Find your perfect SUP

On days when you’re dealing with the rough and tumble of the surf it’s important to have a board that is rigid to avoid flexing on the waves. A lower volume board such as the Red Paddle 9’8” Ride Hybrid Tough SUP is shorter in length which adds manoeuvrability. Some may have a raised kicker on the tail to add with pivot turns.

A balance between stability and efficiency needs to be struck. The most popular size for general paddling is 10’6” by 32”. Suitable for most size paddlers (including those taller) shape makes a big difference. A rounded board such as the Red Paddle 10’6” will be more forgiving when stationary and instil confidence, feeling more manoeuvrable. Whereas a more kite shaped board will track better in a straight line and glide easier. A board such as the Sandbanks Ultimate 10’6” will also be more efficient over a longer distance. However, a kite shape board will feel less stable when stationary.

The ratio between the width of the board and length will be the major factor in determining the board’s efficiency through the water. The longer and thinner the board the more efficient it will be at going in a straight line, therefore you can glide faster through the water or not work so hard to move at the same speed as a shorter board. Typically, these boards have areas for storing kit at both the front and tail of the board. Boards typically range from 11’ to 13’ long and 29” to 32” wide. The Red Paddle Voyager 13’2” are great examples.

Broadness (shoulders)

A Broader paddler would benefit from a wider board and may have the frame to allow them to paddle correctly across a wider board (34inches + wide board) however a paddler with narrower shoulders would have to lean or change their paddling position meaning that a wider board may actually feel less stable and feel like a barge to paddle.

There are other factors to consider when choosing your next board, and much depends on the individual.

Inflatable boards are suitable for beginners through to advanced paddlers. There are many advantages to inflatable boards, including durability, portability, weight, versatility and storage.

Once you’ve chosen your board it’s also worth considering SUP accessories that will make your life easier and ultimately more enjoyable on the water. While most SUP packages include all the essentials, including paddle, pump, leash, fin and bag, you can improve your paddleboard experience further. Buoyancy aids are a good place to start, and the Gul Gamma Buoyancy Aid provides all the reassuring peace of mind you need when out on the water. You can even bring your four-legged friend along for the journey with a Red Paddle Dog Buoyancy Aid, and if you really want to push the boat out you can keep your canine companion safe on the board with a Sandbanks Style Dog Mat, which not only provides comfort and grip but also protects your board. The time of year and temperature of the water will also determine what you choose to wear when out on your board, from the winter months where anything up to a 6mm wetsuit and zipped boots will suffice to the warmer months where anything from boardshorts to spring wetsuits are all you need. Paddleboarding can be thirsty work too, so for those longer sessions don’t leave without a bottle of water or a hot drink, stored in a Yeti Rambler Bottle or a Red Paddle Insulated Bottle.