Choosing the Perfect Stand-Up Paddleboard Size As a Beginner
How to Pick the Right SUP for You
If you’re just getting into stand up paddleboarding, one of the most confusing questions is “What size paddle board do I need?” With so many options from 10’ to 12'6" and beyond, it can be overwhelming to figure out which length is ideal for you.
But have no fear, this beginner’s guide will walk you through exactly how to determine the perfect SUP board size based on your height, weight, skill level and paddling priorities. Let’s explore the key factors so you can pick your dream board with confidence!
Make sure to also check out our extensive SUP buyer’s guide!
What Size Board is Best for Beginners?
As a total SUP newbie, a good starting point is selecting a wider, stable all-around board in the 10’6” to 11’ range. These provide a forgiving platform to learn proper balancing and paddling technique without feeling overly big and bulky.
Stop paddling in circles - find your perfect fit!
Look for widths over 30” for stability. Thicker boards 4.5-5” are also great for beginners by giving you more float. Focus less on length and more on finding a board with lots of width and thickness to boost confidence on the water as you progress through the learning curve.
Some paddlers even recommend going up to 12’6” for an even more stable and easier to paddle experience for first-time paddlers. While a bit more challenging to maneuver, the extra length provides better tracking and glide to make paddling more efficient.
Recommended Beginner SUPs
The Best SUP Size for Your Height and Weight
Your height and weight play a key role in ideal SUP sizing. Shorter, lighter paddlers need less volume and length to stay balanced and efficiently propel their board. Taller, heavier paddlers require larger volumes and widths for proper floatation and glide.
As a general rule, your board should be approximately 1-3 feet taller than your height.
- Paddlers under 5’6” do well on 9’6” to 10’6” boards
- Paddlers 5’6” to 6’0” tall fit 10’ to 11’ boards
- Paddlers over 6’0” tall need 11’6” boards and up
Also consider your weight - heavier paddlers 200lbs+ may want wider 34-35” boards or longer 12’6” boards. Lighter paddlers under 150lbs can size down.
Use your height and weight together to zero in on length/width combinations that provide enough stability and speed for maximum fun!
Factor In Your Skill Level
Your SUP skills also impact ideal sizing beyond basic height and weight considerations. As you progress from beginner to intermediate and advanced, you’ll likely size down incrementally.
Beginner Skill Level
As mentioned above, wider 32-35” boards in 10’6” to 11’ range provide a stable learning platform. Focus on skills not speed.
Some paddlers may even prefer going up to 12'6" length for greater stability and glide as beginners.
Intermediate Skill Level
Size down to boards 10’ to 10'6" once you’ve mastered balancing and can paddle efficiently. Narrower widths around 30-32” improve glide.
Advanced Skill Level
Performance boards 9’6” to 10’6” maximize speed and agility for experts. Pro paddlers can handle narrower 28-30" widths.
Don’t choose a board too advanced for your current skill level. You’ll struggle and get discouraged. Upgrade as your talents grow.
How Will You Use the SUP Board?
Your planned paddling activities also impact ideal SUP sizing. Make sure to pick a board suited for how you want to enjoy the water.
All-Around Paddling
10’ to 11’ boards with widths over 30” are versatile all-arounders great for casual paddling, light touring and calm rivers.
Touring Long Distance
Longer 12’ to 14’ boards easily track and maintain speed for paddling 3+ miles. Widths around 30” provide agility.
For beginners looking to cover distance, starting on a 12’6” to 14’ touring board teaches you proper paddling technique and is very rewarding.
Surfing Waves
Compact 9’ to 10’ boards maneuver well surfing waves. Narrower widths under 30” mean less drag.
Racing & Fitness
Stable race boards 12’6” to 14’ glide fast and track straight. Widths narrower than 30” reduce water resistance.
Yoga
Wide, stable yoga boards 10’ to 11’ provide a sturdy and comforting platform for practicing yoga poses on the water. The extra width gives you ample room to find your balance and move through sequences.
Look for yoga boards with grippy deck pads, convenient carrying handles, and tie-down points for attaching accessories like a yoga block or towel. An extended nose and tail allow you to easily transition between poses.
If you’re interested in exploring SUP yoga, see our comprehensive SUP yoga overview covering tips for beginners, recommended gear, and the amazing benefits of pairing yoga with paddle boarding.
Take Some Test Drives
The best way to dial in your perfect SUP size is taking a few demo boards out for a spin. Get hands-on experience with how different lengths and widths feel paddling.
Ask your local SUP shop what demo boards they offer to try before you buy. Testing out sizes and styles makes the right choice obvious. Then enjoy many happy seasons of paddling your ideal size board!
The most important tip for “what size paddle board do I need” is not to overthink it too much. Consider your height, weight, skill level and paddling priorities to zero in on boards likely to fit you well. Then demo a few to find YOUR board. Happy paddling!
Let me know if you need any other tips for choosing your perfect beginner SUP board size!
