Stand Up Paddle-boarding or SUP is an exciting new version of the traditional surfing that took the world by storm during the last few years. Where-ever you go to a beach, lake or river, you see people - young and old and in all shapes and sizes - propelling themselves along through the water with a paddle whilst standing upright on a board. NSP stand up paddle boards also come in many shapes and sizes and you should pick one that is most effective for your weight, size and the purpose why you want it - racing or relaxing?
The idea of riding a wave, paddling or fishing in an upright position whilst balancing on a huge board, apparently appeals to most water sport lovers. Maybe it is the fact that one is not submerged in water all the time, or have a better view from a standing position, but whatever the reason, this craze has spread like wildfire. Even traditional surfers are hooked and many are trading their long boards for a SUP version.
SUP is relatively safe and easy compared to surfing and thus suitable for young and old. It can be done competitively or for leisure at any place in the world where there is water - on rivers, lakes, canals and over long distances along coastlines. It is thus small wonder that it was dubbed last year as the most popular and fastest growing new outdoor sport boasting the most first-time participants in the United States.
SUP originated in Hawaii and only became popular in the USA and other countries during the past nine years. Last year, it was documented as the most popular and fastest growing water sport in the USA. The first dedicated SUP store in North America only opened its doors in 2007 in Santa Barbara, California. The owner, Deb Thomas, was also the first female standup paddler in North America in 2005.
The first ever Standup World Series championship races were held in 2012 - in Hawaii. Kai Lenny was the first SUP racing world champion ever to be crowned after winning the seasons' finals of that championship. Now, a mere two years later, this sport has gone viral and upright paddlers can be seen paddling away where-ever there are masses of water!
The sport is equally popular among professional, competitive surfers, laymen and recreational fishermen. The two main types of boards are All Arounder and those used for racing or long distance touring. These include specific styles made for women, kids, river racing, etc. Inflatable boards are becoming increasingly popular because they are so easy to transport.
The SUP paddles resemble traditional canoe paddles, but they are longer. They are generally made from fiberglass, wood or carbon with a flat blade on one end that is connected by a shaft to a handle on the other end. The blades come in different shapes and are custom-made with specific features for different kinds of paddling conditions such as long-distance, turbulent ocean surf or calm lake water.
The price of a new SUP board is generally between $600 and $1500, but if you shop around, you will probably find some good second-hand bargains. They are made from different materials and those specifically designed for kids and women are ultra-light and easier to carry. The most important aspect to consider when looking for a SUP board is finding one that best fits your size, weight, flexibility and purpose.
The idea of riding a wave, paddling or fishing in an upright position whilst balancing on a huge board, apparently appeals to most water sport lovers. Maybe it is the fact that one is not submerged in water all the time, or have a better view from a standing position, but whatever the reason, this craze has spread like wildfire. Even traditional surfers are hooked and many are trading their long boards for a SUP version.
SUP is relatively safe and easy compared to surfing and thus suitable for young and old. It can be done competitively or for leisure at any place in the world where there is water - on rivers, lakes, canals and over long distances along coastlines. It is thus small wonder that it was dubbed last year as the most popular and fastest growing new outdoor sport boasting the most first-time participants in the United States.
SUP originated in Hawaii and only became popular in the USA and other countries during the past nine years. Last year, it was documented as the most popular and fastest growing water sport in the USA. The first dedicated SUP store in North America only opened its doors in 2007 in Santa Barbara, California. The owner, Deb Thomas, was also the first female standup paddler in North America in 2005.
The first ever Standup World Series championship races were held in 2012 - in Hawaii. Kai Lenny was the first SUP racing world champion ever to be crowned after winning the seasons' finals of that championship. Now, a mere two years later, this sport has gone viral and upright paddlers can be seen paddling away where-ever there are masses of water!
The sport is equally popular among professional, competitive surfers, laymen and recreational fishermen. The two main types of boards are All Arounder and those used for racing or long distance touring. These include specific styles made for women, kids, river racing, etc. Inflatable boards are becoming increasingly popular because they are so easy to transport.
The SUP paddles resemble traditional canoe paddles, but they are longer. They are generally made from fiberglass, wood or carbon with a flat blade on one end that is connected by a shaft to a handle on the other end. The blades come in different shapes and are custom-made with specific features for different kinds of paddling conditions such as long-distance, turbulent ocean surf or calm lake water.
The price of a new SUP board is generally between $600 and $1500, but if you shop around, you will probably find some good second-hand bargains. They are made from different materials and those specifically designed for kids and women are ultra-light and easier to carry. The most important aspect to consider when looking for a SUP board is finding one that best fits your size, weight, flexibility and purpose.
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