Paddleboard Size Guide: Find the Perfect Shark SUP for You

Height

Height of Rider = Width of Your Shark SUP

The width of your paddleboard should align with your height, as it plays a crucial role in achieving an efficient and comfortable paddle stroke. A properly sized board allows you to run the paddle down the side of the board with a vertical stroke, which is essential for effective paddling. If the board is too wide, it can be challenging to maintain a vertical paddle stroke, making the board overly manoeuvrable, sluggish and difficult to pull through the water. This can lead to a tiring and frustrating experience, especially if others around you are paddling more easily and quickly.

On the opposite side, If the board is too narrow, it may become unstable, this is particularly noticeable for taller and heavier riders. Here’s how to choose the right width:

Shorter Riders (Under 5'5")

Opt for a narrower board, typically around 28-30 inches wide, to enhance ease of use, make paddling easier and even allow the board to be easier to carry.

Average Height Riders (5'5" - 6'0")

A board width of 30-32 inches offers the perfect balance of stability and control, ideal for most paddlers.

Taller Riders (Over 6'0")

Choose a wider board, 32-34 inches, to ensure the stability needed for a comfortable and enjoyable paddling experience.

Weight

Weight of Rider = Thickness of Your Shark SUP

The thickness of your paddleboard impacts ease of use, especially for riders under 90kg and its stabilty, especially for riders over 90kg stability.

Lightweight Riders (<75kg)

Choose a board with a thickness of 5” inches for optimal performance, stability and ease of use.

Average Weight Riders (75-90kg)

Have a choice of 5” & 6” inch thick boards, if the rider has a desire to paddle in windier conditions or go faster, then the 5” thick option will be best, if the rider wants to load up with kit or have more buoyancy for kids and dogs then 6” may be best.

Heavier Riders (>90kg)

Go for a board 6 inches thick to ensure maximum stiffness that comes from the volume of air (in a 20psi) 6” thick board.

Performance

(How Far You Want to Paddle) = Length of Your Shark SUP

The length of your paddleboard determines the tracking ability, which directly affects how far and fast you can paddle:

Casual Paddlers (Short Distances)

A shorter 10’6 board is more maneuverable and easier to turn making this shape ideal for short-distance paddling and family fun.

Cruising Paddlers (Moderate Distances)

A performance all-round board that is 11’6″ long offers a balance between speed and control, perfect for leisurely cruising.

Adventure (Longer-Distance)

12’6 and 14’0 boards come into there own when riders are out on the water more than 2 hours most of the time.

Speed (Racers and Fast long distance

12’6 and 14’0 boards that are thinner with pulled-in tails are perfect for race series or riders wanting to longer.. faster.