 Greetings!
In this weeks newsletter we are going to cover the basics in SUP paddle types and construction. With this information, you will be able to narrow down the choices of which paddle is best for you.
There are basically three decisions that you will need to make while choosing the right SUP paddle:
- Aluminum or Carbon Fiber
- Adjustable or fixed
- Blade size
Aluminum or Carbon Fiber
Aluminum paddles - (Show below) Durable aluminum shafts provide a solid connection to the water. Aluminum shafts allow SUP paddles to be light weight yet strong enough to take the punishment that novices and children will un-doubtably dish out. Aluminum is also the least expensive and normally weigh around 40 ounces.
 | | BIC SUP small aluminum paddle |
You would think all paddles should float, when many aluminum paddles will sink because they are made with metal. A Padded Float at the bottom section of the shaft, stops your paddle from sinking and also protects the side of your board while paddling.
Fiber Carbon Composite paddles- The use of carbon and fiberglass in a SUP paddle shaft provides a lighter paddle. This is greatly appreciated after you have paddled for any length of time. The lighter the paddle, the longer you can paddle. The carbon fiber paddles that we sell are 23 - 33 ounces. This lighter weight carbon fiber shaft does come with a price and is should be handled more carefully than the aluminum.
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 | | Paddle Sizing with Jennifer |
Adjustable verses Fixed
Adjustable - The adjustable SUP shaft provides a couple of advantages as well as disadvantages:
- An adjustable shaft allows multiple sized users. This is great when you are sharing a SUP with a friend or children.
- An adjustable shaft allows you to re-size your paddle to fit conditions. On a calm day you would be more comfortable with a longer shaft. On a rough or windy day, you would unconsciously hunker down a bit, lowering your center of gravity and consequently would feel better using a shorter shaft.
- An adjustable shaft adds weight due to the extra amount of overlapping material required for the function.
- An adjustable shaft will fill with water when dropped. This added water in the shaft will make the paddle heavier to use or cause it to sink. You can of course, separate the shaft sections to allow it to quickly drain for use.
Fixed - (Shown below) A fixed length SUP paddle is sized to fit the user. It is much lighter, stronger and more buoyant due to the sealed ends of the shaft. (See above video about sizing)
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 | | BIC SUP Carbon Paddle |
Blade Size
A leap forward in paddle performance. The redesigned blade shape is tested by two of the best in the SUP industry, Patrice Remoiville and Jimmy Blakeney. The Small blade is the new standard for women and kids, the medium/large blade is for adults and is perfect for all around paddling, recreational racing, low cadence paddling styles and those looking for more power.
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Save $321.85!
Purchase a 2013 SUP and receive
an incredible essentials package worth $321.85.
While you are thinking about SUPs, check out some other accessories you may need:
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Lessons & Rentals
Starting Saturday, May 25, lessons and rentals will be available 7 days a week, at the Three Oaks Recreation Area. See next weeks newsletter for details.
Call for reservations
847-854-4754
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BIC Challenge
Ready to race your friends on a 1 mile buoyed course?
The 1 Design Challenge is held at 3 Oaks Recreation Area, 4 event dates, 5 age categories.
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Yoga SUP
Would you like to try Yoga on a SUP?
Tracy Schuldt is giving lessons at 3 Oaks Recreation Area on Saturdays and Sundays.
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