Stand UP Paddle Boarding Guide

Guide: Stand Up Paddle Boarding is becoming popular worldwide and is one of the most popular outdoor activities.

Stand-Up Paddle Boarding for Beginners 

We have decided to prepare this guide primarily because we often hear about bad experiences with SUP boards and paddleboarding.

“Nobody told me that”—These are the words of many who have been involved in one of our courses and allowed us to offer them information.

As experienced SUP instructors, we devoted ourselves to a deeper understanding of the details that specific boards make top-notch and distinguish them from others on the same boards.

These details will be shared with you in this guide.

Essential features when purchasing the SUP board.

Suppose a few years ago; there was a tendency to compare boards on inflatable and hardboards and critique the instability of inflatable boards. Today that is no longer the case.

Because of technological progress, quality, and design, inflatable boards today have full float capabilities at the level of hardboards.

Because of inflatable boards’ use values, hardboards are rarely seen on the water (if we neglect competition).
FIRMNESS

The more complex the board is, the more stable it is and provides a better SUP experience.

ENDURANCE
We are interested in what any board can handle and how quickly it will be damaged.

TRANSFERABILITY
Since we carry it worldwide, we are interested in how difficult it is to transport.

SHAPE
We wonder if the board will keep itself in shape or flex under external influences.

PERMEABILITY
We are interested in how long the board can stand inflated without losing more considerable air.

These features are most affected by the following:

The technology of making SUP board

• Single-layer
• Double layer
• MSL fusion
• Core quality
• SUP board construction

Single-layer SUP boards

Each SUP board’s basis is the so-called “Drop stitch,” i.e., the core in which thread connects the upper and lower layers of the material and creates the core’s inner structure.

A single-layer SUP board is formed when the core is glued in the production process, and a layer of PVC material is added.

Single-layer SUP Board Features

A single-layer board has poor construction, will be underweight, more than 110 lbs, and quickly start to bend.
ENDURANCE: A single-layer board’s advantage is its small weight, but because it is made of a single layer of material, it will be damaged very quickly.
TRANSFERABILITY: Since the board does not have a lot of material, it’s not severe, so we can quickly transfer it.
SHAPE: Because of the poor construction, the board does not retain its shape, and faster bending will occur (for example, if we expose a new board to sunshine, manufacturers often do not acknowledge the guarantee).
PERMEABILITY: Poor construction also causes more significant air permeability, which means the board should be inflated even after a few days. That’s why we do not recommend you buy such an item.

Single-layer boards can be recognized at meager prices (350-500$), often about Chinese copies.

The single-layer board can be recognized by its relatively soft and thin material (often less than 0.02in), which quickly leads to the board’s curvature. Due to the bad construction, the SUPer will be placed in the water aboard.

Single-layer SUP Boards with Additional Fibers

Over the past year, improved versions of single-layer boards have emerged, which are reinforced with special fibers to get closer to MSL fusion technology. Thanks to the fibers’ addition, these boards are more reliable than classic single-layer boards, but this is still significantly less than double-layered boards.

At the same time, these fibers do not affect the boards’ durability and permeability. Such boards are lighter and in the middle price range (from $1000$ to more).

We still put them in the single-layer boards category, meaning they will be damaged faster.

Seller traps

Some retailers will try to present such boards as a new fusion technology. That’s not true, as it’s not about fusion technology but a single layer of the fiber-glued board.

MSL fusion on non-glue boards and this innovative technology were used exclusively by Red Paddle Co.

Double-layer SUP boards

At the hand-glued double layer, boards are “drop stitch.” The first layer is reinforced with additional glue, and another PVC layer is used.

Some manufacturers have discovered that their edges are most vulnerable to damage and have decided to reinforce the board’s side panels with tape.

Read Next – Aqua Marina Fusion SUP Review

Features of double-layer SUP boards

Double-layer boards are firmer and more stable but more challenging to carry because of the higher glue.
Two layers of material also affect the endurance of the board.

Because of the material and the adhesives, they are significantly more challenging.
Double-layer SUP boards keep the shape better and leave less air (rarely inflate again).

The lack of double-layer boards is often caused by sagging between the first and second layers of PVC material. This is because they are hand-glued in China.

Applying the right amount (thickness) of glue is complex, making it harder to control such work. These problems lead to low endurance, which is unacceptable for the higher middle price range boards.

Double-layer boards are commonly recognized as too thick (6 inches instead of 5 inches in shorter boards), making them clumsy and less stable in wind and wavy seas.

MSL FUSION (new technology – “double layer fusion”)

MSL fusion technology is the latest SUP board technology that brings an entirely new standard of inflatable boards. The core is machine-coupled with the first and second layers of material in the manufacturing process.

This process is already in the production phase. Thus, the SUP board gains an entirely new dimension of strength—bending strength—resulting in more excellent stability at lower pressure.

Features of MSL FUSION

MSL fusion board is comparable to double layer dome up to 8% stronger under the same air pressure
The new technology has also made a step forward in endurance by introducing two layers of materials that prevent rapid damage. Simultaneously, MSL fusion eliminates the possibility of sagging (commonly occurring in classic two-sided pads).

The MSL process has no manual bonding, making the SUP board 3 kilograms lighter and more straightforward for bending and tilting. Because of all these advantages, today’s buying of boards made using MSL technology is the only rational decision.

Since the process is entirely carried out under controlled conditions, there are no structural defects, the board will not bend, and we can leave them in the sun without fear.

The boards’ permeability is almost non-existent, meaning adoption is unnecessary (we recommend it only if you have left the pad for a couple of months).

SUP Board Core Quality

Have you ever wondered why some boards can be inflated only up to 15 psi while others can increase as much as 25 psi?

The quality of the core or the “drop stitch” and the making technology determine how much it can inflate the board.

The more we can inflate the board, the firmer it is. And what is stronger? The board is more stable and provides a better SUP experience (of course, we can only compare boards of the same shape, as the construction also affects stability—more on this below).

• Single-layer boards 12-15 psi.
• Double layer boards 15-18 psi
• Red Paddle Co MSL boards 18-25 psi.

A New Standard of Strength

Due to the bending strength of MSL fusion technology, Red Paddle SUP boards are 8% harder at lower pressure.

This means that the MSL fusion board at 18 psi will be  8% stronger than a double-layer SUP board, or it should be inflated up to 16.5 psi to be as reliable as a double-layer board at 18 psi.

Inflate the Board as Best as Possible

Let’s repeat once more – the better board is inflated, the more leisurely the stand-up paddle.

That’s why taking enough time and trying to inflate the board as best as possible is essential.

If we have a good board with low permeability, once we inflate it, it will last 2-3 weeks.

The core quality affects the firmness of the board.

Maximum strength is the most crucial feature we want from our SUP board. However, power depends not only on the technology of making a SUP board (which we have already discussed) but also on the quality of the core and the board’s construction, which we will discuss below.

Purchase advice

Before purchasing, check how much the board can be inflated because it is a core quality indicator.

A vital role in this is the quality of the pump.

SUP Board Construction

How do the dimensions of the SUP board affect floating abilities?

To achieve the optimum floating capabilities of SUP boards, manufacturers are trying to follow the rules of length, width, and thickness and create an entire rigid board for different needs (playing with stability and speed).

Wider and rounded boards are generally more stable. Longer, narrower, and skinny boards are faster.

Shorter boards should not be too thick because they become clumsy, and longer boards should not be too thin because they will bend due to the SUPer’s weight. The board is generally 4, 5, or 6 inches thick.

RECOMMENDED DIMENSIONS:
Length up to 10 ’10-12′ 12 ‘and longer
Thickness 4′ 5′ 6.’

Avoid too much volume. 

Red Paddle Co. has decided to change the manufacturer’s most common mistake – increasing the thickness
and, thus, the board’s volume to improve its floating abilities. Let’s try to find the optimum!

That’s why they developed RSS slats.

How to recognize the lousy design characteristics of the SUP board

Have you ever noticed a board curved like a banana on the lake, where the water constantly pours the SUPer feet?

This is due to the weak construction of the board folds. This is most commonly seen in single—and double-layer boards of inferior quality.

There is not much to say about a single-layer board—the core (good or bad), in combination with a single layer of material, fails to provide good enough support and starts to bend due to the weight of the SUPer board.

The length of the board is also essential for double-layer boards. Shorter boards, up to 11 ‘, have an increased thickness (instead of the recommended 5 inches, 6 inches thick).

More straightforward and thicker boards are clumsy and unstable, and light waves and wind will slowly rotate. Longer boards, over 11’ lengths, are 6 inches wide but unstable.

The recommended weight is not the same as the weight capacity!

The first parameter expresses the person’s recommended weight. The SUP board will provide the best SUP experience, and the second upper limit of importance is the weight that the board can withstand.

When choosing aboard, we need to be familiar with both parameters. Our weight must be within the recommended weight.

Technology-Recommended Weight Capacity.
Single-layer board 4 in                         90 lbs                                  210 lbs
MSL board  4 in                                     200 lbs                                 550 lbs

The traps of the manufacturer
Manufacturers often indicate its weight capacity when the board has a weaker construction than the recommended weight.

The construction of the board through examples

Why can’t we have too little board?

The board must smoothly glide on the water. It will quickly sink if the commission is too small or has a skirting structure under our weight.

Rowing will look like we push the board through the water and move very slowly.

Therefore, we never advise buying a board with too much width or volume.

Large boards are awkward and static.

With wide boards, it is easier to turn. It is again proven that the relationship between the board dimension is significant.

We advise you to choose a suitable model for your purpose and weight.

Why don’t we want to have a board that is too heavy?

If we SUP often or together with children, the answer to that question will be critical. On average, MSL fusion boards are 2 kg lighter than a double-layer board.

Believe it, in practice. You will feel the difference.

Why don’t we want to have a board that is too thick?

The shorter and sloping board is more challenging to manage, clumsy, and therefore less stable  (very sensitive to the wavy sea). It is more difficult to paddle against the wind.

Essential details on SUP Board

Fins

It is convenient for beginners and family boarders to attach fins to the board because we can not forget
them in grass or sand. It often happens with removable fins.” IFin System” is made of such durable material that
it is impossible to break. If there is a dry flush  (e.g., improper cleaning), we can polish it with hot water and straighten it.

The SUP board Voyager, Sport, and Whip booths have been added with the “FSA fins,” which are very easy to attach and keep the course better thanks to their larger surface. FSC is the world leader in manufacturing fins.

The most commonly used “US box fin” for faster SUP bolts is typically used to fasten the bolt with the screw after the board is already inflated. The pearls are shaped so that the more beautiful they “cut” the water.

For example, the race fin makes it easier to twist the grass because of its shape.
For faster SUP boards, the “US box fin” is most commonly used, typically used to fasten the board with the screw after the board is already inflated.

The fins are shaped so that the more beautiful they “cut” the water. For example, the race fin makes it easier to twist the grass because of its shape.

Is it important where the valve is located?

Of course, primarily because of the board storage. The board always starts bending at the nose, and therefore, if the valve is located at the end of the board, we can not blow all the air well.
Then, bending first from the bottom end would be necessary, blow out the air, retract it, and repeat turning from the front end. You do the same twice.

Also, it is essential to know whether the valve allows for complete air leakage. In many double-layer boards, we will encounter valves that do not allow it, so we have to blow out the board with the pump, which is impractical and long-lasting.

The base (“deck pad”) mustn’t be slippery.

Anti-slippery bases can be smooth or with a pattern (conical). The first ones are a little more comfortable, and the second ones offer a better footing.

Suppose it is a basic model designed for beginners. In that case, we do not recommend choosing a rougher substrate, as beginners looking at the balance with their fingers are pushed harder into the podium, which can cause tingling in the legs.

If you choose a more advanced and faster board, which requires a significant base due to its smaller width, we recommend a conical base. Experienced SUPers are more comfortable carrying weight on board, so they do not have thighs in their legs.

It happens that a lousy inflatable is the fault of the pump!

It may sound impossible, but some manufacturers attach the pumps to the board, and they can not inflate the board.

Generally, SUP boards are supplied with three different pumps:

An ordinary pump with a large cylinder can inflate the board fast but hard to the end because the cylinder is too large.

A high-performance pump with a small cylinder can inflate the board to the end, but the inflammation takes longer.

Double titanium pump (a combination of both pumps): Initial inflation uses both, and when the pressure on the board is high enough, we end up with a “high-performance” pump.

Let’s see how comfortable a transfer of the SUP board is!

The advantage of SUP  inflatable boards is their portability. That’s why the bag in which the board is packed is essential.

Will we put the board in a thin or unique bag with underwired straps?

Shoulder pads are designed to meet the SUP’s needs. They have a dedicated paddle space and are very spacious, making them practical for any trip.

How to choose the best SUP board at the best price

Understandably, price plays a big part in selecting the SUP board. It’s always good to ask which board will bring us immense satisfaction with the amount spent.

Single-layer boards (350-500$)
We do not recommend buying a one-sided SUP board, though it’s attractive because of its low price of $350- $500. Also, we have to point out that single-layer boards are very close to inflatable mattresses that will likely withstand the children’s weight, but they will be damaged quickly and have high air permeability. That’s why our view is that these toys are overwhelmingly crowded.

Upgraded single layer boards (500-800$)
You also have to avoid them at all costs because they are not cheap (£ 6800 or more) nor perfect.

The durability of the SUP boards should be one of the most important criteria when choosing!

Double layer boards (800-1500$)
For the beginner model of double-layer SUP boards, it is necessary to pay between 800-1500$. Such boards can be reasonably called SUP boards, as they are much more firm and stable.

Compared to single-layer boards, they are more durable (they will not be damaged, for example, the first time you hit a rock).

MLS fusion technology (1200-2000$)
MSL fusion technology is the most preferred choice for anyone looking for a high-quality level and board purchase for a more extended period.

MSL Fusion is a revolutionary technology available exclusively at Red Paddle Co., which has been successfully directing the development of inflatable pads for the past ten years and is a leading brand in the field!

Benefits and Facts of SUP Boarding

• It’s learning fast
• It does not require any previous experience
• You do not need to be fit or in good physical shape
• Years are not important
• More straightforward than any other form of surfing
• Low rate of injuries
• Sport for the whole family, but also competitive if you want to become professionally

For the reasons mentioned before, this sport is also said to be for people between the ages of 9 and 99.

Once you catch the balance, you get so many options. You will be able to explore untouched coasts and coves, or you will cross over the river, and at the same time, you can practice catching the beat and train your target muscle group.

SUP boarding is a straightforward way to achieve the perfect condition without being forced to exercise while enjoying nature. It’s an exercise you do not notice because you want it.
As for exercise, all muscles will work on your paddle during paddling.

While you paddle, your hands, backs, and chest will work, and your feet, legs, and abdominal muscles will stabilize the board.

Stand-Up Paddleboard Guide

We have prepared a short guide to help you become a SUPer and gain more courage to take an adventure called Stand-up Paddling.

Equipment is an essential element in this sport, and on this website, you can search for information and reviews related to each SUP board while choosing the type of board that fits your needs.
This beautiful sport’s versatility, popularity, and rapid growth have created several disciplines and boards shaped to paddlers’ needs and the water type where they will paddle.

On the market, there are several categories of boards, which must mention sprint, race, touring, all-around,
surf up to fishing boards and yoga.

Also, the form and dimension of the SUP board determine the purpose/discipline.

So, we have shorter and longer boards characterized by speed, while wide boards are characterized by stability. Large-volume pads also contribute to more excellent strength and speed.

Touring / All-Around SUP boards

– boards that have something of every board kind
These are the most popular or widespread and lightest boards in the world of SUP. Their length ranges from 10′ to 14′, and their average width is 30″ to 32″.

All-around boards are ideal for calm seas, lakes, rivers, coastal coves, and other areas where calm seas are present. They are also perfect for afternoon relaxation, excursions, holidays, and severe paddling.

In short lines, these boards combine the best of this sport.

They are also suitable for families because several people may be on the same board or for children or whole groups.
It’s just enough surface area for many paddlers without unnecessarily stressing the paddling.
That also depends on a volume that is an average of 250-350 L.
The All-Around Sup Board is a must, especially for people who paddle up with their dogs.

These boards usually have a straight nose and tail. People are mostly opting for all-around inflatable boards, but there are also stable variants, depending on your desire for epoxy, wood, or carbon and kevlar combinations.
Each subset of these boards differs in price.

Read Next – Best Isle SUP Boards

TIP: All inflatable boards manufactured today are intended for use in saltwater.

All-around boards are designed to ride in all weather conditions and have enough capacity to
put different things and equipment on board when planning a more extended trip.

They are perfect for beginners and advanced users.

Table showing the relationship between the person’s optimum weight and the dimension of the SUP board:

Load capacity    Width                Length            Thickness
up to 60 kg       74cm – 78cm     310cm – 340cm      10cm – 15cm
up to 70 kg       74cm – 80cm     310cm – 350cm      14cm – 15cm
up to 90 kg       76cm – 84cm     340cm – 365cm           15cm
over 90 kg        78cm – 86cm     350cm – 370cm           15cm

Race / Sprint SUP boards

This category is currently the fastest-growing in the world of paddleboarding. If you want to compete, this discipline combines adrenaline and extreme strength.
The races are held worldwide, both on the open sea and in flat/whitewater locations.

These boards are designed shorter and longer to make their elongated shape slide on the water. Average dimensions: Width 24 “to 28” depending on the category, length 14 ‘for a race, or a little more for sprint racing.

They have standard speed and lightweight construction (carbon, kevlar, and composite materials used), reflected in their slightly higher price than other SUP boards.

Read Next – Fastest Inflatable SUP Review

Sport SUP boards

This discipline tries to unite best from All-Around and Race boards. This category of SUP boards
It is meant for anyone who wants faster driving and more comfort than the Race / Sprint board.
These boards are intended for severe paddlers who do not want to enter the competitive Race segment.
Sport SUP boards are specific because the boards are slightly shorter and broader than the Race SUP boards.

Read Next – Retrospec Weekender review from Ten Toes Paddle Board

Wind SUP

Windsurfing and SUP in one. An excellent category for those who do not want to spend much money can combine these beautiful sports. Depending on the weather and mood, these boards offer you the option of paddling, either putting on a smaller rig or enjoying the wind.

The ideal board dimension has a volume of 200L in solid design or 300L in the inflatable version.
The most common dimensions are 10′ x 35″/ 10′ x 35″, perfect for up to 232 lbs(105 kg).
WindSUP boards are available in solid polyester or inflatable versions. They are similar in shape and dimensions to the All-Round board. On the underside of the board, there is a fin.

Yoga / Fishing / Explorer SUP boards

There are a variety of unusual boards available on the market. 405L boards, with widths of up to 40 “, meet users’ requirements for weighing more than 265 lbs(120 kg).

Such a board’s features are its outstanding stability and weight capacity, and it can be used for various yoga SUP training purposes.

Fishing boards contain two hooks for fishing rod trolls. The Explorer’s only deck has a submarine search window, which is ideal for spending time with children on the board.

Read Next – WOWSEA iSUP Inflatable Review.

Paddle – lighter is better.

The best paddle depends on the board type but is smaller than the case with the boards. With boards, paddles are the next most important piece of equipment.
Shorter pads are used for Races and Sprints, while slightly longer pads are used for Touring and All-Around paddleboards.
Paddles are mostly aluminum and ABS plastic and various wood and carbon combinations.

Tip: We recommend telescoping paddles everywhere, and this is why adjustable paddle lengths allow more people to use a SUP board. Prices range from $60 to $200, depending on the fabrication material.

Solid paddles – a particular category of paddles

They are divided into Enduro and High Aspect to paddles for Touring or Race.

These paddles are cut to a particular length to suit the paddler better.
Depending on your height and way of paddling, you can cut your height +/- 10cm for
race or +/- 5cm if you use the paddle for All-Around / Touring paddling.

Please note that the handle is 8cm. These paddles are made according to your wishes
made of fiberglass, epoxy, carbon, wood, or a combination of these materials.

You can also choose the shovel’s size on paddles, but in 90% of cases, it is 525-550cm2.

A short history of SUP boarding

This modern paddling started from Waikiki Beach (Hawaii), where surfers began using the paddle to catch the waves faster and no big waves – when the sea was calm.
With the later development and production of the first SUP boards, paddleboarding became a popular sport. The first SUP boards were large and stable, intended just for SUP boarding.

Until today, stand-up paddleboarding has become accessible to this sport’s wide masses and lovers, paddling from the sea and lakes to the river.

People worldwide realized that stand-up paddle boarding was exactly what they were looking for. For some, paddling on the board is the ultimate fitness in nature, and others have found a place for meditation on the go.

In a short time, SUP boarding has gained hundreds of thousands of fans who have started paddling on seas, rivers, and lakes.
Many people have replaced their past activities with SUP, which has become a core workout, ultimate training, or meditation on the go for all of us, well known as yoga.

For some, SUP boarding is enjoying nature, traveling from island to island, taking long tours along the coast, fishing, or simply exploring beaches and coves.

A full story about stands-up paddleboarding history.

Stand-Up Paddle Boarding Guide