Introduction
You’ve just bought a SUP (stand up paddleboard) and now you need to get a paddle.
Picking the right paddle can be confusing, especially since there are so many different types and sizes available. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this post, we’ll explain the different types of paddles and help you choose the one that’s best for you and your SUP board.
What to Consider When Choosing SUP Paddles
When you’re looking for the right paddle for your SUP board, there are a few things you’ll need to take into consideration.
The first is the length of the paddle. You want to make sure the paddle is long enough so that you can comfortably stand up and paddle without hitting the back of your board.
The second thing to take into consideration is the blade size. You want to make sure the blade is big enough to give you enough power to paddle, but not so big that it becomes difficult to control.
The third thing to consider is the handle. You want to make sure the handle is comfortable and easy to grip so that you can paddle for long periods of time without getting tired.
Finally, you want to consider the material of the paddle. You want to make sure the paddle is made from a durable material that can withstand being in the water for long periods of time.
Paddle Materials
Just like with anything else, there are a few different materials that SUP paddles can be made out of. And the one you choose will depend on a few different factors, like where you’ll be paddling and what kind of board you have.
Here are the most common materials:
– Aluminum: A great budget-friendly option that’s lightweight and won’t rust. But it’s not the best choice if you’re going to be paddling in salt water since it can corrode quickly.
– Fiberglass: Another affordable option that’s also lightweight and won’t rust. It’s a good all-around paddle material, but isn’t as durable as some of the other options.
– Carbon fiber: The lightest weight and most expensive option. It’s also the most durable, making it a great choice if you’re going to be paddling in salt water or using your paddle a lot. For more details, follow my kayak guide, a top-rated blog on kayaking, paddle boarding and SUPs.
Paddle Length
So, you’ve got your board and you’re ready to hit the water… but wait! You can’t forget the most important part of your SUP set-up–the paddle. And choosing the right paddle is actually more important than you might think.
The first thing you need to consider is paddle length. You want your paddle to be about 6-8 inches taller than you are. Why? Because when you’re paddling, you want to be able to reach down into the water for maximum efficiency. If your paddle is too short, you’ll be working a lot harder than you need to.
If you’re not sure what length paddle to get, it’s always better to err on the side of too long rather than too short. You can always trim down a paddle that’s too long, but if your paddle is too short, you’re stuck with it.
Blade Shape
Now that you know the different parts of a paddle, it’s time to choose the right blade shape for your needs. The three main paddle shapes are flat, dish and asymmetrical.
Flat paddle blades are the most common and versatile shape. They’re great for all-around paddling and work well in both calm and choppy waters.
Dish-shaped blades are concave, which means they’re more curved than flat blades. This design is best for racing because it provides more power with each stroke.
Asymmetrical blades are usually used by experienced paddlers because they require more skill to use effectively. They’re not as stable as flat or dish-shaped blades, but they offer a greater range of motion.
Conclusion
Now that you know the different types of SUP paddles and what to look for when choosing one, it’s time to get out there and pick the perfect paddle for your board. With the right paddle, you’ll be sure to enjoy your time on the water, whether you’re exploring a new lake or cruising down a river. Thanks for reading!