I hope you all have been able to get out on the water this spring. It's been a slow start here in the midwest but I'm trying to make up for it. I found a new friend who offers a variety of paddle board activities through the week and on the weekend. Mindy @ Positive Vibes SUP & Fit is not only a certified yoga instructor but also a certified paddle board instructor. She's probably the only person in this area that offers year round paddle board activities with yoga in the pool. But now that's it's warm outside who want's to be indoors!
Amongst other activities, Mindy has a great group outing call "SUP & SIP". (Full calendar information at that link as well.) You not only get to try paddle boarding and meet new friends but then you'll get a wine flight at a the KC Wine CO winery afterwards. The paddle boarding portion is an about an hour and is at the beautiful Lake Olathe. This lake is secluded enough to get you away from highways and houses yet only a few minutes from K7 off of 135th St, just west of Olathe KS.
While out with the Positive Vibes group, I was able to try out an inflatable paddle board for the first time and was pleased with the experience. I have one more inflatable to try out, but then I plan on writing up a full review of inflatable paddle boards versus a rigid. Subscribe to this blog or follow our FB page for all the latest!
Sunday, May 20, 2018
Wednesday, March 7, 2018
Paddle Board and Kayak races!
There's always a few people who enjoy taking a leisurely activity like kayaking on the lake or paddle boarding with friends on a warm Saturday and turning it into a competition. These race events usually happen to the left and right extreme of the USA, but the midwest if finally catching on. Even Iowa has a river race. Check out the Great Iowa River Race in you're near Iowa City in June.
The MR340 has been around a few years and is gaining in popularity as an endurance event. The only midwest alternative to a river race is on a lake. Expect more of these events to pop up in the coming years. Once there's a template in place, several groups will begin hosting races of their own.
The Shawnee Mission Lake Hump Day 5K group currently holds show and go fun races every Wednesday evening beginning March 14th. They have also begun to plan the very first organized race event for kayaks and paddle boards. Expect the race to be on August 25th, start times will be around 9am. Follow their FaceBook page for details and registration information.
Don't forget to check out the Paddle Board KC website and FaceBook page!
The MR340 has been around a few years and is gaining in popularity as an endurance event. The only midwest alternative to a river race is on a lake. Expect more of these events to pop up in the coming years. Once there's a template in place, several groups will begin hosting races of their own.
The Shawnee Mission Lake Hump Day 5K group currently holds show and go fun races every Wednesday evening beginning March 14th. They have also begun to plan the very first organized race event for kayaks and paddle boards. Expect the race to be on August 25th, start times will be around 9am. Follow their FaceBook page for details and registration information.
Don't forget to check out the Paddle Board KC website and FaceBook page!
Tuesday, January 9, 2018
River Fins
There's three major forms of paddle boarding. Surf and open water with waves, flat water lakes and various types of rivers to explore. Paddling on rivers can include rapids, rocks, sandbars, logs and numerous hidden hazards. Here in the mid-west we have a number of small rivers to explore along with larger rivers like the Missouri and Mississippi. Smaller or faster flowing rivers will have more hidden hazards to cause a loss of balance and also damage your fin.
The best way to avoid hitting your fin on an underwater object is to not have a fin. But that won't be a very efficient way to travel. The next best option is to minimize the depth of your fin. There's several points to consider when trying to determine how small of a fin you can tolerate, but that's another topic for another cold winter day.
The latest option I've found is a retractable fin that retracts when in contact with an underwater object and springs back in place on it's own. This sounds like a very reasonable option but I would like to try it before giving a full recommendation. You'll maintain a fin deep in the water that provides lateral torque resistance without the extra bulk of a traditional dolphin shaped fin. With the extra mass near the fin box I would guess there to be increased drag, but a small price to pay for a deep fin that won't knock you off your board when you glide over that underwater log.
Check out Frog Fish Fins for more info about the features and benefits of this design!
The best way to avoid hitting your fin on an underwater object is to not have a fin. But that won't be a very efficient way to travel. The next best option is to minimize the depth of your fin. There's several points to consider when trying to determine how small of a fin you can tolerate, but that's another topic for another cold winter day.
The latest option I've found is a retractable fin that retracts when in contact with an underwater object and springs back in place on it's own. This sounds like a very reasonable option but I would like to try it before giving a full recommendation. You'll maintain a fin deep in the water that provides lateral torque resistance without the extra bulk of a traditional dolphin shaped fin. With the extra mass near the fin box I would guess there to be increased drag, but a small price to pay for a deep fin that won't knock you off your board when you glide over that underwater log.
Check out Frog Fish Fins for more info about the features and benefits of this design!
Saturday, December 16, 2017
Cheap Waterproof Action Camera for your SUP
The temps outside have dropped and the warm days of summer feel like they will never return. But when they do I'll be ready, will you? The winter in Kansas City is the SUP off season, a time to research products and discover more ways to enjoy paddle boarding.
I've always been without a waterproof camera so I'm limited on sharing my paddle boarding experiences. I was recently at my local Westlake hardware and noticed a GoPro knock off on sale for only $25! The brand is itek and the camera is called an the Action Pro sports camera. This brand and others like it are typically around $30 online. The need for instant gratification was strong and I always feel better about purchasing something from a brick and mortar store so it can be easily returned if my expectations aren't met. This camera DOES NOT come with a memory card unlike GoPro. However, the $300 GoPro at walmart only comes with a 32GB card that sell for about $15 at most every place these days.
I've always been without a waterproof camera so I'm limited on sharing my paddle boarding experiences. I was recently at my local Westlake hardware and noticed a GoPro knock off on sale for only $25! The brand is itek and the camera is called an the Action Pro sports camera. This brand and others like it are typically around $30 online. The need for instant gratification was strong and I always feel better about purchasing something from a brick and mortar store so it can be easily returned if my expectations aren't met. This camera DOES NOT come with a memory card unlike GoPro. However, the $300 GoPro at walmart only comes with a 32GB card that sell for about $15 at most every place these days.
I first did a little research online before I made my purchase and only found a couple areas of concern. For $25 the lower lens quality and risk of a leaky waterproof case was well worth the price. The customer review with the leaky case was "snorkeling" when it leaked so no telling how far down they were. Shouldn't be any issues from surface splashes and light submersion during paddle boarding. It does come with a waterproof case and numerous mounts.
I'll be posting a few test videos on the Paddle Board KC FB page and giving a follow up review on this blog site. Check it out and keep preparing your paddle board for those warm days on the lake. They'll be here before you know it!
Saturday, August 12, 2017
Pilates on Paddle Boards
Thanks Lisa at Better Bodies Pilates for my first pilates experience. AND it was on a paddle board! This was a fantastic and difficult activity that takes practice but add so much benefit to your usual workout routine. If you have no workout routine, this is also a great place to start!
Lisa was very wonderful and helpful with her instruction on my first outing. It's true that I've paddle boarded several times, but Lisa was very helpful to those who had not. You really get a paddle board lesson at the same time as a pilates class. Double BONUS! I truly wish the class was longer. It was such a way to start my Saturday morning. Lisa also offers weekday evening paddle board pilates classes as well as regular classes at their studios. Check them out. You'll have a great time, be more flexible and strengthen your core at the same time!
Lisa was very wonderful and helpful with her instruction on my first outing. It's true that I've paddle boarded several times, but Lisa was very helpful to those who had not. You really get a paddle board lesson at the same time as a pilates class. Double BONUS! I truly wish the class was longer. It was such a way to start my Saturday morning. Lisa also offers weekday evening paddle board pilates classes as well as regular classes at their studios. Check them out. You'll have a great time, be more flexible and strengthen your core at the same time!
Monday, August 7, 2017
What did you do this weekend?
Where did you paddle board this weekend? We'd love to here about your adventure and post your pics. The full time job took me to Dallas Texas this weekend and I had time to explore Grapevine lake by paddle board thanks to DFW Surf. Those guys have a great lake and a fantastic selection of boards. Cody is experienced and very knowledgable. You can join their club and have 24/7 access to the paddle boards. If you're eve in the DFW area it's worth your time to venture over to Grapevine lake. Prices were very reasonable as well, $25 for an hour and $40 for two hours. I'd recommend two hours, the cove is so large it'll take you 15 min to get out to the lake!
Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Paddle Board Pilates
Here's the latest Paddle Boarding activity in Kansas City. Lisa from Better Bodies Pilates has actually been teaching pilates on paddle boards for a number of years but we've just recently become acquainted.
Give Lisa a call to schedule your paddle board pilates for yourself and a few friends! 913-219-7779.
If you provide a paddle board activity or know of someone who does, we'd love to tell everyone about their services one this blog and our website!
Tuesday, May 2, 2017
Paddle board rental and sales options in KC!
So maybe you've seen those paddle boards at local sporting goods stores or maybe even one of our favorite outdoor lifestyle providers like REI. Those stores are fantastic and REI is by far the tops when it comes to product knowledge. But there's still one aspect that they don't offer.
There's now a local choice for paddle boards that lets you try the boards before you buy them. This is to make sure you get the best board suited to your needs and also provides basic instruction for those just starting out on their paddle board adventures. The service starts before you ever buy a board.
Contact Jon at Standup Midwest for prices and selection. His inventory is always rotating so send him a message and get fit to the board just right for you! He has boards for every purpose including touring and fishing!!!
Standup Midwest will also rent boards and set up a group demo day for your organization. Send a message through their Facebook page to get started and set up your day of fun and fitness. If standing while gliding across the water isn't your kind of fun, there's also kayaks and canoes to rent through KC Kayak and Canoe.
With all these options it's time to take on a new adventure exploring the river like Tom Sawyer or launching into a summer of fitness and fun that you promised yourself back in January. Be healthy Kansas City, Be Social and have fun doing it!
There's now a local choice for paddle boards that lets you try the boards before you buy them. This is to make sure you get the best board suited to your needs and also provides basic instruction for those just starting out on their paddle board adventures. The service starts before you ever buy a board.
Contact Jon at Standup Midwest for prices and selection. His inventory is always rotating so send him a message and get fit to the board just right for you! He has boards for every purpose including touring and fishing!!!
Standup Midwest will also rent boards and set up a group demo day for your organization. Send a message through their Facebook page to get started and set up your day of fun and fitness. If standing while gliding across the water isn't your kind of fun, there's also kayaks and canoes to rent through KC Kayak and Canoe.
With all these options it's time to take on a new adventure exploring the river like Tom Sawyer or launching into a summer of fitness and fun that you promised yourself back in January. Be healthy Kansas City, Be Social and have fun doing it!
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
Paddling activites in KC?
It's time to test the waters and see what type of response we get by asking...is there a place for recreational and competitive paddling sports in Kansas City?
Currently there is an outlet for paddling sports and activities in the KC area. You can rent a canoe or kayak and leisurely float down the Missouri or Kansas river. You can also rent kayaks and paddle boards at a few lakes in the area. There's even a fun race every Wednesday at Shawnee Mission Lake. Bring your own craft and compete against yourself and others in your category every week. Outdoor activity on the water is fantastic and has many physical, social and emotional benefits!
There are land based recreational activities that have fundraising or competitive opportunities. If you're a casual cyclist, you can sign up for several different benefit rides like Tour De BBQ. If you're a little more serious rider there are numerous road races, triathelons and duathelons. If you happen to be a casual runner there are numerous running events throughout the year for worthy causes and chances to beat your fastest time from years past.
We understand that paddle sports take a little bit more participation effort. First you need to purchase a water craft and then you need to find a place to store it when not in use. Oh and then when you want to use it, you've got to get it to the water somehow.
Beyond these differences, what is so difficult about paddle sports in Kansas City? Why aren't there more opportunities to get out on the water and enjoy nature away from the static ground we are all accustomed to? The opportunities are out there and we hope to make them less of a mystery. Not all of us live on the lake and it's much easier to participate in an activity that can happen from the end of your own driveway.
I know it takes more time, thought, planning and effort to use that kayak you bought years ago. Maybe you've always wanted to get a paddle board but just didn't see the benefit. Paddle boarding is a very social and family friendly activity. We'll give you every excuse you need to get out there on the water this summer! If you have questions please email us through the website!
Currently there is an outlet for paddling sports and activities in the KC area. You can rent a canoe or kayak and leisurely float down the Missouri or Kansas river. You can also rent kayaks and paddle boards at a few lakes in the area. There's even a fun race every Wednesday at Shawnee Mission Lake. Bring your own craft and compete against yourself and others in your category every week. Outdoor activity on the water is fantastic and has many physical, social and emotional benefits!
There are land based recreational activities that have fundraising or competitive opportunities. If you're a casual cyclist, you can sign up for several different benefit rides like Tour De BBQ. If you're a little more serious rider there are numerous road races, triathelons and duathelons. If you happen to be a casual runner there are numerous running events throughout the year for worthy causes and chances to beat your fastest time from years past.
We understand that paddle sports take a little bit more participation effort. First you need to purchase a water craft and then you need to find a place to store it when not in use. Oh and then when you want to use it, you've got to get it to the water somehow.
Beyond these differences, what is so difficult about paddle sports in Kansas City? Why aren't there more opportunities to get out on the water and enjoy nature away from the static ground we are all accustomed to? The opportunities are out there and we hope to make them less of a mystery. Not all of us live on the lake and it's much easier to participate in an activity that can happen from the end of your own driveway.
I know it takes more time, thought, planning and effort to use that kayak you bought years ago. Maybe you've always wanted to get a paddle board but just didn't see the benefit. Paddle boarding is a very social and family friendly activity. We'll give you every excuse you need to get out there on the water this summer! If you have questions please email us through the website!
Friday, April 14, 2017
Awesome SUP Accessories!
In anticipation of getting out on the water this season I've been looking around the internet for cool things that go along with paddle boarding. I've already purchased a paddle board keychain for my trailer and have been looking for a cup holder that can suction to the paddle board deck. I might just skip the cup holder and tie down a small cooler. Why take just one beverage when there's room for more. My mom always told me it's good to share with others.
Surf Station has these fantastic foam paddle holders with a sticky velcro backing. They show it attached to the paddle board deck, but they would be great to use for home storage or safe and secure transportation. The backs are simple sticky velcro that's available at most any hobby shop or hardware store. Two thumbs up to whoever invented these things!
There's so many fun things out there to customize your paddling adventures even if it's just hanging out in the cove with friends! Check back to see what fun things we've found and maybe we'll be able to give you a few product reviews throughout the summer.
Monday, April 10, 2017
Launching the website
New site launched and more content coming! Check out the new site and offer feedback, send a few pics and ask questions at Paddle Board KC!!! I couldn't wait to get this thing out there. We'll be providing educational content and taking the mystery out of paddle boarding. You'll be able to find everything you need to be involved in the KC paddle board community.
Cheers, get out and paddle!
Cheers, get out and paddle!
Friday, April 7, 2017
Community, culture and competition
For some reason paddling water sports for recreation and especially competition are not very well known in the Kansas City area. We want to change all that and bring those activities and that lifestyle into the mainstream. I realize there are a few obstacles that make water sports a less desirable activity than walking though the park or even riding a bike. But there's also so many more benefits! For example; if you get too hot walking, running or riding your bike your only option is to drink cold water or dump it on your head. If you get too warm when paddling in your kayak, canoe or paddle board you simply get in the water! Instant relief!!!
There's a culture and community out there that many people don't know about. I know I had no idea that so many events, groups and races existed in Kansas City. All these activities and groups are growing and looking for people just like you. You don't even need to own your own craft. you can simply sign up for a day on the water with Tom at KC Kayak and Canoe or take your own craft to Shawnee Mission Lake every Wednesday for a fun race with good people!
If you're really looking for serious paddling races there's a good number in Missouri and the surrounding area. And don't forget about the MO 340. Who would have thought that Kansas City would be the launching point for a 340 mile race down the Missouri river.
There's so many options yet to be discovered, so get out there and explore your local rivers and bodies of water!
There's a culture and community out there that many people don't know about. I know I had no idea that so many events, groups and races existed in Kansas City. All these activities and groups are growing and looking for people just like you. You don't even need to own your own craft. you can simply sign up for a day on the water with Tom at KC Kayak and Canoe or take your own craft to Shawnee Mission Lake every Wednesday for a fun race with good people!
If you're really looking for serious paddling races there's a good number in Missouri and the surrounding area. And don't forget about the MO 340. Who would have thought that Kansas City would be the launching point for a 340 mile race down the Missouri river.
There's so many options yet to be discovered, so get out there and explore your local rivers and bodies of water!
Friday, March 31, 2017
Road Trip!
Who wants to learn more about paddle boarding?!?! Are you somewhat experienced and would like to race or just impress your friends? We are working with Shane of SUP St Louis to schedule an instructor level training course. Email us if you would like more info or keep watching this blog or our FB page as information develops. I'm anticipating a two day adventure, leaving early early on a Saturday in May or June...but hopefully May. If enough people show interest we'll rent a van and pull a trailer so we can bring our own boards. But you're always welcome to meet us there and set your own drive schedule.
Friday, March 24, 2017
Paddle board mass start POV
Hey paddle boarders, check out this paddle board race mass start in the ocean! It's a great point of view but there's a few difference in paddling in the ocean verses flat water. In swells or choppy water you'll want a planing board, to be fast you'll want a narrow board, and to reduce drag you'll want a long board. Check out the boards during the video and click the link to find out the differences in planing verses displacement boards. Your board choice will be determined by where you paddle and how you'll be using the board. It you don't race, there's no need for a narrow displacement hull. If you're not going in the ocean then you'll need less rocker. If you're getting into paddle boarding for fitness, socialization and possible yoga then a stable moderate length board around 10 or 11 feet would be best.
See you out on the water!
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
SMP hUmp Day 5K
It started today! The season of Wed night racing fun! The SMP hUmp Day 5K is the best way to get out on the water with friends early in the season. You will need a boat pass to get on the water. $20 for KS residents and $30 for others, but it's good all year! I hope to see you out there!
Thursday, March 2, 2017
SUP Hydro Foil, super cool or super fad?
It's the newest thing out there! Read all about the SUP Hydrofoil on SUP The Mag site. If you're just starting out I'm sure the whole sport of paddle boarding is "the newest thing" out there. That's where we can hep get you started.
There's more and more links and info on the web everyday about paddle boarding. If you're looking for one of the best boards on the market check out Star Boards. They are innovative, strong and have a flawless design. If your looking for your first board but don't want the plastic things they sell at the local sporting goods stores there are still many options. Great boards for good prices are out there. Check out the options from SUP ATX. If you're interested in 4 or more boards please email me for discounted pricing; paddleboardkc@gmail.com
The primary purpose for SUP KC is to get you out there discovering the many bodies of water we have here in the area. Paddle boarding is a beneficial, social and easily obtainable recreational activity for the majority of the population. You don't have to be a fitness minded person and it's a great activity for families with kids!
There's more and more links and info on the web everyday about paddle boarding. If you're looking for one of the best boards on the market check out Star Boards. They are innovative, strong and have a flawless design. If your looking for your first board but don't want the plastic things they sell at the local sporting goods stores there are still many options. Great boards for good prices are out there. Check out the options from SUP ATX. If you're interested in 4 or more boards please email me for discounted pricing; paddleboardkc@gmail.com
The primary purpose for SUP KC is to get you out there discovering the many bodies of water we have here in the area. Paddle boarding is a beneficial, social and easily obtainable recreational activity for the majority of the population. You don't have to be a fitness minded person and it's a great activity for families with kids!
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
Learn to SUP!
So the cold weather is coming in and those hot summer days seem so far away. Past experience has told me they will once again return but until then lets talk SUP! If a paddle board is on your Christmas list this year you'll soon need to know what to do with it, where to go and who to go with. SUPKC can help with all those questions. We can even help you choose the right board for you.
Next spring we plan on scheduling an instructor training session with Shane from SUP St Louis. He's a certified PSUPA SUP instructor and has completed the MR340 and numerous water races by paddle board. I'd like to get a group of people to take a class or spend a weekend getting our instructors certification. We'll have to wait for water temps to be pleasant but early spring is the goal. If you're interested please email me or follow my blog for updates. Once we have a rough number of participants we'll know the price. Shane rents boards so I'm sure he'll have plenty on hand to use for training but I'm sure he wouldn't mind if you brought your own. Travel arrangements and accommodations will depend on the number of participants.
If you're not interested in taking the trip to St Louis but would like to learn more about SUP there's already a few instructors in the area and there will be a few more after our session with Shane next spring!
Merry SUP'ing Christmas and Happy New Year!
Next spring we plan on scheduling an instructor training session with Shane from SUP St Louis. He's a certified PSUPA SUP instructor and has completed the MR340 and numerous water races by paddle board. I'd like to get a group of people to take a class or spend a weekend getting our instructors certification. We'll have to wait for water temps to be pleasant but early spring is the goal. If you're interested please email me or follow my blog for updates. Once we have a rough number of participants we'll know the price. Shane rents boards so I'm sure he'll have plenty on hand to use for training but I'm sure he wouldn't mind if you brought your own. Travel arrangements and accommodations will depend on the number of participants.
If you're not interested in taking the trip to St Louis but would like to learn more about SUP there's already a few instructors in the area and there will be a few more after our session with Shane next spring!
Merry SUP'ing Christmas and Happy New Year!
Sunday, November 13, 2016
How do you SUP?
There's a lot of versatility and ways to incorporate paddle boarding into your fitness regime or summertime lake activities. We all know it's a great core workout and it's a unique vantage point on the water. But what else is there? How many ways can we utilize this simple floating surface? The fastest growing aspect is yoga and fishing on the board followed by fitness and group classes.
The only SUP related race here in Missouri is the MR340 but maybe we're all not up to that challenge. The idea of easily accessible events and fun competitions for those who don't yet own their own board has been born. Kansas City offers numerous cycling and running events and races of all shapes and sizes. There's very few human powered water sport events and races to speak of. Yet, we have an extensive number of lakes, rivers and able bodies individuals.
So why don't we have SUP events or races? That's the question I ask of you. What is stopping us from forming our own race series or charity events? It'll take all winter to make enough contacts to get this idea going and maybe a few years to actually have a local race series. We might as well get the ball rolling!
If you're reading this and you've ever been on a SUP please give me your ideas and the type of events you'd like to see here in KC! There's even paddle board camps for kids is various parts of the country. The ocean's the limit! Lets get paddling!!!
The only SUP related race here in Missouri is the MR340 but maybe we're all not up to that challenge. The idea of easily accessible events and fun competitions for those who don't yet own their own board has been born. Kansas City offers numerous cycling and running events and races of all shapes and sizes. There's very few human powered water sport events and races to speak of. Yet, we have an extensive number of lakes, rivers and able bodies individuals.
So why don't we have SUP events or races? That's the question I ask of you. What is stopping us from forming our own race series or charity events? It'll take all winter to make enough contacts to get this idea going and maybe a few years to actually have a local race series. We might as well get the ball rolling!
If you're reading this and you've ever been on a SUP please give me your ideas and the type of events you'd like to see here in KC! There's even paddle board camps for kids is various parts of the country. The ocean's the limit! Lets get paddling!!!
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Paddle Board Designs and Choices
There's so many apprehensions and options when considering stand up paddle boarding as a activity. First thing's first, if you're fighting the urge to get into yet another activity the answer is YES you should go for it! I'm a runner and a cyclist. I thought it was crazy to spend money on a new activity when I could buy so many things that would enhance my current sports. But after paddle boarding for one summer I can say that this sport will make you better at your other sports, even distance running.
I encourage you to spend the winter reading blogs, watching you tube videos and researching which board to buy. There's a few thousand sites out there with information regarding choosing a board so I won't go into much detail here.
The board design that is right for you depends on how you will use it, where you'll use it and your particular physical abilities. Please also consider if there will be someone else using the board as well. This also applies to the paddle type and length you should choose.
There are two main designs or shapes of paddle boards, displacement and planing. The most common is the planing hull which looks like a large surf board. The displacement hull as you could imagine displaces water and has a pointed bow to cut through the water much like a kayak. There are advantages and best uses for both.
If you've ever rented a paddle board you more than likely were on a planing board. They are the best choice for a first board for several reasons such as versatility, availability, durability and price. The planing board will accommodate flat water as well as small surf. You can find them at most sporting good stores or on line. They are generally made from a durable plastic or fiberglass.
The size of your board will depend on those who will be using it and the type of water. I'm here in the midwest so I'm going to assume you will be on flatwater and speak with that in mind. The primary user of the board should consider a few options. First option, will there be a secondary user? Your board should be large enough to accommodate the largest user. A small person can always enjoy a larger board, but a larger person will have difficulty on a smaller board.
A typical starting length is 10'6" with a width around 30-32". Check out the specs of each board to narrow down your search. Width, length, thickness and volume should be common information. A typical board for most people will be 10'6" long and about 31" wide. Most of these boards are around 4" thick.
*The thicker and the larger volume, the more buoyant the board will be.
*The wider the board is, the more stable it will be.
*The longer the board, the straighter it will track.
If you're interested in casual group events and maybe YOGA on your board, a wide and buoyant board would suit you best. The length will depend on your limitations for storage, portage and transport. A longer board will be more stable than a short board but it will also be heavier and take up more room in your garage...or living room wall.
If you're into FITNESS, you want to go fast, paddle in rough water or there's a possibility that you might take your board on long adventures, maybe a 340 mile adventure down the Missouri river, then you might want a displacement hull board that is 12-14' long.
When choosing a board you'll want to consider the material it's made of. Your choice will be either plastic or fiberglass. The plastic boards will be heavier but so much more durable. If kids will be using the board I would recommend the plastic board. A fiberglass board will be susceptible to cracking if dinged and need to be patched with an epoxy resin before water gets into the board.
If you'll be sharing the board or possibly taking on a passenger, a dog, child or second person, consider the total or max weight on the board at one time and compare that number to the provided manufacture specifications.
For my first board I chose a displacement hull board from Boardworks because I'm more likely to race the board than do yoga on it. The board is very stable and has a displacement of 290 liters and a max weight capacity of 300 pounds. This is more than I need but it'll allow me to take a friend across the lake for a picnic on a nice summer evening. :)
Cheers and happy paddling!!
I encourage you to spend the winter reading blogs, watching you tube videos and researching which board to buy. There's a few thousand sites out there with information regarding choosing a board so I won't go into much detail here.
The board design that is right for you depends on how you will use it, where you'll use it and your particular physical abilities. Please also consider if there will be someone else using the board as well. This also applies to the paddle type and length you should choose.
There are two main designs or shapes of paddle boards, displacement and planing. The most common is the planing hull which looks like a large surf board. The displacement hull as you could imagine displaces water and has a pointed bow to cut through the water much like a kayak. There are advantages and best uses for both.
If you've ever rented a paddle board you more than likely were on a planing board. They are the best choice for a first board for several reasons such as versatility, availability, durability and price. The planing board will accommodate flat water as well as small surf. You can find them at most sporting good stores or on line. They are generally made from a durable plastic or fiberglass.
The size of your board will depend on those who will be using it and the type of water. I'm here in the midwest so I'm going to assume you will be on flatwater and speak with that in mind. The primary user of the board should consider a few options. First option, will there be a secondary user? Your board should be large enough to accommodate the largest user. A small person can always enjoy a larger board, but a larger person will have difficulty on a smaller board.
A typical starting length is 10'6" with a width around 30-32". Check out the specs of each board to narrow down your search. Width, length, thickness and volume should be common information. A typical board for most people will be 10'6" long and about 31" wide. Most of these boards are around 4" thick.
*The thicker and the larger volume, the more buoyant the board will be.
*The wider the board is, the more stable it will be.
*The longer the board, the straighter it will track.
If you're interested in casual group events and maybe YOGA on your board, a wide and buoyant board would suit you best. The length will depend on your limitations for storage, portage and transport. A longer board will be more stable than a short board but it will also be heavier and take up more room in your garage...or living room wall.
If you're into FITNESS, you want to go fast, paddle in rough water or there's a possibility that you might take your board on long adventures, maybe a 340 mile adventure down the Missouri river, then you might want a displacement hull board that is 12-14' long.
When choosing a board you'll want to consider the material it's made of. Your choice will be either plastic or fiberglass. The plastic boards will be heavier but so much more durable. If kids will be using the board I would recommend the plastic board. A fiberglass board will be susceptible to cracking if dinged and need to be patched with an epoxy resin before water gets into the board.
If you'll be sharing the board or possibly taking on a passenger, a dog, child or second person, consider the total or max weight on the board at one time and compare that number to the provided manufacture specifications.
For my first board I chose a displacement hull board from Boardworks because I'm more likely to race the board than do yoga on it. The board is very stable and has a displacement of 290 liters and a max weight capacity of 300 pounds. This is more than I need but it'll allow me to take a friend across the lake for a picnic on a nice summer evening. :)
Cheers and happy paddling!!
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