Inflatable Paddle Board

Exploring Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) presents an enjoyable approach to navigating the water while offering a comprehensive workout for the entire body. Standing atop your board allows you the advantage of observing what lies beneath the surface. This activity is straightforward to learn and can even be used to ride small waves.

Composition of Paddle Boards

Paddle boards come in two varieties: solid and inflatable. Solid paddle boards, also termed SUPs, are composed of a foam core enveloped in either fibreglass, carbon fibre, or plastic. Instead of relying on a foam core, inflatable stand-up paddle boards (iSUPs) utilise air to maintain buoyancy and stability. These inflatable boards are ideal for casual and novice paddlers, or those who have limited space to store their equipment.

Selecting the Appropriate Inflatable Paddle Board

Your weight and riding style are key in selecting an inflatable SUP. It's crucial to consider the board's length and width. Short boards that are under three metres are more manoeuvrable and are excellent for children. Boards of medium length, approximately three to four metres, are well-suited for leisure and new paddlers. Conversely, longer SUP boards are suited for racing and touring purposes.

The usual width of inflatable paddle boards ranges from sixty-three to ninety-one centimetres. Broader boards are best for larger individuals and those wishing to transport cargo. Conversely, narrower SUP boards are more suitable for smaller individuals and those seeking speed.

If you want to learn more about paddle boarding and SUP boards, look at our Buying a SUP board guide.