What Size SUP Board Is Right For You? Chart & Calculator
Stand up paddle boarding is the perfect on-the-water activity for all ages and skill levels. But if you’re new to the sport and selecting your first-ever SUP, the wide range of boards out there can be overwhelming. One of the key factors when selecting a paddle board is size. The size of your board affects its stability, speed, maneuverability, and use. Here, we’ll explore the best size paddle board for beginners, their respective purposes, and how to determine which board is best for you.
Different Paddle Board Size = Different Purpose
The most common stand up paddle boards for regular use are between 32 and 34 inches wide and 10 to 11 feet long. For a lot of beginners, stability is often a top requirement, and boards between 33 and 34 inches wide offer great stability. Any wider and the board may become slow and less enjoyable to paddle.
Paddle Board Size Guide: Short and Narrow Paddle Boards
Compact and agile paddle boards, usually measuring between 8 to 10 feet long and 28 to 30 inches wide, are the go-to for speed and nimbleness. These boards are a favorite among seasoned paddlers who thrive in tight, twisting waterways or love the thrill of mastering demanding ocean waves. The trim width of these boards allows for swift, sharp turns, making them a top pick for surf enthusiasts looking to pull off slick maneuvers or catch the big waves. They're also an excellent match for paddlers who are more petite or lighter, offering better control and a more manageable size.
Falling into the 'short board' category, these paddle boards come equipped with a planing hull, perfectly shaped for surfing. Their shorter stature translates to exceptional maneuverability - ideal for surfing and weaving through complex water routes. But keep in mind, while they offer top-tier agility, they might not be as stable as their longer counterparts, something beginners might want to consider. Plus, their compact size makes them a breeze to transport and store, a practical choice for those juggling limited storage space or smaller vehicles.
Paddle Board Size Guide: Medium-Sized Paddle Boards
Medium-sized paddle boards, which typically range from 10 to 12 feet long and 30 to 32 inches in width, strike a perfect balance between stability and versatility. They are popular among a wide range of paddlers, from beginners taking their first strokes to seasoned enthusiasts engaging in varied activities. These dimensions make these boards stable enough for newcomers yet agile enough for more advanced maneuvers, making them suitable for a variety of settings, from calm lake waters to gentle ocean waves.
Ideal for various uses, including SUP yoga, leisure paddling, and light surfing, medium boards often feature planing hulls, though some may have displacement hulls. This size range allows for a good mix of speed and maneuverability, providing a comfortable platform for those looking to do more than just paddle straight ahead. They are also an excellent option for paddlers who enjoy a blend of activities and want a board that can handle everything.
Regarding transport and storage, these boards are manageable yet offer enough space and volume to accommodate additional gear, making them a practical choice for day trips or fitness routines on the water. Their medium size ensures they are not too cumbersome to carry, yet they provide ample stability and space for various paddle boarding activities.
Paddle Board Size Guide: Long and Wide Paddle Boards
Long and wide paddle boards, ranging from 12 to 14 feet in length and 32 to 34 inches in width, are designed with stability and performance in mind. These boards are ideal for beginners or those of larger stature looking to paddle in calm and flat-water conditions. The additional width and length provide a stable platform, making it easier for newbies to balance and maintain control. These boards are also perfect for long-distance touring, fishing, or paddling with a child or pet on board.
Their size makes them ideal for activities requiring more water space and stability. Long boards, especially those over 12'6" in length, are known for their capability in fast paddling and long-distance excursions. The majority of boards in this size range feature displacement hulls, which contribute to their speed and their ability to maintain a straight path through the water. This makes them faster and more directional than their shorter counterparts.
Best Paddle Board Size for Beginners?
If you're a beginner, don't go for the biggest board out there, thinking it'll make things easier.
If you're a beginner in paddle boarding, you'll want a longer and broader board, between 10 and 12 feet in length and 30 to 32 inches in width. This size will give you better stability, allowing you to balance and handle the board.
Plus, if the sea gets a bit choppy, a bigger board will be more forgiving and help you avoid walking the plank. So, make sure to choose a size that corresponds to your body weight and ability level, and you'll be paddling like a pro in no time. Now, I know some of you might be thinking, "But I want to go fast and show off my skills!" Well, don't worry, my fellow adventurers. As your skills improve, you can start paddling on shorter and narrower boards that offer more maneuverability and speed. But for now, let's focus on getting the basics down and having a blast on that board.
What Size Paddle Board Do I Need Based on Height and Weight?
The size of your inflatable paddle board can significantly impact how enjoyable your time on the water is. There are various aspects to consider when choosing the ideal paddle board size for you, but the most important factors are your height and weight.
Paddle Board Size Chart: Beginner
For beginners selecting a paddle board, the focus is on finding a board that offers stability and ease of use while accommodating their physical dimensions.
| Paddler Weight | Paddler Height | SUP Width | SUP Thickness | SUP Length Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 125 lbs (56kg) | Under 5’4” | 31-32” | 5” | 9' - 10'6" |
| Under 125 lbs (56kg) | 5’4” to 5’10” | 31-32” | 5” | 9' - 10'6" |
| 125-150 lbs (56-68kg) | Under 5’4” | 31-32” | 5” | 10'6" - 11'6" |
| 125-150 lbs (56-68kg) | 5’4” to 5’10” | 31-32” | 5” | 10'6" - 11'6" |
| 150-175 lbs (68-79kg) | 5’10” to 6’6” | 31-33” | 5” | 11'6" - 12'6" |
| 175-200 lbs (79-90kg) | Over 6” | 32-34” | 5” | >12'6" |
| 200-225 lbs (90-102kg) | Over 6” | 32-34” | 5-6” | >12'6" |
| 225+ lbs (102kg+) | Over 6” | 32-34” | 6” | >12'6" |
While weight is a primary factor in determining board stability and buoyancy, height also plays a role in choosing the correct board length. Taller individuals might prefer longer boards for added stability, while shorter paddlers may find shorter boards more manageable and easier to control.
Paddle Board Size Chart: Experienced Paddler
For experienced paddlers, selecting a SUP (Stand Up Paddle Board) involves considering factors like weight, height, SUP width, thickness, and length.
| Paddler Weight | Paddler Height | SUP Width | SUP Thickness | SUP Length Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 125 lbs (56kg) | Under 5’4” | 29-32” | 4-5” | 9' - 10'6" |
| 125-150 lbs (56-68kg) | 5’4” to 5’10” | 30-32” | 4-5” | 10'6" - 11'6" |
| 150-175 lbs (68-79kg) | 5’10” to 6’6” | 30-32” | 4-5” | 11'6" - 12'6" |
| 175-200 lbs (79-90kg) | Over 6” | 30-33” | 4-5” | >12'6" |
| 200-225 lbs (90-102kg) | Over 6” | 30-34” | 4-6” | >12'6" |
| 225+ lbs (102kg+) | Over 6” | 32-34” | 4-6” | >12'6" |
Experienced paddlers often seek paddle boards that provide a balance between speed, agility, and stability. Narrower, thinner boards are ideal for racing or surfing. Height can be factored in by adding 9-10 inches to the paddler's height for the right board length, aligning with the paddler's stature for comfortable paddling.
Paddle Board Size Calculator
Finding the right paddle board involves considering several factors, including weight, height, paddling experience, and the activities you plan to pursue. While a universal formula doesn't exist, the following guidelines can help you pinpoint the most suitable board dimensions.
1. Paddler Weight and Board Volume: A practical approach is to match the paddle board's volume in liters with your body weight in kilograms.
For example, if you weigh 154 lbs (which is approximately 70 kg), aim for a board with a volume around 70 liters. This ensures that the board has sufficient buoyancy to support you comfortably and provide stable handling.
2. Height and Board Length: Taller individuals generally require longer boards for stability. A simple guideline is to add 9-10 inches to your height to find a suitable board length. For example, if you are 6 feet tall (72 inches), look for a board around 81-82 inches long.
3. Intended Use:
- For general recreation and yoga: Look for medium-length boards (10-12 feet) with more width for stability.
- For surfing and advanced maneuvers: Shorter boards (under 10 feet) with less width and thickness are preferable.
- For touring and racing: Longer boards (over 12 feet) with narrow width are suitable.
Factor in the water conditions you'll be paddling in and any additional load (like gear or a pet) you'll be carrying. Calmer water and heavier loads require more volume and length for stability.
Final Words
Choosing the right paddle board size can make or break your stand up paddle boarding adventure. You don't want to wobble like a jellyfish on a surfboard that's too small or inch along like a slow-moving sloth on a board that's too big. If you're planning to cruise on still waters, go for a wider board with a flat bottom that gives you more stability. But if your heart races for the thrill of the surf, a sleeker board with a pointed nose and a narrower tail should be your choice, enabling swift and sharp turns on the waves.
When wondering about what size paddle board you need, it's all about striking a balance. An ideal board blends practicality with personal preference, made to your unique style, skill level, and the adventures you dream of. So go ahead, make your choice, and let the paddling adventures begin!
