How To Choose The Right Board / Understanding SUP Shapes

Choosing the right SUP first time is vital to you having fun and progressing with your paddling.
In this SUPboarder video, we talk about the design elements of a SUP including the outline shape, dimensions, volume, rocker and construction and how they affect your decision in buying a new board.
We hope you you are able to find your perfect SUP after watching this video.
0:00 Introduction
0:32 Questions to ask yourself
1:19 Outline Shapes
3:41 SUP Dimensions
5:45 Volume
8:19 Added Performance / Constructions
11:02 Rocker
12:15 Touring vs All Round Shapes
13:14 Outro
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[@savemotherearth2098]

Your explanations Will definitely help all of us beginners to select the best paddle board , thank you

[@TheBookofDonna]

This is the best, most comprehensive video explaining the differences on SUP shapes and gives great info foe choosing the proper one. Thank you so much!

[@SUPboardermag]

Thanks, great to hear that.

[@daveyconcrete9801]

As a surfer looking into stand ups, this made a lot of sense in little time.

[@silviocroce2430]

Best recap to learn how to choose a board. I've watched many videos and this is the best

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you think so!

[@melissahall2530]

Thank you I’m excited I just bought myself another board and this one is a touring board

[@mariaschannel8143]

Thanks! The only video I found that answers my questions!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad we could help. Thanks, Beau

[@knoblochalexandra]

Thank so much for your videos!! Lots of help from all your info thanks guys!!!

[@SUPboardermag]

Our pleasure!

[@chrisgravel7157]

Great video and content for anyone getting into SUP or wondering about other board type pro's and cons! Look fwd to sharing with friends

[@SUPboardermag]

Appreciate your comment Chris. Thanks

[@SUPboardermag]

Appreciate it! Thanks Chris 👍🏼

[@woobytwo]

Great video. I now know more on how to select the right SUP for me, as a beginner the All Rounder is the right one

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad this video was so helpful! Thanks for your comment. Beau

[@raiderprty]

Thanks for a the great info. Now I understand how to pick a board for me. It can be difficult when trying to find equipment because i am tall and heavy.

[@SUPboardermag]

Im glad it has helped. Any other questions let us know. Happy paddling Reuben

[@stationaryhobo]

Lots of great info and well organized, thank you.

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you liked it. Thanks, Beau

[@omarcarrillos2727]

This is exactly the information I was looking for. Thank you.

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it was helpful!

[@alexeyglebskiy7157]

Thank you so much! That helped a lot! Nice theory basics!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it helped!

[@mrbbqcraig]

Awesomeness dude .... looking to get a board and you just helped heaps 🤘

[@SUPboardermag]

Nice

[@simonwermuth146]

Thanks, your vid was very useful to me!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you found this video helpful.

[@ManishChackoATx]

OMG, what an amazing, detailed and informative video! As a beginner SUP'er and Engineer, this appeals to me :)

[@SUPboardermag]

Great to hear!

[@AbhishekVerma-wo1gm]

Very detailed and useful info. Thanks for the effort.

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you liked the video

[@rexcharles11]

Really great video. Thank you!

[@SUPboardermag]

You’re welcome. Glad we could help

[@julianscott4682]

Thank you. This what I needed.

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you like the video. Thanks, Beau

[@ilayspoval-3476]

Thanks for that video man!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you enjoyed the video. Cheers. Beau

[@pku2222]

Spot on regarding the recommendations for weight-to-volume ratios for picking a SUP surfing board. I weight 90 kg (including wet suit + paddle). I've been SUP-surfing for 8+ years. In the last 4 years I've been riding a Quatro Glide 8'8" x 33 " (143 l). I would consider myself a solid intermediate rider. About a year ago I decided I want to get a lower-volume board so I can do snappier turns. I opted for a Naish Mad Dog 8'6" x 29" (121 l). So the ratios worked out to be 1.58 and 1.34 for me, respectively. Oh man, the first few sessions on Mad Dog was mostly falling in the water. I almost regretted the purchase. However, after 6 sessions or so, I got a bit more used to it. It does feel more like a short board when I manage to catch a wave instead of falling in the water. I also notice it improved my game on the Quatro as MD forces me to be more precise in terms of body/foot position and timing. Still, I can only handle MD on less choppy days *and* when I am feeling strong. My Quatro now feels like a aircraft carrier :-) I probably will get a 130-to-135 liter board for those in-between days :-)

[@SUPboardermag]

Thanks for your comment Pei Ku. Im glad you are enjoying your new MD. Thanks Reuben

[@pcnetgear1]

Very well said, thank you!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks, Beau

[@lyleneovard7085]

Great video. I just got my first SUP and think I made a decent choice based on the info here. I am concerned about the board my father-in-law bought for my mother-in-law now but hopefully it works for her.

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad this video helped you in making a decision. Let's hope the board works well for your mother-in-law. Thanks, Beau

[@harryvanderveen773]

Probably got her one of those thin ones :D

[@MonizeDiniz]

Thank you very much! Very informative video

[@SUPboardermag]

You are welcome!

[@Times_Ticking]

Thank you for the details

[@SUPboardermag]

No problem!

[@justind7138]

Very helpful, thank you!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hachanabe]

Fantastic explanation !!

[@SUPboardermag]

Thanks

[@royfrancis9959]

Very helpful Vid, thank you for the advice..

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you enjoyed the video. Beau

[@howard1980]

Fantastic video and very helpful information.

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it was helpful! Beau

[@ericvanosselaer1846]

Hey, cool and useful :-) I,ve been paddling for some 7 years now and my old "Jobe" inflatable board was stoolen last week. I can,t live without a paddle so it's the excuse I was waiting for to upgrade from my experience. Your video was most helpfull, Thanks ;-)

[@SUPboardermag]

O, Eric thats not good news but glad the video with helpful. Happy shopping. Thanks Reuben

[@2fathomsdeeper]

Didn't have much choice in my board as I went with what washed up one day. I'm running a Bic Nova 160L windsurfer. It's a 8'3" x 32" board. I'm a little too heavy to stand on it, but kneeling works great for it. It wants 150 lbs or less to be a stable SUP. Having the centerboard adds stability against boat wakes and waves when you're in the trough. Changed to a 6" tail fin from the 15" race fin for better shallow water paddling. Lots of fun for running creeks with minor rapids without the tail fin and just the centerboard. Can turn quick and the centerboard will stow itself on rocks instead of hanging up on them. Definitely want to have a leash for rapids. Short boards are best in creeks.

[@SUPboardermag]

Really cool to hear about your board and how you enjoy riding it. Thanks for sharing the tips and insights. Thanks, Beau

[@guntherbackx3401]

Great explanation, thanks!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks, Beau

[@billbennison5939]

Very helpful thanks!

[@SUPboardermag]

You're welcome!

[@davidterhell6756]

Excellent video.

[@SUPboardermag]

Thank you very much!

[@nelsonortiz2506]

Thank you, is awesome info.

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it could help

[@G1NZOU]

I ended up getting an all round, but the model the manufacturer specifically recommended for dogs and balance, since I'm a beginner, want to occasionally take my dog out on it, and am almost exclusively going to use it on calm rivers and the Norfolk Broads.

[@SUPboardermag]

Great choice, an all round board for the type of paddling you will be doing. As long as the board is long and wide enough for balance. Enjoy! Beau

[@harryvanderveen773]

Fantastic video, thanks

[@SUPboardermag]

You're welcome! Thanks, Beau

[@michaeldodarorealtor7348]

Best vid on this topic I’ve seen thank you!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it was helpful! Cheers, Beau

[@jonathanfrioux380]

Solid info

[@callareynolds4028]

Wow. What a great video❤

[@SUPboardermag]

Thank you! Glad you liked the video. Cheers, Beau

[@jetteclassen4227]

What a great video, thank you so much! I am looking into buying a sup at the moment. I have had some experience on lake/river. I am looking to buy something to use in Portugal, mainly tours at the river but I would also be interested in trying it at the ocean once I feel confident. So I think I am looking at a touring board most likely. Do you have any suggestions? I am completely new to this and don't know if there is some hybrid board that could be good for me. Thank you so much in advance :) Cheers, Jette!

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Jette. If you are looking for a hard composite board? There are some really good boards out there. The Starboard Generation and the JP-Australia Hybrid and two very good board that you would love to paddle in sea and river conditions. But if you are after an inflatable SUP and all round touring shape would be best. Thanks Reuben

[@jaycesun]

Great video, thank you, still a little confused to what board to go for. 16 stone, beginner. I am looking at Blue Fin 12' or even 15'?/? What would you recommend? Looking to use it on lakes. However, I am aiming to do Great Glen Way in July...! any advice would be great. thanks again

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi, thanks for your comment. If you are using the board mainly for flat water paddling and the occasional touring adventure, then the 12' Bluefin would be the choice. If you're serious about carrying loads of gear for an adventure paddle, then the 15' is the best pick. The 15' board is 36" wide, so this slows down the board quite a bit but would be very, very stable. Hope you enjoy Great Glen Way! So beautiful up there. Cheers, Beau

[@birgitludwig1638]

Great video, very good explications of shapes fitting requirements ! Thanks a lot !!! Birgit

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you liked this!

[@call_me_V_]

Awesome contents!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you think so!

[@redpillnibbler4423]

Very helpful 👍

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks, Beau

[@user-xg8bn5bb7s]

Very informative and great editing

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you liked it

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you think so!

[@paulcourtney6931]

Excellent vid. Really helpful. Thanks. 👍

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it was helpful!

[@KaliAndy2]

Thanks for informative video. I am about 6'2" (188cm) 105kg. Beginner but picked it up fairly quick couple times been on water. I'll be mostly on lakes, one really big one that gets descent waves sometimes. Once get better might do fishing too. What kind of board would you suggest? Probably something on a larger size?

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi KaliAndy . it sounds like you want more of a touring fast cruising board so you can cover some ground. These boards also work really well for Sup fishing also. Probably just want to keep a bit of width in the board so you have enough stability. 11'5-12'6" x 32"-34" . Inflatable or hardboard that is probably the first question to answer? thanks reuben

[@kjbagus]

This is what I was looking for. Great! Thank you and one questions..... I have a bit of experience in the ocean, but normally planning to paddle on flat water with my 35kg dog. I recently bought second hand "2014 Starboard Astro Touring" SUP (Volume : 302 litre, My weight : 80kg(76+etc) + Doggy weight : 35kg x 2.5 = 288 L ) , will it be fine or shall I find another higher volume SUP? Any recommendation for SUPing with dogs... on flat or moderate waves Thank you!

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you found the video helpful. I think the board will have enough volume but you may want a board with a bit more width. Maybe something around 32"wide would work better. Your board would work ok maybe, but only if your dog sat still😀. Give it a go and see how it goes. Thanks Reuben

[@andreaweathers573]

Great video...lots of great information. I have a bit of a strange question. My husband and I have been paddling for a while but his board deck is not flat. It has a curve to it. We got our boards so we could get a bit more of a workout, but I wonder if we should have picked one with the flat deck since I don't see many with a curve. Why would a board deck be curved?? Looking forward to your answer! Thanks!

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Andrea. When you say curved, do you mean domed? Thicker in the middle, thinner at the rails? This is quite common on performance boards especially in the surf where the thinner rails will add performance when a board turns on the wave. When it comes to flat water boards, it becomes personal preference. If he likes the feel to the board, then it's no issue at all. Some boards have this or other variations to flat which can add stability to the board sometimes. Let me know if this helps? Thanks, Beau

[@andreaweathers573]

@@SUPboardermag Hi Beau! Thanks for the quick reply! Well...I just looked at our board more closely and what is strange is that it is not flat or domed. It is actually concave. The rails in the middle of the board are about 6" thick, while the rails towards the nose and the tail are only 3" or so. The area of the deck where you would stand is slightly concave. I don't know if this makes any sense to you. It is hard to describe. Thanks again!

[@sunnyb003]

Great video SupBoarder! I have a question regarding length & width. Does 1’ 1” make a noticeable difference? I’m debating between 2 Starboard (Zen) inflatables. Both are touring boards. One is 12’ 6” x 30” and the other is 11’ 6” x 29”. I’m 5’ 2 & (58 kg) I’m wondering if there will be a noticeable difference between the 2. There must be, b/c why would a company make the same board with such a slight difference. From what I can tell, the 11’ 6” will be more maneuverable, but slower. However, I talked to someone at a board shop who thought that the 29” would be slightly faster. What are your thoughts on this?

[@SUPboardermag]

Good question, and you are right. Longer boards are faster and wider boards are slower... But riders body weights do come into it too. So for you at your weight you will probably find that the 11'6 will paddle a tiny bit slower then 12'6 (but maybe unnoticeable) but like you say turns better and it will be easier to control in windier conditions. BUT put a 80kg rider on the same boards and they will find that the 12'6 will be much faster than the 11'6. Make sense?? At your weight I think a 11'6 would be best. Unless you want to take alot of weight on the board! Thanks Reuben

[@Ivanababamama]

Good video!! Very informative. May I ask what is the good brand with reasonable value for beginner going on the Thames? There are so many in the market and price range so wide....thanks

[@SUPboardermag]

Thanks for your comment and question. We would recommend assessing what kind of paddling you are going to be doing - touring, social flat water paddles, faster racing or fitness? Do you want inflatable or hard board? What is your budget? This will influence which board you need. We can't recommend a certain brand as they are all different and suit different paddlers and their needs. Have a look at what brands are available near to you as well. Yes, there are so many brands and it can get confusing but there'll be a board out there to suit you. Thanks, Beau

[@Fomites]

Good vid. Thanks.

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you liked it!

[@Papageorge23]

Great video overall and super explaning ! Keep up the good work! I am doing sup for 3 yrs now and feel like its time to upgrade and challenge more. Previously had an Aqua Marina Fusion 10' 10'' and felt it heavy and lazy to responce. Im 6' 3'' 93kg. I'm thinking about Jobe Sena 11.0 for touring and fast supping on open sea. Whats your opinion and do you have any suggestions? Much regards for your time and your effort!

[@SUPboardermag]

That's great to hear you are looking to upgrade! The Jobe Sena looks like a great board, but may not be the right choice for your size. It's only 4.75" thick and with your weight it could bend quite a lot and be unstable. A couple of options could be the 2023 Aqua Marina Hyper 11'6 which has improved this year, or the Honu Sorrento 12'6. We have done a test of the best touring iSUPs on SUPboarder PRO: supboardermag.com/2021/08/16/inflatable-touring-test-2021-supboarder-pro-head-to-head/ Thanks for kind words and comment, Beau.

[@Papageorge23]

Thank you so much for your response . To be honest, I’m looking for that feeling that floating in same level with water and now so above it , and assume that gonna work for me. Do you believe that there isn’t any possible way to enjoy that thickness? My order haven’t been shipped yet so maybe have some hours to cancel it . Thanks again for your time and effort!

[@SUPboardermag]

You will still enjoy that thickness and it's possible the Jobe will be a great board for you. You will be lower to the water and get the feeling you are after. Thanks, Beau

[@zalenecorey3875]

This was an awesome introduction for me as a beginner. One question I had going into the video was not explicitly answered. What board would be recommended for a class I, II or III river?

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Zalene, great question. Going wide in the outline shape will help with river and rapid paddling to keep you stable. There are some good boards from Starboard, Hala, Fanatic, Aqua Marina and more that you can choose from. Consider your height, weight and ability level to choose the right board. Hope this helps! Thanks, Beau

[@insight7483]

Thanks

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad you like it

[@brandyme2971]

Is there any exercise I need to do before I get on my paddle board I have a spinal cord injury so the reason why I bought it was to help with my balance thank you

[@SUPboardermag]

Good question. Super inspiring to hear you are out there after the injury, so cool! We recommend some stretching before hitting the water, loosening up the arms, shoulders and legs. We have some warm up routines and exercises at the following link that you may be able to tailor to suit your needs. supboardermag.com/what-are-you-interested-in/?_keywords=warm+up Hope this helps! Thanks, Beau

[@jwilly8149]

Definitely speak to a doctor about this, please! Don’t listen to strangers on KZbin (except for me of course)

[@stephenfarthing3819]

I would like to see more from the country and see things from a different perspective. I saw the SS GREAT BRITAIN in Bristol Harbour from a unique perspective, from the bows of the ship as from the Dolphin perspective on my first time on a paddle board in 2021. I very much want to get a new perspective. And see the perspective from that - I very much want to get a board that stands between 10.6 to 10.8 feet of board. Width requires both even and balanced construction. I certainly want to have a board that has both smoothness and stability. I hope that between £200 - £400 should be adequate for a good board to start in it.

[@SUPboardermag]

Hey Stephen At present I would say the the Gladiator Origin range is a great value range. But its still around 400. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZLUk3mimcaYaqM Lots of shops stock them too. Thanks reuben

[@lucabianchi3318]

Hi, excellent explanation with graphics, videos etc. One question for you: I am quite tall at 6'3" and strong (90 kg). I ride my SUP (JOBE YARRA 10.6) normally on choppy, short, cross seas and I find it quite difficult and unstable. What would be in your opinion a good choice for the next SUP to navigate in those conditions? Many thanks in advance and well done again!

[@SUPboardermag]

I'd look at going longer to begin with for your height. Go to about 11'6" or even longer, but keep an eye on the width both in the tail and nose. The wider you go, the more stable it will be. Opt for something with a little flatter rocker than the Jobe too in the nose. This will help with stability, but may add some slapping on the water - which shouldn't be too much of an issue. Hope that helps. Beau

[@lucabianchi3318]

@@SUPboardermag great suggestions, I will let you know how it goes! 🙂

[@EmL-kg5gn]

This is an amazing video!!! Thank you so much! I’m usually between 65 and 70 kgs (currently stable at 65 though) and I’m a little over 170cm tall. I’ve decided to get a paddle board after trying it for the first time recently. I feel confident for a beginner, I was able to stand and paddle even when the lake got choppy. Initially I just wanted to paddle around in calm water like before but you’ve inspired me to try other options too! It seems an all rounder would be best for that? There’s surf, rivers, and lakes all fairly close by and the weather can be a bit unpredictable. Do you happen to know if roxy paddle boards are any good? The roxy hanalei is currently on sale where I live!

[@SUPboardermag]

We're so stoked you love SUP and are taking the time to watch our videos. Try to think a bit more about what type of paddling you want to do - is it more touring and exploring as this would call for a longer board to help with paddle speed. If it's more surfing and just short paddles on flat water then the Roxy Hanalei could be a great start. The 9'6 length will be nice and manoeuvrable with the Roxy, but may be quite slow when paddling. There are pros and cons to each board type but finding the right one for you is key. If you're not sure what paddling you want to do, then get the all rounder to begin with and you can find out from there. Hope this helps. Thanks, Beau

[@EmL-kg5gn]

@@SUPboardermag Thank you so much!! This is very helpful, surfing is probably lowest priority for me so I’ll look into something else :)

[@qikclixadventureswiththeno2650]

Hi. Can you explain about the amount of fins in the rear might help. Thanks, great vids though

[@SUPboardermag]

Sure thing! We have a video all about this kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5jQgqRpbLKjqNU Thanks, Beau

[@danpendergrass3632]

Any thoughts on pontoon style like the hyperlite elevation 2.0?

[@SUPboardermag]

Very cool design and something that would be good for fishing or multiple paddlers. You wouldn't get great glide from it so longer paddles would be hard, but the stability would be great. Thanks for sharing. Cheers, Beau

[@luke_atthat]

I need your advise on 2 ISUP: Blackfin XL and BOTE AERO HD. Both are 11'6" x 34"x 6" smilar prices Bote being 100$CDN less expensive but one chamber pump, fibreglass paddle and no wheel bag (and pump and paddle outside the bag) which justifies the higher price of the Blackfin. The construction description of BOTE is not clear, military grade being very vague... In your advise which one is the toughest (and should last longer) and the most rigid so being more stable and gliding the best for speed? Thank you very much to answer!

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Luke, Sincere apologies for missing this comment and the reply. Please let us know if we can still help answer this question! In short, the Blackfin has extra reinforcement with the carbon rails, which would probably help with durability and stiffness. We haven't tried these boards, but happy to help advise you. Thanks, Beau

[@luke_atthat]

@@SUPboardermag It is nice to have answered. I bought a Blackfin model V, very stiff. Thank you. I am trying to correct a little tendancy to go left. I will play with the fins config to see if the side fins are the problems or the central fin. And I will create a foil on the fin with tape and make tries! And by the way, I was worried about stability... the model V is super stable! Probably less then model XL and X, but still no problem at all with stability.

[@jgerry579]

Hi I'm looking for a board that is good for surfing and also good for paddling in the sea for when their is no waves but i am struggling to find any in stock, I am 85 kg with a bit of experience, I also want a place to keep a dry bag, what would you recommend?

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Jamie, Getting hold of gear is an issue at the moment but hopefully more gear will be in stores soon. If you can look at a composite board it will offer you much better performance over a iSUP in the surf. There are a few good boards out there but the two that come to mind are the JP-Australia Fusion 10'2 jp-australia.com/p/sup/composite-boards/fusion-2/ and the Naish Nalu 10'6 www.naishsurfing.com/product/nalu-gs/ . BUT these boards dont have bungess. But you could stick them on?! The other option is looking at board like the JP Hybrid jp-australia.com/p/sup/composite-boards/hybrid-2/. A great board but wont surf as good as the others. Starboard Go could be an another one but it wont surf as well! Any help? Thanks Reuben

[@BigbangG5]

Im 120 kg and looking for a board that I can use for learning to sup and for Island hopping in mild choppy waters. I found a board and I would love to get your opinion if it would be right for my weight and lack of experience as a beginner? I was thinking of getting the Aqua Marina Atlas iSUP which is 390 liters and 180 kg of weight limit. It's 366 cm long, the width is 86 and the thickness is 15 cm and has a slight upper somewhat rounded tip. Would you recommend it for me to buy? Thank you for reading my comment , I really appreciate it cause I need to find one in 2 weeks because I'm leaving for Croatia ! :)

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Reka, Sure thing happy to help. going for the Aqua Marina Atlas would a be a good board for you. It is a good overall size and will be nice and stable. If you want to have a stiffer board look towards brands like iRocker, Thurso, Bluefin but you will have to pay more money for it. We have review AQ boards in the passed and the are well priced for the whole package. If you are after a stable board to get into the sport and not spend loads of money the Atlas is a good choice. I hope that helps Reuben

[@vivhodgson3251]

I'm about 56kg, use my board for touring on rivers. My board is 12'6" x32" x 6" huge volume 370 litres so could take lots of equipment but mostly it's just me so perhaps I'm suffering from being too buoyant (?) Is there a better touring board for a lighter paddler?

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Viv. It really depends if you are seeking better performance out of your board. The length is great for touring as you get the speed, but you could benefit even more from a narrower board. This would enhance your paddling experience as your paddle stroke would be easier with a narrower board and you would paddle faster as there is less board moving through the water. With your weight, you could drop thickness as well, but this is personal preference especially if you decide to carry gear. Are you using an inflatable or hard board? Cheers, Beau

[@vivhodgson3251]

@@SUPboardermag thanks for the info. I'm 5'3" so a narrower board might help but keep thickness for gear. 👍🏻

[@joeyjones9952]

As someone who’s around 5 foot 2 tall and weighs about 55kg is it better to go for a 10ft board or a 10ft 6 inch board?

[@SUPboardermag]

If you want to paddle faster and be more stable, think about the 10'6". If you want to turn the board a little easier and have a shorter board, go for the 10ft. Hope this helps. Thanks, Beau

[@Doktracy]

I want to do yoga or fish,or just enjoy the water with my Dobermans,(80lbs each). I weigh about 160 and will be a complete SUP beginner. I will be using it on completely flat water. Would like to stay in the $300 range. Any recommendations?

[@SUPboardermag]

Great to hear you are getting into SUP! Not going to lie, it will be hard to balance with your Doberman's on the board. But with the right board you can make it easier. Could be difficult to stay in the $300 range as you will need a board that is slightly wider than the standard 32". For an inflatable board, take a look at iRocker Cruiser Ultra at 33" wide, or Aqua Marina Magma. These types of board will be best to start on. For the ultimate board that will hold your dogs, you can do yoga from and fish from, the Thurso max Multi is a great option. Hope this helps. Beau

[@tinatafro1468]

Most advice talks about the minimum size big people need. But I’m looking for advice on if there is a maximum size for small people? My #1 priority is to stay dry (the lake water is freezing in Norway) - so I assume I should have 6” to keep feet out of water while riding and 33+ with for balance stability to prevent falling in (hypothermia). BUT I am also petite 5’3, 110llb, so I am afraid if I prioritize a board that is big and stable with lots of height and volume, that it will be too big for me to manage. And what about length in this scenario, I’m not sure if it’s better to have a longer length (to go faster) or if that will instead just add further unnecessary volume and drag, and make it harder to manage? So we know a board can clearly be too small for some, but is there a point / limit where an iSup can be clearly too big? I do t need to race, nor do I need to go super far, but I want to always be able to easily get home without too much trouble or exhaustion. Thank you!

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Tina, very good question and thanks for asking us. You are absolutely correct and I believe a 6 " thick board will be way too thick for you and you will actually not find it as stable as you will a 5" thick board, because you are higher out of the water when paddling. I understand that you want a stable board to paddle but I think at your weight you could easy go for a board that is 30-31" wide and at 5" thick and it will give you a good amount of stability for your size. Regarding the boards length, obviously the longer you go the more glide it will have. But like you say it will be harder to manoeuvre. You may find that a board of around 11 foot long will be a good size for you offering you the best of both worlds. If you go wider than this, you will find the board will become too slow to paddle over a longer distance. Yes it will be more stable but will be harder to paddle also because you will have to reach out further to put your paddle in the water compared to your shoulder width. Does this help at all? Thanks Reuben

[@susantsutton]

Yes

[@luke_atthat]

And I need another advise from you again please: Blackfin has the model V 12'6"×32"×6" that goes faster... It attracts me a lot, but would the lost of stability be most significant? I am a beginner on SUP but I have good equilibrium and spent some time on a basic hard plastic SUP in a vacation camp and was chasing a large fish around a small lake without having any issue with the stability, and being fully clothed with boots... and I am 64 years old... I live in Montreal Qc CDN 300m from rivière des Prairies near parc Belmont where I expect to work out againt the current and also relax fishing in small bay. So going faster with the same effort would please me if it is still considered as being stable.. Is it really faster than the XL ? I would prefer a good unbiased opinion than the seller advise... Thank you again. I am a subscriber since 2 weeks and like very much your videos. You could make a quick new one with my questions and some from others! Take care. Thanks.

[@SUPboardermag]

Hey Luke, The blackfin 12'6 x 32 would be a great board for what you are looking for. I have used it for fishing and faster cruising and it works really well. Regarding its stability. It should feel fairly comfortable under your feet and would easily take a recommended rider up to 100 kg not too much of a problem. What weight are you? Obviously the wider you go the more stability you will have but you will really reduce the boards overall speed. Regarding the bote boards, unfortunately we haven't seen or used any of those boards. I believe the quality is okay but having used the blackfin boards I was really amazed at the amount of features that comes as standard with the package. Sorry I can't offer any feedback on those boards particularly. I hope this helps in some way? thanks Reuben.

[@luke_atthat]

@@SUPboardermag I am 180 cm (5'11" ) 88Kg (194 lbs). Could I carry safely my wife who is 135 lb, as a passenger seating in the front?

[@SUPboardermag]

You could Luke. But its really about how choppy/rough the water would be and how far you want to go. That board will definitely take somebody sitting on the front of the board but if you are looking to do it more regularly in more conditions probably going for a wider board around 34 inches wide would offer you that much more stability and safety. Make sense? Thanks Reuben ps the 11'6" x 34"x 6" might be better for this!

[@luke_atthat]

@@SUPboardermag you are absolutely right I should prioritise the stability as my first goal is to do exercise and have fun. With the model XL I will gain stability and maneuverability; thank you for the wise advice.

[@testosteronewarrior5793]

@@SUPboardermag I currently have a blackfin V, I’m looking to up grade to a 14’ x 30 or 28 touring board, maybe even all star, I’m 90 kg or just over 200 pounds my question would be, would this be a massive upgrade, or really not to big of one, seeing I want to wing foil too, just wondering where I should put my money in first, most my condition in the water are windy and rough water, I want more speed and tracking going up wind, thanks in advance

[@meganjohnson1920]

How do I figure out the volume of a board if it’s not provided in the specs? Height x width x thickness? Inches or cm? How do I get that to liters? I’m 120 kg and considering a 10’6”, 33” wide, 6” thick Roc ISUP - it says the weight capacity is 150 kg but I’m worried it won’t be stable enough (I’m a beginner looking to ride on mostly flat water) but I don’t want to spend too much! Thanks in advance for any advice you might have for me 🙂

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Megan. Great question and thanks for the comment. There's not really anyway to figure out the exact volume because a SUP is not a box shape with an easy L x W x H formula. At a very rough guess, I'd say that it's around 300-330L compared to other boards of its size. Realistically it should be a good board for you. We would also recommend the Blackfin Model X at 10'6 x 35". That extra width is going to be so valuable and help with balance as you learn and progress. Understand if it's outside your budget though. Hope this helps. Happy paddling! Beau

[@samwinter9749]

I got a 14' inflatable racing board because everything else was sold out last year, it can fit a surprising amount of camping gear lol

[@SUPboardermag]

Well you will be paddling faster then everyone else 😉👍🏼. Yeah Race boards can make good touring SUPs if not too narrow.

[@samwinter9749]

@@SUPboardermag big time. It left the inflatable kayak of my neighbors in the dust and I just sit when it's loaded or really rough. When I get a guest board I'll opt for a nice wide one :p

[@adamlind7152]

I came to this vid since I was wondering exactley this! Im thinking about buying a 14' but was afraid I would miss out on packing space. Do you know how your board is?

[@samwinter9749]

@@adamlind7152 do you mean packing space as in how large is it folded up? Cause it fits in my Harry Potter type crawlspace just fine. You'd have to Google the actual bag dimensions though.

[@oaiaferoce]

My SUP has two smaller fins instead of a bigger, central one. Does that matter in any way? The SUP is all around and I'm a beginner.

[@SUPboardermag]

It won't matter for your ability. It will make the board faster and easier to turn for you. Thanks, Beau

[@mattevans5812]

I have 5 SUP boards: racing, all around, touring, whitewater, and an all around/windsurf board. I use them all but if I could only have one it would be an inflatable touring board. Can transport easy, carry a load, go down whitewater rivers, go long distances while keeping up with kayakers and tracking and gliding well. They are the more stable in choppy conditions than all around boards. As far as turning a longer board being a disadvantage - it isn't. you can turn any SUP on a dime with an easy to learn cross bow turn.

[@SUPboardermag]

Hey Matt, Definitely the touring iSUP is a great one board to have and yes with the right technique you can turn even the longest boards. Thanks Reuben

[@Tomwoodfitness]

I’m 6ft 8 and 100kg. Would a 10ft board be okay? I’m a complete beginner who just wants to have fun and not spend too much money. Thanks 🙏

[@SUPboardermag]

A 10ft board could be ok, so long it is wide (about 33-34"). We would highly recommend a board that is around 11ft x 33 or 34" for your size. Thanks, Beau

[@DroppetjeNL]

we have an abstract coral saphir sup, and we are gonna buy a second sup. yesterday we hired a sup and we had strong wind. I wasn't as fast as my mom on our abstract sup. buying a sup is a lot harder than I tought, because I sup in a lot of different conditions. I live in the Netherlands where I sup on rivers or lakes. sometimes we have calm water so a tour sup would be perfect. but on windy days there will be a lot of waves. and I only weight like 50kg so most of the sups can carry way more than I weight. is that a problem?

[@SUPboardermag]

SUP is hard on any windy day, for all paddlers. You can try going slightly shorter in the length and width for your size. Also look for iSUPs that are 4.7" thick as this will enhance your experience and stability in bumpy waters. Good luck! Beau

[@DroppetjeNL]

@@SUPboardermag thnx for the advise!

[@chrisbellette9181]

I’m a big dude, 120kg and 200cm tall. I’m a beginner. I’m thinking an all rounder. My local beach is either pretty calm or choppy and every now and then gets some 1m waves…so not crazy. Anyone have thoughts about what would suit me?

[@SUPboardermag]

Some great boards out there for guys your size to get into SUP. The Jimmy Lewis Maestro at 10'3 x 35". Or the Starboard Wedge 11'2 x 32". Hope this helps. Thanks, Beau

[@paddle80]

잘 보고 갑니다. 패들보드종류가 나와있는 사진한장 캡쳐해서 저의 유튜브에 올려도 되겠지요. 출처도 표기하겠음.땡큐~^^

[@MM-kz9pd]

So a touring board is least suitable for any kind of waves or surfing

[@SUPboardermag]

Yes Touring and Race boards are the least suitable for waves. But you can still use these boards at a low-level in small waves of about knee-high. And of course if you're a good surfer you will still be able to get out on any board but you are right it's definitely not as easy for sure. The basic problem is because the boards are flat and long they will nosedive more. More around shapes have more rockerline (curve) to stop this from happening. Thanks Reuben

[@polaarj4064]

Can i use them for fishing?

[@SUPboardermag]

You certainly can! Make sure you get a board that is quite wide for a) stability b) storage of fishing gear.

[@polaarj4064]

@@SUPboardermag nice if i plan on going fishing then ill make sure ill get a sup board with these factors, thanks for the info

[@susiekrabacher3840]

Are you doing private consultations?

[@SUPboardermag]

Hi Susie. If you can send an email to [e-mail] with some further information, then we can discuss options. Thanks

[@ReigsSs]

Those boards, You have to Fill it with air ?

[@SUPboardermag]

some of them you do. Depends if you buy one rolled up, or it is a hard board

[@the_essential_gringo6695]

The whole video I kept looking at “Starboard” written on the race board and was like “nuh uh.”

[@SUPboardermag]

What brand would you like to see featured next time? We chose Starboard as we had been riding the board and to keep the continuity throughout the video. Thanks for the feedback. Beau

[@WespazjansDad]

Good video, but serious audio quality issues as well

[@SUPboardermag]

Thanks for the comment. Appreciate the sound quality comment and it is something we have improved in future videos. Thanks, Beau

[@surf64.5overhead4]

If its surf boards I can provide accurate info on what u need to consider. Not sail or wind boards.

[@SUPboardermag]

Great that you know about the designs. This can be applied to both surfing and flat water SUP.

[@danduke7339]

Lbs (pounds) = volume.

[@Cf-100canuck]

if you want to go paddle boarding in my river then you have a death wish

[@SUPboardermag]

Sounds scary 😧

[@raytbrown2]

Got too deep half way thru . . . but TY!

[@SUPboardermag]

Thanks for the feedback Ray.

[@kevywilliams3304]

Take your weight x2.5 ???? Lol 200 x 2.5 = 500 😂😂😂 no one has a 500 L board .

[@SUPboardermag]

Volume is equivalent to kilograms. So change your weight from lbs to kg. 😉

[@markjoseph9025]

Dude was faking the accent the whole time.

[@SUPboardermag]

😂

[@duketranslucent3rd]

Really helpful, thank you.

[@SUPboardermag]

Glad it was helpful!