How to Choose an SUP for Different Water Bodies?
Which SUP for the Sea?
Do you love water activities? Then you must try paddleboarding, which is gaining more and more interest among water sports enthusiasts. Stand-up paddling is an excellent way to spend your free time on a lake, river, or even the sea. However, before you embark on your first SUP journey, you need to consider choosing the right board. What is the best SUP for the sea?
You need to match the SUP board to your skills and the type of activity. A different SUP will work for leisurely paddling on a lake, and another board will be needed if you want to paddle quickly and go on long trips. SUP boards vary in shape, length, width, and maximum load capacity. The best choice for beginners looking for a versatile board is an all-round SUP, while those planning long journeys should consider a touring SUP. And for those taming the ocean waves? In this case, it’s worth considering a surf SUP board.
What Defines a Surf SUP Board?
The ideal SUP board for the sea is the surf type, which resembles traditional surfboards designed to ride waves. A sea SUP should maintain stability while easily gliding even on small waves. While you can paddle on calm seas and small waves with an all-round board, tackling rough seas requires a specially designed SUP.
What does this special design entail? Beginners should opt for inflatable SUP boards, which are easy and convenient to transport and store, yet remain sufficiently rigid, strong, and durable—comparable to non-inflatable boards. An important feature is the nose rocker. The greater the rocker, the easier the board glides and moves over high waves. A poorly curved nose makes wave riding difficult as the board tends to pierce rather than glide over them. Surf SUPs must have a progressive rocker extending towards the tail.
A sea SUP typically features three fins—a larger central one and two smaller side fins. This setup allows the board to turn more easily and maintain direction when the surfer rides sideways to the wave. Boards with a single central fin are designed for beginners and perform better when riding directly with the wave.
Is an All-Round SUP Suitable for the Sea?
The all-round SUP board is characterised by its versatility. It can be used by beginners as well as more advanced users and is suitable for various water bodies. You can paddle on rivers, lakes, and even take it to the sea. The all-round board has a rounded shape, is wide, and stable. Those looking to engage in different activities should consider purchasing this type of SUP. Although it is not as agile as a surf board, it allows you to tackle smaller waves.
All-round SUP boards are moderately fast, handle turns and manoeuvres well, and are stable. On such an SUP, you’ll quickly learn to balance your body and maintain equilibrium. The board’s versatility stems from its parameters and construction. While it wasn’t specifically designed for conquering the open sea, it can handle waves effectively.
All-round boards by Movino
If you’re looking for a board that lets you enjoy active time both on calm waters and at sea, choose the Movino Garda SUP. The all-round design with rounded ends is known for its stability and excellent manoeuvrability. Crafted from high-quality materials using Drop Stitch technology, this board is solid, rigid, and durable. At the centre of the SUP, you’ll find a non-slip footpad that ensures safety and comfort for the user, preventing slips even when the board is wet.
We’ve also included practical features like a handle at the bow for easy water retrieval and a central grip for convenient carrying. The Garda is equipped with strong cargo bungee cords, allowing you to bring more gear on your adventures. An additional safety feature is the lead, which you attach around your ankle and secure to the board. We’ve designed the lead for comfort during water activities, with a special 360-degree system to prevent tangling during intense paddling. Our Garda is also perfect for seaside vacations, making it an ideal SUP for the ocean.
Movino ONTARIO Touring 12'16'' (navy blue-lime)
SUP – Sea, Lake, River
An SUP board is designed to navigate any body of water and engage in various activities, from serene cruises on quiet lakes, to thrilling river descents, to battling waves. With SUP boards, you can fish, practise yoga, race, or simply relax. Not everyone wants to limit themselves to just one type of activity. If you want to take your SUP to different places and test your skills on rivers, lakes, and even the sea, opt for a versatile board that offers more possibilities.
However, if your sole interest is surfing the sea and you thrive on wave challenges, you’ll need equipment specifically designed for that activity. An SUP board for the sea, or surf, will let you become a true surfer.