SUP boards

STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDS - A WESTWIND GUIDE

But how do you know which board is right for you? First of all, take your experience and desired style into consideration. Are you a beginner or an experienced SUP enthusiast? Do you want to use your board on calm water, on the river or at sea? Do you want to go on longer trips or do you want to focus on catching waves at sea? Regardless of which board you choose, the size and shape of the board is important. In general, a larger board will be more stable, while a smaller board will be more manoeuvrable. We recommend that you start with a board that is wider and more stable, as it provides the best conditions for learning the techniques and building a good pile of confidence on the board. In this guide, we will give you an introduction to the different types of SUP boards, so that you can choose the board that best suits your level and your needs.

SUP boards - The different types

Inflatable SUP boards:
This type of board is a popular solution for those who want an inexpensive but solid board that is easy to transport and store. An inflatable SUP, also called air SUP, typically consists of either 2 or 3 layers of strong PVC material that is sewn and glued together to create a rigid and durable surface. The inflatable SUP has a built-in valve that allows air to be pumped into the board to achieve the desired stiffness. Inflatable SUPs can easily be taken on trips or packed away when not in use, as a transport/storage backpack is always included in the purchase. They are ideal for beginners as they are more stable than hardtop SUP boards and allow you to find your balance and improve your technique. Should you be unfortunate enough to fall on the board, an inflatable SUP naturally has the advantage that they are relatively soft to fall on. We at WestWind have produced our own series of air SUPs. Our air SUPs come as a beginner package solution and everything you need to get started with Stand-up Paddling is included. We have a model with a length of 300 cm and a longer model of 320 cm. Choose according to body weight and your level.

All-round SUP boards:
For beginners, we generally recommend an all-round board. All-round SUP boards are one of the most popular types of SUP boards. These boards are wider and more stable, which makes it easier to learn to stand on the board and master the balance on the board. They are also versatile and can be used in both calm water and waves. They are designed to be used in most types of weather conditions as well as for various activities such as touring, yoga, surfing and training. All-round boards are typically between 9-11 feet long and have a width of 30-34 inches, giving them good stability and maneuverability.

Touring SUP boards:
Touring SUP boards are designed to be able to cover longer distances on the water, and combine characteristics from the all-round and race SUP. They are typically longer than all-round boards and have a narrower shape. The design makes this type of board extremely efficient when it comes to moving directionally and quickly through the water. Touring boards are usually between 12-14 feet long and 28-30 inches wide. Touring boards are ideal for long trips on lakes, streams and along the coast. Many also use touring boards to perform the so-called downwinders.

Wave SUP boards:
This type of board is designed for surfing waves, and is typical for the more experienced SUP enthusiasts. They are usually shorter and wider than all-round boards and have a rounder shape that makes them more maneuverable on the waves. Wave SUPs are typically between 6-9 feet long and 28-32 inches wide. They are often thinner than all-round boards so that they can better cut into the wave and thereby achieve the ability to better keep the direction of the wave. Wave boards are ideal if you want to combine surfing and SUP.

Racing SUP boards:
Racing SUP boards are designed for competitive use and require some experience and technical skill to handle. They are long and narrow, which gives them high speed and directional stability. Racing boards are typically between 12-14 feet long and 25-28 inches wide. They are often constructed in lightweight materials such as e.g. carbon fiber to minimize weight and maximize speed. Racing boards are ideal for seasoned SUP enthusiasts who want to challenge their skills and participate in competitions. Also works great for doing long downwinders on the fjord, sea or similar.

SUP accessories

In addition to the board, you could also need accessories, such as a paddle, leash, fins, foil, or a board bag to transport your board. At WestWind we have all the necessary equipment!