A 4th class of paddleboard? Canoe-style.

Events now cater for some or all of prone, SUP and foiling paddleboards. I think there is a fourth class of paddleboard which is similar but different again: canoe-style with a canoe paddle. I would love to have the option to compete canoe-style in paddleboard races like the 12 Towers, King of the Cut, etc. Obviously SUP and prone rules currently prevent it.

I have unlimited prone and SUP (dugout) boards but canoe-style is my preferred method of paddling on both. Either both knees (mainly on the prone) or one knee (sprint canoe style in my dugout). I use a short SUP paddle but with a large blade (over 100 inches).

I like the stability but I also like the stronger contact with the board through my knee(s) that allows a slower cadence but more powerful stroke than stand-up style. The ability to paddle easily - even enjoyably - into the wind is also a big plus for me. On the prone board it is far more comfortable (at least for me) being upright with the paddle rather than right down trying to bury my arms, but it still has a similar feel.

I am also motivated by these guys

I have been doing it for a little while now and the high single knee position works great in a dugout paddleboard without any extra or special pads, and (unlike the guys in the video in their 11" wide canoes) I have no stability problems on my 22" - 25" wide boards. I can even use the steering on the SUP with my front foot when paddling single knee.

While I am speaking only for myself, it may also encourage participation in ocean races from those who are not yet as confident on their feet. And it might also provide a new secondhand market for all those 21-23' wide race SUPs.

Thoughts?

My emergency backup paddle for touring is a general purpose boat paddle. One of the reasons for choosing it was in case I get in a situation where I need to knee paddle a long time; I would rather have a short paddle with a straight shaft. The main reason I chose it is that you can get a practically indestructible telescoping boat paddle for about $10 US.

So that would mean that SUP, or paddle boarding would include, prone, standing or kneeling. ie. Any way you like except sitting on your bum (in which case you're a canoe or surf ski or an OC)

Blame Chambers did it back in the day

www.standupzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=17429.45