Paddle Board Size
Choosing the right paddle board size is a key factor in your overall paddling experience. A paddle board that is too small will be difficult to maneuver and may feel unstable in the water. A paddle board that is too large will be hard to control and can create strain on your shoulders as you push through the water with each stroke. A general sizing chart, such as the one shown here, can help you find a board that is both appropriate for your body weight and the activity you want to do on it.
To use this sizing chart, simply multiply your body weight by the number in the top row of the table. For example, a beginning paddler who weighs 160 pounds should look for a paddleboard with a volume range of 160-224 liters (see illustration below). If you intend to use the board with gear or passengers, add their weight to your own and then choose the appropriate sized board.
As you get more experience, it is also important to consider the type of paddle board activities you want to do and how those activities will affect the paddleboard’s dimensions. For example, if you are interested in SUP surfing, racing or touring, you will need to orient your body differently on the board, and this can alter the dimensions of the board.
The shape of the paddle blade also makes a difference in how well it moves through the water and its power output. Different blade shapes are best suited for different types of Paddle board activities, and you will probably develop a preference as you gain experience.
Choosing the Right Paddle Board Size
Another important sizing consideration is the thickness of the paddle board. In general, thicker boards are more durable and provide more stability than thinner models. They also tend to be more expensive than thinner boards.
Paddle thickness is often overlooked when sizing for paddleboards, but it can make a significant difference in the comfort and performance of your ride. If you are paddling a surfboard with a recessed cockpit or sunken deck, for example, you will need a shorter paddle than you would for a flat-deck board.
The length of your paddle shaft is important to sizing your iSUP as well. Most iSUPs are designed with an average shaft length that works for most users, but some specialized paddles require a shorter or longer shaft.
A long paddle shaft allows you to reach further back in your stroke, which can be advantageous for touring and racing. A short paddle shaft, on the other hand, allows you to keep your blade closer to the water and maintain a quicker cadence. It’s a good idea to experiment with various shaft lengths and positions until you find the perfect combination of comfort and speed for your paddling style.
Paddleboarding works by using the paddle to move the board forward. When standing on the paddleboard, the rider uses the paddle to push against the water, creating forward momentum. The paddle itself has a blade on one end, and by dipping the blade into the water at the front of the board and pulling it toward the rider, the paddle generates enough force to move the board forward.
