SUP Paddle
Length
The general convention for determining the correct
paddle size is to take the rider’s height
and add 9-10 inches. If you’re 5’11”
ideally you should get a paddle about 80-81 inches,
or 6 feet 8 or 9 inches. This is the recommendation
for the average user. Make sure you’re measuring
the total length of the paddle from the tip of the
paddle to the very outer edge of the grip/handle.
Now this is an ideal, not a mandatory. You can really
get along fine with just about any paddle if you
ride periodically so it’s not a big deal if
you share a paddle among a couple family members.
While it’s ideal to have the exact correct
length paddle for everybody in the family that can
get expensive when you’re dropping $300 on
each paddle.
Specialty SUP Use Considerations:
SUPs primarily used for surfing
If you’re going to use your stand up paddle
board primarily for surfing, you should go a little
shorter than this 9-10 inch add-on to your height.
Something closer to 6-7 inches taller than your
height would be ideal.
Ideal SUP paddle length for racing
On the other side of the spectrum is the SUP rider
who primarily uses their stand up paddle board for
racing. In this case, it’s best to go a little
longer than the 9-10 inch add-on to your height.
The best recommendation for racers is to get a paddle
that’s about 12 inches taller than the rider.
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