We Check the Details Before You Head Out on the Water
Stand up paddling is a sport for everyone, regardless of age or fitness. Unlike extreme surfing, SUP (Stand Up Paddle) can be an intensive cardio workout or a peaceful way to relax in the middle of a lake. Discover the benefits of paddleboarding and learn how to choose equipment that will not let you down on the water!
SUP is a water sport in which you stand or sit on a board and move by pushing through the water with a paddle. It is an excellent alternative to kayaking, giving you much greater freedom of movement. If you would like to find out exactly how to start paddleboarding, read our article.
Inflatable or Rigid Board?
Choosing the right equipment is the first decision you will face. You will find two main types on the market: inflatable and rigid SUP boards. How do they differ apart from their construction?
SUP: An Inflatable Board for Everyone
Inflatable boards are the most popular choice for recreational paddlers and people who value portability. They are made using advanced drop-stitch technology: thousands of polyester threads inside straighten when the board is inflated, making the structure as rigid as a hard deck. Everything is enclosed in a durable PVC shell.
At the end of the season, simply let the air out, roll up the board and put it in a backpack. Inflatable boards withstand accidental knocks against rocks better than rigid models. They are also covered with non-slip EVA foam, which keeps your feet comfortable even on trips lasting several hours.
Who Is a Rigid SUP Board For?
Built around an expanded polystyrene (EPS) core covered with a laminate of fibreglass, carbon or resin, rigid boards cut through the water more effectively and reach higher speeds. They are exceptionally stable and precise to handle, which is why experienced paddlers and professionals often choose them.
Their main drawback is logistics: they require a special roof rack for transport and plenty of space in a garage or cellar. They are also usually more expensive than their inflatable counterparts.
More Than a Board: Essential Accessories
When you head to the water, remember to take SUP board accessories:
- Paddle: used to propel and steer the board. Unlike a kayak paddle, a SUP paddle has a single blade and is usually height-adjustable, so you can match it perfectly to your height.
- Fin: this underwater fin keeps the board on course and prevents it from turning with every paddle stroke. Look for models with the Smart Lock system, which allows tool-free fitting.
- Pump: modern models can both pump air in and extract it, making it easier to roll up the board tightly. A dual-action option is included, for example, in the set supplied with the Movino Garda SUP board.
- Safety Leash: is absolutely essential. It connects your leg to the board and acts as a safety net. If you fall into the water, it keeps the board close to you instead of letting the wind carry it away.
Most boards on the market are sold as complete sets, such as the Movino Adria.
Is a SUP Board Worth It?
Paddleboarding has many benefits. Here are just a few:
- you do not need expensive courses: you can learn the basics in 15 minutes,
- paddling engages your deep core muscles, legs, back and arms, giving your whole body a workout,
- an hour on a SUP burns between 300 and as much as 500 kcal, depending on how intensively you paddle,
- being close to nature, enjoying the quiet of a lake and breathing fresh air are excellent ways to combat stress!
What should you remember before setting off? Always check the weather forecast: strong winds can be dangerous for beginners. Check local currents too. For your first trips, choose calm lakes, reservoirs or sheltered sea bays in windless conditions.
Is a SUP board worth investing in? Absolutely! It is one of the few sports that combines fun for the whole family, an effective workout and a chance to discover natural places that cannot be reached from land. If you value freedom and portability, choose an inflatable model that fits in any car boot. See you on the water!
We Check the Details Before You Head Out on the Water
Stand up paddling is a sport for everyone, regardless of age or fitness. Unlike extreme surfing, SUP (Stand Up Paddle) can be an intensive cardio workout or a peaceful way to relax in the middle of a lake. Discover the benefits of paddleboarding and learn how to choose equipment that will not let you down on the water!
SUP is a water sport in which you stand or sit on a board and move by pushing through the water with a paddle. It is an excellent alternative to kayaking, giving you much greater freedom of movement. If you would like to find out exactly how to start paddleboarding, read our article.
Inflatable or Rigid Board?
Choosing the right equipment is the first decision you will face. You will find two main types on the market: inflatable and rigid SUP boards. How do they differ apart from their construction?
SUP: An Inflatable Board for Everyone
Inflatable boards are the most popular choice for recreational paddlers and people who value portability. They are made using advanced drop-stitch technology: thousands of polyester threads inside straighten when the board is inflated, making the structure as rigid as a hard deck. Everything is enclosed in a durable PVC shell.
At the end of the season, simply let the air out, roll up the board and put it in a backpack. Inflatable boards withstand accidental knocks against rocks better than rigid models. They are also covered with non-slip EVA foam, which keeps your feet comfortable even on trips lasting several hours.
Who Is a Rigid SUP Board For?
Built around an expanded polystyrene (EPS) core covered with a laminate of fibreglass, carbon or resin, rigid boards cut through the water more effectively and reach higher speeds. They are exceptionally stable and precise to handle, which is why experienced paddlers and professionals often choose them.
Their main drawback is logistics: they require a special roof rack for transport and plenty of space in a garage or cellar. They are also usually more expensive than their inflatable counterparts.
More Than a Board: Essential Accessories
When you head to the water, remember to take SUP board accessories:
Most boards on the market are sold as complete sets, such as the Movino Adria.
Is a SUP Board Worth It?
Paddleboarding has many benefits. Here are just a few:
What should you remember before setting off? Always check the weather forecast: strong winds can be dangerous for beginners. Check local currents too. For your first trips, choose calm lakes, reservoirs or sheltered sea bays in windless conditions.
Is a SUP board worth investing in? Absolutely! It is one of the few sports that combines fun for the whole family, an effective workout and a chance to discover natural places that cannot be reached from land. If you value freedom and portability, choose an inflatable model that fits in any car boot. See you on the water!