WHAT IS STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING (SUP)?

Here is a list of the advantages that one can avail by using these paddle boards;

How to Choose a SUP Board?

What types of inflatable SUPs should you choose?

 WHAT IS STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING (SUP)?     SUP is an acronym that stands for “stand up paddle boarding” and it is one of the fastest growing water sports. A combination of kayaking and surfing. This sports is fundamentally standing on a surfboard and using a paddle to propel yourself. Stand Up Paddle boards are longer, wider, and more buoyant than traditional surfboards, which enables you to comfortably balance on them.  There has been an immense rise in the popularity of the standup paddle boarding for the past few years. One of the major reasons is that it is really fun and easy to learn; also it is entertaining for people of all ages. This low impact paddle boarding, helps in exploring lakes and nearby water bodies having low or medium tides and provides us a great workout. If you are interested in paddle sports, the inflatable paddle board will be the best option to select for starting.

Here is a list of the advantages of Inflatable Paddle Boards vs. Solids:

The primary advantage of inflatable paddle boards is that, it can be deflated at any time for easy means of storage and transportation. Why get an inflatable SUP:

• You have limited storage space:If you live in a small house, condo or apartment, you may not have room for a large solid board. Inflatable SUPs are compact when deflated and can easily be stowed in small spaces, like a closet or the trunk of a car.
• You’re traveling:If you’re taking a road trip or hopping on a plane, you can bring along your inflatable SUP and do some paddling when you reach your destination. Packed away in its storage bag, an inflatable can be checked on an airplane or stowed in a train, bus or car. Most storage bags have backpack straps for easy carrying.
• You’re hiking to a lake: If you’re headed to an alpine lake and want to paddle, you certainly cannot carry a solid board. An inflatable stowed in its storage bag is still heavy, but it’s pretty much your only option.
• You’re paddling whitewater: Like a raft or inflatable kayak, an inflatable SUP is better suited to handle bumps up against rocks and logs than a solid board.
• You like SUP yoga: You don’t have to get an inflatable for SUP yoga, but they tend to be a bit softer than solid boards, making them more comfortable for yoga poses.

How to Choose a SUP Board?

1. Where are you paddling—flatwater or surf? 

2. How much do you want to spend? The rule of thumb: The lighter the board and easier it is to haul, the higher the price point. Boards are made from a variety of materials, including: epoxy resin, polyurethane, fiberglass and carbon fiber…some are even inflatable.

AllROUND SUP BOARD SIZE GUIDE

3. What type of paddling do you plan to do?

Ocean surf—You want a shorter board that turns well and is designed to handle waves.

Recreation for the family—A durable board that’s wide and stable.
Cruise—A long board with room for cargo that’s built for flat water.
Fitness and Race—A long, narrow board built for speed and every water condition.
Yoga—A wide, stable board. These often have a full deck pad for better grip.

If you can, rent or borrow different types of boards to try them out first. After all, a SUP set-up is an investment. You’ll drop a few hundred dollars or euro's minimum, and can spend several thousand, if you go top-of-the-line.

To start with, buy a moderately priced board that’s suitable for the type of paddling you’ll be doing—something you can cruise around on and experiment with, and aren't afraid to bang up a little. You can try before you buy. Find a local dealer (e.g. sup.md) that rents SUP boards.

 What types of inflatable SUPs should you choose?

The best all round SUP boards are designed for beginners to have a go at lots of different types of stand up paddling. As well as being suitable for novices, these boards are great for anyone (even kids) who want to have fun and do some gentle paddling without too many fancy features. To compare some options, read our inflatable SUP reviews below.

The best inflatable surfing SUP boards have a narrow tail and a wide nose to give a smooth, stable ride over waves. Featuring more fins than flat water SUPs, you’ll need plenty of experience and control on one of these boards to compete with traditional hard surf boards.

The best Inflatable SUP for yoga, are long, wide and thick, offering a large surface area and plenty of stability. Specifically designed for challenging yoga routines, these SUPs are fitted with anti-slip traction pads to keep you in place.

The best inflatable racer SUP boards are designed for speed. These boards are light and nimble, cutting through the water easily and handling well. They don’t provide as much stability as other types of SUP boards, so they’re not ideal starting points for newcomers to the world of stand up paddle boarding.

The best inflatable fishing SUP boards come with plenty of space to secure your tackle, rods and fishing gear. These aren’t racing boards, offering stability instead of speed. For an alternative to a fishing SUP board, consider looking at inflatable fishing kayaks, too.

The best inflatable touring SUP boards offer superior tracking and gliding to all round SUP boards. These are great for recreational racing or building up fitness, so they’re ideal for anyone who wants to step their paddling up a notch.

The best inflatable kids SUP boards are smaller and lighter than adult boards, making them easier for kids to maneuver. Measuring five or six feet long, many come with short or adjustable paddles, letting kids paddle as efficiently and comfortably as possible.