I am going to take the plunge and buy an SUP. Will be mainly used for paddling on the bay in Port Hacking, NSW. Maybe the odd small day off Cronulla but that is a way off ?
After reading as much online as I can it looks like an all rounder may suit or perhaps a touring style board.
I am 86 kg's, just over 60 and trying to get fitter as well. Gliding around the bay and river is more my style.
I have kayaks so understand paddle basics but SUP is new to me and balance with core muscle strength more important. Maybe I will focus on the balance first up so confused on which way to go.
Current thinking on Boards is the Bic 12' CTek due to a great deal available and it is wide and long, also the Bic Ace Tec.
There is also another board available locally from my kayak shop. The Tyrant range http://www.kayaksonline.net/standup-paddleboards.
The all round models look good but their stealth racer also looks good and is quite cheap to buy. The quality looks excellent up close and experience with their kayaks is very good..
I just read the interesting article on this site about the Top 5 SUP myths so should I go for width on an all round board or the deeper rails on a touring board ?
I would appreciate any advice from the experienced riders.
Vicssup,
I think most people do 2 things once they have been paddling for a little while. They either go smaller after realising how much fun the surf is or go larger for longer trips and longer ocean paddling. My first board was a 10'6" and it was 170L and very stable. It also tracked really well. Once they don't fit in the car the issue is storage at home.
In my limited opinion, neither brand is in the top bracket but if it floats you and tracks week when paddling I think you will enjoy it. Once you start paddling a fair bit you will be able to appreciate the boards glide. The Bic guy on Youtube was pretty useful for me when starting out but I have a surfing background as well.
If it was 50/50 I would by the package with the best paddle. A fixed carbon paddle is superior to an adjustable but I think my no name paddle is better than most of the more expensive ones I have seen.
Good luck
fatso
Thanks for the tips. I am going to a local paddle demo day tomorrow so hopefully I can try a few hull types and paddles.
