You see SUPs all the time, everywhere, in all colors, but then How to choose the right Stand Up Paddleboard ?
We'll tell you everything you need to know so you can choose the SUP that's right for you. Skill level, intended use, board size, different technologies and accessories: Nothing will be a secret to you anymore!
Beginner, intermediate, or advanced?
Firstly, as you have correctly understood, it is important to properly Identify your skill level . Once on the water, you'll want to enjoy it but also improve. Therefore, you need to choose a board that will allow you to do so! Generally speaking, a beginner will favor the range Allround for its great versatility. On the contrary, a rider of level intermediate to advanced will head towards the range touring or race Much better suited to long distances and speed. Try not to overestimate or underestimate yourself so you don't end up frustrated by a bad choice.
There is a type of SUP for every discipline!
Each discipline corresponds to a different family of boards.
Don't panic, they are recognizable by their shapes and sizes. Furthermore, a large part of Our boards are very versatile.
Speaking of versatility, our range Allround is designed to be at its best. These SUPs were conceived with one goal in mind: to accompany you in all your adventures. However, it also includes boards designed for more specific areas.
The range Touring group together models intended to be boards more sporty and particularly suited to long distances . These SUPs are nonetheless maneuverable and stable; the Arko, in particular, offers great versatility that benefits the whole family thanks to its large volume.
The family Breed It meets certain requirements imposed by race organizers. Today, the most common formats are 12'6" and 14'. However, you don't need to be a competitive racer to own a Race board. Our Air Swift and Trekker models are highly regarded for their handling and performance over long distances.
Finally, if you feel like doing paddleboarding as a team, with family or friends, we recommend the range Giant These SUPs can accommodate Up to 10 people!
Although we have specialized in inflatables since 1988 , we also offer a range of rigid SUPs. based on completely different technologies. The JIB and the FOAM are two Allround models that perform wonderfully in waves or for use in SUP/Surf schools.
Choose the dimensions carefully!
The length of a board affects its speed and also impacts its maneuverability. Each discipline therefore requires a different length. The longer the board, the more sporty the ride (touring, racing), while the shorter the board, the more maneuverable it is (surfing, small bodies of water). Your height is also important: if you are tall and muscular, you should choose a longer board. Its volume will be greater and therefore better suited to your size.
Width, in turn, will have a real impact on stability. If you're looking for a very stable board, you should select a width of at least 32 inches. If performance is your priority, you should opt for narrower SUP boards. This choice, once again, depends on your skill level.
Finally, you can consider the thickness. This factor mainly affects the rigidity and volume of the paddleboard. The thicker a board is, the stiffer it naturally becomes. The goal is to find the right balance between flexibility and rigidity. A board that is too rigid will have less rebound and therefore less power. Depending on your size, you will have the choice between 4", 5", and 6" thicknesses.
Technology: LIGHT DROPSTITCH, Fusion, Double layer?
Contrary to popular belief, there's no such thing as bad technology! It all depends on the user's size and the type of riding they do. All our boards are designed using the advantages of each technology to offer the best solution for your needs.
Light Dropstitch technology allows for the manufacture of ultra-light and responsive boards. SUPs developed with this innovative Dropstitch are, however, less rigid, which is why we use this technology on our most compact boards (as they are naturally stiffer) and those designed for lighter paddlers. It's also a good option for casual paddlers who don't want to invest too much money in their board.
Dual-layer Fusion technology is the best technology you can find. Combined with our manufacturing technique, this technology places our Fusion boards among the highest-performing and most durable on the market. Enthusiasts and professionals alike will choose this type of board to improve both performance and abrasion resistance.
Dual-layer technology is gradually being phased out in favor of Fusion technology. It offers essentially the same advantages as Fusion technology, except for weight. A dual-layer board can weigh up to 30% more than a Fusion board.
Once again, don't forget to choose your board according to your size.
A tall, strong person will need to opt for a double-layer Fusion, while a shorter person with a more athletic build may be satisfied with, or even prefer, a single layer, or opt for the double-layer Fusion technology.
INFLATABLE OR RIGID?
Today, over 90% of Stand Up Paddle Board sales are inflatable. And it's easy to see why: An inflatable SUP fits in the trunk of a car and even on the back of a motorcycle. It's the A real advantage of inflatable stand-up paddleboards! If all it takes is a few minutes to inflate it and even less so to deflate it and put it back in its bag.
Historically, the biggest doubt lay in performance. Manufacturing techniques have evolved so quickly that inflatable boards are now almost as high-performing as rigid boards.
Besides fitting in your trunk, you can even put it at your feet. And to ensure you get the most out of your SUP, all our carrying bags are actually Backpacks!
In conclusion, to choose the right board, you'll need to know your skill level and how you intend to use it. Whether it's the length of your SUP or its technology, your body size is an important factor to consider.
