Stand Up Paddle Height
What height for your stand up paddle
What should my SUP paddle length be? One of the most commonly asked question with Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Well it really comes down to personal preference, but is also influenced by what you’re doing on your SUP. To get you started here is the Mongoboards basic guide to paddle length.
Flatwater/ Allround
For cruising and general paddling, a paddle length approx 6 – 8 inches above the head of the paddler is a good place to start. It can then be tweaked according to individual needs. This length of paddle in relation to paddler height means it’s a pretty efficient set up – not too short to make you bend over too much and not so long that it’s cumbersome swapping sides. You should be able to hold the paddle handle comfortably with the shoulder of the blade in the water, and, when the paddle is in mid-stroke, the handle should be no higher than your eye-line.
Surfing
Typically a paddle set up for surf will be shorter than one for general paddling, somewhere between 2 and 4 inches above your head. There are several reasons for this; SUP surfing is far more dynamic than other SUP disciplines and a shorter paddle suits paddling in a more compact surf stance, making power strokes easier, allowing for tighter turns, and easier paddle transitions. With more surfing experience you are likely to find you want an even shorter paddle.
Racing
A longer paddle, approx 6-10 inches above the head, is typically used by racers. This is to allow greater paddle reach and leverage, therefore producing a more powerful and effective stroke.
When setting your paddle to the correct height, stand on level ground with the paddle vertical and blade close to your feet. Ensure you’re in bare feet or wearing the footwear you’ll be paddling it. Cup your hand around the handle and then put one arm up in the air. As a rough guide, for general all round paddling your elbow should be slightly bent. Not very scientific but a simple way to get the correct approx paddle height. The exact height can then be tweaked later.
After watching our video on how to have the correct Paddle Height For Stand Up Paddle Boarding and you would like to know more please contact us or feel free to visit our store at 6/12 Machinery Drive, Tweed Heads South, NSW
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Paddle Heights For Stand Up Paddle Boarders