How Long Should A Paddle Board Paddle Be?

Finding the right paddle is just as important as finding the right SUP, but how long should a paddle board paddle be? This is a really important question that we get asked a lot at Red. Choosing the right length paddle is essential for providing you with maximum efficiency and comfort whilst helping to prevent injury. More specifically, it will enable you to do the following:

• Maintain better balance and control on your board

• Keep a good posture 

• Conserve energy 

• Learn advanced paddle strokes more easily

It’s clear that choosing the right paddle is essential, but exactly how long should a paddle board paddle be? As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended that your SUP paddle should be between 8″ to 10″ taller than you are. However, there are two other crucial factors that it’s important to take into consideration. These are:

The Type Of Paddling You’re Doing

Whether you’re touring, surfing or racing, the type of paddling you’re doing will play a big role in determining how long your paddle needs to be. If you’re touring then it will need to follow the general rule of being 8″ to 10″ taller than you are. However, if you’re surfing then your SUP paddle will be shorter. This is to provide you with greater manoeuvrability and strength. Racing paddles on the other hand are longer in length and should be approximately 10″ to 14″ taller than you. This provides you with a longer and more powerful stroke. However, depending on the kind of racing that you’re taking part in, if you’re racing in sprints, you may want to choose a shorter option for paddling more aggressively with shorter, powerful strokes.