How to Pick the SUP that's Right for You
Stand up paddling has become one of the most popular recreational activities in the last decade and we’re seeing a resurgence in popularity as people looked for ways to get outdoors during the pandemic. Although stock is currently limited due to the ongoing crisis and supply chain issues, more companies than ever before are manufacturing and selling boards. You can buy them new and used, from $300 to $3,000. But how do you pick the one that’s right for you? Here are five things you should consider.
Where you’re paddling. The venue in which you’re paddling is a huge factor. Are you paddling in a pristine lake or a rocky river? The ocean or a reservoir? Knowing the “where” is going to help you determine which model and material you want.
The type of paddling you’re doing. The kind of SUPing you want to do is also going to determine what type of board you purchase. Are you going out for chill, flatwater cruises? Or are you planning to surf in the ocean or surf in a river? There are specific boards made for specific disciplines - surfing, racing, touring, etc. Unsure? Maybe you’ll want an all-around SUP surf board that you can use across multiple disciplines.
Accessibility. This one’s a broad topic and includes everything from where you live to your transportation options and storage space. If you live in an apartment or don’t have storage space at your house, an inflatable board might make the most sense for you. The same goes for if you rely on public transportation or your own two feet to get to and from your launch site, since most inflatables come with a backpack carrying option. But, if you live near a boathouse where rentable rack space is an option, you may want to consider a hard board. Or, if you have a garage or a backyard where you can store your board and a car to transport it (just remember to factor in the cost of a car rack), a hard board might be more doable for you.
Board volume. Although it’s not #1 on this list, it’s probably the #1 thing you should consider when making the final determination to buy a specific board. Any reputable board shop or manufacturer can help you determine the right size. A general rule of thumb: too much volume can make the board too big and clunky to paddle; too little volume can make it too unstable and harder to balance on.
Buy used boards wisely. Buying a used paddle board is often times good bang for your buck. In fact, nearly all of the SUPs we’ve purchased have been previously owned. But it’s important to ask the right questions and look for the right things when buying used. If you’re buying a hard board, look for and ask about repairs done to the board. Ask who made those repairs and be wary of any not done by a professional. Look for pressure dings on the board. This gives a good indication of how hard the board was ridden. As you inspect the rails, nose, and tail, don’t forget to handle, leash plug, and fin box. These are all stress points. If you’re buying an inflatable, make sure to inspect it while it’s fully inflated. You can check for leaks by bringing a spray bottle filled with soapy water. Applying that to any questionable spots can help ID issues. It’s also handy to use on the valve as you check it for possible problems.
It’s not unusual for people to outgrow the first board they purchase as they improve and expand their SUP skills. Nothing says you can’t hang onto it as a “buddy board” or sell it down the road. The bottom line: don’t overthink the process! Talk to people who paddle, visit your local board shop and buy from a reputable dealer + manufacturer (aka stay away from big box stores), and reach out to us if you have any questions about picking the SUP that’s right for you.
