Which size is right for me?
What Size Paddle Board Do You Need?
Choosing the right paddle board for you is important. Selecting the perfect stand-up paddle board (SUP) depends on several factors, including your weight, skill level, and the type of paddling you plan to do. The right board should have enough volume to keep you afloat comfortably while providing the best balance of stability and maneuverability. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of SUP sizes, capacities, and recommendations to help you make the best choice.
Paddle boards vary in length, but most recreational SUPs fall between 10' and 12' long and 32" to 34" wide. The width of the board affects stability— wider boards are steadier, while narrower boards are built for speed. Shorter boards are ideal for kids or surfing, offering enhanced maneuverability. Additionally, the thickness of the board impacts buoyancy. Thinner boards have a reduced weight capacity, while thicker boards, especially inflatables, offer more support and stability.
Each paddle board has a recommended weight capacity, ensuring the paddler stays above the waterline for efficient movement. While a lighter rider will have no issues on a high-capacity board, exceeding the weight limit will cause drag and instability, making paddling much harder. If you plan to bring a pet, passenger, or gear, be sure to factor their weight into your selection.
For Beginners:
If you’re just starting out, choose a board with ample buoyancy to help with balance. If you plan to bring additional weight—whether a dog, child, or extra gear—factor that into your choice.
For Experienced Paddlers:
Advanced paddlers who prioritize performance may opt for a board with lower weight capacity for better maneuverability. However, inflatables remain a solid option across all skill levels, as they provide stability without sacrificing portability.
All-Around SUPs
For general recreational use, most paddlers will do well with a board between 10 and 12 feet long. Look for a board with a weight capacity exceeding that of the heaviest rider using it.
Touring & Racing SUPs
Longer, narrower boards provide increased speed and efficiency, making them great for long-distance paddling and racing. However, they offer less stability compared to wider boards.
Yoga SUPs
For yoga enthusiasts, a stable board with a soft, comfortable deck pad is ideal. Look for boards designed with extra width and a non-slip surface to mimic the feel of a yoga mat.
Surfing SUPs
To catch waves with ease, a shorter, more maneuverable board is best. While most surf SUPs are hard boards, inflatable options offer a convenient, transportable alternative—though they may lack the precision of epoxy models.
If you’re new to paddle boarding, prioritize stability. Wider, thicker boards provide the best learning experience, ensuring you stay balanced on the water. We recommend opting for an inflatable paddle board to get started on the right foot.
Paddle boards vary in length, but most recreational SUPs fall between 10' and 12' long and 32" to 34" wide. The width of the board affects stability— wider boards are steadier, while narrower boards are built for speed. Shorter boards are ideal for kids or surfing, offering enhanced maneuverability. Additionally, the thickness of the board impacts buoyancy. Thinner boards have a reduced weight capacity, while thicker boards, especially inflatables, offer more support and stability.
Each paddle board has a recommended weight capacity, ensuring the paddler stays above the waterline for efficient movement. While a lighter rider will have no issues on a high-capacity board, exceeding the weight limit will cause drag and instability, making paddling much harder. If you plan to bring a pet, passenger, or gear, be sure to factor their weight into your selection.
For Beginners:
If you’re just starting out, choose a board with ample buoyancy to help with balance. If you plan to bring additional weight—whether a dog, child, or extra gear—factor that into your choice.
For Experienced Paddlers:
Advanced paddlers who prioritize performance may opt for a board with lower weight capacity for better maneuverability. However, inflatables remain a solid option across all skill levels, as they provide stability without sacrificing portability.
All-Around SUPs
For general recreational use, most paddlers will do well with a board between 10 and 12 feet long. Look for a board with a weight capacity exceeding that of the heaviest rider using it.
Touring & Racing SUPs
Longer, narrower boards provide increased speed and efficiency, making them great for long-distance paddling and racing. However, they offer less stability compared to wider boards.
Yoga SUPs
For yoga enthusiasts, a stable board with a soft, comfortable deck pad is ideal. Look for boards designed with extra width and a non-slip surface to mimic the feel of a yoga mat.
Surfing SUPs
To catch waves with ease, a shorter, more maneuverable board is best. While most surf SUPs are hard boards, inflatable options offer a convenient, transportable alternative—though they may lack the precision of epoxy models.
If you’re new to paddle boarding, prioritize stability. Wider, thicker boards provide the best learning experience, ensuring you stay balanced on the water. We recommend opting for an inflatable paddle board to get started on the right foot.
Inflatable Paddle Boards
|
|
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOARD | Play | The Portager | The Portager XL | The Paddle Ship |
| MATERIAL | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable |
| LENGTH | 9'11" | 11'6" | 12'6" | 16' |
| WIDTH | 33" | 33" | 40" | 56" |
| THICKNESS | 6" | 6" | 8" | 8" |
| WEIGHT | 18 lbs | 21 lbs | 28 lbs | 60 lbs |
| CAPACITY | 250 lbs | 350 lbs | 650 lbs | 2,500 lbs |
Solid Paddle Boards
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOARD | The Loon - 10.6 | The Loon - 11.6 | The Loon - 12 | The Norsemen |
| MATERIAL | Bamboo / Fiberglass | Bamboo / Fiberglass | Bamboo / Fiberglass | Bamboo / Fiberglass |
| LENGTH | 10'6" | 11'6" | 12' | 12'6" |
| WIDTH | 32" | 32" | 35" | 29" |
| THICKNESS | 4.75" | 5" | 6" | 5" |
| WEIGHT | 26 lbs | 28 lbs | 32 lbs | 30 lbs |
| CAPACITY | 200 lbs | 250 lbs | 400 lbs | 225 lbs |
Inflatable Utility Docks and Rafts
|
|
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOARD | Utility Raft | Utility Dock | Utility Dock XL | Utility Dock XL w/ Ramp |
| MATERIAL | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable |
| LENGTH | 8’ | 9’ | 12' | 12' |
| WIDTH | 4’ | 6’ | 6’ | 6’ |
| THICKNESS | 6” | 6” | 6" | 6” |
| WEIGHT | 28 lbs | 48 lbs | 58 lbs | 58 lbs |
| CAPACITY | 750 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs |
|
|
|
|---|---|---|
| BOARD | Karve Kayak | Karve Kayak XL |
| MATERIAL | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable | Drop Stitch PVC / Inflatable |
| LENGTH | 9'11" | 12' |
| WIDTH | 33" | 33" |
| THICKNESS | 17" | 17" |
| WEIGHT | 28 lbs | 34 lbs |
| CAPACITY | 300 lbs | 600 lbs |