Purchasing a standout paddleboard is the wish of every paddling fanatic. Yes, a fantastic ride on calm water, SUP yoga, and SUP racing will largely depend on the kind of SUP you are using. But what factors are essential in the choice of a stand-up paddleboard to go for? Well, there are lots of factors to keep an eye on that can make it a bit of a hassle for beginners. Let’s break some of the ones you ought to know.
1. SUP Body Type
SUP Body, otherwise called Hull, is a very crucial factor for determining the general stability and performance of the paddleboard on the water. SUP hull can be categorized as either planning or displacement hull. However, hybrid designs integrating the attributes are made to revolutionize the performance of paddling. The planing hull type features a flat and comprehensive layout. This shape makes it more maneuverable and thus suitable for surfing and leisure paddling. The displacement hull on the other side has a pointed front end resembling that of a canoe. This design reduces the effort needed to displace water, improves speed, and smoothens the ride. Paddlers who choose displacement hull target long distances and faster paddling. This hull design is, therefore, suitable for fitness paddling, racing, and touring.
2. Brand
Just like in any sporting equipment, there are many types of manufacturers in the market. Ideally, buy a board from a top manufacturer but that’s easier said than done. OnyxMotion Paddle Board Review Website is a great place to look in this case. You can find reviews on some of the best SUP boards that will help you buy the right one.
3. Construction Material
Construction material, just like in any other device, defines the performance and quality of the BOTE inflatable paddleboard. There are many types of materials for making boards. Traditionally, the EPS form is often coated with either fiberglass, carbon fiber, or plastic with the latter as the most used. The whole idea behind diverse materials is the need to achieve a balance between performance and weight. Plastic types, suitable for river rapids paddling, are known for being heavy, affordable, and durable. Boards made of fiberglass and epoxy wrapped over EPS are more durable and stiff. Inflatable boards are made of PVC, which makes them durable and light. They can be used for diverse paddling types ranging from whitewater to slow speed paddling.
4. Length of The Board
The board length plays a significant role in determining the maneuverability of your paddleboard and activities. Transporting a longer board into the water and storing it after use is somehow tricky. It becomes even worse if the length of the walk to the show or beach is long and windy. However, longer boards are more maneuverable and are suitable for straight and fast paddling. Due to this, they are used more often as touring and racing displacement boards. Shorter boards are generally easier to turn around than longer boards. It is a good choice for beginners, especially those who are not certain of where they are going because it is easier to carry and store shorter boards than it is for longer boards.
5. Volume and weight
The chosen SUP board should suit your size to displace the right amount of water to propel your weight. Otherwise, the board will become unstable and may jeopardize your ride. Volume and weight are among the critical factors determining the stability of the SUP board in the fascinating paddling game. The volume of the board is given in liters. It shows the ability of the boat to float with subjected weight. Typically, a higher volume value indicates that the board can support more weight without sinking. Every board also has an associated weight in pounds. This weight capacity should not supersede because the board will ride so lower and make the paddling very inefficient.
6. SUP Width
The width of the board is integral in defining the stability of the board. Wider boards are more stable than narrower boards. However, if the board is too wide, it becomes slower and difficult to paddle. Width generally has an impact on both volume and weight capacity.
7. SUP Thickness
Just like width, thickness affects the overall volume and weight of the SUP. Setting length and width constant, it is clear that the increase in board thickness translates to an increase in the volume of the board. Keep in mind that more board volume means the SUP can support more weight.
8. SUP Accessories
Based on the activities you want to engage your board, you can choose to consider a SUP that comes with extra features. Some of the features worth checking include bungee straps and attachment points, among others.
Conclusion
Every beginner paddler creaves for rides worth remembering. But you will have to buy the right board if you are to enjoy that adrenaline-pumping experience. Take your time to understand some of the factors that determine a stand-up paddleboard for beginners when searching for sup boards for sale. Also, do a bit of research before you buy your first SUP board.