Well, before starting, I will make one thing clear: inflatable paddle boards are not the same length. Their sizes will differ based on the type and activity they will be involved in. So, to find the perfect paddle size, you must first consider the other aspects, too.
Average Paddle Board Length
Paddle boards can be as short as 8 feet to over 14 feet in length, while some inflatable SUPs are between 10 and 12 feet long and 32 to 34 inches wide.
Types Of Stand Up Paddle Boards
There are four basic categories of stand-up paddleboards:
- Recreational or all-around boards
- Touring stand-up paddle boards
- Racing paddle boards
- Surf paddle boards
Different Paddle Boards Size Guide
| Paddler Weight | SUP Width | SUP Thickness | SUP Length |
| Under 125 lbs (56kg) | 31-32” | 5” | 9’6″-10’9″ |
| 125-150 lbs (56-68 kg) | 31-32” | 5” | 9’6″-10’9″ |
| 150-175 lbs (68-79 kg) | 31-33” | 5” | 10’0″-12’6″ |
| 175-200 lbs (79 – 90 kg) | 32-34” | 5” | 10’0″-12’6″ |
| 200-225 lbs (90-102 kg) | 32-34” | 5-6” | 10’0″-12’6″ |
| 225 lbs (102 kgs +) | 32-34” | 6” | 10’0″-12’6″ |
SUP Weight Capacity Calculation
The first number you’ll need is the indicated board thickness. Then, consider your experience level and what you’ll use the board for.
Bodyweight (lbs) x 1.4 = volume
If you’re a beginner, multiply your body weight in pounds by 1.4. If you weigh 150 pounds, that’d work out to 210L. The board volume should be between 150L and 210L.
Bodyweight (lbs) x 8 = volume
For novices or intermediate paddlers—especially if you’re paddling in rough conditions— multiply your body weight in pounds by 8. Using the 150 pounds example again, that’d be 120L. Your SUP’s volume should be in the range of 120L to 150L.
Bodyweight (lbs) x 6 x 8 = volume
SUP Classification On Activity Types
The size of the SUP board you select will also depend on the activity you perform with it.
TOURING & RACING SUPS
Paddlers looking for touring stand-up paddle boards generally choose a longer and narrower board than general recreational models.
This is because these boards are longer and narrower and will be faster on the water. But this speed comes with a catch: These boards are less stable than the wider boards.
Ideal Length: 11’6 – 14’
YOGA SUPS
For yoga paddle boards, look for wider boards with a comfortable deck pad similar to your yoga mat.
Ideal Length: 10’ – 12’6
SURFING SUPS
The best size SUP for catching waves is typically about 9-10 feet shorter than average. This provides added maneuverability for both surfing the wave and quickly turning to catch it.
Ideal Length: 9’0 – 10’6
SUP SIZING FOR BEGINNERS
Most beginners opt for wider, thicker boards that provide added stability and buoyancy.
Ideal Length: 10′- 12′
Determining What Size Paddle Board Do I Need
There are quite a few variables you’ll need to take into account when choosing a paddle board – including the following:
- Intended Use: SUPs come in all shapes and sizes – and things can get pretty confusing if you are unsure what you need. I advise anyone new to paddle boarding to start their search by asking where, when, and how they plan on using their SUP.
- Body Type & Physical Ability: Your height and weight are two major factors to consider when picking a SUP because they dictate the volume, length, and width required to support your body type and give you the desired performance.
- Number Of Paddlers: If you are solo paddle boarding, you can select a board based on your own requirements. But if you plan on sharing your SUP with a child or pet, for example, that must be factored in when picking the board’s length, width, and volume.
- Transportation & Storage: When storing your equipment, consider the right paddle board size. One of the greatest mistakes you could make when buying a SUP is overlooking how and where you’ll store and transport it.
- Budget: I would advise you to choose a SUP based on how well it fits you—both in size and budget—rather than simply going for the cheapest one available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions to give a better understanding.
Q: How Do You Size a Paddle Board Paddle?
Ans: Usually, the best way to size a paddle board paddle is to add 10 inches to your height.
Q: What Size Paddle Board Should a Woman Use?
Ans: A woman should use the paddle board size best suited to her weight and the board’s primary use. Women can follow the same guidelines as men. The information is relevant to all genders when reading a paddle board sizing chart.
Q: Is a 9-foot Paddle Board Too Short?
Ans: A 9-foot paddle board is too short for the most common activities and water types. On average, recreational SUPs range between 10 and 12 feet long, which can be considered a longer board for stability.
The shorter your SUP, the harder it is to travel in a straight line. However, turning and catching waves become easier as the board gets shorter.
Q: Is a Longer Paddle Board Better?
Ans: A longer paddle board is almost always better unless you’re racing or surfing. The longer your SUP is, the straighter it’ll move in the water.
Q: Is a Thinner Paddle Board Better?
Ans: In most cases, a thinner paddle board isn’t better. The bigger an object is, the more buoyant it is. In general, inflatable boards should be at least 5-6” inches thick to support your weight. Paddle boards made of most other materials are closer to 4” thick.
