How to Choose the Best Paddle Board for Beginners – 5 Pro Tips

Choosing the best stand up paddle board for beginners is more straightforward than you think. Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is an on-the-water activity that’s grown quickly because at its core, it’s simply lots of fun regardless of how you choose to paddle. With so many activities to choose from, there’s a great option at every skill level. Plus, stand up paddle boarding for beginners are easy to learn, so almost anyone can enjoy being out on the water on a paddle board.

Contents

• Understanding the Different Types of SUPs: A Starter’s Overview
• Selecting the Right SUP Size for You: Key Considerations
• Inflatable vs. Epoxy SUP Boards: Which is Right for Beginners
• What Accessories Do I Need for My First Paddle
• Budgeting for Your First Paddle Board: Smart Spending for Beginners

1. Understanding the Different Types of SUPs: A Starter’s Overview

All-around SUPs: Versatile Choice for Newbies

An all-around paddle board is the best choice for 99% of beginner paddlers as they are versatile and well-suited for any type of paddling activity. You can hit the waves for a surf, head somewhere to fish, and even bring a furry friend along if you have a pet. They’re the most common SUPs you see on the water and a great place to start if you’re not sure what activities or bodies of water you’ll paddle most often. Overall, it’s their versatility that makes them best popular paddle boards for beginners.

Touring SUPs: Ideal for Long Distances

Touring paddleboards are designed for longer distances and speed. They are typically longer and narrower than all-around boards for extra glide and paddling efficiency. The most noticeable difference is their pointy nose. A pointed nose allows them to cut through the water and track effectively when paddling. You may also notice their shape tapers at the front and back to ensure they are agile and streamlined. While a touring paddleboard can hold plenty of gear front and rear for longer expeditions, their narrow and tapered shape means the paddler’s range of movement is limited to the center of the board where it is widest. It’s not that they are a shorter board, just that they are a slightly narrower board. One thing to consider is that their speedy shape means they are somewhat less stable than an all-around paddleboard.

Multi-purpose SUPs: The Jack-of-All-Trades Board

These are a great paddleboard for people who need the extra deck space. Unlike touring boards, they are extremely wide. Some will use them for fishing, to carry extra gear, or paddle tandem with other passengers or pets. The Max multi-purpose SUP is based on an all-around shape and has a similar rounded nose. It’s extra-wide and longer than most boards so it’s extremely stable and fun for the whole family. However, with that increased width and length, it has more drag in the water when paddling solo. Wider boards tend to be less manueverable, but that only matters if you’re trying to keep your turns tight in a SUP race. But if you don’t need extra buoyancy, an all-around board like the Waterwalker may be a better fit.

Yoga SUPs: Stability Meets Fitness on Water

Yoga paddle boards are designed for yoga and other fitness activities. They’re designed to be very stable so they’re wider than all-around SUPs and still a larger board, but not as big as multi-purpose SUPs. Yoga is certainly more of a challenge on the open water, but they’re still stable enough for all ability levels. The better ones will include a deck pad equal in comfort to what you’d expect from a yoga mat.

To simplify your decision, refer to the following comparison table:

2. Selecting the Right SUP Size for You: Key Considerations

Choosing the right size stand-up paddle board (SUP) is a crucial step for beginners, impacting both stability and maneuverability. Let’s delve into the key considerations that will guide you to the perfect SUP size based on your unique preferences and needs.

Factors Influencing SUP Size:

• Paddler’s Weight: The relationship between the board’s volume and the paddler’s weight determines stability. Heavier paddlers generally need larger boards for optimal stability. Ensure the board provides sufficient buoyancy to support your weight without compromising performance.
• Skill Level: Beginners often prioritize stability over maneuverability. A larger board offers more stability but may sacrifice some nimbleness. If you’re new to paddleboarding, opt for a slightly larger board to build confidence. As skills improve, you may transition to a smaller, more maneuverable board.
• Intended Use: The type of paddling you plan to do influences the size of the board. Touring boards for long distances, yoga boards for stability, or all-around boards for versatility. Define your primary paddling activity to narrow down the size options based on the specific requirements of that activity.

To simplify the selection process, refer to the following table highlighting the recommended SUP sizes based on weight ranges:

This guide provides a general overview, but individual preferences and intended uses may vary. Always consider your unique circumstances and comfort level when selecting a SUP size.

Whenever possible, test different board sizes before making a purchase. Many paddleboard shops and rental facilities offer demo sessions, allowing you to experience how different sizes feel on the water. This hands-on approach ensures that the board you choose aligns perfectly with your comfort and paddling style.

If uncertain about the ideal size, seek guidance from an experienced paddler or consult a SUP surfboard specialist for valuable insights. For personalized assistance, THURSO SURF offers a paddleboard consulting service. Contact us for tailored advice from knowledgeable professionals. Alternatively, use our user-friendly website to answer a few questions on the BOARD FINDER page, receiving customized recommendations.

Remember that the perfect SUP size is a balance between stability and maneuverability. Beginners often appreciate the added stability of a slightly larger board, allowing them to build confidence and enjoy their time on the water. As your skills progress, you can explore smaller, more performance-oriented boards that cater to your evolving paddling style.

RELATED: What Size Paddle Board Is Right For You

3. Inflatable vs. Epoxy SUP Boards: Which is Right for Beginners

When considering whether to opt for an inflatable (iSUP) or epoxy paddle board, beginners should weigh the advantages of each. Inflatables are easily transportable, making them convenient for storage and travel. Modern iSUPs match the performance of epoxy boards and excel in various water conditions. Unless you’re an avid wave surfer or a competitive racer, an inflatable is likely the best choice for beginners.

Inflatable Paddle Boards

• Convenient Transport and Storage: Inflatable paddle boards are designed with portability in mind. They can be easily deflated, rolled up, and stowed in a compact backpack, making them exceptionally convenient for transportation and storage. This feature is particularly advantageous for those who prioritize ease of travel or have limited storage space.
• Comparable Stiffness and Rigidity: Modern inflatable paddle boards have evolved to match the stiffness and rigidity of their epoxy counterparts. Technological advancements in construction materials, such as high-quality drop-stitch technology and reinforced layers, ensure that inflatables provide a stable and rigid platform for paddlers, even in various water conditions.
• Versatility Across Water Conditions: Inflatable SUPs excel in versatility, performing well in a range of water conditions, from choppy waves to calm, flat waters. This adaptability makes them an excellent choice for beginners looking to explore different environments without compromising stability or performance.

Epoxy Paddle Boards

• Traditionally Popular for Performance: Epoxy paddle boards have long been favored for their performance characteristics. They are known for their responsiveness and agility on the water, making them a preferred choice for experienced paddlers, aggressive wave surfers, and those engaged in SUP racing.
• May Require Roof Racks for Transportation: One consideration with epoxy boards is their rigid structure, which may necessitate roof racks or specialized carriers for transportation. This can be a factor to weigh for individuals who value convenience in transportation and may have limitations in securing a board to their vehicle.
• Ideal for Aggressive Wave Surfing or SUP Racing: Epoxy boards are well-suited for individuals seeking a more dynamic and challenging paddleboarding experience. Their design caters to the demands of aggressive wave riding or competitive SUP racing, providing the necessary performance attributes for these activities.

Choosing between inflatable and epoxy boards ultimately depends on your paddling style and preferences. For beginners seeking convenience and versatility, inflatable paddle boards are an excellent choice.

RELATED: Inflatable Paddle Board (iSUP) vs. Hard SUP

4. What Accessories Do I Need for My First Paddle

Selecting the right accessories is pivotal, as they can significantly elevate your paddle adventure. Prioritize understanding the tools that not only enhance your safety but also amplify your enjoyment in the water. Let’s explore the must-have accessories that will be your companions on the inaugural paddle, guaranteeing a memorable and secure experience.

• Paddle:

Choosing paddles centers on a crucial material decision. Full Carbon fiber paddles epitomize lightweight craftsmanship, transforming your paddling into a seamless glide on the water with enhanced maneuverability. In contrast, aluminum paddles, though robust, carry some heft. Opting for a heavyweight paddle, especially for beginners, may disrupt strokes’ fluidity and diminish the joy of exploration. THURSO SURF Carbon Elite Paddle excels with its lightweight and durable design, featuring slotted improvements for enhanced paddling efficiency, ensuring a more gratifying water experience.

• SUP Pump:

Efficient board preparation is crucial for a seamless paddling adventure, and the choice of an SUP pump plays a pivotal role. THURSO SURF introduces an innovative electric version in their latest standup paddle boards, transforming the once tedious task into a swift and almost magical process. With a simple flick of a switch, this technological marvel breathes life into your board, significantly reducing inflation time. The electric pump’s whirr becomes the anthem of expedited preparation, enabling a smooth transition from anticipation to actualization.

• Roller Backpack:

In paddling, mobility is key, and the wheeled backpack is a game-changer for transporting inflatable SUP boards. This vital accessory seamlessly combines convenience and efficiency, matching the celebrated portability of inflatable paddle boards. THURSO SURF’s roller backpack transforms the once cumbersome task of carrying your board into a graceful, rolling experience, conserving energy for the thrilling paddling adventure ahead.

• Colied Leash:

The leash is a silent but essential guardian between you and your paddleboard, playing a vital role in preventing mishaps and providing security during your adventure. Acting as a resilient tether, it keeps your board within arm’s reach, ensuring it stays close and accessible, whether you’re navigating calm waters or encountering gentle waves.

As you stand at the water’s edge, ready to dip your paddle into the unknown, remember that the right accessories are your companions on this exhilarating venture. By investing in these essentials, you’re not just gearing up; you’re embracing the promise of discovery, where every stroke propels you further into the beauty and serenity that only the open water can offer.

5. Budgeting for Your First Paddle Board: Smart Spending for Beginners

As a beginner venturing into the world of stand-up paddleboarding, navigating the landscape of paddle board prices can be overwhelming. However, with a strategic approach to budgeting, you can make a smart investment without breaking the bank.

The prices of paddle boards fluctuate based on factors like material, design, and brand reputation. For novices, the key is to develop a clear understanding of budget constraints and pinpoint the features that hold the utmost significance for a fulfilling paddleboarding experience.

Crafting a strategic budget necessitates finding the delicate equilibrium between affordability and paddleboard quality. While the allure of the cheapest board is present, it often comes with concerns about durability and potential disappointments on the water. On the other hand, opting for a pricier SUP board from reputable brands is an investment in quality materials and meticulous design.

Renowned brands in the industry prioritize sourcing top-tier materials, including advanced composites, durable inflatables, and reliable manufacturing techniques. This commitment ensures the longevity of the boards, instilling confidence that they can withstand the test of time and accommodate your evolving skills and waterborne adventures.

However, before making a final decision, leverage the wealth of information available through stand up paddle board reviews. Reading reviews from fellow paddlers provides valuable insights into real-world experiences with specific boards and brands. Look for reviews that align with your skill level and intended use.

While personal preferences play a role, consensus among reviewers can highlight the strengths and potential drawbacks of a particular SUP model. Pay attention to reviews that emphasize durability, stability, and overall satisfaction, as these factors are crucial for beginners. Additionally, reviews often touch on the quality of customer service provided by the brand, offering a holistic view of the buying experience.

A Paddle Board for Beginners

Figuring out how to choose a stand up paddle board as a beginner is pretty straightforward. Just take the time to think through what you plan to do and the rest will fall into place as you search. The type, size, storage, and cost of SUPs are all important factors to consider for first-time buyers. Think through which type of board is the ideal best beginner sup board for you. Follow the five pro tips provided to help make your first stand up paddle board purchase. Look forward to seeing you on the water!