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Paddle boarding is an easy way to hit the water for a relaxing float on a sunny day, for a new way to work out, or to explore nature. Lessons aren’t strictly necessary, but taking an introductory course or at least renting a board before buying will give you a better idea of what you actually need. Prices of SUPs have come down, helped by advancements in inflatable technology, meaning even those without a garage for storage or van to transport their board can still take up this relaxing sport. This sustainable British brand not only makes boards from bamboo but plants a tree for each one sold. That won’t help you when out on the water, but get used to fellow paddlers admiring your kit, because the Bamboo Bullet is beautiful. Lighter, cheaper and more transportable than hard-shell SUPs, our Beachbum inflatable paddle boards are designed to be perfect for any experience level. Whether it’s your very first time or you're a seasoned paddler. They provide all round performance with excellent balance, stability and manoeuvrability that is suited to all. We know once your new paddle board arrives you’ll be wanting to set out on it right away. Therefore each of our paddle boards comes with everything you need to get out on the water. All of that, alongside the price, mean this isn’t a paddleboard for beginners but for experienced paddlers who are looking for top speeds in waves or flat water. Despite the thin profile and fast design, it’s also known for solid stability. Beyond performance in the water, the SIC has nice touches including easy-to-grab handles and a bungee strap for essentials closer to the middle of the board.
A paddle should be taller than you, coming to roughly the height of your wrist if you hold your arm over your head. For most of us, that’s about 15cm to 30cm above our height, although longer paddles are ideal for faster speeds and shorter paddles are considered best for hitting the surf. What else do you need? Storage is another key consideration. Stand-up paddle boards are long and bulky, so think about where you’ll keep it and how you’ll transport it to the water. If you’re short on space, an inflatable paddle board may be a better idea. How do you choose a paddle? Ensure you have proper safety equipment, notably a leash that connects your ankle to the SUP so there’s no risk of losing it in case you fall off, as well as a personal flotation device. If you’re paddling at night, bring waterproof lights so you can be seen by boats, and if you’re taking along valuables such as keys or your phone, consider purchasing a dry bag. Paddleboards are big, unwieldy items, so it may be worth buying a strap to make carrying it easier.
Find the best paddle board to hit the water, whether it's an inflatable model for beginners or a hard-body version for taking some waves
Bluefin has a wide range of specialist boards: there’s the Aura for yoga, the Tandem for two paddlers, and the Mammoth to carry all your friends and family, alongside SUPs focused on touring and beginners. The Voyage piles together everything into one board, making it a water-based platform for all your lake activities. The longboard design means the Bamboo Bullet is ideal for touring as well as surfing, while the wide shape makes it easy to control, even for beginners, meaning this board works well for anyone. Made from a foam core surrounded by bamboo and coated in three layers of epoxy glass, this is a board that can take a beating. If the materials sound a bit slippery when wet, don’t worry: there’s a full-length traction pad on the top to keep feet in place.
Key specs – Total weight: 14.5kg; Length: 320cm; Width: 80cm; Volume: 185L; How much can it carry? 60 to 80kg, upgrade to the larger model if over 80kg; Accessories? Does not come with paddles or leash. Key specs – Total weight: 11.kg; Length: 427cm; Width: 55cm; Volume: 265L; How much can it carry? Not available, but there’s a range of larger models if necessary; Accessories? Leash and fin includedREAD NEXT: The best inflatable paddle boards The best paddle boards you can buy in 2023 1. Tahe Outdoor Beach Performer: The best hard-body SUP for hitting the beach Our range of inflatable paddle boards, designed in Dorset, UK by watersports experts offer all round performance for any paddler level of ability at an affordable price and without trading on quality. As well as being extremely transportable, so you can take your SUP adventures with you as you explore new and more stunning waters. Stand-up paddle boarding is often described as the fastest-growing sport in the world, and while we have no idea how to judge that particular statistic, it’s unquestionably increasingly popular in the UK. Trail Outdoor Leisure says it has seen sales of paddle boards increase by 117% this year.
To help carry out the testing, WIRED assembled a group of SUP experts (above) including Saviour Aquilina of The Sup Store, Dave Price, author of The Paddleboard Bible, and Sarah Porretta and Graeme Blundell, founders of the Wimborne and Blandford SUP Club. We also enlisted the help of Bethany - a keen 7 year old - to aid our test by riding the front of each board. We rated each inflatable SUP board on its design, size and flex – the latter of which is important for balance. In our test, we were keen to find out whether each board was best suited to a leisurely sail or more active racing adventure. We compared how comfortable each board was to ride and how safely it could carry luggage and passengers - such as kids and dogs. What’s the best stand up paddle board for 2021? Designed by watersports professionals in Dorset, the New Dawn Paddle Board is the perfect all-rounder, offering excellent stability and buoyancy. Great at handling all weather conditions, streamline for glide range, and large enough to accommodate a passenger. Available in a range of eye catching colours so you and the rest of your family either match or have your own individual style.Starboard’s GO range is much wider than this one board. There’s a variety of lengths and widths, so you can choose the right balance of support and performance to match your skill and weight, as well as a selection of materials and designs. Carbon Top is extra light, Tikhine is decorated with ocean artwork, Starlight supports windsurfing equipment, ASAP stands for “as strong as possible”, and Lite Tech is strong and comes at budget prices. Paddle boarding is much more than just a water sport; it's a holistic experience that provides a wide range of physical, mental, and social benefits. From improving physical fitness and mental well-being to fostering a sense of community and connection with nature, paddleboarding offers something for everyone. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a new way to stay active, paddleboarding is a rewarding and fulfilling activity that can enrich your life in countless ways. So, grab a paddle, hop on your SUP board, and embark on a journey of wellness and discovery on the water. Paddleboarding allows you to explore and discover new places, from hidden coves and waterways to remote islands. SUP trips offer a unique perspective of your surroundings and encourages a sense of adventure and exploration. Key specs – Total weight: 11kg Length: 327cm; Width: 79cm; Volume: 192L; How much can it carry? 100kg; Accessories? Not included.
Heading to the beach? Don’t forget your SUP. The ideal socially distanced sport, stand up paddle boarding has taken the nation by storm – thankfully not literally as calm waters are just what you need for a successful ride. Boasting a superior 10k waterproof outer shell, that can withstand up to 10,000mm of heavy rain. Our Brobe changing robes will keep you dry in even the worst UK conditions. This perfectly balanced board is suitable for any experience level and comes as part of a 6-piece starter kit. It's easy to use so you can build up your confidence. It can reduce stress and anxiety and increase your fitness levels. Explore our range of Paddle board equipment and accessories, designed for beginners, intermediate and advanced SUP levels by watersports experts in Dorset, UK. Our inflatable sups are all constructed with the latest cutting edge fusion anti flex technology, suitable for heavier riders guaranteeing a smooth ride.
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Aside from the board, to SUP, you’ll also need a paddle – it’s in the name, after all. Paddles can be fixed in length, detachable (so they break down into smaller pieces for easier transport) or adjustable, depending on your height or use.
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