drop-stitch core encased in a tough PVC layer and a foam deck pad. Inflated easily and when done optimally, it weighs about 24 pounds and will accommodate just 240 pounds, preferably lesser.
With dimension - 9.9’ x 30” x 5”, the single-fin paddleboard is easy to maneuver but the glide is average. The Pathfinder Inflatable Stand up paddleboard comes with a paddle, pump, bungee storage, backpack, detachable fin, and valve wrench.
Pros
- Tough PVC material and drop-stitch construction.
- Adjustable paddle.
- Bungee cord storage and detachable carrying band.
- Affordable.
- Easy to inflate and soft deck.
Cons
- No leash included.
- Low weight limit.
SourceBIC Sport Stand Up Paddle Board
(Best for Kids and Teens)
This is one of the most stable paddle boards for anyone with any skill level. The SourceBIC sport stand up paddleboard is an all-around type but will excel when used for fishing and fitness.
It weighs 35 pounds and is available in three different lengths - 9’2”, 10’6” and 11’6. In terms of the weight limit, the smallest has 180 pounds, the next has 200 pounds and the biggest has 240 pounds.
The SourceBIC sport has a reliable epoxy core, a tough polyethylene skin, and an anti-slip deck. It performs excellently gliding whilst having a good grip on the feet.
It comes with three removable fins to control stability. However, you have to buy a paddle and leash separately.
Pros
- Available in three sizes and colors.
- Two-year warranty.
- All three fins are removable.
- Ideal for most skill levels.
- Durable.
Cons
- No storage area, paddle, or leash.
- Lower weight limit.
Stand Up Paddle Boards Buying Guide
Construction
Stand up paddle boards are made from different materials and their designs can be different. Based on the design, a SUP can be inflatable or solid (non-inflatable).
The inflatable SUPs are often made from PVC and they rely on an air-filled core for rigidity. They are versatile, lightweight, travel-friendly, and easy to store. However, they are susceptible to tear and puncture.
Solid SUPs, on the other hand, can be constructed from EPS, fiberglass, epoxy, plastic, or carbon fiber. They offer better performance, speed, and stability. You can also check for features that improve comfort such as textured or foam deck.
Type of Board
What do you intend to use it for? As I said earlier, SUPs are available for different functions. Some boards are better suited for fitness than touring. Some are ideal for kids and some for women. Some boards are all-around but they may not be best for a particular function.
Weight
Every paddleboard has its own maximum weight limit mostly measured in pounds. You should consider the weight of the rider.
Most paddle boards have their weight limits between 200 and 400 pounds. You should not go for those far above your weight as you may find it difficult to control. A larger paddleboard will be ideal if you are heavy and/or tall.
If you are around 50 to 125 pounds, go for boards between 9 and 10.5 feet. If you are between 124 and 175 pounds, boards between 10.5 and 11.5 feet will be good. Those above 175 pounds, should go for anything above 11 feet.
If you intend to carry your pet, food, bottle, or any other thing, you also need to consider that too. You should also consider the weight of the board. It should be something you can move or carry easily.
Fins
The size and number of fins of a stand up paddleboard play an important role in its stability and tracking. Larger fins offer better stability and straighter tracking than smaller ones.
The smaller ones, on the other hand, allows better maneuverability. The higher the number of fins, the more it fits well for surfing.
Most SUPs either have a large center fin and/or two side fins. Some newer and advanced products allow you to remove the fins to suit your needs.
Dimensions
The dimension of a SUP plays a crucial role in determining your stability and control. Longer boards will move faster than the shorter ones but they will be less maneuverable.
The width of the board should be in relation to your body size. A narrow board for a slim rider and a wider one for fat riders. Overall, large paddle boards are more stable and spacious. On the flip side, the smaller ones are easier to control.
Design and Features
Depending on what you want to use your board for, you may want to check for some features. Possible features include bungee storage, attachments, safety handles, fishing rod mounts, and even support for GoPro cameras.
Some products even offer better value for money as they come with accessories that you can buy separately. They include paddles, leashes, repair kit, hand pump for inflatable boards, roof rack, and more.
You may check for lightweight and/ floating paddles. If you are interested in inflatable paddle boards, go for dual-action or triple-action pumps since they make inflation easier.
If you are concerned about aesthetics, there are many attractive and high-performing SUPs. Warranties are nice features since you can easily return defective paddle boards.
How to Stand up Paddle Board?
Stand up paddleboarding offers so much fun and workout, all you need to do is stay balanced. As a first-timer, you need to have knowledge about stand up paddling techniques before you head to the water.
After getting your gear, you need to protect yourself so ensure you wear a wetsuit, use a leash, apply sunscreen, etc. You may also have a friend or guardian around. Here is a simple guide on how to stand up paddleboard.
See Also: 10 Best Windsurfing Wetsuits
Standing on the Board
From shallow areas of the water, stand beside the board, towards the center, when your legs are knee-deep in water. Stabilize the board by holding on to the sides of the board.
Place a foot first balanced well and place the other foot. Keep holding the sides of the board and gradually attempt to stand. It might take a few attempts but it is simple.
Balancing and Paddling
Now you to maintain your balance and paddle. Place your feet parallel to and a little distance from each other and at the center of the board. Your toes should be pointed forward, then bend your knees slightly but keep your back upright.
Hold the paddle such that the blade is closer to the nose of the board. If you are paddling on your right, your left hand should be at the other end and your right hand some inches below. If to your left, then you switch hands.
Falling and Remounting
Sometimes, falling off is unavoidable but it is safer to fall in the water than on your board. To get back on, reposition yourself next to the board and hold on to the center. Get on the board by pulling and kicking yourself over it.
Performing Strokes
To perform the forward stroke, reach up to about two feet ahead of the board on one side, pull the paddle to the back. Do this for three or four times before moving to the other side. Keep the paddle as vertical as possible to ensure smoother motion.
The reverse motion is similar to the forward stroke and may also be used to slow down or make quick turns during motion. Instead of extending to the front, you should paddle from the back.
To make turns, you can use the sweep stroke. To move right, extend the paddle ahead to your left side and sweep it to the back in an extended arc. To move left, perform the sweep on your right side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In case you skipped some cogent points in the article. I’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to help clear your mind.
WindSurfingMag Overview
By now, you should be able to determine the best stand up paddle boards for you. An accurate understanding of my buying guide should be of great help in decision-making.
Of the 17 best stand up paddle boards I reviewed, the SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is best overall offering immerse quality and performance.
Budget buyers will find the Goplus Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board appealing and big guys can enjoy their paddling with the iROCKER Cruiser Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board.
Have you owned or used any of these stand up paddle boards? Do you have any questions? Please share your experience with other readers in the comments section.
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