Paddle Gonflable

Stand Up Paddle, origin and evolution

The Stand up paddle was born from the fusion between surfing and canoeing. It was in the 90s that Laird Amilton and Dave Kalama revived this form of water sport on the coasts of Maui, which was already practiced well before the 50s and the oblivion of this activity with the advent of short boards, which somewhat slowed down the development of its popularity.

However , this activity really became popular in 2004 during a competition in Hawaii. When, Lord Amilton had a stroke of genius when he decided to use a classic surfboard and a paddle. Today SUP is used for different needs and depending on the need the board differs.

• Surfing: SUP boards for surfing have thicknesses and reduced lengths
• Running: SUP boards are more long, a little narrower and more aerodynamic, like sea kayaks
• Walking around: SUP boards are quite wide and long and offer great stability.

SUP: the different models

There are 2 types of SUP boards:

• Rigid SUPs: they are made like surfboards (material, shape, etc.)
• Inflatable SUP: are constantly evolving over the years to provide better sensations for practitioners and also better performance for competitors. Inflatable stands are made of a material called " dropstitch".

Essential equipment and accessories

To practice Stand up Paddle, you absolutely need the additional accessories below:

• Leash paddle = the small rope attached to the ankle which connects the surfer to his board)
• Paddle life vest = to ensure your safety< /li>
• = inflatable or rigid
• = to allow you to navigate< /li>

Inflatable or rigid paddle?

This is the question that many people ask themselves when they decide to start their first stand up paddle (SUP) because they cannot choose or know what would suit them best. Generally they hesitate between rigid stand and stand. inflatable.

Why choose an inflatable paddle?

• You can move anywhere very easily with an inflatable paddle
• The inflatable paddle does not weigh much and is very shock resistant
• The inflatable paddle helps prevent accidents that could damage it
• Plastimo Inflatable Walkway is more accessible in terms of price and can remain inflated to ensure immediate availability for regular use

Rigid stand up addle, good to know

It is important to know that if you choose a rigid stand up paddle, you will need to make sure you have a suitable place to store it (like in a garage, for example). The rigid SUP has the following advantages:

• It offers better sensations compared to the inflatable
• Aesthetic level it is more attractive
• It offers great maneuverability to the practitioner who has an easy time catching waves
• Provides better surfing performance
• Its rigidity provides stability< /span>
• More inertia in the water

In conclusion, there is no exact science to choosing your paddle. This will mainly depend on your needs (leisure or competition) and the d edegree of use.

All your stand up paddle and SUP accessories are on Nautisports