Best Windsurf Paddle Board

By: James | Last update: 31 May 2022

This post-pandemic season is a trigger for numerous realizations. As we recover from the effects of the global crisis, we’ve come to realize that recreation, socialization, and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors are some of life’s essentials. That is why more people have sought to try new things, especially sports. Moreover, the effects of outdoor activities prove beneficial not only to physical but also to mental health. If you are looking for a sport that allows you to enjoy two activities simultaneously, windsurf paddle boarding definitely needs to make it to your bucket list.

What is Windsurf Paddle Boarding?

We are sure you’re aware of how sports give birth to other sports, right? Just like how stand up paddle boarding originated from surfing, windsurf paddle boarding also came from SUP boarding. Basically, it is windsurfing and stand up paddle boarding combined into one cool sport. Without the foot straps, it is practically a crossover board or a 2-in-1 plank for windsurfers and paddlers.

As what others call it, windSUP, is considered one of the wittiest sports ever invented by the board sports industry. So, whether you’re a surfer, a windsurfer, a SUP boarder, or an occasional paddler, we’re sure that you will find your place in this sport.

Why Choose a Windsurf Paddle Board?

If there’s one word that completely describes a windSUP board, it’s versatility. This is a perfect board when you want to go windsurfing on a windy day or just chill paddling with family and friends. WindSUP boards are also perfect for beginner paddlers and windsurfers. These boards are durable, easy to carry, and functional. And these are your wise pick when going for a cheaper alternative.

Please take note that using a windsurf paddle board as a SUP board can be potentially inconvenient when we’re talking about extreme conditions. Stand up paddle boarding in harsh waters has dedicated boards that are made for performance and maneuverability. Just to give you an idea, here are some of the most common stand up paddle boards on the market:

Different Types of Stand Up Paddle Boards

Touring – This paddle board is about comfortable SUP boarding. Made generally for level water and enormous sea paddling, these SUP boards are essentially more limited (in length) than all round paddle SUP boards. Most downwinders pick this when they are SUP boarding for leisure. A touring SUP board’s nose is designed in a sharp shape to allow the board to really slide and glide through the water. The more augmented the touring paddle board is, the more effectively it slices through the water. However, stability is affected.

Race – With essentially a comparable shape as a touring SUP board, race SUP boards are by and large made for speed. These are made wide with pointed noses, yet are narrower compared with touring SUP boards.

All Round – Considered the most picked paddle board for incalculable SUP lovers and SUP boarding novices, an all round paddle board gives the most grounded feel on the water. The standard sizes of these SUP boards are thick with a longer nose and tail. This SUP board is made to give the most experience while SUP boarding.

Surf – A surf SUP board is made for individuals who favor riding on daring waves. Commonly shorter, surf paddle boards have higher versatility. On the contrary, like other SUP boards, there’s dependably a catch. Surf SUP boards are by and large slower, yet offer more stability, particularly on level water.

Windsurf Paddle Board: A Safe Choice with a Dual Purpose

Because windsurf boards resemble more with surfboards when it comes to shape, there have been DIY procedures that you can find on the internet, teaching how to convert a windsurf board into a stand up paddle board. But we honestly think that you could save yourself a lot of hassle by just buying a windSUP board that is readily available in the market. Before you make your purchase, we’ve listed down and discussed some of the important factors about windsurf paddle boards:

• Board Dimensions
  • Width
  • Volume
• Type
  • Inflatable
  • Rigid (EVA Units)
• Fins
  • Boxes
  • Setup
• Other Parts & Accessories
  • All-Terrain Backpack or Waterproof bags
  • D-Rings
  • Traction Pads
  • Foot Straps
  • Sail
  • Boom
  • Carbon Mast

Common Buying Traps: Why It’s Hard to Find the Best Windsurf Paddle Board

As functional as a windSUP board is, you might find it surprising that buying this board can be a daunting task if you don’t know the things to consider. So, to keep you from bad purchases, here are some common buying traps to take note of:

• Believing that every SUP board can be easily converted into a windSUP board and vice versa – A windSUP board is a crossover board, and the emphasis of the design is more into SUP. However, this crossover board is capable of windsurfing and paddling. With this, the design on the daggerboard or center fin system is somewhat more customized to make sure that there is stability for windsurfing.

• Intending to use the windSUP board for surfing – Some buyers are disappointed after using a windSUP board for surfing. We honestly think, this is likely to happen when you buy a board for simple paddling and expect it to perform well on harsh waters. A surf paddle board is designed differently, intended to maneuver well on playful waves. While a windSUP board is for a more gentle paddling and windsurfing.

• Not choosing the right type according to your BMI – The board’s durability is not just tested through wear and tear, but also by how synced its dimensions are with the user’s body mass index. There really is no problem when it comes to picking between a rigid windsurf paddle board and an inflatable one. But always remember that your weight and the constant pressure against a hard board and an inflatable SUP board can have different effects. Choose wisely.

Research Factors for the Best Windsurf Paddle Board

Width and Volume: Two Essential Details You Must Not Overlook

Other Factors That Affect Performance

Fins: When Glide is All You Need

Conclusion

We understand, that finding the best windsurf paddle board can be challenging. But don’t get anxious. As long as you take note of the important factors in choosing your windSUP board, you’re likely to get the best for you. Enjoy your windsurf paddle boarding!

Learn more about stand up paddle boarding by reading other articles from our website!