How to choose a paddle surf board?

The market for paddle surfboards is very wide. There are different models to choose from depending on your experience, budget and intended use, so there is a paddle board for every type of user. To make it easier to choose a paddle surf board that suits your tastes and preferences, we have created a practical guide to help you find the perfect model.

Choosing a paddle surf board depending on use

Depending on what you are going to use your paddle surf board for, you are interested in buying one model or another. There are four options, each of them has its own features and advantages, and in this post we are going to show you what are their main differences and the main use for which they have been designed.

Allround Paddle Surf Board

The Allround model of paddle surf board is designed to be used in all kinds of situations and scenarios. It is the all-rounder of the paddle board, a board that stands out for its excellent stability, which makes it perfect for navigating all types of waters or practicing, even yoga or fishing. It also adapts to different levels of experience, allowing you to surf waves, make crossings and learn how to paddle surf.

HUIIKE paddle surfboards are Allround. They are easily recognizable by their rounded nose and tail. At the same time, it is the widest paddle board model and the one with the flattest hull curvature (rocker), which is key to its stability. In addition, the nose is only slightly raised, also contributing to its stability.

Allround boards are available in sizes ranging from 2.75 to 3.35 meters (9' - 11') high, with a width of 79 to 89 centimeters (31" - 35") and a thickness of 13 to 15 centimeters (5.0" - 6.0").

These are the measurements and main characteristics of all our inflatable paddle surfboards:

If you want to know more about sizes and measurements of paddle surfboards, we leave you a practical guide with more details and technical aspects.

Stand-Up Paddle Board Touring

SUP Touring boards have a more specific focus. They are designed for paddling in calm waters, where the most important thing is to paddle long distances. Therefore, Touring boards are more oriented to paddle surfing in marshes, lakes and reservoirs, as these are areas where the water is usually calmer.

They differ from Allround boards by their shape. The nose is much narrower and sharper, in addition to having a higher elevation, the result of curved rocker, to overcome the waves without affecting the advance. The tail is also different, with a slightly squarer shape, while the width is very similar in both cases.

In terms of measurements, the Touring boards are somewhat taller than the Allround boards, with a height usually between 3.35 and 3.65 meters (11' - 12').

SUP Race

The SUP Race models are oriented to competition lovers. They are boards designed to reach a higher speed of navigation, so their shape favors a lower resistance to progress in the water, but sacrifices some stability, which makes them less recommended for crossings.

The design is the most aerodynamic. SUP Race boards have a narrow nose and tail, improving resistance in headwinds. In addition, the tip is elevated, as in the Touring boards, allowing to better face the waves without movement. The tail is narrow to increase surfing speed and, in general, the width of these boards is smaller than other models to favor speed.

However, Race paddle surfboards are also the least maneuverable and stable. Changing course or tacking will be more complicated with this type of boards. And the reason for this is their height. From bow to stern, race paddle boards measure between 3.65 and 4.25 meters (12' - 14'), being the largest models you will find for a single person.

SUP Surf

Finally, SUP Surf boards are the most maneuverable model, but also the least recommended for cruising or touring. They are designed so that you can ride waves almost as well as you would with a surfboard, except that, in this case, you still need a paddle to navigate.

The nose ends in a point, while the tail is somewhat wider. A peculiarity of the SUP Surf boards is that they have a raised section at the stern to place the foot when surfing, which allows to lift the bow and increase maneuverability. They also have a rear section with reinforced edges that helps to climb waves, also thanks to its slightly more angular shape.

The most common sizes in this type of boards range from 2.15 to 2.75 meters (7' - 9'), being, therefore, the paddle board with the lowest height in the market.

What is the most stable paddle surf board?

As we have seen in the previous section, the paddle surfboards that offer the greatest stability are the Allround and Touring models. This is mainly due to their width. These are the models that reach the greatest surface width, between 79 and 89 centimeters (31" - 35"), as well as being thick enough so that their buoyancy is not compromised even in rough waters.

However, because of the shape of the rocker, nose and tail, the board that offers the most stability is the Allround model. This makes it ideal for both beginners and expert users. It also allows for cruising and wave riding, so you can paddle surf wherever you want.

Our paddle surfboards can also be converted into kayaks in the Full Pack models, thanks to the width of the paddle board and its excellent stability. This is possible thanks to the width of the paddle board and its excellent stability. Have you ever tried to do yoga or fishing on a paddle surf board? On our boards you can also practice these modalities that require a board that is very stable.

How do I know which is my ideal paddle surf board?

The first thing to take into account to choose a paddle surf board that is ideal for you is your height and body weight when choosing a paddle surf board to buy. We recommend that you value very well what height and what maximum weight supports the paddle board before choosing one model or another.

Our boards measure 3.05 meters (10') high and support up to 130 kg (286 lbs) maximum weight. In addition, they have a volume of 278 liters, which contributes to improve its buoyancy even with 2 people on board.

On the other hand, you will have to define what you are going to use the SUP for: are you looking for a board for touring or are you one of those who like competition and speed? Do you prefer to enjoy the waves and, at the same time, do touring with a board that can do everything? Define how and where you will paddle surf before choosing a board model to buy.

Don't forget your level of experience either, especially if you are just starting out. In this case, we always recommend a board that is very stable, which will allow you to internalize concepts and put them into practice more easily. Only more advanced users, on the other hand, choose a paddle surf board for a specific use, such as SUP Race and SUP Surf boards.

Finally, the purchase budget. The prices of paddle surf boards vary depending on the model and use, as well as the size. Therefore, we recommend that you define very well how much you are going to spend on your purchase, so you will have a reference to choose a paddle surfboard that suits you.

Inflatable or rigid: which board to buy?

All paddle surf board models are available as inflatable and rigid boards. However, there are a number of differences that you should take into account before choosing one board or the other, as they do not offer the same in sections such as resistance, care or sale price. These are the aspects to consider:

• PerformanceInflatable boards offer better performance when it comes to paddle boarding for touring, while rigid boards are more recommended for SUP surfing and SUP racing.
• VersatilityInflatable models are more adaptable to all styles and uses, while rigid boards are less comfortable for SUP Yoga and SUP Fishing.
• StiffnessRigid boards are somewhat stiffer than inflatable boards due to their construction and the materials used.
• WeightThe inflatable boards, however, are lighter, which makes them easier to transport.
• DurabilityInflatable paddle surfboards withstand impacts better than rigid paddle boards.
• SafetyInflatable boards are safer in the event of a fall into the water, as they are somewhat softer. They are also a more advisable type of board to use with children.
• TransportInflatable boards are easier to transport than rigid boards, plus they can be deflated and carried comfortably in your backpack. Learn more about how to carry your paddle surfboard in the car.
• StorageInflatable boards can be stored in the backpack, while rigid boards require a specific place, taking up more space.
• CareRigid boards require greater care and special attention in case of possible falls.
• PriceInflatable boards are a more economical purchase option.

Life is a journey to be experienced!

In our social networks you will find more interesting content.