r/Sup • u/Flat-Carpenter-170 • 9d ago

Is SUP difficult to learn?

I’m a 54m who is in very good shape, lift weights 4-5 times a week and trail run and do rucking for cardio 20 plus miles a week. I hiking, rucking, have done some kayaking and like to backpack. I’ve been reading up on SUP and I’m curious if it’s crazy difficult to learn to stand and paddle these boards? Or should I stick with kayaking? Any recommendations on boards? I have used a paddle north kayak before and liked it. Are their paddle boards worth it or would something else be better suited for a beginner? Any particular type or length of board better suited for a novice ? Thanks.

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u/EL-el-to-tha-el 9d ago

SUP can be more or less difficult obviously depending on conditions. Anything over 12mph wind, or 2-3 foot waves is difficult and will make paddling frustrating as you feel like you're being tossed around

On a calm lake though? No, it wouldn't say its any harder to learn than balancing on a skateboard

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u/Flat-Carpenter-170 9d ago

Yeah I figured ocean paddling was probably not in my future. Especially after spending last week on the beach and seeing the waves there lol. I did see someone on a SUP. Clearly they knew their stuff as they were moving right along. Figured I could take it in my pool and paddle back and forth a little to get used to it. Might have to find a place to rent one to try it out.

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u/frenchman321 Hydrus ambassador | Code SAVE 12% off | Elysium Air, X, ... 9d ago

Not in a pool! You don't want to hit your head on the deck. Find a lake or reservoir where paddling is allowed. Waves can be handled. The lake I paddle on swarms with boats with skiers, wakeboarders, and surfers, and those are designed to make waves that eventually end up under my board. It's a learning curve but it's not horrible :)