What Sup?

No doubt you’ve seen a stand up paddleboard (SUP) on your favourite stretch of water, and wondered what it’s all about.

- Martin Coetzee

So we jumped at the opportunity to test a few inflatable boards from the market leading Red Paddle Co.

Paddling these boards is fun! They offer a great vantage point to quietly explore the shallows (and depths), can provide a solid workout if you choose, and are an easy way to keep the more active family members busy when your boat is moored. It’s really not nearly as difficult as it looks but rather a matter of choosing the right board and then getting out on the water for some paddling. In the beginning, stability is definitely your friend - the rule of thumb is that a longer and wider board offers more of this. Long and narrow boards equate to greater speed, while conversely a short board is generally slower and more manoeuvrable. It’s always best to try before you buy and chat to an experienced SUP’er, or the folk at Red Paddle Co.

WHY AN INFLATABLE BOARD?

Packed away it’s considerably more compact than a hard board and doesn’t require a vehicle roof rack. A sturdy backpack contains the board and all its accessories, and can easily be transported in your car, inside your boat, on your back, or in the hold of an aircraft as you head off on a boating holiday.

A SET UP TO GET YOU UP