April 09th, 2019

how to choose a paddleboard or sup

About the Author:
Mike Laielli, Owner of Primal Surf in Brigantine NJ since 2003, has been surfing and involved with various water-sports for over 50 years. 

WHAT TO CONSIDER
First of all is your height, and weight. The larger the rider, the larger the paddleboard you will need. Then your experience level, and frequency of use will also play a big part in what size or type of paddleboard is best. There are a few other things you need to consider,  such as where you will use the board, and what conditions you will paddleboard in. If you live on the bay, ocean. or lake and only want to paddle it there, then you will want something specific for the waters you will be paddling. Generally, the flatter the water the flatter the board you can use. Flatter boards cruise faster, but allround paddleboards are better for ocean paddling and work quite well on flat water too. 

CONSTRUCTION
Not all boards are created equal, and generally speaking "you get what you pay for". Cheaper boards are made with cheaper products, and are not going to hold up under most paddling conditions. What makes a board have a high strength to weight ratio is the method of construction such as vacuum bagging of high pressure molding where the board is compressed in the assembly process. 

A cheap paddleboard will also not be worth much on resale or trade in value, due to the fact that it was probably made in China where they cut corners in product and process to bring the price down. 

If you are unsure of paying the price for a better quality paddleboard, it's usually due to not knowing if you will stick with the sport. In that case, you should take a lesson and learn more about paddleboarding. A reputable paddleboard retailer should be able to teach you, and fit you with the right gear to suit your needs. You will also learn about the various locations to paddle, what conditions to avoid, and many other tips and safety factors that will keep you enjoying paddleboarding for years to come.

WHERE TO BUY A PADDLEBOARD
Being in the business since the start of the sport, we've seen it all! Many people buy "too good to be true" deals on the internet, or a big box store, leaving them dealing with shipping damages, cheap product, and no one to support them when they have issues with the product. If you buy from a reputable "bricks and mortar" paddle sport shop, they will be there to support you with information and experience of local conditions, year round, you will be happy you made the right choice. 

Mike Laielli,
Owner/Primal Surf
Brigantine NJ

---