In this column, we will thoroughly explain everything from the basics of SUP to the types of boards and how to choose one, for those who are considering purchasing a SUP or are interested in SUP but don't know what kind of activity it is.
What is "SUP," an easy-to-do water activity?
SUP is an acronym for "Stand Up Paddleboard," and as the name suggests, it is a water activity where you stand on a board and propel yourself forward on the water by paddling. It has become a popular activity in recent years because you can enjoy nature and scenery that you don't experience in daily life, and you can enjoy it in various settings such as camping and the ocean.
How to enjoy SUP
SUP has been growing in popularity in recent years, and there are many ways to enjoy it with just one SUP.
- Cruising
The basic way to enjoy SUP is "SUP Cruising."
This involves standing on the board and paddling across the water like a rowboat, making it enjoyable even for beginners who can maintain stability.
- Surfing
"SUP surfing" (paddle surfing) is a style of enjoying waves like surfing using a SUP.
Once you get used to handling a SUP in the ocean, you'll be able to enjoy leisurely wave riding like longboard surfing.
- Combined with various activities
You can also go SUP fishing, where you fish while on a SUP, or do SUP yoga, where you practice yoga on a SUP.
- With your children and pets
You can also enjoy tandem riding on a SUP with your children or beloved pets.
By wearing life jackets, you can play safely, making it a perfect water activity for creating memories with family, including children and pets.
The reasons for its popularity include the various ways beginners and advanced users can enjoy it, and the fact that it's a water activity that can be enjoyed with beloved family members.
What are the best water fields for SUP?
While SUP is often associated with marine sports, it can be enjoyed in various water environments, including not only the sea but also rivers and lakes.
- Ocean (Ocean SUP)
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll on the sea amidst nature and beautiful ocean views. You can leisurely cruise or enjoy riding waves like surfing.
- River (River SUP)
The appeal of river SUP is that it leverages the ease and maneuverability of SUP. You can comfortably enjoy boarding while riding the river's current.
- Lake (Lake SUP)
With often little wind or waves, these locations are very calm and highly recommended for beginners. Many are also adjacent to campgrounds, making them ideal for activities during camping trips.
Equipment required for SUP
When starting SUP, make sure to have the following four essential items.
- SUP board
It is important to choose a SUP board that suits you. There are various types and sizes of boards, from stable ones for beginners to speed-oriented ones for experienced users. Choose the optimal board based on the environment you'll be using it in, your weight, and your skill level.
- Paddle
Paddles come in various lengths, but choosing one that matches your height will allow for comfortable use.
A paddle is essential for controlling your SUP. There are various shapes and materials, so choose a paddle that suits you.
- Life jacket
It is absolutely essential to wear a life jacket when doing SUP. While not mandatory, wearing one is strongly recommended by the SUP industry. Also, for children and pets, let's all enjoy SUP safely by wearing dedicated life jackets.
- Leash cord
A leash cord is an item that connects your body to the board to prevent you from getting separated from the board if you fall off the SUP. If you SUP without a leash cord, the board may drift away when you are separated from it, or it may hit someone else and cause injury. Always wear a leash cord when SUPing.
Types of SUP
Before purchasing a SUP board, it's important to know the different types of boards.
There are two main types of boards.
- Hardboard
Hardboards are made from rigid materials such as reinforced plastic. They have less flex and can achieve higher speeds, making them ideal for SUP surfing and racing. On the other hand, they are susceptible to damage from impact and can cause injury if they hit your body, making them a bit more challenging for beginners. Also, some boards are over 3.5 meters long and cannot be folded, making them difficult to transport unless you have a car.
- Inflatable board
Inflatable boards are made of PVC material and are inflated with a pump. They are generally more affordable than hardboards and easier to transport. Most weigh around 10kg and can be carried in a dedicated bag by car or train. They are recommended for beginners because there is less risk of injury if they hit your body. However, since they are made of rubber, if a hole opens in the water, you will need to return to shore and repair it quickly.
Furthermore, they are broadly divided into three types depending on their purpose.
- All-around
All-around SUPs are versatile and can be used for various activities such as cruising, exercise, and surfing. They have greater stability due to their width and thickness, but they are inferior to other types in terms of speed and maneuverability. However, they are popular among beginners to intermediate users because they can be enjoyed for a wide range of purposes. For first-timers, we recommend purchasing an "all-around" type.
- Race model
Race models are, as the name suggests, boards for those who participate in speed competitions such as SUP races and SUP marathons. They are difficult to master, so they are considered boards for advanced users.
- Wave
Wave-type SUPs are boards designed for surfing. They are thin and small, offering a good balance of maneuverability and buoyancy, making them ideal for riding small waves. They can also be used for cruising, so they are recommended for those who want to enjoy a surfing-like experience. While they may be a bit challenging for beginners, once you get the hang of it, you can enjoy them in various ways.
Key points for choosing a SUP
When purchasing a SUP, it is important to choose the right size for you.
Here are three key points to consider when making a purchase.
- Length
SUP board length is expressed in ft (feet). *1ft = 30.48cm
SUP board length affects straight-line performance; longer boards go faster but are less maneuverable. Race models (12-14ft) are generally long. Wave boards (under 9ft), on the other hand, are short and highly maneuverable but less stable. Therefore, all-around types, which are often 9-13ft, are ideal for beginners.
- Width
Wider boards offer greater stability, making them easier for beginners to stand on, but they also have greater drag and are slower. Conversely, narrower boards are faster but less stable and more challenging for beginners. Generally, race models are 23-28 inches wide, while inflatable SUPs and all-around types suitable for beginners are often 30-32 inches, which is ideal.
- Thickness
Increased thickness boosts buoyancy and stability, but it also increases resistance to wind and water, making turning more difficult. For beginners, inflatable SUPs and all-around types with a thickness of 4-6 inches are recommended.
For those who are new to SUP but want a quality board
Introducing "FOLBOT SUP"
For those who are starting SUP but want a specific SUP board, we introduce the FOLBOT SUP series.
【ABOUT FOLBOT】
FOLBOT is an established American kayak brand founded in 1933 in London, England, as a kayak brand. In 2019, it relaunched in Japan as a kayak and outdoor gear brand under the concept of "Travel, Journey, Trip...". Currently, it offers gear, primarily SUPs and kayaks, that makes you want to take them on a journey.
FOLBOT HP：https://folbot.jp/pages/about
【Introducing 3 FOLBOT SUP models】
Here are three recommended SUP models from FOLBOT.
①ATTACK SUP (New product launching in 2025)
Product Page: https://folbot.jp/products/attack-sup
Color: GREY
Board Type: Freestyle Model
Expanded Size: 320 × 87 × 15 cm
Price: 159,500 yen (tax included)
②TACTICAL FOLDING SUP 【GREY】
Product page: https://folbot.jp/products/tactical-folding-sup-grey
Color: GREY
Board Type: All-around board
Expanded Size: 320 x 81 x 15cm
Price: 148,500 yen (tax included)
③VERSATILE SUP 【COYOTE】
Product Page: https://folbot.jp/products/versatile-sup-coyote
Color: COYOTE
Board type: All-around board
Expanded size: 384 x 81 x 15cm
Product price: 181,500 yen (tax included)
The differences and selection guide for the three FOLBOT SUP board models are explained in detail in this comparison article.
FOLBOT SUP 3 models in-depth comparison | Complete guide for beginners and upgrades
【FOLBOT SUP Features】
- Stability and Speed
The TACTICAL FOLDING SUP is an "all-around board" designed for stability and speed. It's an all-around board that's easy for beginners to use and highly stable, yet it features a tri-fin system that even beginners can easily control. The board's outline is designed to balance stability and speed, ensuring long-term enjoyment without getting bored. Additionally, its "inflatable" specification allows even those without a car to easily start SUPing.
- High quality and durability
We use high-quality two-layer main fabric and double-layered sidewalls to enhance durability. Additionally, it is equipped with an air pressure adjustment valve that automatically releases air when the pressure exceeds 15 atmospheres, reducing the risk of bursting.
- Supports a wide range of use cases
The webbing belts on both sides of the deck pad allow you to tether your dog's leash for DOG SUP, or attach anchors or cooler boxes for SUP FISHING. It's a SUP that lets you pursue your own style with a little ingenuity.
"FOLBOT SUP" is recommended for these people
FOLBOT SUP is recommended for these types of people.
SUP boards typically feature vibrant designs. However, the "TACTICAL FOLDING SUP" stands out with its chic color scheme and functional design, making it blend beautifully with nature. It's recommended for those looking for a board with a design that's a cut above the rest.
Many people may be worried, thinking, "I'm new to SUP, but I don't want to compromise," or "Is an all-around board really the right choice?" For such individuals, FOLBOT SUP is highly recommended. As an all-around board, FOLBOT SUP offers high functionality and speed, making it an excellent choice for those looking to get serious about SUP.
FOLBOT also offers life jackets for use during SUP. With sizes available for kids and dogs, you can ensure the safety of your children and beloved pets while enjoying SUP in style with matching designs.
Introducing Life Jackets (PFD)
FOLBOT offers life jackets (PFDs).
We offer life jackets not only for adults but also for children and pets,
allowing you to enjoy SUP safely and stylishly with your beloved family.
TACTICAL FLOATING DEVICE
Product Page: https://folbot.jp/products/tactical-floating-device
Color: COYOTE/ OLIVE DRAB / STEALTH / COMPASS GHOST GREY
Size: Free
Product price: 18,700 yen (tax included)
TFD for Kids
Product Page: https://folbot.jp/products/tactical-floating-device-for-kids
Color: COYOTE/ OLIVE DRAB / STEALTH
Size: 15kg to under 40kg
Product price: 13,750 yen (tax included)
TFD for Dog
Product page: https://folbot.jp/products/tfd-for-dog
Color: COYOTE/ OLIVE DRAB / STEALTH / COMPASS GHOST GREY
Sizes: M / L
Product price: 14,300 yen (tax included)
Finally
In this column, we introduced the overview of SUP, the types and selection of SUP boards, and the appeal of FOLBOT SUP. Please use this column as a reference to find your favorite board and enjoy SUP.
