SUP BASICS FOR BEGINNERS: HOW TO STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD
Guess what, paddling is fun! And yes, you are missing out. If you've never paddle boarded before, there's no reason to wait any longer. What you'll find out first is that paddle boarding is not challenging to learn, and on the right board, it's actually pretty easy to do. To help you get started, we've outlined four easy steps to ensure your paddle boarding experience stands apart.
#1
HOW TO CHOOSE A PADDLE BOARD
Choosing the right stand up paddle board can be broken down into two simple steps: considering which construction you prefer, and then simply picking the board that fits your size, abilities, and your primary use (ie. recreation, fishing, fitness/yoga, expedition, etc.)
When it comes to paddle board construction, there are essentially two options: inflatable or solid. Most solid paddle boards are epoxy-based construction. BOTE offers epoxy as well as Gatorshell, which is six times tougher than traditional epoxy. BOTE’s inflatables utilize our Aero construction, which is more durable and rigid than other inflatables on the market.
If space is limited and transportability is a concern, then an inflatable SUP is the way to go. If how you will transport and store your board is a non-issue, or you simply prefer a 'hard paddle board,' then go with an epoxy or Gatorshell paddle board.
Finding the board that fits your body type and abilities is a matter of following these guidelines:
CAPACITY
Make sure your weight is at least 50 pounds lighter than the maximum capacity of the board. Also, keep in mind the amount of gear or people you plan to paddle on your board.
LENGTH
Are you taller than 5’10”? Do you weight more than 180 pounds? If yes to either, go for 11’6-14’ board. If under both, 10’6-11’ board. When in doubt, go for the bigger board. Longer and wider boards are more stable.
#2
What things should you take paddling?
The "basics" to get you on the water safely and having fun are:
- A paddle and a fin: Both are included with all BOTE boards
- Life jacket and leash: Both are required in most states, and even if not, they are must-have to make sure you are safe while out on the water.
Suggested locations:
Protected coves and bays
Inland waterways
Harbors (be mindful of boats and Boat wakes)
Lakes or ponds
Get Started
Adjusting to the Correct Paddle Length
- To determine the correct paddle length for you, stand on flat ground, hold your right arm up above your head and outward at a 45-degree angle. This is roughly how long your paddle should be. Keep in mind that your paddle will be below you in the water as you paddle, so you may need to add an inch or two more than what feels comfortable on flat ground.
- For a multi-piece adjustable paddle, adjust to the correct length by sliding it to the correct height for you and moving the latch to the locked position.
- For a one-piece paddle, bring it to any of our stores and our associates will be happy to do this for you.
Get Up
How to Stand Up On Your Paddle Board
- Get yourself onto your board however feels most comfortable to you, whether it’s starting from your knees and using your hands to help yourself stand up, or stepping onto it directly. This will vary depending on where you’re at and what’s around you (beach, pier, dock, boat, etc.)
- Position yourself toward the center of the board, use the center handle on the deck of the board as a guide for where your feet should be.
- Keep your feet parallel and shoulder-width apart, with your toes aimed toward the nose.
- Have your knees slightly bent, keeping your back straight, while straddling the center handle on the board.
Get Moving
How to Stand-Up Paddle
- When paddling on your right side, your left hand should be on the handle at the top while your right hand grips the shaft. When you switch sides, reverse your hand positions.
- Both arms should be mostly straight with a slight bend in the elbows. Try to keep the shaft of the paddle perpendicular to the water.
- With BOTE paddles, you will find a BOTE Logo on the shaft of paddle near the blade. This logo should face forward while paddling. This will ensure you are using the paddle correctly.
- Each paddle stroke should begin in front of your body, pulling the blade back along the side of the board until roughly at the arch of your foot area. Repeat. Make sure to get the full blade into the water for maximum efficiency.
Ready for some more in-depth instructions, tips, and tricks? We wrote an in-depth guide that goes into deeper explanation of techniques such as the easiest ways to mount your board, proper paddle technique, and how to do basic and advanced level turns.
We love paddling at BOTE, and we don't want you to miss out on all the experiences that are waiting for you out on the water. That's why we've launched our all-new inflatable paddle board, the Breeze Aero. This is perfect beginner option for those in need of a smaller, affordable, yet stable board. Now utilizing our innovative AeroULTRA Technology, this board is even lighter than our other inflatables, making portability, well, a Breeze.
For those who want to take things a step further on your paddle boarding journey, check out our recommended BOTE paddle boards for any activity.
There's no reason to wait, get paddling.
