Plein Air Québec·Published on August 14, 2026·📖 1 min read
Length, material and blade shape: choose the right SUP paddle to paddle without tiring.
The paddle is your board’s engine: a good paddle at the right length changes everything for comfort and fatigue. A companion to choose your board.
Length
Set the paddle about 20–25 cm (8–10 in) taller than you. Too short and you hunch; too long and you strain your shoulders. An adjustable paddle is ideal to start (and to share).
Material
- Aluminum: affordable and tough, a bit heavier — perfect to start.
- Fiberglass: a good light/price compromise.
- Carbon: very light and lively, for long or fast paddling (pricier).
Weight matters: every stroke lifts the blade. Lighter = less fatigue over time.
The blade
- A medium blade suits everyone to start.
- A slight forward angle (dihedral) improves efficiency — blade facing forward.
A detail that matters
Always set the length before you go, hands well placed (top on the grip, lower on the shaft). Technique in improve your paddleboarding. Paddles below.
