Welcome to our beginner’s guide on how to hold a SUP paddle! Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) is an awesome water sport that needs the right technique and gear. Knowing how to hold your SUP paddle correctly is key to paddling with ease and preventing tiredness or injury. After years of paddle boarding experience, I still hear paddlers argue about the best SUP paddles to use and the correct way to hold the paddle. This guide will walk you through everything about holding a SUP paddle, from understanding the paddle to sizing it correctly. Whether you’re new to paddle boarding or an old hand, these tips will boost your paddle boarding skills and make your SUP sessions more fun.
Getting to Know Your SUP Paddle
For a fun and successful SUP session, the right paddle is crucial. It’s important to understand the different parts of your paddle, choose the appropriate paddle for your height and paddling style, and learn how to grip and position your hands correctly on the paddle. All these will enhance your performance on the water.
Your SUP paddle has three main parts: the blade, the shaft, and the handle. The blade is the wide, flat part at the bottom of the paddle that pushes you through the water. It comes in different shapes and sizes based on your preference and type of use. The shaft, the long, cylindrical part connecting the blade to the handle, should be strong and lightweight for easy paddling. The handle is where you grip the paddle and should be comfortable to hold for long durations.
The length of your paddle is crucial for top-notch performance. If it’s too short or too long, it can make you uncomfortable and affect your paddling efficiency. Typically, the paddle should be about 8-10 inches taller than you for flatwater paddling and 10-12 inches taller for surfing or racing. Also, consider your paddling style and the type of water you’ll be paddling in when picking a paddle.
Gripping your paddle correctly and positioning your hands right are key to efficient strokes and avoiding tiredness. Hold the paddle with a relaxed grip, with one hand on top of the handle and the other lower on the shaft. This gives you a balanced and controlled stroke. Keep your wrists straight to avoid straining them or getting hurt.
Assembling Your Paddle for SUP
Putting together your paddle correctly is key to a great SUP experience. Let’s walk you through how to connect the handle and shaft, adjust the paddle length, and make sure the paddle blade is securely attached.
Connecting the handle and shaft of the paddle: Align the ferrule button on the handle with the hole on the shaft. Push the handle into the shaft until you hear a click or feel it lock in place. Pull it gently to make sure it’s securely attached.
Adjusting the paddle length for best performance: The perfect paddle length varies based on your height and the kind of paddling you’ll be doing. Stand with the paddle beside you and raise your arm above your head. The paddle should reach your wrist or the crease of your wrist. If it’s too long, adjust the length by unlocking the ferrule button, sliding the shaft, and then locking it again.
Making sure the paddle blade is securely attached: Before you get on the water, check that the paddle blade is correctly attached to the shaft. Twist or push it firmly to make sure it’s securely fastened. This will prevent it from coming off unexpectedly during your paddleboarding session.
Sizing Your SUP Paddle
In SUP, picking the right paddle size is vital for a fun and efficient paddling experience. Here are some factors to consider when sizing your SUP paddle:
Choosing the right paddle length based on your height: Your height is a major factor in paddle sizing. Typically, the paddle length should be around 8-10 inches taller than you. However, this can change based on your personal preferences and paddling style.
Considering factors like paddling style and board width: Your paddling style and the width of your SUP board also influence the right paddle size. If you like a more leisurely paddling style, a longer paddle may give you better stability and reach. But if you prefer a more vigorous paddling style or have a narrower board, a shorter paddle may be better.
Finding the ideal paddle size for maximum efficiency: To paddle efficiently and avoid strain, it’s crucial to find the right paddle size. A paddle that’s too long or too short can result in inefficient strokes and discomfort. Try out different paddle lengths to find what feels comfortable and allows you to paddle efficiently.