Paddle boards are a great way to get out on the water and enjoy time with friends and family. They provide a low-impact workout, they’re easy to use, and they’re not very expensive. There are many different kinds of paddle boards available, and there are also many different features specific to each kind of board that you should consider before buying one. Purchasing a board might seem daunting but worry not because this guide covers everything you should consider before purchasing stand-up paddle boards.
Paddle Boards
A paddle board is a flat watercraft that allows you to stand up and paddle around, similar to an open-water surfboard. The boards come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the type of paddler and their goals.
- A race board features a short length (about 7 feet) and width (about 30 inches), which makes it easy for paddlers to manoeuvre through tight spaces or across chop. This model best suits experienced riders who want to compete in races or train on flat water.
- An all-around board has a medium length (about 10 feet) and width (about 35 inches). This is the most common type of paddleboard because it’s ideal for recreational use by beginners, intermediate paddlers, and pros alike.
Shape matters
The shape of a paddle board is its most defining characteristic, and it can greatly impact how you use your board. A few key factors will help determine which shape is right for you:
- What kind of paddling do you plan on doing? If you’re looking to cruise through flat-water lakes and ponds, a wider board might be more suitable than something narrower. On the other hand, if the ocean or rivers are more your style, a narrow board may be the better choice.
- What conditions do you typically paddle in? Because there are so many different types of water (from flat to choppy), knowing what’s most common in your area will make choosing harder. If there are strong winds or currents where you’ll be using your boards often, consider getting something less buoyant so it doesn’t get blown around as much by wind gusts or current changes—this could save on costs since lighter boards don’t require as much material as heavier ones.
Difference between Stand Up and Normal Paddle Boards
- Stand-up paddle boardsare typically longer, thinner, and more tapered at the nose than traditional ones. The shape allows the board to cut through water easily.
- You stand on a stand-up paddleboard in a typical standing position, with your feet underneath you for support and balance. On a regular paddle board, you sit down and use your legs and arms for paddling motions.
Benefits of Using Stand-up Paddle Boards
- Great for both beginners and experts.
- Good for fitness, weight loss, and muscle toning.
- Good for surfing, yoga, and fishing.
- Great for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
- An excellent way to improve balance, coordination, and core strength
Tips for Purchasing Paddle Boards
- Buy from a reputable shop: While many online retailers sell paddle boards, it is best to buy one in person to try them out and get advice from the salesperson.
- Try before you buy: Ask if you can take the paddleboard on a test run before buying it, especially if you are looking at different types of boards or new models. This way, you will know whether or not the board will work well for your needs, what features are most important for your lifestyle, and how easy or difficult it might be for you to use regularly.
Ask questions! You should never feel afraid or embarrassed about asking questions when shopping around for something like this because knowledge is power—and it’s also good customer service.
