Paddle faster, better, easier. We help you to find the right SUP Paddle.
Having the right SUP paddle make a massive difference, so its important that you choose the one best suited for you!
Stand up paddle board “SUP” paddles come in all kinds of shapes & sizes, different materials and prices. Understanding some the basics of paddle technology and the constructions will help you find the right SUP paddle for your style of SUP boarding. Whether you are a strictly a flatwater paddler, surfer, racer, downwinder or an allround paddle board addict, there is a paddle out there that is designed for you.
Everyday I speak to people about paddles, so wether you’re an experienced paddle boarder or not, here are some tips to find the right SUP paddle for you!
1: Adjustable or Fixed?
If the paddle is for just one person and used for predominantly one style of paddling a fixed paddle is generally both a cheaper and lighter paddle option! It also offers an even flex and will not take on small amounts of water when submerged, as it has no adjustment bracket.
If you intend for others to use the paddle then an adjustable paddle will be far more practical with little downsides. If it’s your first paddle we would always suggest an adjustable, so you can play with the length and find one which works best for you.
2: What Material?
SUP paddles come in all kinds of constructions made out of fiberglass, carbon fiber, wood, aluminum or some combination thereof. Each offer different attributes which are worth considering.
Aluminum is often used on adjustable paddles and are cheap and durable. They tend to be on the heavy side, but also very affordable.
Fiberglass is moderately light, very durable with a moderate stiffness and flex and it can withstand impacts and heavy use.
Wood paddles have a really nice feel to them with a soft flex that bends naturally. They can be quite light, but do require the paddler to be more conscious of impacts and heavy use because they are not as strong as the other materials.
Carbon fiber paddles are very light and strong and can have a wide range in flex, the more carbon content in the paddle, the stiffer it is going to be. Carbon is used in most performancegrade paddles with designers often using varying amounts of carbon fiber in different areas of the paddle to determine how and where they want the shaft to flex or be stiffer.
Carbon fiber is the most efficient material for transferring energy offering the best performance.
Our Tip For Allround Paddles:
For someone looking for a good allround paddle, one that’s going to offer great performance, strength and durability, I would suggest a mixed Carbon and Fiberglass construction. Its the best of everything and will work for both a beginner or advanced paddler and is cost effective!
Our staff recommendation is the Fanatic Carbon 35, but read more about it at the end of the post!
3: What about Flex?
An interesting thing about paddle flex is that as the paddler finishes the stroke the paddle will snap back to its original form and give the paddler a little extra boost in glide.
In simple terms, softer flex is more forgiving on the paddler’s shoulders and arms. A stiffer paddle will have more resistance as it’s pulled through the water, which demands more energy from the paddler. The softer flexing paddle will allow more water to release from the blade as it travels through the water offering less resistance. So a stiff flexing paddle will offer more power than the softer flexing paddle which will feel more comfortable.
What Blade Size?
About Bigger Blades
Generally, bigger people will be able to move more water than smaller people, so a medium to large size blade would be a good choice such as an 8″ to 9″ blades. Larger blades offer more resistance during the stroke, which allow you displace more water, which make it a good choice for cruising flat water.
About Smaller Blades
Lightweight people, children, but also SUP racers or wave surfers may prefer smaller blades such as 7″ to 8.0″, which are good for people who paddle with a high cadence, or short, quick strokes.
A smaller blade has a quick catch and release, which allows the blade to enter and depart the water easily.
Smaller blades are popular with SUP racers and surfers, who enjoy the quick acceleration and less swing weight making it easier to move seamlessly from one stroke to the next.
Conclusion
When buying a paddle it’s always a good idea to ask one of knowledgeable Ocean Addicts team about which paddle will best fit your needs.
Think about the type of paddling you would like to be doing. There some really great paddle makers out there such as Naish and Fanatic who make a paddle for everyone from flatwater cruisers to professional paddlers.
Check out out all their paddles here!
Staff Recommendation
For someone looking for a great allround paddle, one that’s going to offer superb performance, flex, strength and durability, all at a great price:
Check out the Fanatic Carbon 35.
This 35% carbon and fiber glass paddle has a strong, ABS protected composite blade. With the Union Joint system and 7.25” blade, your strokes are highly effective. Adorned with unmatched optics, the Carbon 35 is the greatest deal around.
At just $259 its the new top choice for any entry level paddler willing to go from zero to hero.
Want to know what paddle would be the best for you?
Just give us a call in the shop or pop over and we talk about the best SUP paddle for your needs.
Call us (07) 5309 6624
