Yes! With the right inflatable SUP board, you can surf small to medium waves. Look for a board that’s 9.5-10.5 feet long, 28-30 inches wide, and 4-5 inches thick for better maneuverability in surf conditions.
Can You Surf on A Stand Up Paddle Board?
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is an eco-friendly and healthy way to enjoy the water, and some people want to surf on an inflatable paddle board. Do you really surf on a stand up paddle board? The short answer is yes! With the right inflatable paddle board and the right technique, none of these are issues.
Not all inflatable paddle boards are designed for surfing, but many inflatable paddle boards can easily handle small to medium waves. If you want to try SUP surfing, here are a few key things to look for when choosing an inflatable paddle board:
SUP boards between 9.5 - 10.5 feet in length, 28 - 30 inches in width, and 4 - 5 inches in thickness are more maneuverable and can be used in the waves.
Proper fin setup: A thruster (tri-fin) or quad-fin setup helps with stability and steering in surf conditions.
If you love paddleboarding and want to try something new, SUP surfing is a fun and challenging way to take your skills to the next level. It offers a unique perspective for paddlers, allowing you to catch waves earlier and stay on them longer than traditional surfers. Plus, it’s a great workout that improves balance, core strength, and endurance.
If you’re new to surfing, it’s not recommended to try inflatable paddleboarding right away, at least until you’ve mastered the basics and can successfully ride small waves.
If you’re a surfing enthusiast, grab your stand up paddle board, find a good spot, and give it a try—you might just discover your favorite water sport.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Surf on an Inflatable SUP Board?
Yes! With the right inflatable SUP board, you can surf small to medium waves. Look for a board that’s 9.5-10.5 feet long, 28-30 inches wide, and 4-5 inches thick for better maneuverability in surf conditions.
What’s the Best Blow Up Paddle Board for Surfing?
A blow up paddle board designed for surfing should have a narrower width, a thinner profile, and a thruster or quad-fin setup. These features improve stability and control when riding waves.
Is an Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Good for Racing?
While inflatable stand up paddle boards are great for recreational paddling and surfing, racing requires a longer, narrower board for speed. If you’re into racing, choose an inflatable board at least 12 feet long and 28-30 inches wide.
Where Can I Try SUP Surfing in Canada?
Canada has great spots for SUP surfing, including Tofino, BC, Lawrencetown Beach, NS, and select Great Lakes locations on windy days. These areas offer waves suitable for inflatable SUP surfing.
How Do I Start Surfing on an Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board?
Start with small waves, keep your feet shoulder-width apart, and use your paddle for balance and steering. It’s best to practice basic paddling skills before attempting surfing on an inflatable SUP board.