PADDLE ANATOMY

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SUP PADDLE

Don’t underestimate the importance of a good paddle! Even with the best SUP, you won’t make it very far without a quality paddle. To compliment your riding style, we recommend finding a paddle that suits your needs based on length, material and shape.

SUP PADDLE SIZES

Ranging from small to extra-large, differently-sized paddles provide different levels of support. Small blades require less effort to paddle but cover a smaller surface area, while large blades output more power and increase speed more efficiently. Keep in mind that small, medium and large paddles often directly correlate to the size of the rider.

Fixed length paddles are stiffer and best if you plan on doing one or two different things on the board but don't want or need to change up the length.

Adjustable paddles are less sturdy but provide more flexibility for multiple activities like touring, surfing or fitness paddling, without needing different paddles for each.

Shorter paddles are mostly used for surfing while longer paddles are ideal for racing. A quick way to determine the general paddle length you need is to take your height and add 8-10 inches.

SUP PADDLE MATERIALS

Like boards, paddles can be made from many different materials. For an inexpensive-yet-durable option, aluminum and plastic make a great starter paddle. They aren’t very stiff, but they work well for leisurely rides.

Carbon fiber and fiberglass paddles are lightweight and stiff, making them better at transferring your strokes into power. However, these paddles tend to carry a slightly higher price tag than their counterparts.

Wood, though aesthetically pleasing, is often expensive and heavier. They’re not for everyone, but wood paddles are classic (especially if you want to go back to the roots of how paddling began).

SUP PADDLES BLADES & OFFSET

The blade is the part of the paddle submerged during a stroke, and its size, shape and offset can influence your performance on the water.

Illustration of highlighted tear-drop shaped paddle blade.

Tear-drop shaped blades create more power with each stroke. The thinner blade tip slices into the water quickly and has a wider contact area across the paddle, allowing you to push forward farther.

Illustration of highlighted rectangular shaped paddle blade.

Rectangular shaped blades, or other similarly box-shaped blades, are generally gentler on your body. Their thinner contact area doesn’t push as much water with each stroke, encouraging smooth movements and making paddling easier over long periods of time.

Illustration of highlighted angled paddle blade.

Offset refers to the angle at which the blade curves. Angles give you more power per stroke, conserving energy and increasing the distance you’re able to cover. Surfing is best with a 7-degree angle, all-around use sits well at 10 degrees and racing thrives at 12 degrees.