The latest water sport that is spreading like a happy bug across the world, is stand up paddle-boarding (SUP). It is the ideal outdoor activity for those who want to learn to surf, as well as those who simply want to ride gentle waves close to shore. The beauty of SUP is that it can be enjoyed by old and young, and in any place where there is water - lakes, canals, rivers or the ocean. There are a huge variety of NSP stand up paddle boards to suit everyone's size, style and specific needs.
The idea of riding a wave, paddling or fishing in an upright position whilst balancing on a huge board, apparently appeals to most water sport lovers. Maybe it is the fact that one is not submerged in water all the time, or have a better view from a standing position, but whatever the reason, this craze has spread like wildfire. Even traditional surfers are hooked and many are trading their long boards for a SUP version.
SUP is relatively safe and easy compared to surfing and thus suitable for young and old. It can be done competitively or for leisure at any place in the world where there is water - on rivers, lakes, canals and over long distances along coastlines. It is thus small wonder that it was dubbed last year as the most popular and fastest growing new outdoor sport boasting the most first-time participants in the United States.
SUP originated in Hawaii and only became popular in the USA and other countries during the past nine years. Last year, it was documented as the most popular and fastest growing water sport in the USA. The first dedicated SUP store in North America only opened its doors in 2007 in Santa Barbara, California. The owner, Deb Thomas, was also the first female standup paddler in North America in 2005.
Another indication of how new the sport is, is that the first SUP board race was only held in 2007 in California. This 7 mile race in which 34 male and female paddlers competed, also heralded the popular annual Tahoe Nalu Paddle Festival. Today, these stand up paddlers have become a common sight along most coasts and lakes around the world.
The sport is equally popular among professional, competitive surfers, laymen and recreational fishermen. The two main types of boards are All Arounder and those used for racing or long distance touring. These include specific styles made for women, kids, river racing, etc. Inflatable boards are becoming increasingly popular because they are so easy to transport.
The width of the boards plays a major role in stability. SUP boards are generally up to 36 inches wide to accommodate most body types - from skinny kids to obese adults. The wider ones of 31 inches or more are ideal for larger people or those with poor balance or flexibility. The wider and thicker the board, the better your weight is displaced in the water.
Prices vary from $600 to $1500, but one can also get good second-hand ones. The latest trend is inflatable SUP boards that are light-weight and easy to transport. No matter why and how you SUP, there is a board that is tailor-made to suit your style, size and fancy!
The idea of riding a wave, paddling or fishing in an upright position whilst balancing on a huge board, apparently appeals to most water sport lovers. Maybe it is the fact that one is not submerged in water all the time, or have a better view from a standing position, but whatever the reason, this craze has spread like wildfire. Even traditional surfers are hooked and many are trading their long boards for a SUP version.
SUP is relatively safe and easy compared to surfing and thus suitable for young and old. It can be done competitively or for leisure at any place in the world where there is water - on rivers, lakes, canals and over long distances along coastlines. It is thus small wonder that it was dubbed last year as the most popular and fastest growing new outdoor sport boasting the most first-time participants in the United States.
SUP originated in Hawaii and only became popular in the USA and other countries during the past nine years. Last year, it was documented as the most popular and fastest growing water sport in the USA. The first dedicated SUP store in North America only opened its doors in 2007 in Santa Barbara, California. The owner, Deb Thomas, was also the first female standup paddler in North America in 2005.
Another indication of how new the sport is, is that the first SUP board race was only held in 2007 in California. This 7 mile race in which 34 male and female paddlers competed, also heralded the popular annual Tahoe Nalu Paddle Festival. Today, these stand up paddlers have become a common sight along most coasts and lakes around the world.
The sport is equally popular among professional, competitive surfers, laymen and recreational fishermen. The two main types of boards are All Arounder and those used for racing or long distance touring. These include specific styles made for women, kids, river racing, etc. Inflatable boards are becoming increasingly popular because they are so easy to transport.
The width of the boards plays a major role in stability. SUP boards are generally up to 36 inches wide to accommodate most body types - from skinny kids to obese adults. The wider ones of 31 inches or more are ideal for larger people or those with poor balance or flexibility. The wider and thicker the board, the better your weight is displaced in the water.
Prices vary from $600 to $1500, but one can also get good second-hand ones. The latest trend is inflatable SUP boards that are light-weight and easy to transport. No matter why and how you SUP, there is a board that is tailor-made to suit your style, size and fancy!
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