If you’re wondering how to choose a paddle board, you’re not alone. Whether you’re brand new to stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) or ready to upgrade your gear, finding the right board makes all the difference. At Paddle North, we offer a lineup of paddle boards designed to meet a wide range of paddling styles, water conditions, and experience levels—without overcomplicating your decision. We like to keep things simple.
This guide will walk you through things like hull shape, board length, fins, solid vs. inflatable paddle board construction, and essential accessories to help you choose the paddle board that’s right for you.
1. Hull Type: Planing vs. Displacement
An important decision when selecting a paddle board is the shape of the hull—essentially, the body of the board that interacts directly with the water. There are two primary styles:
Planing Hull
A wide, flat design that sits on top of the water. Ideal for:
- Recreational paddling
- Stability and comfort
- Easy maneuvering
The Loon is a great option if you're looking for a versatile board that performs well in various conditions - from calm lakes to small waves.
Displacement Hull
A pointed nose helps slice through the water for improved glide and tracking. Best for:
- Longer distance or touring
- Fitness paddling
- Efficiency on flat water
- Improved tracking performance
The Portager inflatable paddle board is our all-around touring workhorse, while the Norsemen (hard paddle board) is a longer, more performance-driven model. The Play inflatable paddle board features a shorter, less aggressive displacement nose shape-great for lighter paddlers or those who want responsiveness without committing to a full touring board.
2. Solid vs. Inflatable Paddle Boards Boards
Both solid and inflatable boards have their strengths depending on how you plan to use them.
Solid Paddle Boards (Loon, Norsemen)
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Excellent performance, speed, and glide
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Rigid and responsive
- Ready for water with minimal setup
A solid paddle board is a good choice if you have extra storage space and want that classic feel on the water.
Inflatable Paddle Boards (Play, Portager, Portager XL)
- Portable and travel-friendly
- Durable and puncture-resistant
- Stores easily in apartments, trunks, or RVs
Our inflatable paddle boards maintain impressive stability, speed, and tracking performance, making them an ideal choice for paddlers on the go.
3. Paddle Board Length: Short, Medium, Long
Board length affects how the paddle board moves, turns, and tracks, in addition to weight capacity.
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Short (under 10’) – Play: More maneuverable and playful, ideal for recreational paddlers or quicker turns.
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Medium (10’–11’) – Loon (10’6”, 11’6”), Portager: A great middle ground for stability and versatility.
- Long (12’+) – Loon (12’), Norsemen: Tracks straight and fast, designed for distance and touring efficiency.
4. Fin Setup: Tri-Fin vs. Single Fin
Fins influence how well your board turns and tracks in the water.
Tri-Fin (Loon, Play)
Adds stability and control, great for recreational use or surf-style paddling. Because the Loon and the Play feature a less aggressive nose shape, additional fins help improve paddle board tracking performance.
Single Fin (Portager, Norsemen)
Prioritizes straight-line tracking and efficiency, perfect for calm, open water and longer distances. Because the Portager and the Norsement have more aggressive displacement hull noses, only one fin is required, as the nose helps displace water and improve tracking performance.
5. SUP Accessories to Complete Your Setup
Once you’ve chosen the right board, a few paddle accessories can make your paddling experience more enjoyable and safe:
Lightweight paddles offer efficiency and comfort. Carbon fiber options reduce fatigue.
PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
A low-profile life vest or inflatable belt pack helps you stay safe on the water.
Ankle leashes keep your board within reach if you fall off—especially important in larger bodies of water or when paddling in windier conditions.
Protects your phone, snacks, and extra layers during longer excursions.
Keep your phone with you and dry while on the water. You never know when you’ll need to snap a picture (or make a call in case of emergency).
Electric Pump (for inflatable paddle boards)
While dual and triple action manual SUP pumps are a convenient option, nothing beats the ease of an electric pump for easy inflation.
Protects your board during transport and storage.
Final Thoughts: How to Choose a Paddle Board That’s Right for You
When deciding how to choose a paddle board, consider your goals, environment, and experience level. Whether you’re looking for a high-performance touring board like the Norsemen, a do-it-all favorite like the Portager, or a crowd-friendly cruiser like the Loon, Paddle North has a board that matches your adventure style.
Still not sure which model fits your needs? Reach out to our team, we’ll get you out on the water!
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