What Size Paddle Board Do I Need?
Before you get out on the water, you want to make sure you have all the right equipment. Don’t let a good time get washed away because you didn’t have the right size paddleboard. When choosing a stand up paddle board, you want to choose a size that has enough volume based on your weight and experience level to keep you properly afloat.
The most important factor when it comes to shopping for a paddleboard is the size of the board compared to your height and weight.
If you’re of a smaller stature, and under 125-pounds (56 kg), your best bet is to purchase a smaller size paddleboard. Anything under 10’6 (3.2 m) will be easy to control and maneuver, but once you find your balance and become more familiar with your paddling technique, a larger board won’t be as complicated to manage. Smaller size paddleboards are still capable of sustaining a heavier rider but are primarily used for paddleboard surfing. Depending on your preference for surface texture, both fiberglass and foam paddleboards are reliable, and both offer quality longevity
If you choose Paddle board for your kids. The Kids’ SUP should also be the right size, typically in the 7-9 ft range. This way the board will be easy enough to transport in a car and small enough so your child can lug it to-and-from the shore.
For riders weighing 150-pounds (68 kg) or more, finding an all-around paddleboard that ranges from 10’6 (3.2 m) to 12’6 (3.8 m) is ideal for a smooth and comfortable ride. Most paddleboard shapes have a cross-width that ranges from 30-inches (76 cm) to 34-inches (86 cm), and a base width that is typically between 4-6 inches (10-15 cm).
The wider and thicker the board, the more stability you have on the water.
However, although these boards are smaller, there should be no sacrifice for ample stability.
Learning to paddleboard is relatively easy, but you still need the right amount of stability to get your bearings. A younger SUPer will appreciate a stable board, and it’s also a way to give their friends a ride.
The all-around paddleboard shape is great for yoga enthusiasts who are looking to jump into the sport of SUP, and weekend warriors who like to strap a cooler to the board and hit their favorite beach or lake hangout. Thickness is always a factor to look out for if you want a solid and stable ride.
