A: Even though paddleboards look likeoversized surfboards, you don't need waves in order to enjoy thisself-propelled sport. In fact, flat water is preferred for building yourpaddleboard skills.
Q: Where can I rent a board?
A: Most surf shops that sell paddleboards also rent them. It's a great way to test out the sport before you commit to buying.
Q: What size paddleboard is best for me?
A: The choice is determined by acombination of paddler weight and skill, your intended use and the localconditions. Talk to an REI store employee for help with choosing theright paddleboard for you.
Q: Why does the paddle have an angle?
A: The elbow in a paddle provides a morepowerful, effective stroke. When you're paddling, the elbow causes thepaddle blade to align straight up and down as it comes alongside thepaddleboard.
Q: What should I wear for paddleboarding?
A: Wear clothing that lets you move andthat can get wet: shorts and a T-shirt or a swimsuit work well in warmclimates. In cold weather when hypothermia is a danger, consider awetsuit or drysuit. Always wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device).
Q: Do I need to wax the top of the paddleboard?
A: Most paddleboards sold at REI have atraction pad attached to the top of the board. These provide reliablegrip and should not be waxed. If you choose a paddleboard that doesn'thave such a pad or soft-top, you'll need to use a base wax and a gripwax (such as Sticky Bumps) to provide traction.
Q: How do I transport the board on my car?
A: You can transport your paddleboard onthe roof rack of a car. It's best to use a bar pad on the rack in orderto protect the board. Be sure to stack the board on the roof with thefin up, towards the front. Use surf-specific straps that won't crush thefoam on the board when you strap it down.
Q: Can the fins on a paddleboard be removed?
A: The fins on underside of the boardhelp with navigating through the water. They can be removed for traveland storage, but you won't want to paddle without them.
Q: Where is the best place to stand on a paddleboard?
A: Stand just behind the center point ofthe board. The nose (front) of the board shouldn't pop out of the water,and the tail shouldn't dig in.
Q: Can I take a paddleboard in rivers?
A: Yes, you can paddleboard almost any navigable body of water.
Q: Why not just use a kayak?
A: Kayaking is great fun, but the beautyof SUP is that standing up allows you to enjoy much better views, bothto the horizon and down into the water. It's a simpler sport to pursuethan kayaking, with less equipment required. It also offers a fantasticcore workout.
Q: Can you surf with a paddleboard?
A: Yes, but learn to surf in an empty break before you enter the lineup. When you get good, remember to share the waves!