The Power of Hard Paddle Boards: Exploring the BenefitsThe popularity of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has skyrocketed over the past decade. As SUP enthusiasts and beginners alike seek out the perfect board, one fundamental question often arises: should they opt for an inflatable or a hard paddle board? While inflatables offer easy transport and storage, it is the hard SUP that often takes the cake in terms of overall performance and longevity. In this article, we will delve into the unique benefits of a hard SUP to help you make an informed decision about your next board. PERFORMANCE AND STABILITY: THE WINNER IS HARD PADDLE BOARD A hard paddle board, often crafted from materials like carbon fiber, bamboo, plastic, or foam-filled fiberglass, provides optimal performance in a wide array of water conditions. Compared to their inflatable counterparts, hard boards offer better glide, speed, and maneuverability, owing to their rigid and sleek design. This is particularly beneficial when paddling long distances, navigating choppy waters, surfing, or for those participating in SUP racing. Hard SUPs also provide superior stability, crucial for beginners learning to balance or for those practicing SUP yoga or fishing. The rigidity and width of the board create a solid, non-flexible platform that makes these activities more manageable and enjoyable. PRECISION AND CONTROL If you're keen on surfing waves or slicing through choppy waters, a hard paddle board can provide the precise control you need. Its rigid structure allows for quicker, sharper turns, and an overall enhanced responsiveness to your movements. This allows advanced paddlers to execute maneuvers with a degree of finesse and speed that inflatable boards may not match. ENHANCED DURABILITY AND LONGEVITY The durability of a hard paddle board is another considerable advantage. These boards are resilient against wear and tear, often outlasting inflatable boards. Though inflatable SUPs have seen significant improvements in durability, they are still susceptible to punctures and leaks. On the other hand, hard SUPs, especially those with epoxy construction, can withstand impact and abrasion better, adding years to their lifespan. Remember, though, that proper care and storage are vital to prolong the life of your board, regardless of its type. HYDRODYNAMIC EFFICIENCY The design and shape of a hard paddle board play an essential role in its hydrodynamic efficiency. Hard SUPs usually have a defined, sculpted hull that slices through the water more efficiently than an inflatable board. The result is a smooth, swift paddle boarding experience, which can be an exhilarating delight for SUP enthusiasts. CONSISTENT SHAPE AND VOLUME Unlike inflatables, the shape and volume of a hard SUP remain consistent over time. This consistency translates to predictable, reliable performance. For SUP racers, surfers, or anyone looking for precise control over their board, this is a significant advantage. With inflatables, there's always the risk of shape deformation or a loss of rigidity due to improper inflation or gradual leakage. ECO-FRIENDLY CHOICE When considering environmental impact, hard paddle boards may come out ahead. While inflatable SUPs are lightweight and compact, their construction materials and the resources used in the repair or disposal process can be harmful to the environment. Hard SUPs, with their enhanced durability, require fewer replacements and repairs, thereby minimizing environmental footprint. EXCELLENT MATERIAL FOR HARD PADDLE BOARDS
A unique subset within the realm of hard paddle boards, those constructed from bamboo, offer a myriad of benefits. This sustainable and versatile material presents an ideal solution for paddlers concerned about environmental impact while also seeking top-notch performance. Bamboo is a renewable, natural resource that grows much faster than traditional hardwoods, making it a more sustainable choice. In terms of durability, bamboo paddle boards rival even the most robust carbon fiber or epoxy boards. Bamboo's natural fibrous structure provides an impressive strength-to-weight ratio, making these boards tough and resilient yet lighter than you might expect. Bamboo paddle boards exhibit exceptional thermal stability. While other materials may warp or deteriorate under extreme heat, bamboo remains stable, ensuring your board's longevity even if you live in a warmer climate or often paddle in sunny conditions. While both inflatable and hard SUPs have their place, the hard paddle board shines in terms of performance, durability, precision, and ecological impact. The benefits of a hard SUP and one made from bamboo in particular, make it a worthy investment for both beginners looking for stability and advanced paddlers seeking performance. So, the next time you are weighing your options, don't underestimate the potential of a hard paddle board – it may just be the perfect board for your next adventure. The Power of Bamboo: Unveiling The Best Materials for Paddle BoardsPaddle boarding has become a popular water sport, appealing to individuals seeking adventure, exercise, and tranquility on the water. When it comes to selecting the best paddle board, the choice of material is crucial. While several materials are available in the market, one particular material has gained significant attention and acclaim for its exceptional properties - bamboo. In this article, we will explore the various materials used in paddle board construction and highlight why bamboo stands out as a superior choice. FOAM BOARDS Foam core boards are one of the most common types of paddle boards due to their affordability and versatility. These inexpensive boards are typically constructed using expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which provides excellent buoyancy and lightweight characteristics. However, foam core boards often lack the durability needed for intense paddling or challenging water conditions. They are prone to dents and damage, making them less suitable for long-term use or rough waters. INFLATABLE BOARDS Inflatable paddle boards, also known as iSUPs, have gained popularity due to their inexpensive price and portability. These boards are made from PVC materials and can be inflated and deflated for easy transport and storage. While inflatable boards are lightweight and easy to carry, they often lack the rigidity and stability of solid boards. They are better suited for calm waters and recreational use rather than aggressive paddling or wave riding. WOODEN BOARDS Wooden paddle boards offer a timeless and aesthetic appeal, evoking a sense of tradition and craftsmanship. Constructed using various types of wood, these boards provide excellent durability and performance. However, they can be heavy, making them less ideal for beginners or those seeking faster maneuverability. Additionally, wooden boards require regular maintenance to protect them from water damage and warping. FIBERGLASS BOARDS Fiberglass boards are widely recognized for their strength and durability. These boards consist of a foam core wrapped in layers of fiberglass fabric, which are then coated with epoxy resin. This construction method creates a rigid and sturdy paddle board that can withstand rough waters and impacts. However, fiberglass boards are heavier compared to foam core boards, but will last for years compared to weeks or months of foam boards. CARBON FIBER BOARDS Carbon fiber boards represent the pinnacle of paddle board technology, offering unparalleled strength, rigidity, and performance. Constructed using layers of carbon fiber fabric infused with epoxy resin, these boards are incredibly lightweight and boast exceptional stiffness. Carbon fiber provides an optimal strength-to-weight ratio, allowing paddlers to experience maximum speed, agility, and control on the water. It's important to note that carbon fiber boards often come at a much higher price point compared to other paddle board materials due to the cost of carbon fiber and the advanced manufacturing techniques involved. However, for those seeking the utmost performance and reliability, carbon fiber boards are well worth the investment. It's worth mentioning that while carbon fiber boards excel in terms of performance and durability, they do not possess the natural aesthetic appeal that some other materials, like bamboo or wood, offer. The sleek and modern look of carbon fiber boards may appeal to some paddlers, while others may prefer the timeless beauty of natural materials. THE BAMBOO ADVANTAGE Amidst the various materials used in paddle board construction, bamboo has emerged as a superior choice. Bamboo possesses remarkable qualities that make it an ideal material for paddle boards. First and foremost, bamboo is incredibly strong and flexible, allowing it to withstand impact and stress without compromising performance. Its natural resilience also makes bamboo paddle boards more resistant to dents and damage, extending their lifespan. Furthermore, bamboo is a sustainable material with low environmental impact. It grows rapidly and requires minimal water and pesticides, making it an eco-friendly choice compared to other materials. The use of bamboo in paddle board manufacturing promotes sustainability and reduces the carbon footprint associated with the production process.
Bamboo also offers excellent weight-to-strength ratio, providing a balance between lightweight agility and structural integrity. Only carbon fiber offers a superior ratio but it comes at a higher price point. Paddlers of bamboo boards can enjoy enhanced maneuverability and responsiveness on the water, allowing them to navigate waves and currents with ease. Additionally, bamboo paddle boards exhibit natural shock absorption properties, ensuring a smooth and stable ride, even in choppy waters. Selecting the right paddle board material is essential for an enjoyable and rewarding paddling experience. While various materials offer unique advantages, bamboo stands out as a top choice due to its exceptional strength, flexibility, and sustainability. Bamboo paddle boards strike a perfect balance between durability and lightweight maneuverability, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Embracing bamboo as a material of choice not only enhances personal performance but also contributes to the preservation of our natural environment. So, paddle forth with the power of bamboo and embrace a more sustainable and thrilling paddle boarding journey. How Many Types of Paddle Boards Are There?The vast world of paddleboarding might surprise newcomers with its immense diversity. So, how many types of paddle boards are there? To answer this, we’ll delve into the distinct types of boards, highlighting each's unique features. By the end of this article, you'll have a good grasp of which paddleboard might fit your needs, whether it's a solo ride on tranquil waters or a delightful journey with a family paddle board. ALL-AROUND PADDLE BOARDS All-around paddle boards, also known as general-purpose boards, are the Swiss Army knives of the paddleboarding world. They are exceptionally versatile, suitable for flat water paddling, touring, light surf, and even some yoga. Their design incorporates a round nose and tail, providing a stable and forgiving experience ideal for beginners and those who enjoy a variety of paddleboarding activities. SURF PADDLE BOARDS As the name suggests, surf paddle boards are specifically designed for the thrill of riding waves. They are typically shorter and narrower, with a pointed nose and a thin tail, allowing for quick turns and maneuvers. Though they can be challenging for beginners due to less stability, they are a fantastic choice for experienced paddleboarders seeking an adrenaline boost. TOURING PADDLE BOARDS The streamlined design of touring paddle boards promotes swift, straight tracking, making them perfect for long-distance paddling and exploring. These boards have a pointed nose, which efficiently cuts through water, and a slightly tapered tail to maintain speed. Their ample volume and width offer good stability, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced paddlers. RACE PADDLE BOARDS For speed enthusiasts, race paddle boards are the go-to. These are long, narrow boards with a pointed nose and a slender tail, designed for optimal speed and efficiency. They are typically less stable due to their narrow width and are recommended for experienced users. YOGA PADDLE BOARDS Yoga paddle boards are a unique fusion of exercise and nature, providing a floating yoga mat for those who like their sun salutations with a splash. These boards are typically wider and longer for enhanced stability, with a soft, non-slip deck pad allowing comfortable yoga poses. WINDSUP A hybrid between a windsurfing board and a SUP, the WindSUP is designed to allow for both paddleboarding and windsurfing. These boards usually feature a mast foot fitting for attaching a windsurfing sail, adding an extra layer of versatility and excitement. FISHING PADDLE BOARDS
The niche of fishing paddle boards has been growing recently, proving that you can combine the peace of fishing with the active lifestyle of paddleboarding. These boards are typically wider and longer, providing ample space for storing gear and ensuring stability while reeling in your catch. FAMILY PADDLE BOARD Family paddle boards are an excellent choice for those looking to involve the whole clan in the sport. To some, family paddle boards mean a larger board, allowing for multiple riders at once. Others view a family board as being one that the whole family can use. A key feature of every successful family board is stability and durability to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. A family paddle board can transform simple days out into unforgettable memories for each member of the fam. INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARDS (iSUPS) iSUPs have gained popularity for their ease of transportation and storage. Made from PVC exterior with woven fibers connecting the top and bottom inside, they can be deflated and rolled up when not in use. They're perfect for traveling and can withstand various environments - from serene lakes to whitewater rapids. However, they are also more dangerous than hard paddle boards. Being inflated, there is a chance of rapid deflation due to puncture or faulty seam. The world of paddleboards is vast and varied, offering something for everyone, from the beginner seeking a stable all-around board to the family looking for a shared adventure on a family paddle board. With such a wealth of choices, you're bound to find the perfect board to meet your paddleboarding aspirations. Happy paddling! How Do I Choose a Paddle Board for Beginners?Choosing the perfect paddle board as a beginner can be a daunting task given the numerous varieties available on the market. However, it can be simplified by understanding key features, focusing on stability, versatility, and ease of use. The ideal choice for novices is typically an all-around paddle board. The all-around paddle board is named for its all-encompassing nature. These boards are created to be user-friendly and suitable for all water conditions - from serene lakes to ocean surfing. They are designed with a balance between stability, speed, and maneuverability, which makes them perfect for beginners looking to venture into paddle boarding. An all-around paddle board is typically longer, wider, and thicker than other more specialized boards. This increased size gives it more buoyancy and stability, which are important for beginners who are still getting a feel for balancing on the water. But how do you go about choosing the right all-around paddle board for your needs? UNDERSTAND BOARD DIMENSIONS For beginners, size matters. The dimensions of the board affect its performance on the water, with longer and wider boards providing more stability - crucial for those just starting out. An all-around paddle board often falls between 10 to 12 feet in length and 30 to 34 inches in width, making them a suitable choice for most newbies. The thickness of the board also impacts stability, with thicker boards offering more buoyancy. But remember, the best dimensions for you will also depend on your size and weight. CHOOSE THE RIGHT MATERIAL All-around paddle boards come in different materials, primarily inflatable and epoxy. A common belief is that inflatable boards are great for beginners due to the inexpensive price, ease of storage and slightly softer surface in case of falls. In reality, inflatable paddle boards offer less stability and can be more challenging for the beginner in less-than-ideal water conditions. Epoxy boards like Wappa, on the other hand, offer better performance and efficiency on the water but can be more challenging to store and transport. CONSIDER THE HULL TYPE There are two main types of board hulls: planing and displacement. All-around paddle boards generally feature a planing hull, which is flat and wide, similar to a surfboard. They're designed for stability and versatility, making them ideal for beginners. THINK ABOUT WEIGHT CAPACITY
A paddle board must support your weight to provide effective buoyancy and stability. Always check the weight limit of the board, ensuring it can accommodate your weight and any additional gear you might want to bring along. PAY ATTENTION TO PRICE AND QUALITY As with any sporting equipment, there is a wide range of prices for all-around paddle boards. It’s crucial to balance affordability with quality. As a beginner, you may not need a top-of-the-line board, but you don't want to skimp on quality either. A poorly made board may not perform well, ruining your paddle boarding experience. LOOK FOR ADDITIONAL FEATURES Features such as deck padding for comfort, a built-in carry handle for easy transport, and D-rings for attaching a leash or other gear, all add to the functionality of the board and can enhance your overall experience. Remember, the goal as a beginner is to find a board that allows you to comfortably learn and enjoy the sport. With the right all-around paddle board, you'll be able to explore a variety of environments and conditions as you develop your skills and confidence. Ultimately, the best paddle board for you is one that fits your body, meets your needs, and makes you excited to get out on the water! Paddleboards for Women: What to Look for in a Beginner-Friendly BoardINTRODUCTION When it comes to paddle boarding, selecting the right equipment is crucial, especially for beginners. If you're a woman who is starting her paddle boarding journey, choosing a board that suits your needs and skill level is essential. In this article, we will discuss the key factors to consider when searching for a paddleboard that is suitable for beginners, with a focus on the needs and preferences of women. Let's dive in and explore the important aspects of paddleboards for women. SIZE AND STABILITY As a beginner, finding a paddleboard with ample size and stability is paramount. Opt for a board that is wider, longer, and thicker, as it will provide enhanced stability and balance. These characteristics help to make the learning process easier and build confidence on the water. A wider board typically offers more stability, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable ride. Additionally, selecting a paddleboard with a higher volume can improve buoyancy, making it easier to balance and paddle. Look for boards specifically designed for beginners, often labeled as "all-around" or "beginner-friendly" paddleboards. However, do not get a board to large just because it is super stable. Stability is quickly learned, and in a couple of years, the added size may feel like a hindrance. WEIGHT AND MANEUVERABILITY Consider the weight and maneuverability of the paddleboard, as it can significantly impact your overall experience. As a beginner, you may need to transport your board to and from the water frequently. In such cases, opt for a lightweight board that is easy to carry. Additionally, ensure the board is maneuverable enough to navigate different water conditions. Look for lightweight foam based hard boards made from materials like bamboo. DECK PAD COMFORT AND TRACTION For extended periods of paddle boarding, the comfort and traction of the deck pad become crucial. Look for a board that offers a soft and cushioned deck pad, providing comfort and preventing foot fatigue. A good deck pad also offers excellent grip, ensuring a secure footing even when wet. Some boards may have textured or diamond-patterned deck pads that enhance grip and prevent slippage. Opting for a board with an ergonomic deck pad will enhance your overall paddle boarding experience and allow you to enjoy longer sessions on the water. ADJUSTABLE PADDLE
Selecting the right paddle is as important as choosing the paddleboard itself. Look for a paddle that is adjustable in length, as it allows you to customize the height based on your preference and body size. An adjustable paddle ensures proper technique and minimizes the risk of injury. Additionally, consider lightweight materials such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, as they provide better maneuverability and reduce arm fatigue during paddling. Investing in a high-quality, adjustable paddle will enhance your efficiency, comfort, and overall enjoyment while paddleboarding. Choosing the right paddleboard for beginners is essential to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience on the water. When searching for a paddleboard for women, consider factors such as size, stability, weight, maneuverability, deck pad comfort, traction, and an adjustable paddle. By keeping these aspects in mind, you can find a paddleboard that suits your needs, enhances your skills, and enables you to progress in your paddling journey with confidence. So get ready to hit the water and enjoy the incredible world of paddleboarding. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CHEAP AND EXPENSIVE PADDLE BOARDS?Paddle boarding has become an increasingly popular water sport, attracting enthusiasts of all skill levels. When it comes to purchasing a paddle board, one of the primary considerations is the price. Paddle boards can vary greatly in cost, with some being relatively cheap and others being more expensive. The difference between cheap and expensive paddle boards lies in various factors, including materials, construction, performance, and additional features. In this article, we will explore these differences in detail. MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION One of the main factors that contribute to the price difference between cheap and expensive paddle boards is the quality of materials used in their construction. Cheap paddle boards often utilize lower-grade materials such as PVC or low-density foam cores. These materials may not be as durable or lightweight, which can impact the overall performance and longevity of the board. On the other hand, expensive paddle boards are typically made from high-quality materials like fiberglass, bamboo, carbon fiber, and epoxy resin. These materials offer superior strength, durability, and lighter weight, resulting in enhanced performance and a longer lifespan. PERFORMANCE The performance of a paddle board can vary significantly depending on its design and construction. Cheap paddle boards may lack the necessary features and design elements that contribute to better performance. For instance, they may have a less streamlined shape, which can lead to slower speeds and reduced maneuverability on the water. Additionally, cheap boards may not have a well-designed rocker profile (the curvature of the board from nose to tail), which affects stability and handling in different water conditions. Expensive paddle boards, on the other hand, are often engineered with careful consideration of these factors to optimize performance. They may feature sleek designs, advanced rocker profiles, and specialized fins, all of which contribute to improved speed, stability, and maneuverability. ADDITIONAL FEATURES Expensive paddle boards tend to come with a range of additional features that enhance the overall paddling experience. For example, they may include deck pads or traction pads made from high-quality materials, providing better grip and comfort, or even things as simple as ergonomic handles to make carrying the board easier. In contrast, cheaper paddle boards may lack these additional features, compromising comfort, and convenience. BRAND REPUTATION AND QUALITY ASSURANCE
Another factor that influences the price difference between cheap and expensive paddle boards is the brand reputation and quality assurance. Established and reputable brands like Wappa invest in research, development, and rigorous testing to ensure their boards meet high-quality standards. They often provide longer warranties, customer support, and a track record of customer satisfaction. On the other hand, cheaper paddle boards may be produced by lesser-known brands or manufacturers that prioritize cost-cutting over quality assurance. This can result in lower quality control, limited warranties, and a higher likelihood of manufacturing defects. LONGEVITY While cheap paddle boards may be more budget-friendly initially, they may not offer the same level of durability and longevity as their more expensive counterparts. The higher-grade materials and construction techniques used in expensive paddle boards contribute to their ability to withstand wear and tear over time. They are less prone to damage from impacts, UV exposure, or prolonged exposure to water. In contrast, cheap paddle boards may degrade more quickly, requiring more frequent repairs or replacement, ultimately making them a less cost-effective choice in the long run. The difference between cheap and expensive paddle boards lies in the quality of materials, construction techniques, performance features, brand reputation, and longevity. While cheaper paddle boards may be suitable for occasional or recreational use, they may not offer the same level of performance, durability, and additional features as their more expensive counterparts. If paddle boarding is a sport you intend to pursue regularly and you desire better performance and longevity, investing in a higher-quality, more expensive paddle board is likely to provide a more satisfying experience in the long term. Can You Have Two People on a Paddle Board?A regular question for shoppers of family paddle boards is if you can you have two people on a paddle board? While technically possible, paddle boards are not designed for two people. VOLUME IS KEY A person’s ability to stand above the water on a paddle board is due to its volume. A paddle board’s volume is measured in Liters and the more volume a board has. the greater the weight is can displace. Displacement occurs when an object (paddle board) enters water, it pushes out water to make room for itself. The object pushes out a volume of water that is equal to its own volume. As a result, a paddle board with a large amount of volume can support more weight. In order for two people to be on a paddle board, the board’s volume must be able to support the combined weight of the riders. For families, it is possible to paddle with an adult and a child, however, two adults may be to much weight for most boards. BALANCE AND GLIDE Event though, it’s technically possible to take two people on a paddle board as long as the board’s volume can support you, it doesn’t mean that you should. Paddle boards are shaped to support a single rider. All quality paddle board have a “sweet spot” on the board that maximizes rider balance and the board’s flow through the water. Usually, this is close to or just behind the centre of the board. When weight is displaced outside of the sweet spot, the board becomes less stable and performance suffers. Having a second person sitting behind the paddler may cause the back portion of the board to submerge. Once a board begins to submerge, it will become more difficult to paddle distance due to increase water drag and reduce glide. The drag will also affect the paddlers’ ability to maintain the desired course. Children or dogs sitting at the nose of the board will also affect the boards performance on choppy water. Many paddle board styles have a rocked nose to help the board move over water chop. The added weight along the front of the board, prevents the board from naturally rising and lifting over the chop. Plowing through water chop degrades performance and reduces the boards glide. SAFETY
For safety, paddlers need to be tethered to their paddle board with a leash. The leash is the connection between the paddler and the board. The board provides SAFETY. It is a solid surface that will keep the paddler from drowning. Leash attachments ae located on the rear of all paddle boards. Unleashed riders sitting at the front of the board risk the chance of falling off and quickly becoming separated from the board. Being separated from the board can increase the risk of drowning. People looking for a family paddle board should steer clear of trying to find a paddle board that fits two people. Paddle boards are not designed like canoes or tandem bicycles. In reality, they are designed for individual paddlers. If you really have your heart set on going for a paddle with your children, then get a wide paddle board like the Wappa Olas. The extra width provides added volume for the extra weight without negatively affecting the boards glide or performance. Better yet, get your children their own board so they can be safely leashed, and have fun paddling together. Will I Lose Weight Paddle Boarding?Paddle boarding is a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. It's also an effective way to burn calories and lose weight. But will you actually see results if you paddle board regularly? In this blog post, we'll explore the potential of paddle boarding for weight loss and how to maximize your results. WHAT IS PADDLE BOARDING? Paddle boarding is a water sport that involves standing on a wide, buoyant board and using a long paddle to propel yourself through the water. It's an excellent full-body workout that can help you build strength, balance, and endurance while enjoying the scenery around you. MUSCLES WORKED WHILE PADDLE BOARDING Paddle boarding is definitely a full-body workout! All areas of your body are exercised while paddling. Upper Body: Pectorals, Deltoids Back: Trapezius, Rhomboids and Lats. Core: Abdominals, Obliques and Erector Spinae Legs: Glutes, Hamstrings and Quadriceps HOW MANY CALORIES DOES PADDLE BOARDING BURN? The exact number of calories burned while paddle boarding depends on several factors such as your weight, intensity level, and duration of your session. Generally speaking, it's estimated that an hour of moderate-intensity paddle boarding can burn up to 500 calories for someone who weighs 150 pounds. That number increases if you increase the intensity or add in some additional exercises like squats or lunges while you're out on the water. TIPS FOR MAXIMIZING WEIGHT LOSS WITH PADDLE BOARDING If you're looking to maximize your weight loss with paddle boarding, there are a few tips that can help: - Increase Your Intensity: To burn more calories during your session, try increasing your intensity by paddling faster or adding in some additional exercises like squats or lunges while you're out on the water. - Change Up Your Routine: To keep things interesting and prevent boredom from setting in, try changing up your routine every once in awhile by doing different types of exercises or paddling in different directions. - Make It Social: Invite friends or family members to join you for a paddle boarding session so that you can have fun together while getting fit!
- Track Your Progress: Tracking your progress is key when it comes to seeing results from any exercise routine. Keep track of how many calories you burn during each session as well as any changes in body composition (such as inches lost) so that you can stay motivated and on track with your goals. Paddle boarding is an excellent way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors while burning calories and potentially losing weight over time. By increasing your intensity level, changing up your routine periodically, making it social with friends or family members, and tracking your progress along the way, you can maximize your results with paddle boarding for weight loss! Can You Use a Paddle Board in the Ocean?paddle boarding on the oceanIs it possible to use a paddle board on the ocean? The quick answer is Yes! Stand up paddle boarding was developed on the ocean and it evolved from longboard surfing and outrigger canoeing. However, not every paddle board is suitable for the ocean, and paddlers should understand what makes a paddle board ocean ready. USE A HARD PADDLE BOARD When it comes to paddle boarding on the ocean, the best choice is to use a hard paddle board. Hard boards such as bamboo paddleboards are superior to inflatable paddle boards in all ways and it is in the ocean environment where the differences between the two technologies are highlighted. Hard boards are naturally stiffer than inflatables which provides a better platform to handle the water chop of the ocean. The stiffness provides balance and helps the board flow through the rougher water with ease. BE SAFE ON THE OCEAN People who have spent their lives in lake water are often surprised about the power of the ocean upon their first experience. People who are able to walk many feet from the lakeshore are often surprised that the water can be over their head a few feet from shore in the ocean, and lake tide doesn’t compare to ocean swells and currents. It doesn’t take long for paddlers to quickly move away from shore on the ocean and before you know it, the beach could be out of sight. For safety’s sake, you should use a hard paddle board on the ocean. There is a chance that inflatable paddle boards might suddenly lose air pressure and rapidly sink, increasing a drowning risk. In 2022, the governments of the United States and United Kingdom issued recall and safety warnings about inflatable paddle boards, because of the chance of sudden and rapid deflation. Paddler’s finding themselves on a suddenly deflated inflatable paddle board far from shore, are at a serious risk of drowning. Even if connected to the inflatable by a leash, there will be nothing buoyant for the paddler to stand upon or hold onto. This safety risk does not exist with hard paddle boards. There is ZERO chance of a hard paddle board sinking in the ocean. THE INFERIOR INFLATABLE FLAT BOTTOM Many paddle boarders on lakes own an inflatable paddle board and are happy with them. Inflatable paddle boards are great for people who want to paddle close to the lakeshore on calm waters. In fact, this is the way that most people become introduced to the sport, paddling close to shore. All inflatable paddle boards have flat bottoms. Flat bottoms are fast, and offer a good level of stability on calm water. However, once the water becomes a little choppy, the flat bottom becomes a liability. Stability is dramatically reduced and the paddler will feel less balanced. Ocean water is rarely glassy outside of the early morning. Once the sun rises higher in the sky and the wind picks up, the morning ocean calm turns to chop. As stated earlier, hard paddle boards are better in choppy water. Most hard boards do not have a flat bottom. Their bottoms are concaved. Like a catamaran, concaves allow a paddle board to be more stable on the choppy water. Water flows past the board more easily, enabling easier paddling and improving the feeling of balance.
Yes, it’s possible to use a paddle board on the ocean and it’s highly encouraged. Just remember that the ocean is not the lake or river. It is much stronger and needs to be respected. Always wear a leash when paddling on the ocean. You and your board may become quickly separated after a fall otherwise. For optimal safety and a better paddling experience, use a hard board in the ocean. You’ll experience better balance and their will be zero risk of drowning from sudden deflation. If you’re going to use an inflatable on the ocean, wear a PFD, only paddle in calm conditions and stay within a swimmable distance to the shore. Are Your Too Fat to Paddle Board?Let’s make things clear right from the get go. You are not too fat to paddle board! The key for success is to get a board that can support your weight. That’s why paddle boards come in various sizes. People also come in various sizes. A paddle board that works well for a 150 lb person won’t perform as well for a 250 lbs person. To the heavier paddler, the smaller board will feel much less stable and will sit lower in the water creating more drag. When the lighter person is on a paddle board designed for heavier people, the board will be extremely stable, but it will take more strength to paddle and it will be harder to maneuver. A person could submerge a paddle board if she is too heavy for the board’s design. This doesn’t mean the paddler is too fat to paddle board. All it means is that she is too heavy for THAT paddle board. In other words, the submerged paddle board simply didn’t have the volume to hold the paddler’s size. WHAT IS VOLUME? A paddle board’s volume is measured in Liters and it signifies how much water is displaced by the board when it enters the water. Paddle board manufacturers create boards of different volumes to enable a better match between rider weight and the board’s function. A perfect example of this is the Wappa CLASSIC and NOVA. Both boards have similar All-Around shapes, and are designed to do the same things. The biggest difference between them is their size. The Nova is 10 inches longer and has 25 more liters in volume (190L CLASSIC, 215L NOVA). This means, that a heavier person can ride the Nova and experience the same ride as a lighter person on the Classic. THE PURPOSE OF VOLUME A paddle board’s volume is determined by the size of the board. Generally, the longer and wider the board, the greater the volume. Volume brings two things to a paddle board. Stability, and how much weight it can support before submerging. The greater the volume, the more stable the board and the greater the rider weight that can be supported. However, as rider weight increases, a boards stability may decrease if the rider is close to the board’s maximum rider weight. SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS
As stated at the beginning, the key to paddle boarding success is to get a board that matches your weight. Generally, a smaller person will find a board with less than 200 liters in volume to be quite stable. For a heavier person to feel the same level of stability, they will need to purchase a board over 200 liters. When shopping for a paddle board, be honest with yourself and your weight. Once you match your weight and experience level with a board of proportional size, you will have found a winner. Avoid paddle boards that are advertised as “paddle boards for women”. This is nothing but a marketing ploy. Success in paddle boarding is based upon matching a properly sized board to your weight and experience level. It doesn’t matter how big of a fatso you think you are. You are not too fat to paddle board! You just need a board to match your weight. Now find that board and have some fun!! |
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