How To Choose an SUP Board?

A Few Rules for Selecting the Perfect Paddleboarding Equipment

 

More and more people are trying their hand at SUP boarding. What are these increasingly popular boards? And how do you choose the right equipment to fully enjoy your time on the water? We offer some tips on what to look for when considering SUPs.

 

SUP stands for stand-up paddleboard, a board designed for standing paddling. It’s a misconception that this equipment is only for leisurely paddling along the shore. SUPs offer much more—water crossings, river descents, races, and even yoga exercises. The range of activities possible with a board is truly surprising. Both adults and children can paddle on SUPs, either solo or in pairs. It’s an excellent way to spend time together on the water, just the way you like it. But first, you need to choose the right equipment for yourself.

 

SUP Board—How To Choose the Right Gear?

 

If you’re planning to paddle on an SUP board, selecting the right model is crucial. But what criteria should you consider? First and foremost, the construction and intended use of the SUP are key. You’ll need a different board for river expeditions or riding foamy waves compared to one for calm paddling. Equally important is whether you prefer a rigid or inflatable board. The latter offers the significant advantage of being deflatable for easier transport, making it an excellent choice for those with limited storage space.

 

Another critical factor is the user’s weight. If you’re buying a board just for yourself, consider your own body weight. However, if you want the SUP to accommodate multiple family members, you must account for the heaviest user. Now, let’s dive into the details. Discover how to apply all these tips in practice.

 

How To Choose an SUP Board Based on Its Purpose?

 

You need to match your SUP board to your paddling style and the type of activity you’re most interested in. What are your options?

 

  • SUP All-Round – This is a versatile board suitable for all types of water (sea, lake, river); it’s an excellent choice for beginners and perfect for training. The board measures 3-3.5 metres in length and about 76-86 cm in width, with rounded ends, offering stability and great manoeuvrability. The all-round is easy to control but slightly slower than touring boards.

  • SUP Touring – This is a more performance-oriented model with a wide range of lengths; it’s designed for longer trips on open waters. The touring board maintains direction well and has greater buoyancy, allowing for trips with luggage. It is narrower and longer than the all-round; the longer it is, the faster and more stable it becomes, though less agile.

  • SUP Surf – Designed for wave riding, this board is very similar to a surfboard, though it’s shorter and has a distinctly pointed front. It is rigid and non-inflatable, making it easier to manoeuvre among waves.

  • SUP Race – For advanced users, this board allows for high speeds but offers less stability. These are the longest boards, reaching up to 4 metres, with a width of 60-70 cm.


A good SUP board is a piece of equipment tailored to your needs, suitable for specific water activities. If you’re just starting out, opt for an all-round board; if you’'re an advanced paddler, switch to a race board. For longer trips with additional weight, choose a touring board.


Which SUP Board To Buy: Understanding Buoyancy and User Weight


When selecting an SUP board, pay attention to the buoyancy parameter, which is indicated on every model. What does this mean? Buoyancy tells us the maximum user weight the board can support. This is crucial because exceeding this limit reduces the board’s stability and causes it to submerge. Conversely, if the user’s weight is too low compared to the board’s buoyancy, the SUP won’t be properly weighted, significantly decreasing its stability. Remember to consider not only the user’s weight but also the weight of all items being carried.


Experts recommend subtracting 25% from the manufacturer’s stated maximum weight capacity—so if the maximum load is 130 kg, it’s ideal if the user’s weight does not exceed 100 kg.


When searching for an SUP, it’s also worth considering the height of the person who will be using it. Taller and slimmer users will feel more comfortable on larger boards because their centre of gravity is higher.


What about the width of the SUP? Here, too, there’s a correlation between this parameter and the user’s weight:

 

- For individuals weighing up to 75 kg, a board with a width of 76 cm is suitable;

- For users weighing 75-85 kg, an SUP with a width of 78 cm is best;

- For weights between 85-95 kg, a board with a width of 80-84 cm is ideal;

- Those weighing over 95 kg should choose an SUP with a width greater than 84 cm.


Remember, improperly chosen board parameters will prevent you from maximising the board’s potential—it may be too slow or unstable. Of course, the user’s skill level is also important—if you’re just beginning your SUP adventure, go for an all-round board.

 

Movino ONTARIO Touring 12'16'' (navy blue-lime)

 

Length, Width, and Thickness of an SUP Board


SUP boards vary in length, width, and thickness. What does this mean for you? How do you choose the right SUP board?

  • The length of an SUP board determines its speed and manoeuvrability. Short boards (up to 300 cm) are designed for children, women, and surfing on waves; medium-length boards (301-369 cm) are the most versatile, while long boards (370 cm and above) are the fastest. For adults of average weight, SUP boards longer than 300 cm are the best choice.
  • The width of an SUP board affects its stability and rigidity; narrow boards (up to 70 cm) are ideal for experienced users who prioritise speed; wider boards (over 70 cm) are versatile and better suited for beginners; wide boards are also perfect for fishing or practising yoga.
  • The thickness of an SUP board usually ranges from 9 to 15 cm; boards with less thickness are suitable for children, women, and lighter users.


As you may have noticed, selecting a board requires analysing your needs, skills, and a few basic parameters. A good idea might be to rent a board for a trial. If a particular model proves to be just right for you, you can decide to purchase it.