SUP Beginner's Guide: A Standardised Teaching System for Safety and Ease of Learning

How to Choose a Stand-Up Paddleboard

Given the wide variety of SUPs (Stand-Up Paddleboards) available, you might be wondering which board and size best suits your needs. As a beginner, there are some simple guidelines to keep in mind when choosing a SUP.

Inflatable SUP:

Easily transportable on a bike or public transportation with a SUP backpack.

Easy to store at home.

Extra durable, suitable for beginners who may occasionally bump into sharp objects.

Solid Hardboard:

Requires transportation in a car, truck, or SUV.

Requires storage space at home.

Hardboards are a classic style, so they come in many sizes, making it easy to find the right size for you.

Faster than inflatable SUPs and more stable in rough water.

For beginners: Beginners need a versatile, all-purpose paddleboard. You need a stable board that helps you maintain balance from the start, yet durable enough to withstand the abuse of beginners.

For anglers: Choose a board with a wider deck, perhaps even with specialized attachments for fishing gear.

For hikers: A narrow, long paddleboard will help you reach greater distances. If you're looking for a full day of sightseeing, a SUP/kayak combination is the perfect choice.

For surfers: Surf SUPs have shorter, narrower tips for easier control.

Racing paddleboards: Longer and faster, they also offer less stability and are not recommended for beginners.