Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) combines the best of kayaking and surfing, offering you the option to cruise in calm lagoon waters or charge waves in the open ocean.
Apart from knowing the various types of SUP available, it's also important to understand the difference between an epoxy paddle board and an inflatable SUP. Each type has its own advantages depending on your experience level and intended use.
Inflatable Boards
Inflatable SUPs are an excellent choice for beginners and first-time paddlers. Here's why they're so popular:
- Versatile performance - Inflatables perform effectively in all water conditions
- Easy to transport - Deflate and pack them into a backpack or car trunk
- Minimal storage space - No need for roof racks or large storage areas
- Surprisingly durable - The construction uses military-grade PVC layering, making them as rigid as epoxy boards when properly inflated
Inflatable SUPs need to be pumped to the manufacturer's suggested PSI to achieve optimal rigidity and performance.
Epoxy Boards
Experienced paddlers seeking enhanced performance gravitate toward epoxy boards. They're particularly suited for:
- SUP surfing - Better responsiveness for catching and riding waves
- Racing - Superior speed and glide characteristics
- Advanced maneuverability - Greater agility in varying water conditions
Epoxy boards offer enhanced speed, glide, and maneuverability that performance-focused paddlers appreciate. They deliver optimal performance across different water conditions and make wave-catching easier.
Which Should You Choose?
If you're new to stand up paddle boarding, start with an inflatable board to learn the basics. As your skills progress and you develop specific interests like surfing or racing, you may want to transition to an epoxy board.
Ready to try SUP for yourself? Sign up for a SUP lesson today and discover why this sport has become so popular in Hawaii!