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Step 1
Buy a board with consideration of where you're going to be paddle surfing to determine a good weight for a board. Windy conditions might dictate a heavier board, but in California, the trend is to go light.
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Step 2
Think of the paddle as an extension of your body to help you stabilize and turn. Look for something 6 to 8 inches taller than you, with a large, slightly scooped oval shape to your blade. Some surfers prefer a slightly bent shaft for a longer stroke.
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Step 3
Look at the length of your paddleboard. Like regular surfboards, they come in lengths from nine to fifteen feet. Bigger boards give you more stability while learning with 12-foot boards common.
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Step 4
Pay attention to the width of your board, planning on at least 26 inches. Although people pay attention to length, many stand up paddle surfers believe the width is more important.
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Step 5
Adjust the thickness of your SUP based on your weight and the weight of the board. The lighter boards typically give you more float. Some boards feature thickness that tapers off.
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Step 6
Note that some stand up paddleboards come with a flat bottom; others features a bit of a curve. It's all based on personal preferences, but it helps if you can try out the paddle surfboards of friends and acquaintances before you buy your own.
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Step 7
Examine the tail and nose of your board. A flatter nose may give you a little more glide. The tail of your board affects your turns.
Comments
servesyr said
on 1/5/2009 There is a great how to video here made by a 4 time Olympian http://www.surf-paddles.com/stand-up-paddle-deck-pads.php