CATCHING WAVES: PADDLE SURFING IS EASY
Standing up to catch waves can be easier than prone surfing, but only if you have the right board for your skill level
Modern paddle boarding as we know it was launched into existence by a few Hawaii-based surfers (BLAME LAIRD) who wanted an easier way to paddle into big waves and ride more of them. Stand Up Paddle Surfing allows the rider a better perspective to see the waves coming and paddle into any position with more control. The take-off is more forgiving and you can ride much smaller and less perfect conditions than required for prone surfing. However, paddle surfing can be frustrating and almost impossible if your board is not suited to your body weight and skill level. Before you paddle out for your next session, check out our recommendations for the paddle surf boards you can ride for fun and productive sessions at any level. Organized into three different skill levels, it's easy to see what board you need for stand up paddle success on the water.
SKILL LEVEL: BeGINNER
You have never paddle surfed before but you have the basic skills required for paddle surfing: Forward paddling, backward paddling, pivot turning, weight transfers, and balance while standing still.
Start your surfing journey on boards with high volume, moderate width and manageable length as you will need the most stability and glide to catch and ride waves without frustration or danger
SIC Tao Surf - Affordable & Durable
SIC Tao Surf 10'6 Tough-Tec $849.95
SIC Tao Surf 10'6 Ace-Tec $1099.95
Fanatic Fly - Quality + Stability
Fanatic Fly Soft Top 10'6 $1299 or 11'2 $1349
Soft and Durable for Worry-Free Rides
Fanatic Fly Vector Net 11'2 $1549
The Most Stable for Learning
Fanatic Fly Eco 10'6" $2199
Cork, Flax & Wood, No PVC Resin
Fanatic Diamond 11'2 $1599
Easy Handling for Petite Riders
Starboard - Industry-Leading Quality & Performance
Starboard Wedge 11'2" Starlite $1699
Speed and Stability in a Beautiful Design
Starboard Wedge In Action
SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE
You are comfortable catching and riding ankle to waist high waves; you can paddle out through the break and ride safely in to the beach. You can put yourself in the right position to ride the wave and can handle a variety of conditions from smooth to choppy water.
The intermediate level is all about learning to maneuver your board more effectively and efficiently on the waves. Now that you’re comfortable catching waves and riding the energy, it’s time for a board that will help you go faster and make quicker turns for better positioning to use the power of the wave. Boards that are lower volume with thinner rails and more aggressive tail and nose shaping will allow you to push harder and have more control.
Starboard - Performance 2 Ways
Starboard Whopper 10' x 34" Lite Tech $1099
Stability and Snappy Performance
Starboard Wedge 10'2 x 32" Limited $1389
New! Limited Construction Built Tough for Surfing
Fanatic - Stand Up Longboard Style
Fanatic Stylemaster 10' x 30.5" $1599
Fast and Smooth Longboard Style Riding
Waves Big or Small, Be the Master of Style on Them All
SKILL LEVEL: ADVANCED
You're comfortable riding all waves in all conditions; you're obsessed with Surfline and drop everything when the swell hits, especially when it gets big and sporty.
The Advanced Level finds you riding bigger waves and making more radical maneuvers. You’re comfortable catching waves at any size and can maneuver where you need to; you need a board that can handle all wave conditions and allow you to make critical moves as required.
Starboard - The Paragon of Surf Performance
Starboard Wedge 8'7" x 32" Blue Carbon $2799
Blue Carbon Construction is the Industry Leader
Fanatic - Made for All Waves
Fanatic AllWave 8'11" $1499
New Design for Upgraded Performance
Dig the rail and float the tail on all waves
SIC - Performance and Style
SIC Slice 9'0 x 29" $1499
A Real Speed Demon with Style
SIC Slice is made for Top Performers
ENJOY THE RIDE
Whether you're a beginner, intermediate or advanced rider, having the best equipment under your feet will make it easy to enjoy the ride
Take a closer look at the boards featured in my Blog by checking out the TAGGED PRODUCTS listed below. And as always, if you need more information or are ready to take a look in person, you can always ASK US ANYTHING