A couple on a paddle board and a girl on another one paddling on the sea.

How to Choose Your Paddle for Stand Up Paddling?

Your SUP paddle is an essential part of your kit. Follow our guide to pick the best one.

The Decathlon kayak and stand up paddle brand has lots of useful tips and tricks to make the most of your time on the water.

There are several things to consider when choosing a stand up paddle board:

1. Your Level

Occasional Trips - Beginner

If you’re a beginner, you should opt for a strong and economical aluminum paddle. You’re more likely to graze the sea floor or your board and be a bit less graceful with it when you’re starting out, so something that can withstand you learning is essential. Also, aluminum paddles are cheaper so great if you just want to try the sport on for size.

A group of people paddling on Stand up paddle boards of different colors.

Regular Trips / Racing - Experienced

If you’re experienced, you should go for a carbon or fiberglass paddle. This kind of paddle is lightweight and efficient and allows you to really take control.

A couple surfing a wave on a stand up paddle board.
2 different paddles for Stand Up paddle boards, on the left an adjustable paddle and on the right a blue detachable paddle.

2. The Type Of Paddle

Paddles are either adjustable, detachable or fixed.

1) Adjustable paddles do what they say on the tin and can be adapted according to your size or your activity level.

2) Detachable paddles are more compact, and can be broken down two pieces and fit into a stand up paddle bag (89cm). You’ll also be able to adjust it according to your size or activity level.

3) Fixed paddles are made for one person, so unlike the other two types of paddles, you won’t be able to share them amongst a group or loan them to friends. They are however lighter than adjustable paddles

A girl on the pier with her paddle next to her reaching up to the top of the paddle to the correct hight.

3. Your Size

Trips:
Paddle length = your size + 17 to 27cm

Racing:
Paddle length = your size + 20 to 30cm (a longer paddle will give you more power, a better extension and a better position).

Surfing:
Paddle length = your size + 10 to 20cm (a shorter paddle will be less cumbersome).

Itiwit paddle entering the water viewed from underwater.

Shop Stand Up Paddles

For top-notch performance paddles that are well-crafted and comfortable to use, fitted with easily-adjustable options, browse our Decathlon range below.

How to choose - UK Draft to copy

Irwin

Stand Up Paddle Specialist

Our watersports brand, ITIWIT makes sport accessible for the many by providing high quality and affordable products for different water-based activities.

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