Various SUP shapes affect the way your board moves on the water. Flat water cruising or racing, waves or currents, shape determines speed, manoeuverability, and stability, so it's good to know what you want to do and choose the best board for the job.
There are two categories of boards: flat water and wave. Within these categories there are subtle and not-so subtle shape variations. What you choose is about you, and what you want to do. Since all boards handle differently based on your weight and ability, the best thing to do is choose your category and then get a demo of different brands within that category.
Although major innovations is SUP design have been in construction, paddle board shapes have undergone some changes as board manufacturers hone their craft to develop boards that respond best to different water types.
When faced with a showroom full of boards, it’s good to have an idea what shape works best for the kind of paddling you have in mind. Since 90 percent of all SUPs purchased are used for flat water and fitness training, if you’re a beginner this is likely where you’ll start. The key is always to try before you buy.
The following descriptions will give you a good starting point when you’re faced with all those different board shapes. All categories are described, but not all variations within each category.
VIDEO
The following video gives an interesting profile of SUP shaper Ian Balding. When he discovered SUP about five years ago he was instantly hooked. Here is a background of Balding's shaping and testing process.
Touring and cruising - for all skill levels
LINK 1:57 min: http://youtu.be/LUj-9KsoKw8
Flat water racing - for all skill levels
LINK: http://www.legendssup.com/sup-board/sup-race-boards.html
Flat water multi fin all-round - flat water and swells/waves - for all skill levels
The Paiwen board ... made for women
This is board is unique board ... it offers quality, beauty, and reasonable pricing in one complete package. see full review
WAVE SHAPES
Surf
Downwind - down wind riding (for aggressive beginner to expert)
Wave all-round shapes - all-round from flat water to over-head waves (for intermediate to expert)
River surf
LINK: http://www.legendssup.com/sup-board/sup-river-boards.html
back to stand up paddle boards
Home – where it all started
Most recent SUP gear review
Duk Gear phone case review
Stand Up Paddle Boarding Guide is an information site for all things SUP since 2012. Should you click on one of the links on any page, it may mean a commission for this website. — clicking on links does not impose any additional cost to you! These links are what keeps this website a-float…literally. Many thanks!
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Your paddle boarding comments, stories and ideas are valued! Many thanks!