Paddle Board FAQs
What is the best paddle board for beginners?
For beginners, it is usually best to get a paddle board which is between 10 and 11 foot in length, and 32" wide. We recommend getting a 4.7" thick board, as this provides a good level of buoyancy whilst also keeping the centre of gravity low. If the user is over 100kg, it might be worth going for a 6" thick board. To learn tips on how to start paddle boarding, you can read our full guide.
Why are paddle boards so expensive?
Paddle boards go through a long manufacturing process, which involves a lot of manual labour and expensive materials and processes. On top of this, each board needs to be tested for leaks over a period of 24 hours or more. We wrote a blog post on the subject which you can check out in full.
How much should I pay for a paddle board?
Paddle boards start at around Ā£199 and can go up to Ā£1000+. For a beginner, we don't recommend spending too much on a paddle board, as you can get a great quality board at a low price. It also gives you a chance to check that you enjoy the sport. There isn't a whole lot which makes expensive boards worth several times the cheaper boards, a lot of it is in clever marketing. However, there is clearly a benefit to buying an expensive board for certain use cases and for advanced users. Find out more here.
What is the difference between paddle board and SUP?
Paddle boards and SUPs are the same thing. SUP stands for stand up paddle board. The names are used interchangeable by different brands and websites. For more information, we wrote a handy article to answer the question - what is paddle boarding?
What size paddle board do I need for my height and weight?
We recommend a 9' board for kids, and a 10'6" board for most adults who want an all round board. We have a full blog post on the topic.
What should I wear to paddle board?
It's always best to wear too much rather than too little, as the waters in the UK can get cold all year around. A wetsuit is always a wise choice, and most importantly a life jacket. You can check out our full guide on what to wear paddle boarding all year round.
Do you need a license to paddle board on the river?
In the UK you do not need a license to paddle on most public waterways, but its always best to do your research and make sure you are allowed to use your paddle board, in addition to checking that the conditions are safe in the area.
How long do paddle boards last?
Paddle boards can last several years, if taken care of correctly. It's always best to clear your board with fresh water (removing any salt) after use, and make sure it is completely dry before packing it away. Avoid scratching the board on rocks and surfaces, and do not leave it exposed to UV light, to prolong it's life.
What size paddle board do I need for my weight?
Depending on your weight, you may be better off with a paddle board with a lower or higher volume. For users over 100kg, its usually better off to go with a 6" thick board, and for under 100kg, a 4.7" board is usually the best option. We have a full article on the subject here.
What size SUP paddle do I need?
Choose a paddle which is as high as the top of your head, plus around 1 foot. This is generally considered to be the optimum height setting.
Is paddle boarding a good form of exercise?
Paddle boarding is a great form of exercise. It is good for both cardiovascular and muscular strength and endurance. It is also good for the mind, and can be a peaceful way to reduce stress and anxiety. We have a full article to read on the subject here.
