Stand Up Paddle Boards: The Basics

Summer is here and thus the hunt for the perfect way to get out on the water begins. Maybe you’re sick of swimming, maybe you finally moved to an area with lakes and rivers and want to explore, maybe you already know that you want to paddle board, but are confused by the options. We’re here to break it down and hopefully help you get out faster for a summer of fun on the water! Paddleboards are pretty straightforward; it is a buoyant board you stand or sit on top of, and paddle. Unlike a canoe or kayak, there’s no cockpit for you to nest in, thus making this a great option for easy moving rivers and lakes. This isn’t to say you can’t take one down the Colorado River or some large expanse, in fact, it would probably be a blast if you’re ready for an adventure. But, before we go down the rabbit hole of searching for the perfect launch site, let’s consider what kind of board will work best for you.

Hard Tops Boards

These boards, and the other category are pretty much exactly what they sound like. A hardtop paddle board will typically have a hard layer of durable plastic on the top and bottom of the board making it hard to the touch. These boards are fantastic as they are slightly more durable than inflatable boards. With the proper tools they can typically be repaired at home if anything is to happen, too. These boards, however, are best for folks who have ample storage space and a mode of transportation that will accommodate the length of the board. Since this style of board will not have the capacity to change shape, transport/storage are the biggest components to consider when looking at a hardtop board. Not to mention they tend to be a little pricier than some inflatable options.

Inflatable Boards

Inflatable boards, again, are just what they sound like. Similar to an inflatable raft or pool floatie, these boards pack down small and require some sort of air pump to bring to life. Many inflatable boards on the market will come with a carrying bag (usually backpack style), a leash to keep it attached in the event you fall off, a paddle, and an air pump. If the board you’re looking at doesn’t come with all of these accessories, our biggest recommendation is to save your breath (literally) and buy a pump. These boards are an awesome piece of gear that take up little to no space and can be transported in a variety of ways. If you’re short on space or looking for something a little more all inclusive, these are the boards for you.

Other Important Things to Consider

You might see the words “Planing” and “Displacement” when it comes to different kinds of boards. This refers to the style of hull the board has. A planing hull is wider, flatter, and rounded at the nose. These boards are great for leisure paddling. They have a slight upturned design at the tip that is designed to skim over water. These boards, while perfect for beginners or those not looking to go too fast, do have a hard time staying straight. Thus, they take more effort to keep going in one, forward direction. (A good pair of fins and some practice will make this a piece of cake!) These boards shine on choppier bodies of water, too. Displacement Hulls are easily identifiable by their pointed nose that is used to cut through the water rather than skimming above it. This style of board is ideal for racing or SUP (Stand Up Paddle Board) Touring. While more efficient than the planning hull, these boards do sacrifice some stability due to the construction and do not offer quite as wide of a platform. As always, please remember to wear a lifejacket, or have one handy on deck with you. Water safety is key especially when paddling with children/pets. The open water can be a tricky place for some, so please make sure you feel comfortable and confident in the case you do fall off your board. We hope this breakdown has helped answer the biggest questions you might face while picking out a board. Have fun, be safe, we can’t wait to see you out on the water soon! Finola McDonald thinks bios are really hard but here is her best go: Finola is a runner, a writer, a climber, snack enthusiast, cat mom, and city lifer turned nature lover who loves getting people outside. She is a firm believer that time in Earth’s wild spaces is time best spent and we need it more than ever. She hopes by sharing her passion for our planet and outdoor recreation, she can convince others of the same. In her free time, you can find her touching cool rocks, running around SLC and the Wasatch, and trying her hardest to leave this earth better than when she entered it. Follow us on Instagram + Facebook: Tag us @geartrade with the hashtag #unnewoutdoor #wearitout on your post or story for a chance to be featured on our page.

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