Let’s discuss the recent guidance changes from Gov.UK, Canal and River Trust and British Canoeing
I’ve certainly done a lot of paddling during the Lockdown’s
A tough one to write about and discuss.. Paddling during Lockdown 3.0.. With many outlets including the Canal and River Trust and British Canoeing saying it’s OK to paddle.. Is it? Let’s take a look..
Outdoor exercise is still permitted, but should be limited to once per day
Outdoor exercise should be done locally wherever possible, but you can travel a short distancewithin your area if necessary to find an open space to exercise (such as a publicly accessible place to launch)
Organised and structured outdoor sporting activity must not take place
All indoor and outdoor sports clubs, centres, venues and facilities will need to close
Solo paddles or with your household, in local areas only..
Paddling for exercise is permitted within the government measures, so long as you are:
Solo
Paddling with people you live with
With your support bubble (if you’re legally permitted to form one)
When on your own, with one person from another household while following social distancing and I would advise no sharing of equipment
Personal equipment – It has been confirmed that collecting personal equipment belonging to an individual, from a facility such as a boathouse, to enable individual exercise is permitted.
Canal and River Trust’s website stating the navigations are open for paddle sports..
Main Guidance Notes:
Social distancing – Stay 2 metres apart from anyone not in your household. It sounds daft but I would take a face covering out on the board, some people may be isolating on a boat or barge – you just never know..
Outdoor exercise limits – Exercise should be limited to once per day. It is clearly stated on the Gov.uk site under Exercising.
Travel – Outdoor exercise should be done locally wherever possible, but you can travel a short distance within your area if necessary to find an open space to exercise (such as a publicly accessible place to launch).
Waterways licence – Paddlers are reminded that a waterways licence is required to paddle on licensed waterways. This is paramount as always, regardless of the license provider.
British Canoeing website and their Guidance
“If you break the rules…”
“The police can take action against you if you meet in larger groups. This includes breaking up illegal gatherings and issuing fines (fixed penalty notices)”.
“You can be given a Fixed Penalty Notice of £200 for the first offence, doubling for further offences up to a maximum of £6,400. If you hold, or are involved in holding, an illegal gathering of over 30 people, the police can issue fines of £10,000” –This is a direct extract from the Government website.
Probably the most Solo paddle I can show you!
Be sensible, those paddles will wait. There is absolutely no need to go exploring right now. Much like the first Lockdown – we are advising Stay at Home and to follow government guidance. You should not be attending waterways you do not know, which in turn could cause further, unnecessary stress on the NHS… Be sensible.
In my opinion and this isn’t guidance..
We are in a National Lockdown so you must follow the Government rules whether you agree or not – not Facebook, not some chaps on Instagram – the Police will simple say you aren’t following the rules and fine you as explained above. Some people will have to accept they cannot paddle right now – harsh reality, but true. Many people that paddle are land locked and cannot get to the waterways – there are other forms of exercise. Looking at the guidance of ‘local’, I would say in your village, or within walking distance.. Driving 15-20+ minutes for water isn’t local, a couple of miles within the same town would seem acceptable but I’ll try to get clarification on this..
When we get more updates through @StandUpPaddleUKwe will share them and I will update this post!
A Review of the Bluefin SUP 2020 Sprint Carbon for @StandUpPaddleUK
Ok so I’m a little ‘behind the 8 ball’ on this one as I’ve had this board since around August (well, a prototype) and then had the SUP Package for a couple of months now. So after a few trips away, and some lake & river testing. I am ready to write this.
Say hello to the redesigned, new and improved, 2020 Sprint Carbon
The 2020 Updated Colourway
I knew the folks at BlueFin SUP were looking at 2020 changes. In fact I had a sneak preview some time before they all were dropped – so to see the colour way and deck design changes was awesome. They have not disappointed when you open that box – it is all new and improved.
Even the Swans wanted to see this Board
This is their next generation of Tourer. As a user of the 2019 Sprint I can safely say the upgrade and change is apparent, but not just in its visuals. Coming in at 14ft long, 30inch wide (30.3 to be precise), and 6.2inch thick.. She’s quite a beast. A more flat profile has ensured the nose doesn’t stick too high from the water so you aren’t fighting head winds for the fun of it. They’ve opted for a US Box Fin over last years smart lock central fin – something I agree with as the choice to change fin is something the more experienced paddler will often do (you don’t want to always use the standard surf fin….) and the intro of the smaller side fins is a good idea as they do provide additional stability when on board.
The Board Rake is now much flat than its predecessor, meaning you don’t find yourself fighting the board when in a head wind, something I always found an issue with the 2019 Sprint.
They’ve also upgraded similarly to my 10’8 Cruise Carbon, adding dual chambers ie the ‘Carbon’ standard. This makes the board much more stiffer. I’ve also noticed the board glides in a straight fashion when paddling, something the 2019 suffered with but also could have been some poor technique on my part..
What’s it like to ride?
Well, as I said in my opinion this is the best board I’ve ever ridden in the Tourer class. Before you even get out on the water you will notice how well constructed the board is. You can see that the ‘Carbon’ is the flagship of their range. Five different handgrip positions for carrying the board (nose, tail, central grab, either side of centre by the rails), Several different D ring positions (same as last years cruise Carbon and Sprint, I haven’t attached the kayak seat as yet but this will work on this board). It’s not too heavy to carry solo which is obviously quite good considering generally you paddle solo! Weighing in at approximately 22kg* when pumped up, it definitely isn’t the lightest board but you can tell the difference in the rigidity. (*Bluefin confirmed the pumped weight is 22.4kg)
While we’re on the subject of rigidity, this thing is bloody stiff. That was one of my gripes last year with the 2019 model, it didn’t seem stiff enough and When trying to perform a step back turn you could feel the board bowing, that is not the case this year! I’ve knocked out a few step back turns on the 2020 and feels like more of a solid unit. The dual chamber of the board definitely helps.
The stiffer board, and lower rake profile make riding this board a real enjoyable experience
Given the boards profile this is a touring board, the Sprint name is quite deceptive thinking it might be a race board but it is more for long-distance tours. Given that I predominantly use Rivers and Canals where I live this board is perfect for me. The profile is very much set up for cutting through the water and so far I’ve got nothing but good things to say about using this board on the river.
A River Touring Beast
I was recently in the Lake District and obviously the board came with me. Myself and my girlfriend were staying right next to Ullswater lake so this was a spot I had to paddle. Given that the water was so flat here you really can ride any board, but I was on the Sprint Carbon, so getting up some speed and burning it around the lake was very much on my agenda! As I said previously, super stable even when getting bashed with roller waves from the Ullswater Steamer and local boats, the Sprint cut through all of it with ease, remaining stable in the process.
Standard UK raining on my Paddle days in Ullswater – bloody Moody
As you’ll see on the front of the board, there’s a white attachment – for your camera. There’s been so much uproar and complaint, to various brands, that have moved to this threaded attachment. The attachment for use is simple, a threaded M8 (something like this – https://www.irockersup.com/gopro-compatible-mount/) however if you email BlueFin they will send you one out. The threaded attachment is much safer than the last moulded GoPro mount as they were always prone to snapping after overuse. It’s also a more versatile mount for things other than a camera – I’ve recently seen some cool gear like cup holders, Garmin mounts, Phone holders (I wouldn’t recommend one of these haha!)
Things I Like
The new Design and Colourway
It’s a beast on Rivers, Canals and Lakes. I have been chewing up the water and haven’t got a complaint about how it has handled
The flatter profile of the board at the nose
Ultra stable and very rigid
It’s a complete package again with added new extras
The new Paddle is quite good, as someone who uses a paddle from another brand it has made me think twice about my paddle choice (rumours of a new stand alone paddle from BlueFin are out there……)
A great deal to like about this Board
Things I Didn’t Like
Not actually board related – more package..
Sadly yes, there are a couple things, but that is the same with any piece of kit. I love the GoPro Hero 9 but there was many things I wasn’t pleased about!
The Pump – still feels like a cheap alternative in comparison to something like Red Paddle’s Titan pump. When putting the BF pump under pressure, say 15-18psi, when standing on the ‘feet’ of the pump it somethings feels like you’re going to snap the body from the base. The intro of the ‘Triple Action’ is great as it relives user tiredness but the double action mode (ie pumps on push and pull) makes the pump feel weak as a unit.
The Hose for the Pump – still not properly connecting to the valve access. You really have to get it into the right position to get the hose working right or it pings out. I’ve actually ended up using my old Red pump or my electric charger, which is BlueFin, to make sure I’m not wasting time chasing the hose around. I’ve never found any hose on any BlueFin board I’ve had or used to be flexible.
The Bag – bit of a catch really as the Carbon range has wheels which is very handy but the back and arm strap padding isn’t the best especially if you have far to walk with a 20kg+ bag. Don’t get me wrong, the bag is durable – last years bag on the 10’8 Carbon is similar and has no damage whatsoever, just a padding issue!
Pricing
As with most of BlueFin SUP boards they come as part of a package deal. The board, a triple action Pump, US Box Fin/Smart lock fin 2x, Ankle leash, Board carry strap, Repair kit – all in a Carry Bag. And even now they have upgraded their Paddle to a super lightweight carbon, which is 100% an improvement on last year.
That is the high end of their board range, and I would suggest for anyone looking to get a Tourer but can’t afford this, you should look into the 2019 Sprint. It may have some flaws but it is still an great board which will serve you well.
The versatility and ability to pack your board, paddle, equipment into a single bag is really priceless
Possible 2021 Improvements or Changes?
I have a couple of suggestions, and to be honest it is items which we say to several brands..
Extend the Deck Pad Grip to the very rear of the board, even if there’s a cargo net. Mainly because I want to step back all the way. Plus it adds grip to your storage area!
A better pump. The ‘bigger’ brands have put a lot of time and effort into making a sturdy, beast of a pump, this isn’t quite there yet
Cargo Nets – would prefer to see an adjustable strapping or webbing as current type will become saggy over time which will need altering / cutting.
QR Belts and waist attachment with every board sold. That’s not a BlueFin SUP gripe, that’s an Industry gripe.
More guidance – information about SUP safety in the bag, as above – Industry gripe..
On the whole this is a very solid package and at the top end of a complete board package. I personally took the decision to use these boards a couple of years ago and I haven’t regretted it.
It really does need to be pointed out that even now, several months along, Coronavirus has really put a strain on production of all manufacturers including BlueFin being no different. I have seen a lot of negative commenting on places like Facebook but I think a lot of people need to realise that every part of the supply chain is stretched at the moment so you may well have to wait a few more additional days to get your board. Often issues aren’t from the manufacturer of the board, it’s actually the delivery service. Be Patient Paddlers!
A Leash Guidance article by @StandUpPaddleUK – Safety shouldn’t be an after thought..
The debate rages on and on, so here we go. @StandUpPaddleUK see so much incorrect info being chaffed around the Facebook paddle groups . You know the groups we are talking about. Firstly, leashes aren’t a choice, it’s an obligation as a paddler. Let’s explain What’s What…
StandUpPaddleUK believe it is time for firmer guidance and Manufacturer intervention
There are so many cross over scenarios with leashes and use.. generallya Coiled leash is the most common ‘everyday use’ leash for those we see on inland areas using rivers, canals and lake riders. But there is a valid and just argument for a Quick Release Belt when on anytype of water, and we agree – moving bodies and murky waters are dangerous places, you never know when you’ll need a quick release..
The Types:
The Straight Ankle Leash – mainly used for Surf, also useable on flat water. Great for SUP Surf as these won’t allow the board to ping back (like a Coiled). Straight leashes trail in the water and leave the deck pad clear for movement. This is the only leash for SUP Surf.
I often opted for a Straight Leash in my early days, with less information, as it was provided as standard with my board
The Coiled Ankle Leash – Most commonly used, but it’s for flat bodies of water and when racing. The coil sits on deck, clear of the water, which means you have much less chance of snagging it on unseen dangers under water / branches / seaweed / strapping / ropes / moorings. You’ll most often find these provided with SUP packages as they are versatile but that doesn’t mean it is the right leash for every trip. The Coiled Ankle Leash has become the standard leash being sold with boards, probably due to the position they take on the board when in use (not dragged in the water therefore slightly safer but still a risk).
A coiled Leash provided with many Brands of Board
The ‘QR’ Quick Release Belt w/ Coiled Leash – mainly used on white water (referred to as WW), but you will often see the more skilled or informed paddlers using a QR belt and leash on all types of water (Not Surf). The leash can be attached to a QR belt or sometimes your buoyancy aid if it accepts that attachment. When in white water the QR is pivotal, in a moment when you need to get detached from your board very quickly, it is the only option. Dale has done a few IGTV videos on @StandUpPaddleUK. We do suggest investing in a QR and leash for all water types, and always using this option in WW.
Dale with his QR belt and Coiled Leash on a gentle Canal paddle
A Quick Release belt is exactly that, a belt with a quick release buckle and pull cord / release strap (usually velcro with an adjustable resistance). Some brands are selling more of a setup which would be the belt, a split ring and key, a leash (which can be switch between the belt and ankle), and Restube. This link will connect you to a site selling the setups as above, as a belt only and a full setup. Take a look to see the difference.
FYI – a Restube is a safety backup on the water. Due to their small size the restube pocket can be worn around your waist or at your harness. If necessary, pull the trigger and restube inflates within seconds.
We are urging all paddlers to invest in their equipment, buy a QR belt and leash. The beauty of the QR belt is it is very quickly removed and stripped from the body when caught in danger.
When should I use a Leash? Trick question. There isn’t a scenario when a leash isn’t used. There are so many things to consider when getting out on the water, your leash isn’t a choice.
If SUP surfing a minimum is the ankle leash, to stop the board being flung in any direction, hitting others or yourself. *We are not suggesting QR with SUP Surf*.
Many of our followers paddle rivers and canals – murky, dirty and near impossible to see beneath the surface. Unseen dangers lurk! If you are on a fast moving segment of water, for example the River Wye (which also has white water) then really the best option is a QR belt with a Coiled leash. You need to remember, fast moving water places a constant flow against an object – If your leash is caught round, say a branch under water, you’ve past the point of being able to get back to the branch due to the flow. You’d need to Quick Release at this point.
We honestly feel the Quick Release Setup is the safest all round option regardless of water type.
With the exception of SUP Surf
Dale wearing a QR on the Canal in Leicester
@StandUpPaddleUK‘s Advice
Straight Ankle – only option for SUP surfing. Also Deep Lakes / Sea (if open water and not returning to areas like ports / moorings) Never in White Water.
Coiled Ankle – Flat Water, the Sea and when Racing. Never in White Water.
QR belt with Coiled Leash – Any type of water, always in WW, but not for SUP Surf. We would also note use on fast moving rivers due to the water speed, even slower canals due to the likelihood of below water dangers. The ability to remove it easily and fast is live saving.
We have a duty of care as paddlers, for ourselves and the ones we are paddling with. Brands have a responsibility of course. They do provide us with nice new leashes when buying a new board, but it is YOUR responsibility as the paddler to assess your needs for EVERY paddle. Assuming your current leash is a ‘one type fits all situations’ is incorrect.
Always assess your paddle route and water quality / clearness before heading out
We see hundreds, yes hundreds of tagged images on @StandUpPaddleUK of people incorrectly wearing leashes, using the incorrect leash for the job and more importantly, not wearing one at all – it is unacceptable, however I do not doubt that is due to lack of information.
We would like to see paddleboard manufacturers to change how they sell boards and what they sell with them. We are suggesting an option on websites when purchasing a board, a simple drop downbox that shows leash options; Straight Ankle Leash, Coiled Ankle Leash, or QR Belt with either option + the Ankle strap. This is the best way for manufacturers to promote good practice, choice for the varied paddler and ensure their duty of care.
We are also urging manufacturers to stop providing just an ankle leash – @StandUpPaddleUK are suggesting all brands move to a Quick Release belt with a Coiled Leash, on top of the standard ankle leash. As I am writing this, one British manufacturer has switched up from just selling an ankle leash to providing a QR belt also. I wasn’t going to name names but FatStick, you are setting the bar in the industry.
We are hoping this helps push the industry in the direction it needs to go. Correct information for all levels of paddler, not just a generic image showing standard use of leash types. This hasn’t been not written for likes or kudos. It’s been written because every single person in this industry has a duty of care and obligation to protect paddleboarders.
Brands – WE WANT TO WORK WITH YOU ON THIS. We don’t have allegiances – the only allegiance is to safe SUP. We want you providing the industry with good equipment, the correct safety equipment and informative advice – that’s where we can come in.
We have ideas, and we think we can help. Get in touch.. @StandUpPaddleUK / Darren and Dale
Discussing the points to look out for when buying a Paddleboard – @StandUpPaddleUK
When I think about paddleboarding I think open waters, the sound of the paddle breaking the top of a lake and generally just having quite a relaxed time. I’ve been paddleboarding now for a few years – I am by no means a professional but over the years with @StandUpPaddleUK I’ve tried, tested and reviewed various different board shapes and sizes, so I’d like to think I know a little bit about the subject, hence this post for @StandUpPaddleUK.
Firstly I’ll point out I use BluefinSup Boards, so yes, you’ll see them in some of the images in the post – this is not a ploy or plot directing people to specific brands, this is an honest post trying to help you find the right board. That aside, let’s get started..
In the industry there are many manufacturers of boards, obviously some are better than others – that’s a fact but you’ll be lured in by many peoples opinions. The StandUpPaddleUK managers are involved in many paddleboarding groups on Facebook & Instagram, there is a very common theme coming to the forefront every time we log into one of those apps. The want for ‘Cheap boards’ and a huge lack of information..
The current pandemic has really surged the interest in SUP. So much so all of the manufacturers that we are in communication with have has told us that they are struggling to keep up with demand, many out of stock. It’s very likely that most people will be having a staycation this year and the allure of a paddleboard seems like the perfect piece of kit for that trip in the UK.
If you’re having a Staycation, an iSUP is ideal..
I’ve always believed in the saying ‘buy nice or buy twice’. That is 100%the case when it comes to buying a Paddleboard, new or secondhand. I don’t want to get into a rant about one brand being better than another, so let’s discuss the key points you need to look out for when buying a Paddleboard;
Sizing (Length, width, thickness)
Board type (all-rounder, touring, race, surf, multiperson), yoga)
Versatility (Hardboard or Inflatable)
Quality of the Build (Drop Stitch, Chambers, Rails, Deck Pad)
Accessories (Pump, leash, paddle)
Manufacturers Eco-Credentials (are they working with any renewable technologies, do they provide a buyback system where they safely recycle old boards?) * this one is quite an important one for me personally*
Those are probably the key points to be looking out for when buying a board, let’s explain each one a little bit;
Sizing and Board Type
Finding what size is right for you is really the pinnacle when purchasing a board. Each type of board has its own set of characteristics so you really need to be choosy over what you select (ie are you a social, touring, racing paddler). A key point to note is most people will be OK with an All Rounder, but for those looking to cover more flat water may want to consider a longer board which will glide across the water better, and track straighter.
As with the characteristics, each board manufacturer will have a set maximum weight per board size & type, it’s always best to check with the manufacturer that the board you’re interested in will be able to hold your weight.
It will be very easy for me to put a chart here and say that a certain weight will work with a certain board, however it really does depend on the type of paddleboard you’re using. Do your homework with the specific brand you a considering buying – each brand will be able to help you with this.
For those in the beginners phase, here’s a rough guide for board width and thickness;
You will find the majority of boards run between 4-6″ thickness. 5″ is suitable for a beginner (and most people), with heavier paddlers opting for 6″. The thicker the board, the heavier the board. But again this will also differ with each manufacturer. Wider boards than you require can cause unnecessary instability and affect your paddle stroke (difficult to reach a vertical stroke pattern).. And a wider board is actually more board to control, bare that in mind.
All rounders in the 10’6-10’8 range are great boards for beginners in my opinion. A smaller paddler, 1.7m / 5.6 approx maybe opting for a smaller compact board like a 9’7 with a max width of approx 31-32″.
Remember, ROUGH GUIDE.
Note: I ride a 6.2inch thick tourer board, I’m 6ft, 88kg.. That’s a personal preference through trial of different boards, and for my usage type.
Versatility
Quite a simple one really. Are you looking to have a hardboard or an inflatable? Obviously with a hardboard you will need the facility to be able to transport the board and and store it. iSups are by far the more popular option is easily packed away into a backpack. Generally anyone manufacturer providing a paddleboard package will be able to have the board, a paddle and the pump housed in the bag. If you’re planning on hiking to lakes or travelling abroad then an inflatable is for you.
I’ve travelled abroad with my iSUP packed in a bag a few times. Very versatile and 100% flight safe in my experienceI’m not a user of a hardboard – I have used them in the past but for guidance on them I’d have to point you elsewhere for assistance..
Quality of the Build
Not all paddleboards are made equal.. What are the most important parts of a well constructed paddleboard? High Quality Drop Stitch (Single Layer, Stringer, Double layered or MSL Fusion (RedPaddleCO only), Double Chambers, Multi Layered Rails, Fin types…
Drop Stitch – there is quite a lot of different varieties of drop stitch patterns. For example my board has a double layer with around 11,200 stitches of 500 denier space yarn per m2 which makes up a very rigid board. Basically a woven drop stitch provides less stretch and higher strength. Again it’s very much manufacturing dependent because some brands are glue-free (laminated), others are using glued layers, but the key point to understand about drop stitch is it consists parallel sheets of material connected by thousands of 5 or 6 inch length threads. If a brand is promoting how good the drop stitches are then you’re on the right track to a good board.
– Laminated Double Layer construction makes for a more durable, stable, lightweight and more strong paddleboard. It’s the best performance construction being used by most brands. A Double Layer will be heavier (in comparison to a Single Layer) but it makes up for that by being longer lasting. There is a version of Double Layering which involves gluing – these types are much heavier and quite outdated in terms of technology. My understanding is this technology is still being used but the ‘big’ brands have phased it out.
–MSL stands for monocoque structural laminate. This has been developed by RedPaddle Co and only found on their boards. It’s lighter than other materials yet it maintains a stiffness and strength which is better than all the previous technologies RedPaddle have used.
– Some brands are using a Single Layer or Single Skin, these boards are generally cheaper due to the less intensive manufacture. Less material makes a more lightweight SUP. Single layer boards are generally less durable but much lighter than Double Layered.
– As above these are also brands using Single Skin with Stringer (Comes from a surfboard method of manufacture). The Stringer runs from nose to tail, it is a cheaper option on the spectrum. It provides a more rigid ride but still has some flex.
Rails – Generally a dual rail band is the most common set up, but you will see brands are still providing boards with a single rail with a taped seam. Personally I’d go for the dual rail as it makes a significant difference in the strength and durability of your board.
Double Chambered – having a double chamber paddleboard is another component of stiffness. As ever each manufacturer will have varying types of double chamber technology so once you’ve decided on the correct size board then you could look at the manufacturer and decide from there. In simple terms the chamber is what you pump air into. The advantages of a double chamber means the board will be very durable and more rigid. It also means that the air is evenly distributed across the board. On average Double chamber board is approx. 25-30% stiffer than a single chamber.
Fin Type – most boards come with a standard US Box fin. Arguably the most widely used. Some brands have their own take, for example a ‘Smart Lock’ Fin which is locked into place with a simple catch and lock system. Loads of different fin types, surf, touring, rivers.. That’s a different post though!
Accessories (in a Package)
Generally when you buy a paddleboard package it will include;
Board
Paddle (sometimes)
Leash (likely coiled)
Fin
Pump
Main Bag
That would be the minimum in a paddle boarding package, but as discussed previously there are manufacturers who only sell boards, no packages. On the face of it that’s a lot of kit in a bag and generally a manufacturers focus will be on the board as it is the main item.
A good indicator of a good package is the pump. If you pull out of pump and it’s very light weight, flimsy and cheap feeling piece of equipment then odds are that this manufacturer has focused on the board rather than the accessories. That’s my opinion but it is something I’ve found.
There are now so many different packages out there that it’s difficult to establish the difference but in my opinion any manufacturer providing a package set up should be charging you between £500 and £800 – that range should tick all the boxes.
Oh, the Leash, how could I forget you.. the foremost safety item of your SUP. All packages will be provided with a Leash, these come in various types (straight, coiled, QR, waist – post about specific uses to follow).
Never paddle without your leash. They save lives
As a user of an inflatable paddleboard which came in a package I can safely say that there are manufacturers out there who provide a solid bundle deal.
I’ve used several package boards for a few years now and had no issues
Manufacturers Eco-Credentials
As I said at the top this one is quite important one for me, and many SUP-ers, as you can imagine once your paddleboard is destroyed beyond use/badly punctured/ Non repairable; where does it go and how does it get recycled?
Many brands have their own initiatives, working with companies providing recycled materials to make boards. Others providing buy back services; when you upgrade they take your old board and recycle it / reuse materials. Others recycling boards in bulk safely. There is lots of good processes going on in the industry. Head over to any brands’ website and review their sustainability or environmental page for more info.
What you need to remember is that very cheaply manufactured boards are not going to recycled in a conventional way, if at all..
Now with all that being said. I’ve owned various different boards since I’ve started paddleboarding. I’ve purchased second-hand boards and I’ve had boards come straight from the brand.
My first board was a 10’8 RedPaddleCo, it was secondhand and served me very well
My Sprint 14 was a New Board and has been excellent since I opened the box
Do your homework when buying your first board, often finding a good secondhand board is the sensible option until you are 100% confident you will be sticking with paddleboarding for the long term. Outlaying over £800-1000+ on the top of the range paddleboard isn’t really a requirement when you’re a beginner. I would advise going to your local lake or paddleboarding club and asking to use the boards/have a lesson (obviously this will be dependent on coronavirus/social distancing as some clubs aren’t allowing rentals – this may well have changed). It’s always a great idea to test out different manufacturers boards before you commit to buying one..
Don’t be afraid to ask a friend to use their board. Here’s Dale and Me switching boards to give them a little test.. You’ll often be surprised by riding a similar board from a different brand
You’re going to find opinions on this absolutely everywhere online, dare I say snobbery too. There are many a paddler out there who are loyal to a brand and will push their specs. I’d advise speaking to the experts, people like supinflatables.co.uk/ – very knowledgable and a nice navigable site, with a ton of info. And of course the manufacturers themselves – most brands cover every size board and will be able to help you make an informed decision.
Well, that was a lot of information in one hit! As you can see once you start getting into the nitty-gritty of paddleboard construction you can really see why the best boards are expensive, and it is a minefield. They can be difficult to manufacture and the technologies used are not cheap so why would the board be? We want as many people as possible on the waterways, paddling safely and sustainably. This isn’t a post to push people away from the sport, far from it, more to make you consider what you are buying and where you’re buying it from..
@darrens_visuals 