Inflatable SUP: How to Choose a Stand Up Paddle

Materials

Choosing the right materials when buying a stand-up paddle board is very important; in addition to the durability of the board, safety also comes into play, which, as in all water sports, is an absolute priority, especially for those just starting out.

Speaking of inflatable SUPs, we have to make sure that the materials are strong and suitable to withstand the internal air pressure, the weight of the user. Ultra-strong PVC with Dropstitch technology is the best candidate; it ensures solidity and lightness, so as to guarantee very high levels of usability but at the same time very safe. If it is then equipped with a non-slip surface in EVA or Tritech honeycomb, rest assured that grip and traction will be nothing short of perfect, to avoid falls and slips during use.

Finally, as far as the materials of each individual accessory are concerned, again rely only on the best; nylon for the leash, aluminium or carbon fibre for the paddle.

Weight

A first discriminating factor when choosing a SUP, or in any case a very important factor to take into account, is the maximum load capacity; despite the strength and versatility of inflatable SUPs, the maximum weight of a board is normally between 150 and 180 kg. Beyond this range, no matter how much it doesn’t break in half, there is a risk that the board will be damaged, or its use limited or compromised.

Your weight will also be a valuable indication when choosing your board because, together with your level of practice (beginner, amateur, expert), it will help you choose the size and shape of the SUP. Let’s say we can divide the weight into three ranges: under 60 kg, between 60 and 80 kg, and over 80 kg. The proportions between weight, experience level and length/shape of the board will make the riding experience more or less easy and enjoyable.

Shape and Type

The shape of the SUP board influences the discipline we want to practise, the versatility of the board itself and the ease of use for the user, depending on their level of experience. Among the most common shapes or types we have:

• Allround:versatile models for all disciplines and conditions, perfect for beginners approaching this tool. Wide, stable and well-directed;
• Touring:designed for “walking” a few hours on flat seas and downwind, they are wide enough to guarantee excellent stability, and longer and with a V-shaped bow for better steerability;
• Yoga:much wider and more stable than the classic allrounder, often squared, they are SUP boards designed for those who want to combine the pleasure of paddling with that of stopping and practising a bit of healthy yoga in the middle of a lake or the sea;
• Race:narrower and longer, and therefore more complex to manage balance and manoeuvrability, they are designed mainly for racing and competitions, given the greater speed they can achieve;
• Surf:with a rounder and narrower ‘nose’, these are shorter boards designed for surfing waves, after paddling out to them.

Dimensions

Based on your weight, the speciality you are most interested in, and your height, take measurements to work out which board is right for you; remember that at the start it is better to have a bigger one, possibly an allround type, as it will provide more stability during use. An ideal size might be 366x82x15 cm or, as it should be stated, 12’x32″x6″, as SUPs are measured in inches and feet). Also calculate the volume of the board, in litres, which will dictate the maximum weight capacity; this again depends on your height and weight.

Pressure and Inflation

The inflation pressure of the SUP is very important. This is measured in PSI, and indicates to what level you can inflate the board; the higher the PSI value, the stiffer the board will be. Normally, the maximum (and indicated) is around 12 to 15 PSI; at this value you will have the stability of a rigid board, combined with the weight and manoeuvrability advantage of an inflatable.

Also think about how to inflate the board; choose a suitable pump (a manual one is normally provided when purchasing the complete set). In case you prefer to be faster, you can buy a convenient battery-operated electric pump to save effort and have a quick and strong inflation.

Fin

Just like classic surfboards, SUPs are also equipped with fins; these are fins that help manage seaworthiness and stability, in different numbers, configurations and sizes depending on how the board is to be used, and are often removable. There are usually three of them, so that they can be adapted to multiple activities, and designed for better performance on a flat body of water or in small waves.

Paddle and Leash

The paddle, normally adjustable, is the oar with which you propel yourself on the board, often supplied with the SUP; to choose the right height, grasp the olive or knob at the end and stretch your arm by lifting it vertically: you will have your suitable size. The best ones are made of aluminium or carbon fibre, which can be folded or, as mentioned, dismantled for convenient storage in the carry bag.

The leash, i.e. the cable with which you secure your ankle to the board, should be about 30 or 40 cm longer than the board itself, and serves to prevent you from losing the SUP if you fall into the water.

Extras

You can choose to add various extras to your Stand Up Paddle board, again depending on its intended use. These range from nets or compartments for storing your backpack or other personal belongings, to the watertight bags provided, to removable seats for turning the board into a kayak, to various points for securing an action cam.