Why everyone should try stand up paddle boarding.

Fresh air, nautical breezes, and plentiful sunshine - perfect days on the water are almost here!  As summer plans start to come together, now is the time to think about how to make the most of warm weather and enticing water.  Whether you’re scrolling instagram or caught a glimpse at your local waterway, you’ve probably come across what continues to be one of the fastest growing water sports worldwide - stand up paddle boarding, or “SUP” for short. 

Embodying the feeling of walking on water, stand up paddle boarding is a highly enjoyable way to spend quality time outside.  Boasting outstanding fitness, health and wellness benefits, as well as being super fun, it’s no wonder this sport has received so much attention. 

To better understand the sport of SUP and how you can participate, let’s start with some basics.   What is SUP and where did it all start? 

A Brief History of Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Throughout history, people from every part of the world have been navigating, working, and recreating in all types of waterways.  While only making it into mainstream culture in recent years, the practice of standing on and paddling a watercraft has been around for thousands of years.  The unique perspective gained from standing offers visual advantages over traditional seated positions.  This has been applied to fishing, harvesting, surfing and recreation, and even as a highly effective tool for life-saving and water rescues. 

The exact timeline and evolution of SUP is hard to pin down.  While the sport gained present day notoriety in Hawaii with legendary big wave surfers such as Laird Hamilton, Dave Kalama and others bringing it into the headlines, people were already standing up on watercraft and using a paddle for propulsion all over the globe.  

As we know it today, SUP’s popularity really took hold during the early 2000’s, as it started to become more visible in surf culture.  Not only did standing provide surfers an advantageous viewpoint to spot waves, the addition of a paddle provided more maneuverability and the option to explore a broader range of surf spots, outside of a crowded line up.  Stand up paddling was also a great way to stay in shape on the water durings periods of low or no swell.  

Things really became official in 2008 when SUPs joined canoes and kayaks under the United States Coast Guard classification of “vessel”, which includes the mandate that PFDs (personal flotation devices) must be worn outside of swimming and surf zones. 

Paddlers began to realize that SUP was not only well-suited for surfing, but a meaningful way to connect with water of all kinds - bays, lakes and rivers - and performed well in many different types of conditions and activities - flatwater, touring, downwind, racing, yoga and more. 

Today it’s quite common to see stand up paddlers amongst other human-powered craft out on the water, and there are events worldwide celebrating the sport in spectacular locations.  So whether you are just beginning your SUP journey, or looking to expand your horizons, there are many ways to participate in stand up paddle boarding! 

What Are The Different Types of SUPs? 

Stand up paddle boards fall into two primary categories: inflatable or hard boards.  While the sport originated with hard board construction, inflatable SUPs now dominate much of the market.  

Hard boards are typically made of either carbon or fiberglass and epoxy resin layered over foam cores.   Inflatable boards are made up of tens of thousands of polyester fibers that connect the top and bottom of the board, forming what’s known as the dropstitch core.  This core makes the board rigid, while durable outer layers protect from punctures and increase stiffness. While each construction has its advantages, today we’re going to focus on inflatables, also known as “iSUPs”. 

When it comes to storage and transport, iSUPs are much easier to manage.  Once deflated, an iSUP packs up into a large backpack that you can take basically anywhere.  While they easily fit in cars, they can be taken on trains, planes, and buses.  ISUPs open the door to both local and destination paddling adventures. 

Inflatables are also lighter in weight, have a high resistance to getting bumped or scraped, and only take a few minutes to inflate or deflate.  

SUPs For Every Activity

While all SUPs share some basic characteristics, there are differences based on the intended use.   

All-around boards are good general performers for a variety of activities including shorter distance paddling and touring, fitness and yoga, and even some light surfing.  These boards tend to be between 10’6’’ - 11’6’’ in length and 30’’-32’’ in width.   

Touring boards are for more dedicated outings and fitness paddling.  Features to look for include longer waterline - 11’6’’ to 12’6’’ and up, a little bit narrower width, around 28’’-30’’, and additional storage bungees for gear.  

SUP / Kayak Hybrids have the ability to convert your SUP into a kayak by attaching a kayak seat and swapping out the handle portion of your paddle for a second paddle blade.

Yoga boards are designed to be very stable, ranging in length from 10’-11’ and are generally 32’’-34’’ in width.  Look for an anti-slip deck pad that fully covers the board and use an anchor so that you can stay fully focused on your practice without worrying about drifting.  

Kids boards are designed to empower new paddlers and should maximize comfort, stability, and maneuverability.   

Crew boards are made for multiple people (and sometimes furry friends) and come in sizes that can accommodate different purposes.  Tandem boards are best for 2 adults, or 2 adults plus a child.  Group boards are made for 3+ people and can serve as excellent team building tools!   These boards can handle an impressive amount of people and gear. 

Plus… you don’t have to choose just one modality!  Within the overall stand up paddle boarding category, there are a variety of fun and interesting ways to enjoy being on the water.   

Getting Set Up

Each Retrospec inflatable stand up paddle board comes with a 3 piece paddle, slide in fins, 10’ coiled leash, waterproof iphone case, repair kit, and a pump, all of which fits neatly into a carry rucksack, ready for your next on-water outing.  

Make sure you have a properly fitting United States Coast Guard approved PFD (personal flotation device) for anyone who will be out on the water.  Other items to bring with you include: 

• Sunscreen 

• Sunglasses and hat 

• Appropriate clothing for the air and water temperature

• Snacks and hydration

Additionally, it’s always a good idea to file a float plan and let people know where you will be paddling and for how long.   Paddle with a buddy and know your limits.  There are many great resources online and through local outfitters that can help you learn more about good areas to paddle and how to advance your skills. 

Why You Should Try SUP

The benefits of stand up paddle boarding are abundant.  Here are just a few of the reasons why we love it: 

• It uniquely combines balance, strength, and cardiovascular exercise into a fun and rewarding activity. 

• Both inland waterways and ocean settings provide profound connection to the natural world.

• It’s a great way to spend quality time with friends and family.

• You can expand your outdoor community by getting involved with local boathouses and events. 

• Whether you are traveling or at home, you can discover new places that are difficult to access by land. 

• Anyone can do it!  

Now that you have a better understanding of what all the buzz is about, are you ready to give it a go?   There’s something truly special about the feeling of gliding over water while standing on a board, and with so many ways to participate, there is always something new to try.  We can’t wait to see where your paddling adventures will take you!