Jump On The Standup Paddle Boarding Bandwagon!
SUP, or standup paddle boarding has been gaining popularity among outdoor enthusiasts over the last decade. This popularity stems from the fact that it is a fun way for people to play and relax on the water.
With very little gear, you can start standup paddle boarding anywhere there is water—be it your local body of water, the ocean, or some beautiful lake in the mountains.
In this article you will find out...
Brief History Of Standup Paddle Boarding
Standup paddle boarding isn’t something new. In some form, the activity has been around for thousands of years. In ancient times, folks in the southern hemisphere (Africa and South America mostly) used some type of floatation device like a canoe or boards that are propelled with a long stick.
While on these devices, the people would fish for food, travel to other coastal villages, or even wage war. Of course, they also used them for recreation, too!
Standup paddle boarding as we know it came around in the 16th century in Hawaii. Hawaiian surfers would hop on a 5 meter long board and use a paddle to help keep control of the board in the rough waters. Fast forward to the 20th century where standup paddle boarding was used by lifeguards to go out into the water and watch the surfers and swimmers.
SUP was taught at Hawaiian surf schools in the 1990s as an alternative way to surf when there weren’t large waves. It was surf instructor Brian Keaulana who made SUPing recognized across the world by introducing “Beach Boy Surfing” to 2003’s “Buffalo Big Board Contest.”
Because of this, many surfers chose to participate in the activity—so much so the first Standup World Series championship races took place in 2012, with Kai Lenny as the top finisher.
Behind Standup Paddle Boarding’s Popularity
As you can see, standup paddle boarding has been practiced for many, many years. This unique blend of kayaking and surfing experienced a surge in popularity over these last few years.
Why, according to a recreation report in 2013 from the Outdoor Foundation , standup paddle boarding’s popularity was at the highest it has been, with “56% of participants trying it for the first time.” Why, SUPing beat out activities like skiing, kayaking, and camping by a landslide!
Why is the activity taking off so quickly now and not before? According to an interview between RJ Murray (the co-owner of Three Brothers Boards, located in Daytona Beach) and NY Daily News, the answer is simple:
“I think the reason it’s blowing up so much is there’s no limitations. As long as you have a body of water, it doesn’t matter where you are. People who lived away from the ocean and wanted to be in that environment never really had that option before paddle boarding.” – RJ Murray.
What really catapulted SUPing into the mainstream could be the changes in the equipment. It was just a few years ago that we’ve seen boards taking on a different shape that is key to SUPing. The boards now are somewhere between 10 to 12 feet long and they’ve been contoured to make it easier for the user to balance.
The boards can be made from the same hard epoxy material that surfboards are made from, which is perfect for ocean SUPing. However, if you want to stay in calmer waters, there are inflatable SUPs available too.
When you have the right board and the right water conditions, anyone can SUP. Whether your young children ride along with you or if you are past retirement age, anyone can do it. It’s that accessibility and how easy it is that makes SUPing so popular.
How To Start Standup Paddle Boarding
We can safely assume that since you are reading this article, you’re very interested in learning how to start standup paddle boarding. It’s really simple because it doesn’t take very much equipment and the techniques are fairly simple to master.
SUPing Gear
Unlike other activities like camping, fishing, or even hiking, you don’t need a lot of equipment to get started. The most important thing you’ll need is a good paddle board. The type of board you choose is going to depend on what you plan on doing, as there are six basic types of boards:
Surf Stand Up Paddle Boards
These boards are going to be lighter and shorter than other paddle boards. Not only that, but they are going to have a narrow nose and tail because they are designed for high performance and making sharp turns in the surf zone.
Keep in mind that because these boards are narrow, they aren’t going to be very stable and they require a lot of work if you want to paddle a distance.
All Around / Touring Stand Up Paddle Boards
The name says it all with these boards. They are great for any application because they are longer and wider than surf SUPs and they have more volume. The size and volume of the boards are great for beginners because they are more stable and they are great for paddling in flat water like on a lake or outside of the surf zone.
Racing Stand Up Paddle Boards
As we previously mentioned, 2012 was the first standup paddle boarding competition. The boards used in these competitions are designed to help you stay on track while you’re racing.
The board is going to be significantly longer and narrower than your all around board, and they also feature a very pointed nose and a long fin. These are among the most advanced boards and require quite a bit of skill to use them.
Yoga Stand Up Paddle Boards
What better way to get your workout in and enjoy a nice day out on the water than with a SUP yoga board.
These boards are going to have a soft deck and will usually have metal D-rings where you can attach other items like water bottles, resistance bands, and life vests. Many yogis will also have an anchor on their board so they aren’t drifting while doing their routine.
Fishing Stand Up Paddle Boards
Another blend of a favorite hobby and standup paddle boarding brings us these boards. These are going to be light, but strong and stable enough to keep the user upright while they fish and carry all of their gear.
Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards
The inflatable stand up paddle board was designed to fix a few problems people have in terms of storage and transportation. Since these boards can be deflated and rolled up, they are the perfect solution for those who live in small spaces or do not have a large enough vehicle to transport a large 9 to 14 foot board.
Difference Between Boards At A Glance
When you’re trying to figure out what sized paddle board you need, you’ll want to take into consideration your skill level and the weight capacity of the board.
The taller or heavier you are, you’ll want a larger, wider board that is about 6 inches thick. The tradeoff with using a thicker board is that it is going to be harder to maneuver, but you will be quite stable!
- Surf Stand Up Boards – Average Dimensions: 8’2” – 9’8” long, 30” – 32” wide
- All Around Stand Up Boards – Average Dimensions: 9’6” – 11’5” long, 32” – 39” wide
- Racing Stand Up Boards – Average Dimensions: 12’6” – 14’ long, 26” – 30” wide
- Yoga Stand Up Boards – Average Dimensions: 9’6” – 12’ long, 30” – 36” wide
- Fishing Stand Up Boards – Average Dimensions: 9” – 12’ long, 32” – 39” wide
- Inflatable Stand Up Boards – Average Dimensions: 11’ long, 30” – 34” wide
Which Is Better? Inflatable SUP Or Solid SUP?
Most commonly, rigid SUPs are be made from an EPS Foam core that has been layered with fiberglass and epoxy. Depending on the construction techniques, you can also find performance enhancements like carbon fiber or wood stringers worked into the construction.
Other materials used to make rigid SUPs include:
- Molded plastic
- EPS and Plastic blend
- Wood Outer shell with EPS foam core and fiberglass
The inflatable SUP is usually made from a strong PVC material that has been drop stitched and even have double seams for superior durability.
Inflatables tend to be preferred among many people because they are going to be:
- More durable
- Easier to transport and store
- More cost effective
- More forgiving
- Versatile
The Paddle
Naturally, after choosing your board, you’re going to want to have a good quality paddle to go along with it. To choose your paddle, you’re going to want to think about the length of the paddle in comparison to your height.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a paddle that is about 8 to 12 inches taller than you when standing upright. The longer your paddle, the more power and control you’ll have when in rough water. Shorter paddles are better for beginners and calm waters.
Tips For Holding The Paddle
- When you’re holding the paddle, make sure it slopes away from you.
- If you’re paddling on the right, your left hand should be on top and vice versa. Switch which hand is on top each time you switch sides while you paddle.
- Use your core to bring you up to the paddle, not your arms.
- To maximize the efficiency of each stroke, push the paddle down into the water and pull back.
- Always keep your back straight and your knees slightly bent. This will help you paddle without becoming fatigued.
SUP Leash
A SUP leash isn’t always necessary, but it’s a useful accessory if you fall off your board. Leashes are available in two styles: coiled and standard.
Safety Gear
While you may be a good swimmer, it is still a good idea to have a life jacket on hand, especially if you’re going to be out in rough waters or where waters could get choppy. Accidents happen when you least expect them and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Tips For Learning How To SUP Safely
When you are starting out, it’s always nice to know a few tricks that will help you along the way.
- Use a leash – Newbies and experienced paddlers alike can appreciate having a leash on their board should they ever fall off. There’s nothing worse than falling off the board in rough waters and not be able to catch up to it!
- Paddle with your core – While you’re paddling, you’re going to want to use your core to pull you up to the paddle, not use your arms. Also, don’t bring your body past the paddle because this is just wasted energy.
- Watch the horizon – You might be tempted to look down at the ground while paddling, but it’s better to keep your eyes ahead to improve your stability.
- Be mindful of your surroundings – One of the biggest mistakes some beginners make is to not pay attention to where they are going. You want to be mindful of any wildlife in the water, other people on the water with you, and anything that may be under the surface of the water that you could run into.
- Fall of your board the right way – Sometimes we can’t help but fall of our boards. The key is to know how to fall the right way. To do that you will want to:
- Fall away from the board and fall shallow (meaning don’t dive deep into the water)
- Make sure your paddle splices the water instead of splashes with you.
- After you fall, lead with your hand to the surface so you don’t hit your head on anything.
- Get back onto your board by climbing up onto the center where it is going to be easiest.
Techniques For Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Now that you’re ready to start SUPing, it’s a good idea to have a good grasp on the proper techniques:
- Standing Up – Start in shallow water. Place paddle on the deck. Hold the board by the rails and climb onto it on your knees in the center of the board. From this point, adjust your body so that you feel stable. Once you’re ready, get to your feet one foot at a time. Use a friend to help stabilize you if need be.
- Stance – Now that you’re on your feet, you will want to keep hip distance apart, centered between the edges of the board. Keep your toes forward and your knees slightly bent. Use your hips and core to balance, not your upper body. Also, keep looking forward, and not down at the board!
- Stroke – If you’re paddling on the right, your right hand is lower on the shaft and your left hand is on top. The curve of the paddle is facing away from you and you’re going to push the paddle down into the water with your top hand and then pull your body (and the board) toward it with your core, not your arms. Do this a few times on one side, then switch to the other. Repeat.
- Turning – There are a few ways to turn:
- Side stroke – Paddle on one side until the nose starts to go where you want to turn: paddling on the left will make you turn right. Vice versa.
- Back paddle – The fastest way to turn is by dragging the paddle behind you, or paddle backward.
- Sweep stroke – Put your paddle near the front of your board and make a long, sweeping stroke toward the back of board. This is going to turn you in the opposite direction.
Popular Stand Up Paddle Board Brands
As you begin looking at stand up paddle boards, there are four popular brands that are known for creating high quality boards and other products:
Atoll Stand Up Paddle Board
The Atoll Board Company is based in Huntington Beach, California and they specialize in everything you might need to go standup paddle boarding. They have a variety of stand up paddle boards, accessories, and apparel.
iRocker Stand Up Paddle Board
iRocker is a company in Jacksonville, Florida and they specializes in inflatable stand up paddle boards and offer products like boards, paddles, and other accessories. Some of those other accessories include electric pumps, kayak seats, fins, and even clothing.
ISLE Surf And SUP Stand Up Paddle Board
When it comes to SUPing and accessories, Isle Surf and SUP has a large selection of SUPs (rigid and inflatable) in all categories (yoga, all around, fishing, race, or surf). They also have a variety of paddles and accessories that will compliment your SUP. Some of the accessories include backpacks, leashes, pumps, rack pads, and more.
Ten Toes Stand Up Paddle Board
When you go to a SUP rental place, chances are you’re going to find a Ten Toes SUP in their inventory. The company is well known and one of the leading names in the industry for creating quality boards and accessories. Not only do they specialize in SUPs, but they also offer skateboards, and essential paddle boarding gear.
Maintenance Tips
Purchasing a SUP and accessories isn’t going to be a cheap endeavor—it’s going to be quite the investment. So naturally you’re going to want to take care of your investment (the SUP). Here are a few maintenance tips that will go a long way in caring for your SUP.
Never Leave Your SUP In The Sun
The UV rays will change the color of your board, but if it is in the sun too long and too often, it could lead to delamination, splitting, or cracking. For an inflatable, the UV rays could damage the PVC and cause it to not hold air and possibly leak.
Keep It Dry
When you’re done with your fun on the water, dry your board off—especially if you’ve been in saltwater. The salt water and any bacteria or microorganisms in the water can eat away at your board. Also, if you have any cracks or scratches, a dry board is going to be much easier to repair.
Vent Plugs
When you’ve been in the sun, your board is going to get quite hot. To protect the foam that is inside of the board and keep it from expanding, you’re going to want to use either a screw in vent or a maintenance free vent. These devices will decrease the air pressure in the board, prolonging the life of your board.
Repair
If you notice any minor damages to the board, you will want to fix them right away to prevent them from getting worse. If you do have some bad damage, you’ll want to take it to professionals who knows what they’re doing.
Keep It In A Bag When It Isn’t In Use
When you aren’t using your board, it’s always a good idea to keep them in some kind of storage bag. Not only will the bag protect the board, but most of the time the bags have handles on them, which makes it easier to transport to and from the water.
Standup Paddle Boarding Wrap Up
Deciding that you’d like to join the wonderful world of standup paddle boarding can be as confusing as it is exciting. How do you know what is the right board for you? How do you know which paddle you need if you’re going out on a slow moving river?
There are so many different questions that one may have about getting into the sport, it’s understandable that you might be hesitant to make the investment and get a SUP of your own. We have a buying guide that can help you figure out what is the best standup paddle board and another guide that will help you choose the best SUP paddle.
If you have any questions, please leave us a comment and let us know! We’d love to hear from you!
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