In recent years, paddle boarding has grown in popularity and given rise to an even more thrilling activity: paddle surfing, also known as Wave SUP. Skip the traditional surfboard and tackle the waves on a paddleboard instead. Paddle surfing is the finest low-impact, total-body, water-based activity you could participate in.
Paddle surfing employs the same fundamental principles as conventional surfing but on a distinct board. Some prefer paddle surfing because you are already standing and can capture a wave without wasting time popping up or standing on your surfboard.
There are, however, a few differences, the most notable of which is how you propel when paddle boarding. It may be simpler to paddle while lying down when paddling out to the waves. This makes it simpler to steer your paddle board over the waves and ahead of the breakpoints once you’ve found the ideal spot to catch waves and are standing and waiting.
Once you have selected the optimal wave, begin paddling towards the shore, guiding your board with your paddle and allowing the wave to lift it from behind gently. As the wave carries you, you can use your oar to maintain balance and stability and create some resistance in the water. Once you have mastered proper paddling technique and speed, paddle surfing becomes increasingly superficial, and you can become a pro in no time.
Paddle surfing is just one of the many thrilling activities that can be enjoyed on a paddle board. Still, it is quickly becoming one of the most popular options for people of all ages. It has excellent health and weight loss benefits, benefits the mind and body, and is a fun way to stay in shape. Get outside, into nature, and capture some waves on a paddle board to stay fit and, most importantly, to have fun.
What Are the Most Important Features of a SUP Surfboard?
Size of the Board
The majority of SUP surfboards have a narrow fin and significant rocker. Beginners should select a board that is at least 10 liters larger than their flatwater board, as waves, swell, and turbulence necessitate a larger volume for stability. Start with a board between 9.5 and 11 feet in length. Beginners will feel unsteady on boards less than 30 inches broad.
Larger boards are more stable and forgiving than smaller ones. Your positioning on the board and the wave is less critical, and you will be able to capture waves with less self-generated speed. With a larger board comes reduced maneuverability. With increased skill and wave experience, paddlers can switch to smaller boards to maximize the enjoyment potential of a wave.
If surfing will be the primary function of the board and you intend to own a second board for other types of paddling, you should consider a surf-specific design. If you are limited to a single SUP board and want something that will allow you to enjoy capturing waves as well as paddling in a variety of non-surf environments, you should opt for a surf-friendly all-around board shape.
Specialized SUP surfing boards are typically shorter than 9 feet in length and have a lower volume than boards used for general paddling. Some inflatable paddle boards are only four inches thick, which is now deemed too thin for the majority of paddle boards, as five- and six-inch boards with higher stiffness have become the norm.
The lower volume of a surf-specific board can improve performance on certain swells where the board will be gliding over the water’s surface rather than relying on its inherent buoyancy, and the thinner rails of a 4-inch thick board may improve turning performance under certain conditions.
Some surfing paddle boards have a very slender tail to increase the responsiveness of the board to foot pressure when turning. The characteristics that make these boards suitable for surfing — brief length, low volume, reduced thickness, and narrow tails — also make them unsuitable for paddling styles that require more length and volume.
Fins
While the dimensions and shape of a board are the primary considerations when selecting a board, the fin setup can allow you to adjust – and sometimes completely transform – the board’s performance. The most fundamental fin configuration for a surf SUP is a single long center fin. Having a single fin in the center generates the least amount of drag and works well on surfing-optimized boards, especially hard boards. On inflatable paddle boards, the rails are more convex and contribute less to carving performance than the rails on hardboards, so additional assistance from the fins is required.
The addition of side fins to the center fin improves the rider’s ability to control the rear of the board in the absence of hard rails, which would otherwise enhance carving performance. Therefore, they recommend a board that allows you to add side fins when you need additional traction, but can be used with a single center fin when speed is your top priority.
Permanent three-fin configurations will also get the job done, albeit with slightly less tuning flexibility. Permanent fin configurations offer the benefit of never losing a fin or damaging the fin box. In pure surfing, stiffer fins are often preferred for greater control, but with inflatable SUP surfing, you won’t be sailing perfect barrels where the rigidity of the fins will have a significant impact on the board’s performance. A fin with a little elasticity will perform adequately in the vast majority of wave environments, so have fun, experiment, and don’t stress over the fin-selection enigma.
Pure surfing is a delight and an obsession, and they will see you in the lineup when the conditions are optimal. When mother nature does not cooperate, it does not prevent you from going out and riding whatever is available. For this reason, they believe that inflatables have a number of advantages for stand up paddle board surfing on swells that are below average.
Deck Pad
Similar to other types of SUP boards, the quality and texture of the deck pad on a SUP surfing board has a significant impact on traction and the board’s sensation underfoot. In general, a thicker and longer deck pad that covers more board surface is preferable because there will be a propensity to fall on various parts of the board, particularly when learning to surf, but you will be shifting into surfer stance and using your rear foot for control the majority of the time.
If you intend to surf with your stand-up paddleboard, look for a board with a contoured tail pad area and a raised rear edge to prevent your back foot from sliding off the board and to give you more leverage when applying foot pressure.
A raised arch bar at the tail of the deck pad, which allows you to feel where your back foot is without having to look down, is a feature that is very useful but found on fewer surfboards. An arch bar (or T bar) enables the rider to plant the rear foot and impart weight to the board in order to pivot the tail and lean back into the board. The arch bar is also used to trim the board by shifting weight between the ball and heel to assist in angling the rail, and it provides a tactile reference to the board’s center line when the surfer is in stance.
Depending on your position relative to the wave you’re riding, you will change stances and hop or glide on the board while paddleboard surfing. Moving from the middle of the board, where you’ll paddle to gain speed and momentum, to the rear, where you’ll use your weight and back foot to initiate turns and alter direction, is a common technique for stand-up paddleboarders.
It is not uncommon to switch positions from closeout to reforming a few times during a wave, depending on the conditions and your talent level. Utilizing the features of your deck pad and knowing the ins and outs of your stand-up paddleboard’s upright area are essential, as surfing requires instinctive movements and shifts.
Type of Board
If SUP surfing is your passion, a hardboard has distinct performance advantages over an inflatable board. The rails of a hardboard are significantly more sculpted and more conducive to surfing maneuvers than those of a softboard.
It will feel more like a surfboard and provide more propulsion on the wave, as well as more control when turning and adjusting direction. On the other hand, traveling with a rigid SUP board can be costly and inconvenient, so you may be forced to choose between surfing an inflatable board or not surfing at all. Inflatables are significantly simpler to transport, which will increase the number of wave-riding opportunities and environments.
Additionally, inflatables have their own benefits for surfing. Beginners will appreciate the softer landing when falling onto the board and the slightly reduced impact when the board is inevitably reversed onto the rider’s head as a result of exertion. Much of your time spent learning to surf will be spent on your knees, which will be considerably more comfortable on an inflatable board. If you intend to surf only occasionally, the convenience and performance advantages of an inflatable SUP in other conditions and types of water will outweigh any technical advantages of a hardboard in the surf.
The majority of inflatable SUP boards, particularly all-around boards, will be larger than the average surf-specific rigid board design. On most boards, the initial challenge will be speed and remaining in the wave; however, you have the advantage of a paddle that can provide a quick burst of acceleration. This will be the greatest adjustment, particularly if you have a background in surfing. In order to effectively hold and use a paddle, it will be necessary to refine the muscle memory you have developed over the years, from shifting your weight to actively moving your hands.
Just as it takes practice to become a skilled surfer, it takes practice to ride waves on an inflatable. You need a little time to learn how to handle a larger board and remain ahead of it before you can transfer your surfing skills. It won’t get the same drive and it won’t cut back as sharply, but it will be an enjoyable challenge and give you a really different and distinctive surfing style.
Design & Quality
A well-designed and constructed inflatable SUP is a significant investment, so you’ll want to choose prudently and get a board that will maximize your time on the water.
If you surf frequently, it makes sense to consider purchasing a surf-specific board and a second board for other paddling activities. If you want to use your board for a variety of activities, including surfing, then recommend selecting an all-around board with the appropriate shape and features for catching waves.
Should You Use a Rigid or Inflatable Paddleboard for SUP Surfing?
Purchasing the first upright paddleboard can be surprisingly challenging. Options are seemingly limitless, and many boards cost roughly the same as your first automobile. Now dozens upon dozens of brands manufacture paddleboards, each with numerous models for various paddling techniques.
Choosing an inflatable or a rigid board is arguably the most critical choice, and the question retailers frequently ask. The price difference between the two varieties can only be negligible if you purchase a high-end, specialized hardboard. Depending on the form of paddling you wish to engage in, each has its advantages.
Each rigid and inflatable paddleboards have advantages and disadvantages. The most apparent benefits of inflatables are their portability and ability to be compactly stored. To reach remote lakes, fold one into your carry-on luggage, put it on the back of your motorcycle, or carry it up a mountain. There are few restrictions on where an inflatable canoe can be paddled. And if your downtown condo is small, coil it up and store it in the closet.
Durability is another benefit; inflatables are surprisingly resilient. Typically constructed from ultra-durable PVC or similar rubbers and polymers, it would take a shark bite to puncture these boards. This durability makes inflatables ideal for children, who will not have to worry about slamming their inflatables against boulders or themselves against their boards.
When choosing between an inflatable and a rigid paddleboard, the decision is definitive for racing. If you intend to compete in paddleboarding, you will likely need a rigid board. The majority of competitors, surfers, and tour paddlers utilize rigid boards. The only exception to this norm is whitewater paddling, exclusive to inflatable vessels.
Inflatable paddleboards offer inferior efficacy and speed compared to rigid boards. This will not be noticeable to beginners, but a rigid board will be more maneuverable on the water if you are a professional SUP surfer or racer. Inflatable boards, on the other hand, are significantly more convenient for apartment residents and those with limited storage space. Additionally, they are more compact and transportable. Therefore, the optimal option depends on your lifestyle, activities, and storage space.
For some paddlers, inflatable vessels are the best option. Inflatables are ideal if you take an airplane, lack the space to store a non-inflatable SUP board, or do not have the means to transport a rigid SUP board. They are readily stored in the provided backpacks and can fit in your car trunk and apartment. If space or storage constraints necessitate obtaining an inflatable or not having a board, an inflatable is the only option. For those who travel by airplane with paddle boards, inflatables are also an excellent option, as it can be costly or even impossible to transport a rigid paddle board on an airplane.
Nonetheless, paddlers prefer rigid boards by an overwhelming margin when they conduct demonstrations and tests. They are significantly easier to paddle, particularly in rough conditions. If you have the space to store a rigid board at home and a vehicle that can transport it inside or on roof racks, then a rigid board is the best option.
With a rigid board, you can take your paddle and board and enter the water. There is no pumping required, which can take up to 15 minutes and is difficult (particularly for women – but more on that later), and when you’re finished paddling, you fold it up and store it for the next time. There is no need for pumping, monitoring air pressure, or deflation. Paddling on rigid boards is the quickest and most convenient method to get on the water.
If you intend to inflate your iSUP board, prepare to pump for some time using the included hand compressor. Expect to place between 200 and 350 air pumps into the board and for the process to take between 10 and 15 minutes. In addition, as the air pressure on the board rises, anticipate it to become progressively more challenging. Also, anticipate being heated, sweaty, and exhausted before beginning your paddling session.
If you do not inflate an inflatable board to the recommended air pressure, it will be very floppy and will not perform as intended. As comfortable as a glorified air mattress. This is an unavoidable aspect of paddle boarding for those who must paddle inflatables due to stowage or transportation constraints. However, if you can store and transport a rigid board, avoid the extra effort and time required to inflate and opt for a rigid board!
Stiffness is crucial. A soft board (anything under 15 psi) in chop will bounce and deform wildly, resulting in a rough and uncomfortable ride. In addition, stiffer is quicker and more reactive. The power your paddle stroke generates is converted directly into forward velocity and is not lost due to board flex.
When comparing a rigid board and an inflatable board with roughly the same design concept, such as an all-around shape, the rigid board will almost always perform better. The Cruiser rigid SUP board will have a much more defined shape (CNC shaping), be speedier, have improved tracking, be more rigid, and have improved maneuverability in nearly all water conditions. Performance is crucial When spending your hard-earned money on a new paddle board and maximizing each SUP excursion.
A rigid board is composed of unyielding, solid materials. A board that is filled with air and adhered together is inflatable. An inflatable board losing oxygen in the water is uncommon, but it does occur. Sometimes, consumers have struck a sharp object in the water, causing a hole and a leak. If you are away from shore and your board begins to leak rapidly, you lose flotation, and returning to shore safely becomes a genuine concern very quickly. Both boards require caution around hard or pointed objects; a damaged rigid board will still get you back to shore in an emergency.
Special Considerations
When you use a SUP board that does not correspond to your weight class, you struggle to paddle board effectively. While it is impossible to be too light for a paddle board, it is possible to be too weighty. When you’re too heavy for a paddle board, it travels low and drags through the water, making it difficult to maximize your SUP experience.
The load capacity of a paddleboard is determined by its volume and form. Check to see if your weight exceeds the weight limit displayed on this board. Do not neglect to bring the necessary equipment for paddling. When the paddler’s weight exceeds the SUP’s weight, the vessel descends and drags. On the water, a heavy SUP will not make you joyful. Maintain your weight in excess of your weight on the board.
Paddleboards range in length from 8 to 14 feet, but most SUPs are 10 to 12 feet long and 32 to 40 inches broad. Wider boards are stronger, whereas narrower boards are sluggish in the water. Shortboards are typically utilized for sailing or by children and are highly maneuverable.
Additionally, the thickness is an additional consideration. Thinner boards have smaller volumes or buoyancies, fewer dimensions, and reduced weight capacities. Due to their buoyancy, narrower boards, such as inflatable paddleboards, are heavier.
Height
There is a standard rule of thumb for selecting a SUP board appropriate for your height. Add nine to ten inches to your height. Additionally, determine the intent and weight of the board, and you will be able to accurately estimate the necessary dimensions it must satisfy. Yoga SUPs are intended to be comfortable boards due to the physically rigorous nature of the activity. Therefore, you need a 10-foot-to-12-foot-six-inch-wide board with comfortable cushioning.
The ‘add 9 to 10 inches’ rule does not apply here because touring and racing boards are relatively long. Instead, you’ll see individuals 10 to 12 inches taller than yourself. In addition, racing boards are extremely thin. Therefore, you must ensure that the calibration of your height and weight is accurate in order to avoid falling off every time you contact the water. The optimal length for a racing SUP board is between 12’6 and 14′.
Because surfing requires a high degree of maneuverability, you will need a shorter board. The optimal length for a surf SUP is between 9’0 and 10’6 inches.
Weight
When selecting a paddle board, the weight capacity is the most important factor to consider. The majority of boards can accommodate passengers weighing up to 250 pounds, but some can accommodate more. If you weigh more than 250 pounds, you should search for a board with a higher weight limit.
After locating a few boards with an appropriate weight capacity, it is time to compare proportions. Paddle boards come in a variety of lengths and dimensions, so it is essential to select one that is comfortable for you. Consider your height and weight when choosing a size, and don’t neglect to account for any equipment you’ll be carrying.
Consider where you will use your paddle board. An all-around board will suffice if you paddle predominantly on lakes or calm rivers. But if you want to venture into rougher waters or attempt surfing, you should look for a board designed for those activities. Choose a board that fits your size and weight, regardless of the type of paddle boarding you intend to do.
You must be aware of the maximum weight capacity of any SUP board you are considering. Almost all SUP boards have a maximum weight capacity listed, so it’s simple to eliminate certain boards from consideration early on. Be cautious when determining this, and attempt to leave yourself some wiggle room. You should avoid falling for a brand’s potentially exaggerated weight capacities.
If the board cannot support your weight, the weight of you and your companion, or the weight of you and a partner, do not purchase it. You will wind up riding poorly and having a miserable time on the water. You’ll struggle to maintain equilibrium and may even struggle to stay aloft. In most cases, a board’s utmost weight capacity is an adequate indicator of whether or not it will work for you.
Not only does the board’s weight affect how easily it can be transported, but it also affects how stable it is on the water. Lighter paddle boards are typically simpler to maneuver and more responsive, whereas heavier boards are more resilient. Paddleboards typically weigh between 15 and 20 pounds. However, paddle boards come in a variety of weights, so it’s important to choose the one that’s appropriate for you.
If you are 50 – 125 lbs, your paddleboard length should be 9’ – 10’6 or 10’6 – 11’6.
If you are 125 – 150 lbs, your paddleboard length should be 10’6 – 11’6.
If you are 150 – 175 lbs, your paddleboard length should be 10’6’ – 11’6’ or 11’6 – 12’6
If you are 175 – 200 lbs, your paddleboard length should be 11’6 – 12’6.
If you are 200 – 225 lbs, your paddleboard length should be 11’6 – 12’6 or 12’6+.
If you are 225 – 250 lbs, your paddleboard length should be 12’6+.
If you are 250 – 275 lbs , your paddleboard length should be 12’6+.
The best thing you can do when you learn how to paddlesurf is start with an entry-level paddleboard. In the beginning you aren’t going to be good enough to need a very expensive one. After your skill increases, you can consider upgrading your board.
Best SUPs for Surfing
Infinity Wide Speed ($2,295)
The Infinity Wide Speed’s larger profile, with its wider nose and tail, provides the added stability that so many riders need. To maintain a pleasing curve in the track, Infinity widened the average center widths as they expanded the contour. Because of this, the change from one rail to the next can happen effortlessly. The Infinity Wide Speed board’s rocker is progressive, with a flat spot for gliding over sections, a great nose “kick” for steeper drops, and an accelerated exit in the tail to keep it quick off the back.
Hydrodynamics, rocker, and fin location come together in an intricate formula to create a one-of-a-kind bottom. Dave’s first beveled rail design reduced rail pressure, allowing thicker rails on high-volume boards to function and feel as responsive as narrower rails. The water is accelerated from end to end because of the full-length double concave and the rail angle, which also makes riding wider boards fun. To keep the board under control, all of these features are paired with a certain fin placement and quad fin spread
Quatro Carve Pro ($1,989)
The Carve Pro series has received a lot of praise, so they worked to improve upon the design and make it even more aggressive in the water. The fin location is altered across the board, with the cluster being moved forward, to improve thrust, efficiency, and flow on the wave face.
This board has a quicker rocker, among other features. The boards simply get up to speed and maintain that speed better than their predecessors, enabling for more extreme turns and a smoother passage through the segment. The rapid rocker aids paddling velocity, which in turn aids wave catching and optimal positioning. This becomes readily apparent in busy lineups and on rapid waves. In both tiny and large waves, speed is crucial, and the new boards provide spades.
The new Carve Pro also provides a significant nose lift and a narrow nose width. When dropping in, especially late drops on larger waves where the nose shouldn’t snag, this is a huge aid. When the rails are thin, the ride is more forgiving and the turning radius is reduced. Surfers looking for more release on the top turn should choose for boards with a narrow overall width and a shallow tail.
The ride is steady thanks to the Integrated Stability Deck. This is especially helpful for minimizing weariness on shorter tippy boards. A 3/4 deck pad is included with the brand new Carve Pro. The Thruster or Quad option provides a great deal of leeway for fine-tuning. Having the quad option gives you even more speed and grip in the bigger surf.
The Carve Pro has a reliable feel no matter how far you hit. The surfing characteristics of each board are comparable, with modest improvement as the boards go smaller. In contrast to the 7’7″, the larger boards in the range are more forgiving and make it simple to surf, have fun, and advance.
These surfboards are made for riding waves from half a foot to fifteen feet in height. The new line’s boards were tried out in a variety of climates, from tropical to arctic, in places including Hawaii, California, South America, and Europe. The end product is a set of waves that can withstand a wide variety of conditions. The boards’ stability was also crucial to their usability in a broad variety of settings, such as while riding large waves where there is a lot of water movement and remaining upright and confident is crucial. You can surf better on a smaller board than you might imagine with these innovative designs, even in choppy, lumpy conditions.
Naish Mad Dog ($1,329)
When the waves are pumping, the Naish Mad Dog can truly shine. It’s fairly stable to paddle and performs admirably off the tail for a board of its size. It’s soft and lightweight, making it easy to transport anywhere. This board is ideal if you live in an area with plenty of snappy surf, lots of wind swell, or hollow waves that you wish to navigate.
You may want to opt for a board with less rocker on the tail if you live in an area where the surf is relatively flat or soft, since this will allow you to pick up speed more quickly and pump more easily through the flat sections. However, if hollow conditions or steeper waves are what you’re up against, this is a fantastic choice. The front and back rocker are well done, and the visuals are stunning. Excellent wave-riding equipment.
The Mad Dog is a high-performance surfboard designed for aggressive riders that want to rip and test their boundaries. There is no compromise in performance or stability with the Mad Dog. It has the perfect amount of rocker, making it ride like a surfboard and enabling fast, powerful spins. This rocker is easy on the eyes and requires less effort to generate speed, which is a significant advantage in less intense surfing. The GTWs come with a 4+1 fin setup, so surfers may customize the board to their preferences and the conditions.
Starboard Spice ($1,449+)
With this brand-new SUP surf series, you can expect unparalleled rail carving, great speed through wave sections, and instant propulsion out of maneuvers. More performance and advancement are built into the design than the Starboard Wedge, and it’s easier to use and forgiving for beginners than the Starboard Pro.
The overall profile of the Spice is reminiscent of a pumped-up performance mid-length. It has a large, sharp nose that tapers into a rounded pintail. The deck’s high nose rail and sharp, tucked corners gradually thin out and become low and firm at the tail, creating a total thickness of 4.7 inches at the widest point. One concave under the structure directs water toward the group of fins. You have the option of a quad FCS or a thruster (2+1) configuration.
The twin-stringer construction of the Spice, together with the bi-axial glass and pine deck reinforcements, the additional glass fiber wraps on the nose and tail, and the additional 200g fiber glass along the rails to withstand paddle impact, make for an extremely sturdy boat. The Spice readily catches waves, and its rocker strikes a nice balance between speed and responsiveness when riding waves. You may easily go full send into a showboating floater or aggressive smack if you check after takeoff and dash towards a throwing part. With its more lift, the 8 ‘8 Spice is eager to launch itself again up the wave’s face.
The Spice is able to perform well in a wide variety of wave conditions, from little beach breakers to overhead point breaks, thanks to its all wave ability. Furthermore, the Spice range provides a volume for everyone, from light to heavy, hobbyists to professionals, with sizes ranging from 79L to 153 L. Because of the distinctive beveled rail form, turning is quick and simple. The board responds to even the tiniest pressure on the foot and rolls in the desired direction. The nose and tail rails are thin, allowing for a less swing weight through turns and a more immediate response to rail pressure.
There is additional thrust, grip, and turn speed thanks to the new carbon fins. The carbon fins are an included part of the Blue Carbon design and also sold separately. When compared to the Arma core fins included in the Limited Series build, the carbon fins are 25% lighter.
The Starboard Spice is an excellent all-around surf SUP that won’t let you look elsewhere. It’s very effective at getting you back to the launch site, but it seems to lose some volume and height when you’re in a wave. While sailing, the Spice carries on as if it were much smaller than it is. Completely realistic for the vast majority of surf conditions most of you will face.
Fanatic All-Wave ($1,699)
The rapid rocker line and stable posture make catching waves easy, and the good speed means you can devote all of your attention to riding the wave. Longer sizes are available, with only slight increases in width, to accommodate bigger riders consistently. The AllWave is the ideal tool for fun, ease, and development, whether the waves are big and challenging or small and gentle.
The new Fanatic Allwave, built with VNT technology, has a rugged and reliable feel on the water. The design of this thick board makes it effortless and precise. The predictable turning to be extremely enjoyable, and they were pleasantly surprised by how grippy it was, even at high speeds. If you ever feel you’ve outgrown your Allwave, you can rest assured that it will fetch a premium on the second-hand market. This board will take your SUP surfing to the next level with ease, and it’s a perfect choice as a first wave board for riders in the middle weight range or as a high-performance tool for the bigger guys.
There are some boards that you get on and immediately feel at home on, while others take some getting used to. From the moment you hop on the Allwave, you’ll be smiling. The 8 ‘9 has a lot of volume that is well disguised, so it’s really stable; the deck is somewhat concave, and it has a solid sticky pad, so you can stand pretty much wherever on it and it will still catch waves well. Once you’re standing on the board, you’ll notice that the more you lean back, the better the grip and performance.
The fins grip nicely and provide a very stable feel on a wave, and the big nose rocker gets you out of most problems with ease. The Allwave, now available in Fanatic’s one shot construction (no need to save up for the better one, it’s gone), is a tempting option for surfers who want to take their skills to the next level. You really can’t go wrong with this board, which is why it sells so rapidly even in the used market.
The updated design is sleek thanks to the use of reinforced bamboo, paintless rails, and an exposed center stringer. The deck features a large ledge handle and a diamond cut 3/4 deck pad with kick pad, windsurf insert, and air valve on the slightly concave top. There are three 5″ future box glass fins and crisp, thin rails in the tail, and the bottom transitions from single to double concave to vee. The gel coat on the rails has been replaced with a net fiber and pigment. The rails are thick and full up front with a soft, gripping shape, and they taper smoothly towards the tail, creating a narrow, sharp edge.
Kings Dauminator ($1795)
This is a fantastic board for the waterman who not only enjoys paddling on rivers and lakes, but also rides the waves. The sizing is perfect for someone of my height and weight (5’8″ and 173 pounds). You won’t miss having a second board once you’ve got a Dauminator. Pros This board will spin at 10 ‘6″. This board makes surfing a breeze and a ton of fun. This board performs every function admirably and can be paddled with the speed of a race board. Flat water paddling on oceans, rivers, lakes, streams, and harbors is a breeze in a Dauminator. Everyone who rides the Dauminator adores it.
The Dauminator model’s bigger nose sets it apart from the other high-performance SUPs. You can now do the surfing maneuvers known as the “hang 5” and the “hang ten”. The board’s stability is increased as a result. The Dauminator is one of the quickest stand-up paddle boards despite its origins as a surfboard. Many of the customers have called or written to express their enthusiasm about this particular board.
You can nose ride, carve corners, and paddle very long distances with ease with the Dauminator. The Dauminator features outstanding bottom end drive, quick trim speed, superb nose riding, and a forgiving, loose vibe. Using this board, you can extract every last bit of power from a wave. Its optimal wavelength is between 6 inches and 4 feet.
Pearson Arrow (Price varies)
Pearson Arrow was founded by Bob Pearson, a veteran shaping from Santa Cruz, California who has worked on everything from big-wave guns to shortboards and stand-up paddleboards. Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Pearson Arrow was the go-to shaper for SUPs bearing the Laird Hamilton name.
Although Pearson Arrow is most known for its bespoke SUPs and recent return to taking exclusively custom orders, the company’s regular design is worthy of praise in its own right. The 10’0″ model was a longer longboard-style SUP, but thanks to its shortening pintail and two-plus-one fin setup, it surfs more like a shorter board and is more at home in bigger waves.
Bob Pearson is an artist, which is why his name is on these boards; they deserve to be there. One of his models, if ordered today, would be 8’5′′ – 9’0′′ in length, around 28.5′′ in width, and have a thruster configuration with that pintail. His surfboards are easy to paddle and work well in a variety of wave conditions. The aforementioned pintail has magical properties that make it stable in waves as high as ten feet.
Surftech Generator V-Tech ($1,375)
The Generator is a non-inflatable, entry-level board with a luxury appearance but a reasonable price tag. The board is sturdy, light, and aesthetically pleasing thanks to some clever use of color and designs. The board is built from bamboo and features a green or blue accent color, depending on the size you choose. The board is perfect for the whole family and works best for short distance paddling near the beach and dock. Supconnect gets an “A” because of how well it looks and how easy it is to carry around.
Supconnect has recognized the Surftech Generator as the best all-around board in its category. A new 2019 skin has been applied to the Generator, and it looks fantastic. The board retains its legendary stability and versatility, serving as well in the surf and on the flats. With its flatter rocker and responsive tracking, this board is a joy to paddle. There is excellent color coordination between the traction pad and the board’s main color, its rails, and the nose decorations. It’s a great all-around board that looks great hanging on the wall.
The 10’6″ Generator is constructed from Surftech’s indestructible Tuflite epoxy, so you can beat the heck out of it without worrying about it breaking. The pintail and the two-plus-one fin configuration contribute to the board’s already impressive stability, which comes from its width of 32 inches. The Generator is a fantastic board for teaching inexperienced surfers.
Those familiar with longboard surfing will enjoy paddling down the shore and catching waves as they go. However, newbies can find their footing and have a nice time at breaks tailored to them. In addition, the nose has a set of tie downs where you can stow your water bottle and some nibbles for when you’re out on the water for a while. If you’re looking for performance, you should seek elsewhere, but as a first board, this one’s a safe bet. It will also equip you to instruct others in the future.
How Do You Store a SUP Surfboard?
To store a SUP surfboard outside, follow these tips:
Avoid Solar Radiation
Whether you intend to store your board indoors or outdoors, you must locate a location that receives the least amount of sunlight possible. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are responsible for ‘yellowing’ your board, transforming its dazzling white color into a milky, aged yellow hue.
Sun-exposed boards (whether yellowed or not) become brittle and deteriorate rapidly. Over time, the sun expands the foam and erodes a portion of the protection provided by the epoxy and fiberglass layers.
This will make a surfboard more susceptible to dings and flaws and weaken its overall structure. If you must store your surfboard outdoors, find a location that is completely shaded during the day. Inside, however, you should avoid large windows.
Always keep your board tidy
Always rinse your board with clean water after each session, both for long- and short-term storage. Salt loves to corrode, so even though your surfboard is designed for saltwater, salt is not healthy for it. The surface of your board, traction pad, and tether rope will be eroded by salt. Before storing, be sure to sanitize the board with clean water and allow it to dry completely. If you are storing your surfboard for an extended period of time (weeks or months), you should begin by sanitizing it. To learn how to sanitize a surfboard, please refer to this guide.
Eliminate the Wax
If you will not be using your board shortly, it is essential to remove the wax. Simply leave your board outside for a few minutes (but not too long) to allow the wax to preheat. Once the wax has dissolved enough to be removed, use something thin, such as an old gift card, to remove it.
Eliminate the Fins
In addition to removing the wax from a surfboard before long-term storage, the fins should also be removed. Sand, water, and salinity tend to accumulate in your fin box, so give these areas a thorough cleaning after removal.
Do Not Store Your Surfboard in a Vehicle
Never, even for a day, leave your board in your vehicle. The intense heat is extremely detrimental to the structure of your surfboard and will destroy an otherwise flawless board. On a sweltering day, automobiles can reach temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, which is sufficient to irreparably damage a board.
Defend From the Elements
It is not ideal to store a surfboard outside, but sometimes it is impossible to keep your board inside, particularly for longboards and stand-up paddleboards.
If you intend to store your surfboard outside, you should invest in a surfboard carrier. Surfboard cases are designed specifically for the purpose of protecting your board from the elements until the next time you paddle it out.
Remember that reducing your surfboard’s exposure to the elements is a good thing, so consider any means of weather protection. If you are able to store your board beneath an awning, on a veranda, or in a shed, you can prevent sun damage.
When propping up your surfboard, you must always safeguard the tail. You never want the tail of your board to contact the ground, so devise a way to rest it on something soft, such as a foam brick or a towel. This holds true for all surfboard components. Always preserve the outline of your surfboard. If any portion of your board is in contact with a hard surface, provide it with cushioning.
To store a SUP surfboard indoors, consider the following:
As much as some of you would like to construct the largest quiver conceivable, space and storage constraints can quickly put an end to this notion. For many city residents, space is a scarce and valuable commodity. Surfboards can be cumbersome, an annoyance, and an embarrassment in a room with coordinated furnishings.
Wall Shelves
Wall racks are ideal for surfboard storage in a compact apartment. One of the most apparent solutions is to acquire a rack and mount it to the wall. As it may be impractical to dedicate an entire wall to your 9’6″ log, these tend to work best for short or fun boards.
Depending on the number of boards you possess, you have several options from which to choose. If you only have one board and you like the way it appears, wall racks will not only display your trusty steed, but they will also keep it out of the way.
You can locate wall racks with multi-tiered leveling if you need to store a few boards. This type of rack can accommodate anywhere from two to six boards. The only disadvantage of this design is that the boards will protrude from the wall across nearly their entire width. If mounted in a heavily-trafficked area, this can obstruct the path of pedestrians.
Standing shelves
Another great method to store a surfboard in your apartment is on a standing rack. If you have limited wall space, a standing rack may be preferable. There are a few distinct varieties, and they are either wall-mounted or freestanding. These can be readily placed in a room’s corner, such as next to a closet or dresser. This form of rack is typically very space-efficient and can hold up to four boards.
Most standing racks include a soft platform for the tail to rest on and sometimes foam cushioning on the rods to prevent damage. The height of your ceiling is a factor to consider when decorating in this manner. Therefore, unless you have a vaulted interior, that 10-foot timber you’ve been hoarding will not fit.
Ceiling Shelving
Longboards can be stored effectively in ceiling shelves. If you have a longboard, neither wall-mounted nor freestanding stands will suffice. However, ceiling racks offer a straightforward solution and may be the most space-efficient form of surfboard rack available.
Depending on the rack you select, these sustain one or two boards and hang from the ceiling. Manufacturers are aware of their target market, so these are typically wide and can accommodate SUPs. However, when installing one, be sure to attentively follow the instructions. The rack must be screwed into a support beam or stud. You do not want your movie night to end with a journey to the hospital due to carelessness.
DIY Shelving
There are numerous methods to construct one yourself if you’re the creative type. There are innumerable DIY resources online, ranging from pallets to standard timber.
A very straightforward solution is to glue or screw wooden rods into a 26. That, when attached to the wall, becomes a rack. If you are concerned about the board toppling, secure it to the rods using rope or straps. Using pulleys to suspend a board from a garage’s rafters is another example of a do-it-yourself installation. Again, it is imperative that you use sturdy materials, as no one desires a board to collapse.
Be innovative
It may go without saying, but thinking outside the norm is essential. Not all living accommodations are identical, so you must make do with what you have.
Improving the interior of your home will increase its efficiency and aesthetic appeal. Some living rooms have significantly higher ceilings than the rest of the home, making them suitable for surfboard racks. Also suitable for a horizontal rack is the wall space above the entryway. Consider installing a ceiling rack in the hallway if you cannot place your longboard in the living room due to a large fan.
Keep it Internal
Safe surfboard stowage involves determining what works for your circumstances. However, one of the most crucial factors is keeping your board out of the sun and humidity. Surfboards should be kept indoors. Leaving the board you purchased with your hard-earned money outside to rot is not only a waste, but also a disgrace.
This gorgeous finish will become dingy and yellowish-brown after prolonged exposure to the sun. This eventually renders the polyurethane interior more susceptible to water damage in the event of a ding.
Similarly, storing a board in a heated environment can result in irreparable damage. Among other odd occurrences, sun-baked sheds can cause the fiberglass to bubble and the foam to melt. Even leaving your board in the car for an hour on a day with a temperature of at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit can result in disastrous outcomes. Therefore, abandoning your board in an excessively hot area for months will inevitably result in its destruction. Avoid doing it!
Ensure that you position the board in a secure location. Placing a standing rack in close proximity to a walkway could result in an accident in which something is pushed over. Likewise, door handles could cause significant damage to the deck or railings. Regardless of how limited the space may be, it is all about being resourceful.. Some homes are simpler to maintain than others, but you can generally make it work. Storing your paddleboard simply requires some consideration and preparation.
How Do You Transport a SUP Surfboard?
One of the main disadvantages of SUP softboards is that they can be difficult to transport. Here are the most popular methods for transporting a rigid paddleboard.
Car Roof
One of the most accessible ways to convey a hard board is on a car’s roof. Numerous automobiles have built-in roof racks, making this approach a breeze. Even if your vehicle lacks roof hardware, you still have some excellent options.
Roof Rack
For this option, you’ll need a vehicle with a roof rack and crossbars, as well as two cam straps of approximately ten feet in length, the length of which will depend on how many boards you’re transporting. Start by situating your paddle board on top of the cross bars with the board deck facing down and the tail facing forward. Center the board so that the center of equilibrium is between the two cross bars of the roof rack. If you possess multiple paddle boards, stack them with the largest board at the bottom.
Loop the cam strap under the crossbar and pass the loose end over to the opposite side of the board. Repeat on the opposite side of the board, passing the loose end over the top of the boards once more. Ensure that the strap has a twist as it passes over the top of the board. If the strap is left completely flat, it will create a horrible flapping sound while driving.
Place the cam mechanism just below the upper corner of the boards, and then feed the loose end through the cam. Pull the strap taut enough to secure the boards. Overtightening the fastener could cause damage to the boards.
Repeat for the second horizontal bar. Once you believe you have secured the boards, assess the load by attempting to move it with your hands. If the load does not feel secure, the straps can be adjusted until everything is correctly secured. Once everything feels secure, secure the ends of the straps by tying them together or securing them in the car door so they do not float around.
Foam Blocks
Don’t worry if you don’t have roof mounts! There is an excellent method for transporting paddle boards that involves foam blocks and cam belts. To begin, you will need two thick foam blocks that are roughly the same length as the width of your board and cam harnesses as before. In this instance, you can cut two polystyrene pieces that were lying around.
Place the foam blocks on the roof of your car, one near the front window and the other near the rear window, with the foam blocks facing outward. If the straps are too close together, the pressure from the paddle board could potentially deform the car’s roof. If the roof of your car is slightly curved, you will need to position the blocks so that the board rests on the blocks and not the roof.
Place your paddle board atop the foam blocks with the rear end facing the front of the vehicle. Place the center of balance of the board in the center of your roof. Throw the straps over the top of the board onto the opposite side of the vehicle and loop the slack ends into the cab.
Cam Straps
The rope is threaded through the cam and tightened to secure. Repeat on the opposite side of the board so that it is secured by two straps. Close the harnesses’ doorways. As with a roof rack, ensure that the straps on top of the boards are twisted to prevent the wind from causing an irritating buzzing sound.
Verify your work by ensuring that the board feels secure on the car’s roof with the straps tightened and the doors closed. Adjust the harnesses inside your vehicle so they won’t endanger you in the event of a collision or obstruct your vision while driving.
Truck Bed
If you have a truck, transporting paddle boards becomes significantly simpler. Other than a truck, all you need for this method is a cam strap or other tie-down straps and something soft to drape over the tailgate of your truck. If you are using cam harnesses, you will need a strap of at least 12 feet for this method.
Start by placing a blanket or other soft material over the tailgate of your vehicle. This will prevent your board deck from being damaged by the tailgate. Place your paddleboards in the back of the vehicle with the decks facing downward and the tail in the truck bed. The tailgate must be raised until the front end of the board rests on its edge.
Board Resting
Attach your cam strap to the vehicle bed’s rear attachment point. Place one end on the opposite side of the vehicle bed and the other end under the board on the opposite side. The loose end is threaded through the attachment point on the other end. Feed the strap’s loose end through the cam and tighten the strap until the boards are secured.
Pass a rope or additional cam strap through the attachment points on the front of the truck bed to prevent the board from toppling out of the truck if the cam strap comes undone.
Always be careful and check all straps when transporting your paddleboard. It’s a good idea to pull over and check everything again after you have driven a little to see if anything has come loose.