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Choosing the right stand-up paddleboard (SUP) involves considering several factors to match your type of paddling, skill level, and environmental conditions. First, determine the type of SUP activity—surfing, racing, cruising, or a hybrid. Then consider the water conditions where you'll paddle. Lastly when selecting a board, also think about future goals, whether you want to progress quickly or prefer a gradual challenge.
In general, surf SUPs are in the 8’-10’ range, cruise and recreational SUPs are in the 9’-11’ range, touring boards are in the 11’-12’ range and race boards are usually 12’ and longer.
The width of your board is the most influential factor in the overall stability of the board. Although wider boards offer greater stability, they decrease the overall speed and responsiveness of the board due to the additional surface area.
In general, performance surf and race SUPs are 26”-30”, intermediate SUPs are 29”-33”, and beginner boards or boards designed for heavier individuals are usually 32”-33” or wider.
Volume is an important factor to be aware of in the SUP world. Unlike surfing where the speed on a wave generates planing and lift, SUPs should offer a good amount of floatation (volume) even when not moving. Height, weight, board function and paddler skill level are the four most important things to look at when figuring out the appropriate volume for your SUP.
Choosing a board with too much volume may inhibit performance, especially in the surf, while choosing a board with too little volume will result in a general lack of floatation relative to the rider. The basics of the volume recommendation chart are to take your weight in kilograms and multiply that weight by a factor between 1.1 and 3. The lower the multiplying factor the more performance and surf oriented the board will be, whereas the higher the multiplying factor the easier or race oriented the board will be. Determine where you fall in the chart and utilize the appropriate multiplying factor for you.


A well-chosen board maximises fun and performance for your unique paddling needs.
