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Paddleboard Size Charts for Beginner & Intermediate: How to choose an SUP

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Paddleboard Size Charts for Beginner & Intermediate: How to choose an SUP

How to Choose the Right SUP




Beginner

Paddler Weight
SUP 
Width
SUP 
Thickness
SUP
Length
Under 125 lbs  (56kg)
31-32”
5”
9'6"-10'9"
125-150 lbs (56-68 kg)
31-32”
5”
9'6"-10'9"
150-175 lbs (68-79 kg)
31-33”
5”
10'0"-12'6"
175-200 lbs (79 - 90 kg)
32-34”
5”
10'0"-12'6"
200-225 lbs (90-102 kg)
32-34”
5-6”
10'0"-12'6"
225+ lbs (102 kgs +)
32-34”
6”
10'0"-12'6"



Intermediate to Advanced

Paddler Weight
SUP
Width
SUP
Thickness
SUP
Length
Under 125 lbs  (56kg)
29-32”
4-5”
9'6"-10'9"
125-150 lbs (56-68 kg)
30-32”
5”
9'6"-11'0"
150-175 lbs (68-79 kg)
30-32”
5”
9'6"-12'6"
175-200 lbs (79 - 90 kg)
30-33”
5”
10'0"-12'6"
200-225 lbs (90-102 kg)
30-34”
5-6”
10'0"-12'6"
225+ lbs (102 kgs +)
32-34”
6”
10'0"-12'6"




When shopping for a paddleboard, choose one that offers enough flotation and stability for your weight and skill level, paddles quickly for an enjoyable experience, and suits your paddling style.

Popular Sizes: the most common SUP boards are 10-11 feet long and 32-34 inches wide.

Stability: opt for boards 33-34 inches wide for more stability, but remember that wider boards can be sluggish.

Portability & Maneuverability of Smaller Boards: if you weigh less than 150 pounds or value portability, consider a 9’6” board. If it's 30-32 inches wide, you'll have stability without sacrificing speed.

Touring and Racing: for speed, go for a 12’6” touring or race board. A stable touring board is about 32 inches wide, while race boards are narrower (28-26 inches) for speed but less stable. A 30-inch width is a good compromise for both touring and racing.

Considerations Beyond Length and Width: board thickness, shape, material, and construction affect stability, glide, and comfort. For detailed guidance, check out resources like the "Best Inflatable Paddle Board: Reality vs The Internet."



Specialized Shapes: boards 36 inches wide are great for rapids but too slow for general paddling. Boards under 9 feet are designed for surfing rather than general paddling.

Inflatable vs. Hardboards: inflatable boards are more stable due to uniform thickness. Hardboards, sculpted for performance, provide less stability for recreational paddlers.

Board Thickness: a 5-inch inflatable SUP is ideal for most paddlers. Heavier paddlers (225 lbs and up) might prefer a 6-inch board for extra volume despite its bulkier feel.


Additional Factors: consider the shape, construction, and fin systems of inflatable SUP boards. Do your research to make an informed decision.



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