Buying a SUP Board: Suggestions and Advice for Novices Leave a comment
Which SUP board to purchase? The water is calling, you’ve decided on stand-up paddling – however now the query remains: used or new? Hardboard or inflatable? Compact or long? Above all: how a lot does a SUP board price and the place do you have to look? We now have the answers.
Inflatable or Hardboard?
The development is evident: the inflatable board, also known as the iSUP board, is the clear favorite, not just in Germany. iSUPs are used for stand-up paddling even as far as in China.
This development is above all as a consequence of the fact that the inflatable SUP board is hardly inferior to the traditional hardboard anymore when it involves handling capabilities. Nowadays you can even win races with a superb inflatable. At the identical time it offers the next advantages:
less storage space wanted and considerably simpler transport (backpacks are sometimes included in the delivery contents),
less susceptibility to nicks and scratches
Take it too far – particularly the place stones are concerned – and things look very completely different: even with the extraordinarily durable PVC exterior of the iSUP, the inflatable can still be damaged and sink.
This hazard doesn’t exist with hardboards. And naturally you don’t have the hassle of always having to inflate the board. But that makes transportation a lot more difficult.
Suggestions for SUP Board Length, Width and Thickness
Regardless that English measurements in ft (1 ft = 30.48 cm) and inches (1 in = 2.fifty four cm) demand a certain talent for math, don’t write off essentially the most fundamental basics. At the same time as a beginner you will get an outline of the choice of SUP board lengths with the following: The longer, wider and thicker the board, the better the handling when it comes to casual stand-up paddling.
Length: The longer the board, the more weight it can take. That doesn’t just concern your own bodyweight, but in addition baggage transportation for trips. Directional stability can also be better with longer boards (over 10 toes), however that takes its toll on maneuverability.
Width: Wider boards – between 32 and 36 inches – are more stable on water than their thinner counterparts between 25 and 29 inches. Wider boards are recommended for freshmen given their balance, at least so long as you don’t need to do any racing.
Thickness: 4 to six inches is standard. Thicker variations are more suitable for individuals who weigh less – and in addition children. Those who are a bit heavier will easily get their feet wet with thicker boards.
Other than length, width and thickness, SUP boards are also defined by their classification:
Fitness boards are comparatively lengthy and wide to ensure safe footing during exercises.
Allround SUP boards are well-balanced: with a length of 9 to 10 feet, they should be agile but also stable within the water.
SUP boards for racing (12.6 to 14 toes) are reserved for professional because of their long, thin form, which ensures speed. The boards are nevertheless very wobbly.
How Much Does a SUP Board Value?
Regardless of the model or planned use: an excellent SUP board will set you back about just a few hundred euros. Typically the cost of a paddle must also be added to this, however at 15 to 50 euros, that’s only a small quantity in comparison.
You also needs to take into account the cost of suitable functional clothing. A wetsuit is only not often on the wish list for stand-up paddling, because you quickly start to sweat in it. Compared to different water sports such as surfing or windsurfing, it could be very rare to seek out your self in the (cold) water with SUP.
