3 Mistakes To Avoid When Buying a Paddle

If you are planning to get into stand-up paddleboarding, you need to get the right items. One of the most overlooked items is the paddle.

You need to make sure you get the best paddle that fits you and manages all your needs on the water. A good paddle will offer a great paddling experience.

When using a good paddle, you forget that you are using it. It’s just like an extension of your hands. It is easier to use, friendly, and you can paddle with ease when if you are a beginner.

But a wrong paddle can make your experience on the water miserable. This means it is very essential to pick the appropriate SUP paddle.

Whether you are an experienced paddler or a beginner, you need to make the right choices when selecting a stand-up paddle.

What are SUP paddle materials?

*Wood – wood stand-up paddles are common because they have a classic look. However, due to their weight and the extra maintenance required, some paddlers avoid them.

*Plastic – among the favorite stand-up paddles for kids are the all-plastic paddles. They are light and a good choice for the little one. ivermectine 3 mg But the quality might not be a good one for the adults or experienced paddlers.

*Nylon – there is a special plastic known as polyamide used to make stand-up paddlers. Hence, if you are looking for a balance between affordability and durability, a nylon paddle is a good choice.

*Aluminum – aluminum paddle is light than wood since it is paired with a plastic handle. Moreover, it is affordable and a good choice for beginners.

*Fiberglass – the material is rigid and lightweight making it perfect for stand-up paddles. Even though it is a bit expensive than plastic or aluminum, it performs better.

*Carbon fiber – among the most rigid, light, and one that performs well for all paddlers is a carbon fiber stand-up paddle. It is durable and lightweight. However, it is a bit expensive than other options.

Mistakes to avoid when buying a paddle

1. Spending less time when choosing a paddle

A paddle is an important item in your paddling experience. However, most people spend less time when choosing one. ivermectin results In fact, people focus more on the stand-up paddleboard than the paddle.

To avoid making any mistakes, you need to use sufficient time to ensure you get the right paddle. Whether you are an experienced paddler or you are getting started, a paddle is a much important as the paddleboard.

In most cases, you will get a stand—up paddle together with the paddleboard. This is because most of these items are sold as a package. However, it does not mean you cannot purchase a paddle separately.

You can choose to buy a paddle separately or negotiate for an upgrade. Happily, most retail shops that sell stand-up paddleboards are always ready to listen. This means you can upgrade to a paddle of your choice.

Keep in mind that you need to negotiate before walking out of the store. Once you are out, the paddle is no longer new and you will lose the bargaining power. Therefore, decide on getting the package.

2. Choosing a fixed-grip paddle before you become an expert

Most beginners make the mistake of selecting a fixed-grip paddle even before they become experts. If you are first getting into stand-up paddleboarding, do not make the mistake of having a fixed-grip paddle. Go for the adjustable paddle.

Until you are familiar with the sports and you know where your main focus will be, avoid the fixed-grip paddle. Keep in mind that the paddle you might be using will be shared among family members and friends.

But once you know whether you will be paddling on the lake, river, ocean, or sea, you can go for the fixed-grip paddle. Happily, most packages nowadays come with a flexible cable.

But you are planning to get a paddle separately, make sure you go for the adjustable one. The good news you can find adjustable stand-up paddles made of different materials and great designs. ivermectin for dogs intestinal parasites

Go for those made of high-quality materials and one that fits your paddling waters. Therefore, make sure you have the basic information about paddles and the best ones for beginners.

3. Overlooking the length of the paddle

Again, whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, pick paddle length based on the type of paddling you will be doing. For example, for fitness, fishing, or touring paddling, the best you need a long paddle.

However, if you are planning to do river running or surfing, a shorter paddle will work for you. You need to understand that a shorter paddle is good for quicker and shorter strokes while a longer one is good for flat waters to provide stronger and longer strokes. Adjustable stand-up paddles are great for all styles of paddling.

Bottom-line

If you are planning to purchase a paddle, make sure you avoid the above mistakes. A paddle is as important as the paddleboard. Spend enough time when choosing one, research more about the paddles, pick one that fits your paddling type and select the right length.

Source:
paddleboards.com