Paddle Comparison: SUP Carbon Paddle vs. SUP Aluminum Paddle
When you start stand-up paddleboarding, your first SUP paddle will probably be an aluminum paddle. Most rental stations offer SUP aluminum paddles for beginners for reasons we will explain in more detail. Carbon paddles can usually be rented for a higher fee or are not rented at all.
SUP Aluminum Paddles: Pros and Cons
When you first start out on the stand-up paddle board, it won't make a difference which SUP paddle you use. You'll be focused on standing correctly on the board, not falling in, and enjoying the incredible feeling of being able to "stand" on the water. That's why you won't worry about whether the paddle is too big, too small, or too heavy. It's simply an instrument that allows you to move the first few meters on the water.
Once you've completed your first tours and delve deeper into stand-up paddleboarding, you'll start to consider whether a SUP aluminum paddle is the right choice for you.
SUP Aluminum Paddles: The advantages
- Very low purchase price
- Robust, durable and hardly damaged when coming into contact with stones or similar
- Ideal family paddle, can be used by the whole family
- The right choice for advanced paddlers when things get wild in the river
SUP Aluminum Paddles: The disadvantages
- Heavier than fiberglass or carbon paddles
- Over long distances, paddling can become very strenuous due to the weight.
SUP Carbon Paddles: Pros and Cons
SUP Carbon Paddles: The advantages
- Very light, making paddling a breeze
- The low weight is gentle on your joints
- Higher stiffness of the paddle
SUP Carbon Paddles: The disadvantages
- High purchase price
- More susceptible to damage when coming into contact with stones
As you can see, both systems have significant advantages and disadvantages. Especially if you paddle a lot and want to do long tours on large lakes, a SUP carbon paddle is almost indispensable. However, the higher purchase price also makes some beginners doubt whether a carbon paddle is really necessary. That's why we are often asked if there is a SUP paddle variant between aluminum and carbon paddles.
Our fiberglass SUP paddle is the right compromise between aluminum and carbon paddles. At only 800 grams, it is significantly lighter than aluminum paddles and at a very competitive price. This makes the fiberglass paddle our recommendation for beginners who don't want to invest in an expensive SUP carbon paddle yet, but still want a light and robust paddle for getting started that feels good in their hands. The fiberglass SUP paddle is perfectly suited for both men and women.
By the way, we have hot news from our development for you: Our new "Sleek" paddle with a brand new material mix will be available soon! The shaft is made of 100% carbon and the blade is made of nylon! This makes the blade more resistant to damage, and the carbon shaft makes the paddle very light at only 760 grams. The "Sleek" paddle will be available in our online shop for only €149 - for pre-orders, feel free to contact us by email!
SUP TIP: Not sure which SUP paddle is right for you? Contact us with your ideas or visit us at a test event to try out our Glory Boards product range.
