Aspects to Look for In A High-Performance Inflatable Sup

 

Sup boarding has become a popular water sport. This has led to unscrupulous manufacturers flooding the market with cheap and substandard inflatable sup boards.

The outline below offers some guidelines to help you choose a high-performance inflatable that will give you value for money and serve you for a long time, without a need for a replacement anytime soon.

Board Categories

If you are relatively new to paddle boarding, an all round isup will suffice to help you gain sup boarding experience. A sport/performance sup board is for the skilled who love speed. An ultra-stable isup will come in handy if you fear falling and want to boost your paddle boarding confidence.

Some are for specific purposes, such as yoga boards, surfing boards, and touring boards. There are also boards available for uses such as fishing, group paddling, and windsurfing.

Board Shapes and Sizes

A large paddler is well able to handle a large board. Board sizes and shapes affect its performance in the following ways

• A narrow board is faster than a wide one

• A longer board has more glide than a short one

• A wider board has more stability than a narrower one

• Thinner boards feel more stable than thicker ones

The Fin System

The fin system plays a very big role in the performance and versatility of a paddle board. There are 3 main types.

1. Permanent Fin System

Most entry-level boards come with permanent pins that guarantee good performance, but they are limited in their performance settings.

2. Entry Level Fin System

A typical fin system has one large removable fin in the center and two shallow permanent fins at the sides. Boards with these fins are suitable for non-challenging conditions, such as waters with ample depth but can’t do well in shallow or rough waters.

3. Configurable Fin System

Some boards come with removable and interchangeable fins, allowing modification and fine-tuning of the board’s performance.

The Board's Construction

One layer of PVC protection is good enough to protect the board against minor scratches and dings and other common board accidents. But, if you have the capacity, go for a multilayered isup for added performance and durability.

Isup Accessories Needed

Isup Paddle

Consider the weight, construction, blade, and design of the paddle when choosing one. A full carbon fiber, though expensive, is light and is the best for paddling.

Pump or Inflator

You can choose a manual pump or an electric inflator. An electric inflator is more convenient and reliable.

Sup Leash

A leash tethers the board to you so that even after falling off the paddle board, you will pull the board to you and climb back on. They come in different types; choose one that goes well with your type of paddle boarding

Personal Floatation Device

This device is essential for personal safety and is a requirement by law to have one. The main types are an inflatable belt pack or a life jacket.

Conclusion

A lot goes in while choosing an inflatable paddle board. With this guide, your options are narrowed down to the very best inflatable sup. All the best!