What Type of Paddle For Standup Paddleboard (SUP)?
Clint Taylor
I’ve had quite a few people ask why I bring two paddles with me on my SUP. When you think about it quickly it might not make much sense…but, after a little thought I think you might want to give it a shot as well. Let’s see why two paddles might be right for you too.
Why You Should Use a Traditional SUP Paddle
A traditional SUP paddle is essentially a single bladed paddle with a long shaft so you can stand and paddle. While there are some other nuisances, this is the basics. A SUP paddle works great when you are wanting to stand and paddle, the wind isn’t too strong, you aren’t looking for ultimate speed, or if you aren’t in fast flowing water. No doubt about it, a SUP paddle is my first choice when SUP fishing because it is so much easier to transition form fishing to paddling – all while standing.
Why You Should Use a Kayak Paddle
A kayak paddle has two blades (one on each end of the shaft) and is intended to be used sitting down or in a kneeling position. A kayak paddle is very efficient, provides ease of maneuverability, and will give you the most strokes per minute; however, there is one big downside…kayak paddles are awful for standing and paddling from a SUP.
How to Use Both a SUP Paddle and Kayak Paddle
As you might have inferred from reading the previous two paragraphs, both a SUP paddle and kayak paddle have a place. If you are standing, a SUP paddle is hands down the best option. If you are sitting a kayak paddle is probably a better bet. So, what do I use and when?
Typically, I use my Bending Branches Amp SUP paddle the most when on my Pau Hana paddleboards. It provides better performance for stand-up paddling and I can quickly transition from fishing to paddling, and vice versa. I will kneel and use the SUP paddle for areas of faster water or when it is particularly windy, but this paddling method isn’t intended for long term use, only for short durations.
If the wind is brutal, I’m going extremely long distances, or I will be sitting on my SUP the majority of the time I will be using a standard kayak paddle, such as the Bending Branches Angler Pro Carbon. Sitting down first of all reduces wind drag which really helps out in breezy weather. Secondly, I can paddle more efficiently with a kayak paddle sitting down than I can a SUP paddle standing up. Last, a kayak paddle has blades on both ends of the shaft allowing me to provide quick inputs in areas where I need to maneuver quickly and carefully.
Where Do I Store the Paddle I’m not Using?
Bringing two paddles presents a storage problem, especially on a SUP. My Big EZ Angler and Endurance from Pau Hana make it quite easy to secure paddles though. There are several screw-in inserts on the deck of both boards which allow me to screw in various attachments, such as a paddle holder. I use the YakAttack® Roto Grip Paddle Holder and it works great. I can quickly and easily grab my paddle or secure it in place. There are no straps, levers, or brackets…just the pressure provided the rolling knobs and v-shape design. I typically will have four of these paddle holders with me – two on each side of my SUP so I can secure one paddle on the left and the other paddle on the right.
What Paddles Do I Use?
As I previously mentioned, I use a Bending Branches Amp SUP paddle and a Bending Branches Angler Pro Carbon kayak paddle. There are a lot of great paddles on the market, but Bending Branches has been my go to paddle for the past several years due to the quality, performance, durability, lightweight design, and the fact that they are made in the USA!
The Angler Pro Carbon is 100% carbon fiber, providing a stiff, lightweight paddle which can take powerful strokes. It is extremely reactive and works very well when you need to go long distances and or paddle fast.
The Amp has a carbon fiber shaft but a wooden handle and blade. This paddle isn’t quite as light as the Angler Pro Carbon but has a very large blade surface area to provide powerful and efficient paddling from the standing position. Not to mention that this is one of the most beautiful paddles I’ve ever seen.
Should You Use Two Paddles?
The short answer is yes. Two paddles provide more versatility and better capabilities to meet a variety of situations. Sometimes I only bring my SUP paddle if I know the wind won’t be a factor, but more often than not the traditional kayak paddle is a good backup option to have with you just in case the wind gets crazy. All this said, two paddles cost more than one and take up more room. If you can only get one, go with the SUP paddle. A SUP paddle provides the best overall capability from a SUP, and if needed you can always kneel and paddle to help combat the wind.
Conclusion
Having the right gear makes a world of difference. I am a strong believer in having both a SUP paddle and kayak paddle when paddleboarding. Take a look at all the various options Bending Branches has to offer by clicking here.