Paddle Board
Inflatable vs. non-inflatable
Inflatable boards are cheaper and more portable. However, they are less effective when riding on them. Some people prefer to start with an inflatable paddle board because it’s cheaper to start with and tend to have a bit more give to them if you were to fall on it. However as you get more experienced, people often opt for hard paddle boards over inflatable.
Size
Weight: Generally paddle board manufacturers will list weight limits in lbs, kilograms, or in volume. Volume is measured in cubic liters and it measures the total buoyancy of the paddle board. Below we’ve included a chart to help in case the manufacturer only has the volume listed. Note that this is for standard paddle boards. Inflatable paddle boards are more buoyant and can carry more weight.
| Weight | Volume (L) |
| Less than 200 lbs | Standard Boards (Less than 175L) |
| 235 lbs – 275 lbs | 175L |
| 275 lbs – 300 lbs | 242L |
| Greater 300 lbs | 272L |
Width: For beginners, 32-34 inches is recommended.
Thickness: Generally paddle boards are around 4 inches thick and inflatable paddle boards are 6 inches thick. Beware of any inflatable paddle boards on the market that are less than 6 inches in thickness.
Length: The right length will vary depending on what you are using the paddle board for. For beginners that will likely stand up paddle board tour (“SUP tour”) or take general rides, 11 feet is a great option. Shorter boards around 10 feet tend to be used for SUP surfing as they are more easy to maneuver around whereas boards 12 feet and longer tend to be used for long distance paddling.
Paddle
- Material: Usually these come with the board. Starting out as a beginner, the material of the paddle won’t matter much. If you begin to paddle often, then it’s recommended to use a higher quality paddle that is carbon-fiber or fiberglass. This will make a difference by letting you paddle further without tiring as quickly.
- Size: For general paddling and cruising, it is recommended to have the paddle be 6 – 8 inches above your head when standing it next to you on the ground. If you plan to be more active like going SUP surfing, then it’s best to have the paddle be shorter, typically 2 – 4 inches above your head. This will allow you to take quicker strokes to help maneuver your board in the right position.
Leash
- Coil vs. straight:
- Straight leashes are easier to use and better for the beginner. More advanced riders prefer coiled leashes as they don’t drag in the water which can reduce speed.
- For the beginner, we recommend a straight coil. This is because a straight coil can help keep the paddle board further away from you if you are to fall off the board. This is important as you don’t want to collide with the board. With a coil leash, your board may stay closer to you which increases the chance in a wipe out that you collide with it.
- For the more familiar, we recommend the coiled leash.
- This is because a coiled leash stays out of the water and causes less drag on the speed of your movement.
Personal Flotation Device (“PFD”)
- You will also need a whistle if this isn’t already included in your PFD.
- We’ve discussed before how important having your PFD is so we won’t belabor it here, but this is the most important item when it comes to going out paddle boarding.
- Our favorite PFD is XGEAR’s Adult USCG Life Jacket Water Sports Life Vest as it is approved by the US Coast Guard, comes with a free survival whistle, and has a few small Velcro pockets for storage.
- Make sure to view the Coast Guard’s guide on how to choose the right life jacket and for a guide on how to tell make sure your life jacket is the right size.
Wet Suit or Dry Suit
Either option works
- It really is up to the particular paddle boarder and what they prefer. If you need to be very mobile for an intense ride, a wet suit may be the best option. But if you’re worried of falling off, then a dry suit may be the better option.
When to use a wet suit
- It is not waterproof
- Meant to keep warm, don’t need to wear layers underneath.
- If you get wet, the suit heats the water between your body and the suit. However, it is recommended to wear some waterproof clothing underneath just in case.
- Need a nice and snug fit as this is important for it to be able to heat you up.
- Because of the snug fit, you often are a bit more mobile in a wet suit compared to being in a dry suit.
When to use a dry suit
- A dry suit is waterproof.
- It is not meant to keep you warm, so wearing layers underneath is recommended.
Sunglasses
- If you’re wearing the sunglasses purely to block the sun out, we recommend Floating Watersport Store’s Floating Sunglasses, as they’re affordable, they can float in the water if they fall off your face if you’re not using croakies, and get the job done.
- However, if you’re planning on maybe fishing on the paddle board, or like to be able to see through the water below you and look at the fish, we recommend Fishoholic’s Polarized Fishing Sunglasses. These sort of sunglasses give you a much greater ability to peer through the water and follow what is below you.
Sunscreen
- Any sunscreen works here. We prefer Sun Bum Original as it is convenient to pack, water resistant, easy to apply, and doesn’t leave that usual sticky feeling residue on your hands after you apply it.
Eye wear retainer (AKA Croakies)
- Croakies are the straps you wear around your neck to avoid dropping your glasses and losing them.
Waterproof container
- When going paddle boarding, you need a convenient portable storage box to hold your phone and any other important personal devices of yours.
Hat or visor
- Preferably something waterproof and breathable so it isn’t very hot. But you need it to cover your head fully without holes throughout it, so it protects you from sun burns.
- Columbia’s hat is a good example, where it will shield you from the sun and keep you cool.
Headlamp
- Having a headlamp is a necessity if you plan on paddling later in the day while it is dark outside. This will not only help you navigate, but help those around you know that you’re there.
At least one fun item for entertainment
- It is a good idea to carry at least one fun item with you to help pass the time while taking a break on the water. Some examples could be a Rubik’s cube, a book to read, or a ball to toss if you’re paddling with others.
Final thoughts
- Now that you know what you need to start paddle boarding, make sure you read how to paddle board, and check out our tips for getting started.
