The SUP Paddle Guide: Which Paddle Is Right for Me?

Der SUP Paddel Guide: Welches Paddel ist das Richtige für mich?

Besides the right SUP board, the paddle also contributes greatly to how much fun you have on the water while stand up paddling.

There is a large SUP paddle selection on the market and we want to help you find the right paddle for your needs.

  • Aluminum SUP Paddles

    Most beginners experience their first paddling attempts with an aluminum paddle. Aluminum paddles are robust and inexpensive, but much heavier than carbon or fiberglass paddles. The paddle blade is made of plastic and the shaft of aluminum. Aluminum paddles are all-round paddles and prove useful when the whole family, for example, uses a beginner set.
    Due to their robustness, aluminum paddles are also used for river SUPing, for example.

  • Fiberglass Paddles

    Fiberglass paddles are in the mid-price range and are significantly lighter than aluminum paddles. They are not as susceptible to damage as carbon paddles and are very suitable for beginners and intermediates.

  • Carbon Paddles

    Carbon paddles are the most expensive paddles, but they have many advantages. The biggest advantage is the weight. Carbon paddles are very light and this pays off especially on longer tours, where an aluminum paddle already causes tired arms. Carbon paddles are unfortunately a bit sensitive, so you should be especially careful with stones and never use the paddle to "brake" on the shore.

Adjustable Paddle or Fixed Paddle?

Just a few years ago, carbon paddles with a fixed length, tailored to the rider, were very trendy. Meanwhile, divisible and height-adjustable paddles have become more popular, as the length of the paddle changes with a quick-release fastener depending on the application. With one paddle, you can combine several uses like wave and touring due to its adjustability.

Divisible paddles prove very useful if you want to take your SUP equipment with you when traveling.

The size and shape of the SUP paddle blade

The size of the paddle blade is an important factor when buying a new paddle. The larger the blade, the greater the thrust, but also the greater the force you have to exert. A smaller paddle blade means more paddle strokes, but also less effort per paddle stroke. Petite women therefore choose a smaller paddle size than large, strong men.
The shape of the paddle blade also has a great influence on the paddling characteristics. All-round paddles are rather tear-shaped, while paddles that require optimal propulsion – like our Fast Track Carbon – have a narrow blade that can be guided close to the board.

The SUP Paddle Grip

After a few paddle sessions, you'll realize that the paddle grip is one of the most important buying criteria. The paddle grip must feel comfortable and be ergonomically shaped, otherwise you risk unpleasant blisters on your hands after just a few paddle strokes, which can significantly reduce the fun of stand-up paddling. Before you buy a paddle, definitely test the grip to see if it fits well in your hand and you feel comfortable with it.

Stiff or flexible SUP paddle?

Paddles with higher flex offer more riding comfort, are gentler on the joints and a good choice for stand-up paddle beginners. Stiffer paddles build up more pressure with each paddle stroke, but also require more effort and are therefore more popular with more athletic paddlers.

The GLORYBOARDS Tip

To protect your carbon paddle from damage during travel or transport, it's best to use a paddle bag. This way your paddle is perfectly protected from scratches!

If you need tips on buying your new paddle and are not sure which paddle is right for you, then send us a message and we will advise you on buying a paddle!

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