How to Choose a SUP Paddle

Most people do not think much about their paddle when they buy their first board. It comes in the box, it works, and that is that. But as you paddle more, the right paddle makes a noticeable difference to how efficient and enjoyable your sessions are.

Here is what to look for.

The Three Main Materials

Aluminium

Aluminium paddles are the most common entry-level option and come included with most beginner boards. They are durable and affordable, but they are also the heaviest option. Over a long session, the extra weight adds up and your arms will feel it.

Fine for occasional paddling and beginners, but worth upgrading if you paddle regularly.

Fibreglass

A significant step up from aluminium. Fibreglass paddles are lighter and stiffer, which means more of your effort goes into moving the board forward rather than flexing the shaft. A good mid-range option for regular paddlers.

Carbon Fibre

Carbon paddles are the lightest and stiffest option available. The difference in feel compared to aluminium is immediately noticeable. Less fatigue, more efficiency, and a more responsive stroke. Our 3 Piece Carbon Paddle is a popular upgrade for paddlers who want to get more out of their sessions without spending a fortune.

Fixed or Adjustable?

Most beginner paddles are adjustable, which means you can set the length to suit your height. This is practical if the paddle is shared between different people, or if you are still figuring out your preferred length.

Fixed-length paddles are lighter and stiffer because there is no adjustment mechanism, but you need to know your ideal length before buying.

What Length Do You Need?

The general rule for flat water paddling is to add 20 to 25cm to your height. So if you are 175cm tall, you want a paddle of around 195 to 200cm.

For surfing or more technical paddling, a shorter paddle gives you more control. For racing or touring, a longer paddle gives you a more powerful stroke.

If you are using an adjustable paddle, set it to the right length for your height and experiment from there.

Blade Shape and Size

Larger blades move more water per stroke, which gives more power but requires more effort. Smaller blades are easier on the joints and better for longer sessions.

For most recreational paddlers, a medium-sized blade is the right choice. High-performance racing blades are designed for athletes who can sustain the effort required.

One Piece, Two Piece, or Three Piece?

Three-piece paddles break down into three sections, making them easy to pack into a bag alongside your inflatable board. This is the most practical option for most paddlers. Our carbon paddle is a three-piece design for exactly this reason.

Two-piece paddles are slightly stiffer but less compact. One-piece paddles are the stiffest and lightest but only practical if you have a hard board and a roof rack.

When to Upgrade

If you are paddling more than once a week and still using the aluminium paddle that came with your board, upgrading to carbon is one of the best investments you can make. The difference in arm fatigue over a two-hour session is significant.

Browse our paddle range to find the right upgrade for your paddling.