Hard Paddle Boards

Hard Paddle Boards

Hard paddle boarding and Hard Paddle Boards were recognized as fast-growing sport in 2013. Based on surfing, SUP boards, or Standup Paddle Boards are structured so that the user can stand or sit on them. They can be propelled through the water using a long-handled paddle

The Paddling Board

Various versions of this sort of the paddling board have been around since 3000 BC, or perhaps even longer ago. The modern version gained popularity in the 1900s. Surfer John Ah Choy found that as he grew older, he had a hard time getting up and down off his surfboard. He started canoeing out and standing on his board to catch the waves. His sons liked the idea and started to imitate it. It was in this way that the paddling board began to be popular. Paddling boards are believed to have been inspired not only by surfboards but also by outrigger canoes, which are also paddled while standing and were extensively used around Hawaii for fishing.

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Best Hard Paddle Boards

The best hard paddle boards are constructed using a rigid material with a foam core for added buoyancy. The rigid part might be made of carbon fiber, wood veneer, or fiberglass. This material might be covered with an epoxy for greater water resistance and durability. The paddles have a blade, a long shaft, and a handle. They should be 10 to 15 inches longer than the height of the user. Narrow boards slide through the water at a greater rate and are used for racing, while wider boards are more stable and are great for children and beginners, or for people who want to do Yoga or meditation on the water.

Solid Sup Boards

There are a wide variety of solid SUP boards or standup paddle boards. There are two styles that are excellent for children and for beginners. Children’s boards are usually scaled down for younger users, are extra wide for stability, but shorter so they can be more easily carried and used by youngsters. Entry level boards for adults are wide and ride high in the water, allowing a skilled user to even stay dry while onboard! Touring paddle boards are wide with extra flotation to easily enable carrying goods and gear. As previously mentioned, slim boards are designed to slip through the water with ease, enabling extra speed. If that were not enough, some boards are designed for use on “flatwater” where there is unlikely to be much turbulence, while others are specifically made to be used on ocean coasts where waves are to be expected.

Epoxy Paddle Board

An epoxy paddle board is a rigid board that is made of foam with layers of fiberglass and epoxy encasing the buoyant core. While perhaps not as sturdy as a wood veneer board, an epoxy paddle board is exceptionally light and will glide quickly through the water. The layering also gives plenty of options for fanciful designs and colors. Added features for an epoxy paddle board might be a coil line, an adjustable carbon paddle, and a fiberglass stabilizing fin. Their smooth finish encourages cutting through the water cleanly.

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Rigid Paddle Boards

Rigid paddle boards are relatively durable, reasonably lightweight, and are great for beginners. They have the disadvantage of not being easy to pack, and if you have a compact vehicle, you will need a good luggage rack on top of your car.

Good maintenance is essential for preserving your rigid paddle board. The first step in taking care of your board is to always rinse it off completely upon exiting the water. Pay close attention to joins and crannies where salt and other water-borne particles might catch.

Next, as soon as possible, wash it with a mild detergent that is antibacterial and antifungal. This will not only preserve your board, but it will also help prevent spreading microbial growth from one water system to another – something that has become important in recent years. Use a soft cloth and avoid rubbing too hard on the finish.

Finally, rinse your board again, using clean water.

The cleaning process should happen every time you use your board.

While cleaning, check your rigid paddle board for cracks or worn spots in the finish. If you find any, allow the board to dry completely before making any repairs. If the worn or damaged area is too large to simply add a fresh coat of epoxy, patches are available that can adhere to the worn area.

Storing Your Hard Paddle Board

Depending on where you live, you might use your hard paddle board seasonally. Proper storage will help preserve it from one season to the next. Here are some thoughts on storage:

• Clean your board thoroughly and detach the fin.
• Make any necessary repairs.
• Dry the board completely. Never put away wet.
• Place in a reflective storage bag.
• Store out of direct sunlight.

Some Added Thoughts:

• If paddling in twilight conditions, add some reflective tape to your board and to your swim gear.
• SUP boarding, like many other outdoor sports, is best done with a buddy.
• Always leave a “flight plan” in your residence or near the place where you leave the shore. No one plans to require rescuing, but it helps your friends and family if they know where to start looking. If you don’t want physical evidence lying around, use your phone to text your plans to a friend or family member.

Wrapping up Hard Paddle Boarding

Hard Paddle boarding is based on many generations of things that are likely to float. The formal beginning is in 1940, when John Ah Choy began having trouble getting on and off his surfboard. It was formally recognized as a fast-growing sport in 2013. Paddle boarding is a fun sport, especially when you take care of your paddle board and practice good outdoor activity safety.