Want to purchase a SUP paddle? Read this purchase guide first!

Table of contents SUP paddle purchase guide

• Which length is best for me?
• Difference in material
• > Aluminium paddle
• > Fiberglass paddle
• > Carbon paddle
• Difference in use
• > SUP paddle
• > Kayak paddle
• SUP paddle test
• Best paddle
• Compare all paddles

Choosing the right paddle for use while Stand Up Paddling is extremely important. The more you paddle (and therefore get better), the more you will notice the difference. But which paddle is right for you? You can read about that in this SUP paddle purchase guide!

Which length is best for me?

The most important thing about a SUP paddle is that its length is correct. A paddle that is too long quickly causes tired arms because you are holding them too high and that takes a lot of energy. A paddle that is too short will burden your back because you have to bend forward all the time to reach the water.

The paddle length is strongly dependent on what you want to do with the SUP board. Do you want to race? Then choose a paddle that is from 7.9" up to 9.8" longer than you. Do you mainly want to tour? Then choose a paddle that is from 5.9" up to 7.9" longer than you. Possibilities with a SUP paddle:

• Touring on quieter waters
• Fitness (full body workout)
• Relax with SUP Yoga
• Take on the challenge and brave the waves
• Float around and have fun with the whole family

Adjustable paddles

In our online shop you will find many adjustable paddles. These can be extendable paddles, but also paddles with multiple elements.

These paddles are most useful in the event that several people of different lengths use the paddle.

These paddles are therefore the best for families, holiday homes and for those who want to go on holiday with more than one person.

Difference in material

There are different materials from which paddles are made. Here we briefly discuss the differences and the advantages or disadvantages.

Aluminium paddle

An aluminium paddle is an entry-level model for the novice SUP boarder. This material is sturdy and is great to start with. The disadvantage of an aluminium paddle is that it is often slightly heavier than a Fiberglass or Carbon paddle. Are you a beginner and buying your first or second board? Then this is a great paddle.

On Supboard-99 we provide a free paddle with many SUP boards. We always recommend that you test them first. Are you a beginner and are you going to be active for the first time with your Stand Up Paddle board? Then you might not even notice the difference between a Fiberglass paddle and an aluminium paddle. Do you want a better paddle later? Then you can always order it and have it shipped to you for free.

Fiberglass paddle

A fiberglass paddle is sturdy, light and has a good price/quality ratio. If you want just a little more than an aluminium paddle, this is the perfect material. A fiberglass paddle is lighter than aluminum and is versatile to use for either touring, racing or relaxing.

Carbon paddle

A carbon paddle is the lightest and strongest material a paddle can be made of. A lightweight paddle allows you to put in more effort for longer and is especially loved by advanced users. Because you have to move less weight in the water, your arms tire less quickly. This is especially noticeable on longer or intensive rides. Do you spend a lot of time on the water? Then a carbon paddle is definitely worth the investment.

An Aluminium paddle is an excellent paddle for novice athletes. If you would like some extra comfort, choose a Fiberglass model. This is lighter and versatile to use. Are you advanced and do you spend a lot of time on the water? Then choose a carbon paddle. Carbon is the lightest and strongest material available for a SUP paddle.

Difference in use

Many people use a SUP board sitting down. With a SUP seat you can convert some paddle boards into a kayak. For this you will need a different paddle.

Staand gebruik

This purchase guide is mainly aimed at athletes who are standing on their SUP board. You should especially take into account the paddle length and the material your paddle is made of. Feel free to scroll on and read the brief tests we have written for each paddle.

Sitting use

Do you use a SUP board sitting down? Then we recommend you to buy a kayak paddle. This way you can maneuver much easier sitting down. At supboard-99 we have a 2-in-1 SUP & kayak paddle. This is an aluminium paddle with which you can convert the handle into an extra blade. Do you want to SUP board standing up? Then slide the handle on. Would you rather kayak? Slide the extra blade on the spot of the handle and you have a kayak paddle. Convenient right?

SUP paddle test

To give an honest advice, we have worked extensively with many paddles. All paddles have a different price and a different target audience. We are happy to explain the differences, so you can make the best choice when buying a new SUP paddle. Check out the paddles we have tested here.

Best SUP paddle (2019)

It is difficult to compare apples with oranges. In the case of SUP paddles, the more expensive the material, the better. The better the material, the lighter the paddle and the longer you can endure it on the water.

After testing the best selling paddles, our favourite is the Aqua Marina Carbon Pro. We would have been surprised if we had preferred a Fiberglass paddle over a Carbon paddle and this has not happened..

However, we do believe that all paddles in its segment deliver excellent performance. For every type of user there is a suitable paddle in our assortment, so also for you the right model should be in this range.