Equipment Advice

Choosing the right SUP can be a challenge, especially for beginners. The variety of models and technical details can be overwhelming.
That's why we recommend that you get plenty of advice before you buy, or even better, try out different boards. The easiest way to do this is by taking a SUP taster or beginner course at one of our SUP centers.  
Below we explain what a beginner should consider when choosing a SUP.

Inflatable SUPs (iSUPs): These models are great for beginners. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and impact resistant. iSUPs can be easily rolled up and stored in a backpack, making them perfect for travel.
Hardboards: These boards are usually made of fiberglass and/or carbon and offer better performance in terms of speed and stiffness. However, they are more difficult to transport, more prone to damage, and generally more expensive.

The size of the SUP affects how stable the board is in the water. For beginners, the bigger and wider the board, the more stable it will be.
Width: A board that is 76 to 86 cm (30 to 34 inches) wide usually provides good stability and enough room to stand safely.
Length: Boards between 10 and 12 feet (3 to 3.6 meters) are ideal for beginners as they offer a balanced combination of directional stability and maneuverability.
Volume: The volume of the board should match your body weight. A larger volume provides more buoyancy and therefore more stability. Most allround and touring boards have a volume of over 300 liters.
Stiffness: When you stand on an inflatable SUP board, it bends more or less (or almost not at all) in the middle depending on the weight of the paddler and the stiffness of the board. The stiffer a board is built and the lower the weight of the paddler, the lower the flex.
Stiffer boards with less flex glide better and are generally perceived as more stable.

Think about where you want to use your SUP most:
Quiet lakes or rivers that don't flow too fast, open ocean without big waves: An all-round board is ideal for most people. These boards are versatile and offer high tip stability, good turning characteristics and relatively good directional stability.
If you want to go faster and with less water resistance, i.e. if you value good directional stability, a touring board is the right choice. This level is often reached after completing a VDWS SUP basic course.
Special boards are available for SUP racing, big waves, fitness and yoga.

A lightweight SUP is easier to transport and handle. Most inflatable boards weigh between 7 and 12 kilograms.

Beginners should evaluate not only the board itself, but also the accessories that come with it:
The paddle: An adjustable 2- or 3-piece fiberglass paddle provides ideal propulsion.
Pump: A good hand pump is essential for iSUPs.
Leash: This safety leash connects you to your board and prevents it from drifting away in the event of a fall. It should ALWAYS be worn, except on fast flowing rivers.
Carry Bag: A sturdy bag makes transportation and storage easy.

Choosing the right SUP depends on your needs, body weight and intended use. Also look for quality accessories and good value. With the right equipment and instruction at a certified SUP center, you can have fun paddling!