SUP board – which model will guarantee fun for the whole family?
Summer is approaching! A light breeze caresses your hair and the sun's rays reflect off the lake. This is it! A moment of respite on the water is a great way to rejuvenate. A water activity that's gaining popularity is the use of a SUP board. Its name is an acronym for Stand Up Paddle, meaning paddling while standing up. "SUP is a great way to relax for the whole family. My daughters and I have a blast and head out to the water as soon as the sun shines a little brighter. It's not very demanding," says Marek, one of our customers.
Marek decided to buy a SUP board that would suit the needs of the whole family. It would be suitable for both fit men, adult women, and teenage children. If you're also thinking about buying one, go to a reputable manufacturer or a specialized brick-and-mortar store for advice on buying your first board, where you can speak with a qualified salesperson face-to-face. This type of contact will allow you to quickly discuss all the details and familiarize yourself with the world of SUP boards. It's certainly a more convenient and sensible option than an uncertain online purchase. Let us help you! In this article, you'll learn which type of board is best for beginners, what parameters you should be interested in, what to consider when choosing a paddle or pump, and what elements to pay attention to before making a potential purchase.
TEST THE BOARD BEFORE BUYING
At the Fun Wind store, you can test out your equipment on the water before purchasing. Take advantage of our rental service, go for a swim, and see for yourself how much fun SUP can be. We'll deduct the cost of a one-time board rental from your purchase. We offer free lessons to beginners who purchase a board from us. In no time, you'll be zipping around your favorite lakes, reservoirs, or rivers (ideally in good company). Remember, SUP is a great idea for a getaway with friends, but also for family fun. It's an easy and undemanding sport that's tons of fun. So? Ready to learn more?
ALLROUND – THE BEST OPTION TO START
We're choosing a SUP board that will, firstly, be your first board, and secondly, will be a great choice for everyone in the family. In that case, you should definitely choose a board from the all-round line. This is the most versatile and forgiving type of SUP board. Besides this, you'll also find models called race, touring, and surf. For now, let's leave these to the more advanced sea dogs. All-round boards are shorter and wider, making them easier to hold and turn.
PAY ATTENTION TO BUOYANCY
The most important parameter to consider is buoyancy. This is the result of the length, width, and thickness of the equipment. Manufacturers typically specify the maximum weight of the person who will be using the board, although it's worth noting that people often take a passenger on the water. Perhaps a boyfriend, girlfriend, or dog? Obviously, with such plans in mind, it's worth buying a slightly larger board.
An example of a family all-round board is the Fanatic Air. Its parameters are:
•length: 10'8” (325 cm),
•width: 34” (86 cm),
•thickness: 5'5” (14 cm).
Together they provide 306 liters of displacement.
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT BLOOD PRESSURE
When choosing a board, also pay attention to the maximum pressure to which it can be inflated. This is measured in "psi," or pounds per square inch. The minimum required is 15 psi. You can often find readily available boards sold in popular stores that are only inflated to 12 psi. Unfortunately, these boards turn out to be too soft and difficult to ride. It's worth investing in more reliable equipment that will provide hours of comfortable fun. The construction of the board's core and stiffening of the sides provide improved stiffness, which also affects the quality of your ride. You can ask the manufacturer or retailer for this information.
PADDLES IN HAND!
Time for the paddle. If you want a paddle that will be used by multiple users of varying heights and arm lengths, you absolutely must choose an adjustable paddle. If you want to transport it in the same bag as the board, choose one that can be disassembled into three pieces. Many all-round boards come complete with paddles. You shouldn't encounter any major obstacles when searching for the perfect set. A good decision is to choose a paddle with at least 25% carbon fiber. This durable material is used in the production of bicycles, masts, and even wind turbine blades. This makes the paddles lighter and more flexible than their aluminum cousins.
WE PUMP UP OUR BOARD
Every SUP set also comes with a pump. This pump should be equipped with a pressure gauge, a device for measuring pressure. This will help you. Two-speed pumps are now standard, as they also pump air while the piston is moving upwards. This makes inflating the board much more efficient, allowing you to get started on the water faster. Before you get started, check that the pump nozzle fits snugly into the board's valve. The pump handles should be comfortable, and the base of the pump, where you rest your feet, should be large enough to keep the pump stable while inflating.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD A SUP KIT INCLUDE?
Now it's time for a few final accessories. You'll be ready to head to the store and look for your dream board in no time. When buying a SUP set, check if it includes a fin and how to attach it to the board. A leash should also be included, a cord connecting the paddler to the board. One end attaches to the board, and the other is fastened around the ankle or to the swim trunks. A leash ensures safety on the water. If it's not included, be sure to purchase a separate leash. Steel rings should be found at the bow and stern (or, in beginner sailor parlance, front and rear) for towing or mooring the board. A handle should be located in the center of the SUP. A second handle, located crosswise at the rear, helps with launching the board into the water and carrying it by two people. A repair kit, glue, a valve wrench, and a user manual should also be standard equipment.
Phew, that's it! Quite a bit of useful knowledge. Now all you have to do is go to the store, choose the model that best suits your needs, and start your paddling adventure. Vacation is getting closer, and SUP will allow you to make the most of the summer weather. Come to Fun Wind and join us in choosing the best board. See you soon!
Marek decided to buy a SUP board that would suit the needs of the whole family. It would be suitable for both fit men, adult women, and teenage children. If you're also thinking about buying one, go to a reputable manufacturer or a specialized brick-and-mortar store for advice on buying your first board, where you can speak with a qualified salesperson face-to-face. This type of contact will allow you to quickly discuss all the details and familiarize yourself with the world of SUP boards. It's certainly a more convenient and sensible option than an uncertain online purchase. Let us help you! In this article, you'll learn which type of board is best for beginners, what parameters you should be interested in, what to consider when choosing a paddle or pump, and what elements to pay attention to before making a potential purchase.
TEST THE BOARD BEFORE BUYING
At the Fun Wind store, you can test out your equipment on the water before purchasing. Take advantage of our rental service, go for a swim, and see for yourself how much fun SUP can be. We'll deduct the cost of a one-time board rental from your purchase. We offer free lessons to beginners who purchase a board from us. In no time, you'll be zipping around your favorite lakes, reservoirs, or rivers (ideally in good company). Remember, SUP is a great idea for a getaway with friends, but also for family fun. It's an easy and undemanding sport that's tons of fun. So? Ready to learn more?
ALLROUND – THE BEST OPTION TO START
We're choosing a SUP board that will, firstly, be your first board, and secondly, will be a great choice for everyone in the family. In that case, you should definitely choose a board from the all-round line. This is the most versatile and forgiving type of SUP board. Besides this, you'll also find models called race, touring, and surf. For now, let's leave these to the more advanced sea dogs. All-round boards are shorter and wider, making them easier to hold and turn.
PAY ATTENTION TO BUOYANCY
The most important parameter to consider is buoyancy. This is the result of the length, width, and thickness of the equipment. Manufacturers typically specify the maximum weight of the person who will be using the board, although it's worth noting that people often take a passenger on the water. Perhaps a boyfriend, girlfriend, or dog? Obviously, with such plans in mind, it's worth buying a slightly larger board.
An example of a family all-round board is the Fanatic Air. Its parameters are:
•length: 10'8” (325 cm),
•width: 34” (86 cm),
•thickness: 5'5” (14 cm).
Together they provide 306 liters of displacement.
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT BLOOD PRESSURE
When choosing a board, also pay attention to the maximum pressure to which it can be inflated. This is measured in "psi," or pounds per square inch. The minimum required is 15 psi. You can often find readily available boards sold in popular stores that are only inflated to 12 psi. Unfortunately, these boards turn out to be too soft and difficult to ride. It's worth investing in more reliable equipment that will provide hours of comfortable fun. The construction of the board's core and stiffening of the sides provide improved stiffness, which also affects the quality of your ride. You can ask the manufacturer or retailer for this information.
PADDLES IN HAND!
Time for the paddle. If you want a paddle that will be used by multiple users of varying heights and arm lengths, you absolutely must choose an adjustable paddle. If you want to transport it in the same bag as the board, choose one that can be disassembled into three pieces. Many all-round boards come complete with paddles. You shouldn't encounter any major obstacles when searching for the perfect set. A good decision is to choose a paddle with at least 25% carbon fiber. This durable material is used in the production of bicycles, masts, and even wind turbine blades. This makes the paddles lighter and more flexible than their aluminum cousins.
WE PUMP UP OUR BOARD
Every SUP set also comes with a pump. This pump should be equipped with a pressure gauge, a device for measuring pressure. This will help you. Two-speed pumps are now standard, as they also pump air while the piston is moving upwards. This makes inflating the board much more efficient, allowing you to get started on the water faster. Before you get started, check that the pump nozzle fits snugly into the board's valve. The pump handles should be comfortable, and the base of the pump, where you rest your feet, should be large enough to keep the pump stable while inflating.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD A SUP KIT INCLUDE?
Now it's time for a few final accessories. You'll be ready to head to the store and look for your dream board in no time. When buying a SUP set, check if it includes a fin and how to attach it to the board. A leash should also be included, a cord connecting the paddler to the board. One end attaches to the board, and the other is fastened around the ankle or to the swim trunks. A leash ensures safety on the water. If it's not included, be sure to purchase a separate leash. Steel rings should be found at the bow and stern (or, in beginner sailor parlance, front and rear) for towing or mooring the board. A handle should be located in the center of the SUP. A second handle, located crosswise at the rear, helps with launching the board into the water and carrying it by two people. A repair kit, glue, a valve wrench, and a user manual should also be standard equipment.
Phew, that's it! Quite a bit of useful knowledge. Now all you have to do is go to the store, choose the model that best suits your needs, and start your paddling adventure. Vacation is getting closer, and SUP will allow you to make the most of the summer weather. Come to Fun Wind and join us in choosing the best board. See you soon!
