Who will be paddling your newly purchased SUP and in what type of water it will be paddled in, is decisive for the type of board you should choose. The shape/design of the board has a significant influence on how the board behaves in the water. Different designs are suitable for different types of use. The 3 most common types are described below:

• All-round SUP – for exercise, yoga, play and excursions
  This board usually comes in the 10'8 (10 feet and 8 inches) size and is the most common size among beginners. This board has a length that combines speed and maneuverability in a good way. The thickness of the board should be 6 inches (15 cm) to be sufficiently rigid. The given choice for the family that wants a SUP for their holiday home.
• Touring SUP - for training/exercise.
  This board is a little longer, often 12'6 (12 feet and 6 inches), which means better course stability, ie the board doesn't swing as much when you take a paddle stroke. This allows you to paddle multiple strokes on each side without the board swinging, which in turn results in better glide and increased speed. The Touring board is designed to be used on relatively calmer water for optimal buoyancy and a phenomenal glide. The board is stable enough to be used even if you are a beginner.
• Surf-SUP - for surfing.
  A SUP to be used for surfing is usually very short in length (9'-10') and has an extra rounded bow and stern. This is to give the board as good maneuverability in the waves as possible. But the short length comes with the disadvantage that this SUP becomes very unstable when paddling on flat water. If you have reached a stage in your development and want to start surfing, a surf SUP is the right choice for you.

The paddle is one of the most important accessories to make your SUP paddling as rewarding as possible. A light carbon fiber paddle makes a big difference in the experience as it is both lighter and stiffer than a classic aluminum paddle. If you have the opportunity to buy a carbon fiber paddle, you get a big added value. An aluminum paddle is well suited for family and beginner purposes, when you need an extra durable paddle. If you buy a standard paddle as part of an inflatable SUP kit, it is important to:

• Make sure the paddle is 3-piece so it can be taken apart to fit in the backpack
• Ask if the paddle floats (unfortunately not all SUP paddles do this)
• Make sure the paddle is not too heavy (some paddles that come with a starter kit are too heavy, >1kg)

Regardless of whether you choose a carbon fiber paddle or an aluminum paddle, it is important that the paddle is adjustable. It is important that you can then adjust it according to your height and that it has a nice and robust handle.

A good quality inflatable SUP in size 10'-12' should cost between SEK 4,000-8,000 (lower price than about SEK 4,000 often signals poorer quality).
A hard fiberglass SUP with good quality, in size 10'-12' should cost between SEK 6000-10000.

An inflatable SUP board is usually pumped to 13–15 PSI. A well-made board is already stiff at 13–14 PSI, and the maximum pressure should be at least 15 PSI for the board to be of high quality. Always check the recommended pressure for your particular board.

Lie across the middle of the board, close to the handle, and pull yourself up to a kneeling position. From there, stand up as usual. If you are paddling with others, someone can hold the board while you climb up. With a leash around your ankle, the board will not drift away if you fall in.

SUP works the whole body and gives a particularly good workout for your arms, core and balance. The water makes the load soft and gentle on your joints, while you build up your endurance at the same time.

Drop stitch is the technology that makes an inflatable SUP board stiff. Inside the board are thousands of nylon threads holding the top and bottom together, so that the board can withstand high pressure. The more and denser the threads, the stiffer and more durable the board.

A high-quality SUP board lasts at least 5–10 years if it is well looked after, depending on how much it is used. Rinse and dry the board after use and store it in a dry place. A repair kit is good to have in case you get a small hole.