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: 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.

A high-quality SUP board that is well cared for can last for many years. Typically you can expect a good SUP board to last at least 5-10 years, if not longer, depending on frequency of use and maintenance. It is important to remember that SUP boards, like all sports equipment, wear out over time due to use and care. If you notice signs of damage or wear, such as cracks, dents, it is best to repair or replace the board to ensure safety and performance. Buying an inflatable board usually comes with a repair kit which can be very useful.

The maximum pressure on an inflatable sup board should be at least 15 PSI or more for it to be of high quality. For a board that is well made, pumping it up to 13-14 PSI can be enough.

The board is almost impossible to capsize, but if you should fall off, it's easy to climb back up and continue paddling. If you paddle with someone else, you can help hold the board when it's time to climb out of the water. A SUP package also includes a footleash that you attach to your foot and to the board. This leash keeps the board from moving when you fall, so you never have to swim to catch up.

There are many players who sell soup boards for a cheap price, but then there is a big risk that it is of poorer quality and breaks more easily. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay at least SEK 4000 for a good, high-quality SUP board. Important to consider is that SUP boards may require additional accessories, such as paddles, leashes and pumps, which can increase costs.