Glide gently over the water, paddle stroke by paddle stroke. Stand up paddling – or SUP for short – has long been established in this country. No wonder: all you need is a board and a paddle and you can set sail. Even beginners usually don’t need much practice before they can explore lakes or rivers in a relaxed manner. Over time, technology has continued to develop and inflatable boards mean that not much space is needed to store the equipment. The selection of SUPs is now correspondingly large. We show you what is important when buying.
Three mistakes to avoid before buying a SUP
The pros of the SUP blogs stand-up-paddling.org and sup.center agree: The market for SUP boards has become confusing. There are many manufacturers, well-known water sports brands and even discounters want to get in on the action and advertise with low prices. Excellent quality and the best driving characteristics are often promised. It is particularly difficult for beginners to keep track of everything. Before a feeling of uncertainty sets in or a bad purchase spoils the fun of driving, we will clear up three mistakes when buying a SUP.
1. The load capacity is deceptive
Cheap boards in particular are often advertised with the load capacity. However, there is a widespread misconception that the load capacity and the rider’s weight are the same. The load capacity describes the maximum load on the material, which is distributed over the entire length of the board. The name of the sport already gives it away: in stand-up paddling, you stand, not lie down. Therefore, the rider’s weight is not distributed over the entire length, but is usually concentrated in the middle of the board. This means that the load is much more localized. The maximum rider weight is therefore often significantly lower than the maximum load capacity. Cheap SUPs sometimes only say “suitable for up to 100 kilograms”. In the worst case, the board bends, the handling characteristics are catastrophic, and the fun of riding quickly goes down the drain.
2. If you buy cheap, you buy twice
Of course, a crossed-out price with a decent saving awakens the hunting instinct of bargain hunters. The internet is full of tempting offers. However, if a board is reduced by several hundred euros, you shouldn’t press the “buy” button too quickly, because the RRP is often fictitious. “The cheapest offers are often offered with an extensive accessory package. This can only be achieved by massively reducing quality,” says stand-up-paddling.org“Here, too, the ignorance of beginners is sometimes exploited, as they are usually unable to assess the quality.” Since a high-quality paddle can cost between 100 and 150 euros, it is not difficult to imagine that a complete package for 200 euros would have to be massively reduced in quality. The professionals recommend ignoring offers under 300 euros. In addition, SUPs should be at least 15 centimeters thick.
3. Lighter is not always better
At first glance, it seems logical: a lighter board is better. Not only is it easier on your back when you’re carrying it, but lighter materials also seem to be of higher quality. However, the latter is a fallacy, especially in the cheaper price segment. Inflatable boards, which are now the norm, often have only thin PVC layers and an inferior construction. The cores of higher-quality boards are more tightly meshed and therefore more robust, but they are also more expensive to produce. The price for lighter and higher-quality boards is usually no less than 700 euros. It should also be remembered that lighter boards are more susceptible to wind on the water.
SUP models: These models are suitable for beginners
A relaxed after-work ride on the lake or a longer tour through wilder waters? There are several types of stand-up paddling boards that are tailored to the area of use and vary accordingly in size and shape. Your own weight, the construction of the board and, last but not least, the price range also play a role in the purchase decision. All-round boards are most suitable for beginners, but depending on your preferences, touring boards may also be worth considering.
All-round SUP boards: Comfortable and stable
For beginners, one thing is most important: stability. If you keep going for a swim when you first try out, you’re not necessarily more motivated. All-round boards are rounder than other models and often have additional fins on the bottom that offer more stability. This helps you keep your balance. It’s no wonder that they are one of the SUP classics and are particularly popular with beginners. The standing area is often around 80 centimeters or more. The length, which is measured in inches (“), starts at 10.6” (323 centimeters). All-round SUP boards are made for relaxed cruising.
The disadvantages: Since these models are bulkier than other boards, they are slower on the water and offer poorer gliding properties. If you want to go on long tours of ten kilometers or more in the medium term, a touring board is a better option.
The Bluefin Cruise is particularly recommended. “The top quality workmanship, the extensive scope of delivery, the long warranty and the good driving characteristics are particularly impressive,” says stand-up-paddling.org. In addition, it comes with extensive, high-quality accessories – a complete package that is worth its price. Click here for the offer on Amazon*
According to the report, the Decathlon Itiwit SUP X100 10″ is also well suited for beginners: “Top model that not only impresses with its flawless workmanship, but also with its good handling characteristics.” However, neither an air pump nor a paddle are included in the delivery. Click here to see the offer at Decathlon*
Touring boards for longer trips
If you want to glide forward more elegantly, a touring board is a good choice. These models also sit well on the water, but are longer than all-rounders and have a more pointed bow. They are designed to carry a lot of weight. The touring board is faster than an all-rounder, but takes longer to get going and is not as maneuverable. Here, too, two additional side fins are usually installed for better tracking and better tipping stability.
The COASTO Nautilus 11.8″ SUP board is a good choice here. “The high-quality and robust construction and the wide standing area make it extremely fun on the water. The Nautilus is sold as a complete set which includes the most important accessories for beginners,” summarizes sup.center together. Click here for the offer on Amazon*
Decathlon also has a recommendable touring SUP on offer, the Itiwit X500 13’0″. “The design is very dynamic and the classic touring shape ensures very good straight-line stability,” summarizes stand-up-paddling.org – “a high quality board for a reasonable price”. Click here to see the offer at Decathlon*
Once you have chosen the right board, nothing stands in the way of your first trip. It is important to choose a calm body of water to start with and to keep an eye on the weather. Even seemingly short distances can become a real challenge if the paddler is facing a headwind. It is best to practice near the shore first and only increase the distance over time.
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Source: www.sport.de
