Paddles for Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs): 6 FAQs

1. How do I get up on my SUP?

Walking your SUP board out of shallow water is more accessible than climbing on when using a SUP at the beach. Make sure there is enough water under your fins. Start on your knees and use the paddle to get yourself out past the breaking waves. Then have a go at standing to your feet.

2. How long does my paddle need to be?

A rule of thumb is an open hand above your head. Stand tall and hold the paddle shaft against you. The top of the handle should line up with the hand above your head.

3. What’s the difference between fibreglass paddles and carbon paddles?

Fibreglass paddles are a great all-rounder paddle. They are easy to hold, and the natural flex of a fibreglass shaft enables a gentler transfer of energy when coupled with the lightweight fibreglass, which is ideal for long distance paddling.

Carbon fibres are used in our SUP Paddles for the strength the paddle can take and because it’s lightweight. If you are heading out to Bells Beach on a six foot day, you want a lightweight paddle that isn’t going to drag you down but a strong paddle that will absorb the energy of the wave and glide you into the pocket at speed.

4. Which way should my blade face?

The blade sits on an angle to allow smooth entry into the water and reduce pressure on your shoulders. Allow the edge tip to always face away from you for maximum power with each stroke.

5. How do I increase my paddling speed?

First, you need to make sure you are focusing on your paddling. Then make sure to check your breath. Let the air flow. It sounds simple, but it is the simplest way to pick up your speed.  

Next, you should focus on your reach. Where are you reaching your paddle in the water? Are you twisting forward and engaging your core and hips? Then, as you pull the paddle through the water, could you focus on the force and drive it back?

Last of all, pick up that tempo, baby! You want more strokes per minute moving that paddle through the water.

6. What benefits of an adjustable paddle over a fixed-length one?

If you plan to use the same paddle among two or more users, adjustable is more flexible and can quickly be tailored to the height needed in seconds. Some of our adjustable paddles break into two and three piece paddles for ease of storage.

If you are using the paddle for yourself, then the fixed length is the way to go. You don’t need to adjust the size each time, and there are fewer screws in the paddle, making it lightweight and longer lasting (e.g. less corrosion of screws).