Information About SUP You Should Know

Nowadays, SUP is becoming more and more popular on lakes, rivers and also ocean. As a premium inflatable SUP, let Zray teach you how to select the best stand-up paddleboard for your needs and skill level.  PADDLE with PASSION is the same goal for both Zray and all SUP enthusiasts.

 

1. What is SUP?

Stand-up paddle boards, commonly known as SUPs, are useful for Stand Up Paddling, one of the popular sports. Up to two people can be transported on the boards while they are in the water. When stand-up paddling, you ideally stand on the board and propel yourself forward with the paddle. As a result, the menu frequently includes a set of boards with paddles. The paddle may be adjusted to precisely fit the height of your body.

 

A classic paddle board usually has following 5 elements:

1) Luggage net

2) A strap, also called a string, for attaching to the ankle or knee

3) Screw valve for air pump

4) Carrying handle and non-slip surface

 

5) 1 or more fins, but some are removable

 

Most often, especially for beginners and leisure sectors, boards are offered as a set. A set can contain: board, paddle,carry bag or backpack,air pump, repair kit, seat and cup holder etc.

 

2. What board is the right one?

Selecting an ideal paddleboard requires taking into account a number of factors. Zray will go over what you should know before making a purchase in the section that follows.

 

Inflatable SUP:

  • Other names: iSUP, inflatable SUP
  • Potential components: polyurethane, PVC
  • A sturdy, rip-resistant surface with an upper side anti-slip coating
  • Elevated resistance
  • Comparatively light weight
  • Board can be folded
  • Carryable in a bag or backpack
  • Large waves prohibit the usage
  • Appropriate for players of all skill levels.

Rigid paddleboard

  • Other names: hardboard
  • Potential materials: plastic (polyester, polyethylene etc.) wood and carbon
  • Comparatively expensive
  • Less durable than inflated models
  • Comparatively heavy weight
  • Should be carried along on a luggage carrier
  • Large waves are a great fit
  • Longer lasting than inflated versions
  • Certain variants are also suitable for windsurfing
  • Appropriate for experts and professionals

 

Tip: Strong sunshine would damage the paddleboard, so avoid leaving it there.

 

Now that you've chosen an inflatable or rigid board, you should educate yourself on the various board classes. Establish both the paddleboard's shape and the appropriate use area.

All AroundThe most popular and classic model of paddleboards. As the name implies, the SUP board can be used in a variety of contexts. Its smooth edges and width make it a popular choice for novices as well.

Touring: Also referred to as a cruiser, a touring SUP is a little longer and has a pointed end. Because of its form, which greatly minimizes water resistance, it is particularly well-suited for long distances. It expedites your improvement.

Racing: A racing SUP will be your best bet for getting the fastest possible speed. It can reach the fastest speeds because of its length and pointed end, but it is more difficult to manage than an all around or touring type. These SUP are best suited for skilled.

 

Choosing the proper size and weight for a SUP is crucial.

 

Width: Wider boards are probably a better option for beginners. They provide stabilit, but they are not as quick as a racing or narrower cruiser paddle board. Generally speaking, a minimum width of 30" is advised. You will get a higher speed on a narrower board.

Thickness: A standard SUP length is 6". Steer clear of thinner boards since they can't offer enough stability.

Length: Medium-length boards are best for novices and casual paddlers. Typically, they range in length from 9" to 17"2'. Your speed will increase with the length of the board. Conversely, shorter variants are more maneuverable and highly favored, particularly for surfing.

Weight: Weight varies according to class and board material. Rigid boards are often heavier than inflatable SUPs. While touring and racing variants are lighter, universal paddleboards are more stable.

 

3. Where to SUP?

SUP can be riden in a variety of situations and on various types of water.

1) On Lake:

  • Beginners should especially use it on the lake.
  • A SUP board can be used for physical activity, fitness routines and aimless sailing.
  • A cruiser is best for advanced water travel.

 

2) On The Sea:

  • Use at sea is restricted to experts only.
  • Swell surfing is the primary purpose of SUPs and universal paddleboards.
  • Use hardboards only in large waves.

 

3) On The River:

  • Use at sea is restricted to experts only.
  • For aimless cruises and river tours, use a universal SUP or cruiser.
  • Model of racing for racing.
  • You can use SUP for both calm and choppy sea excursions.

 

4) Fitness:

  • On a floating SUP, yoga and pilates fitness routines are performed.
  • The board is appropriate for players of all skill levels.
  • For this purpose, a wide universal paddleboard is perfect.
  • Exercises are limited to standing water.

 

Warning: Serious accidents can happen anywhere, especially on wild rivers or at sea. Don't overestimate your skills and only take a river trip with an experienced guide.

 

4. Tips for Green Hand:

For those who are new to stand-up paddling, there are a few things to remember. Zray has summarized some helpful advice for you.

1) For your own safety, always wear a strap and maybe a life jacket.

2) Wear wetsuits, surfwear or swimwear as appropriate. Steer clear of loose apparel that will be difficult to remove after getting wet.

3) Correctly adjust the length by keeping in mind that it should be 11" to 15“ above the user's body height.

4) It is advised that novice paddlers enroll in a stand-up paddling course.

5) To avoid burns and sunstroke, wear protective clothes and a headpiece, or use sunscreen every day.

6) On lengthy trips, always bring lots of water with you.

7) If in doubt, let go of the paddle in the event of a fall rather than losing the board.