How to Choose the Right Stand Up Paddle Board Setup

The sport of stand up paddle boarding is growing like crazy for a reason – it’s an awesome sport that almost anyone can enjoy. It’s a wonderful way to get out on the water, enjoy nature and get an amazing workout. The sport has been growing all over, especially here in the Great Lakes and in Chicago. Our normally calm waters are ideal for SUP and once the sport made it’s way into the city, it spread like wildfire. Once most people get out a few times, the idea of owning their own board just seems like the right thing to do but how to choose the right stand up paddle board can be confusing. We break down the three main types of stand up paddle boarding and what type of board and paddle to look for.

The most important thing to do first, is decide what you want to do with the board. Race? Casual paddling? Long distance touring? Once you narrow down what you want out of your paddle board, the shape will be very easy to choose. Each shape has it’s benefits and will give you a similar end result – a great workout and fun time on the water.

Read on for some detailed info on each type / shape of board and the correct choice will be easy to make.

All Around SUP

All Around SUP boards, simply put, are made for cruising. These boards are great family boards for your vacation lake house or everyday paddle sessions. Put your kid or your dog on the nose of the board and let the adventures begin.

Boards

A classic stand up paddle board will have a rounded nose and tail, be anywhere from 10 – 12 feet long and over 29 inches wide.
Looking almost like an oversized longboard surfboard, the classic SUP’s are great family boards that anyone can ride. The slightly wider profile allows for a wider stance and lets the rider feel more stable on the board.

Paddles

An adjustable paddle is great for the casual paddler that might have other friends or family using the board.
For families with younger children, an adjustable paddle that floats is a great option.

Racing and Touring SUP

SUP races are growing just like the sport itself. If you are a competitor at heart, an extra fast race board could be just what you need. Keep in mind, you can always paddle casually on a ‘race’ board but deep down, these boards are meant to go fast. Touring (or long distance paddling) boards will have a similar shape based on the idea that if you are going to do a 50-mile paddle, you probably want to get it done fairly quickly. Specialty boards will have slight differences and each model will vary in size but overall have a similar shape.

Boards

Boards with a ‘pointed nose’ or ship like front end are referred to as displacement hull boards. Most of the time these boards are used for touring or racing based on their ability to slice thru the water and maintain speeds.
Generally these boards will be over 12’6″ or 14’0″ long. Not everyone that buys a displacement hull board has to race though. These boards are also great for someone looking to get a good workout and anyone who enjoys going fast.
Shorter displacement hull boards (under 12′) may also be referred to as “race trainers” because the shape is much like a race board only shorter for easier maneuvering.

Paddles

Most race or touring style paddles will have a more narrow blade for quick entry and exit from the water. You will hear these paddle types refereed to as high cadence paddles which is a fancy term for more reps per minute in the water.
If you plan to race, a lighter weight paddle (carbon fiber or fiberglass) is recommended.

Surf SUP

The sport of stand up paddle boarding is deeply rooted in Hawaiian surf culture. The nice thing about SUP is you don’t need waves to enjoy it, but if there are waves, then the real fun can begin. Since the rider is already standing on the board and the paddle is used to propel onto the wave, stand up paddle boarders can catch waves much easier than the normal surfer who has to paddle with their hands and then pop up onto the board at just the right time. If you live somewhere with waves, you definitely want to look into a more traditional surf / sup so you can have the best of both worlds.

Boards

Surf / SUP boards are great for the paddle boarder who wants to catch some waves too. These boards can range in length from 10 feet on up and will have a more narrow waist width for better maneuverability on waves.
In this category you will also see different shapes likes fish tails and pointed noses. These board will also have less volume than a traditional paddle board but will still float you above the water.
Because these boards are more narrow they will be slightly more difficult for a beginner but have great benefits for the seasoned paddler who wants to have some fun on waves.

Paddles

For catching waves quickly a paddle with a wider blade will give you a stronger push in the water.

Remember, over time you’ll develop your own personal preferences and find the type of board and paddle that works best for your style or styles of riding. As the world of paddle tech continues to evolve we’ll continue to keep you informed on the latest gear to make your paddle experience top notch.

Browse SUP boards

Browse SUP Paddles

Browse SUP Accessories

jess

I've been immersed in the skate and snowboard industry since I was 15 years old and have learned so much along the way. I enjoy being on the other side of the counter now where I can share that knowledge and keep that next generation hyped on the activities that I love so much!