A guide to finding the right paddleboard to suit your paddling style

By Jen Chrimes

Selecting the perfect paddle board can be an exciting but challenging task, especially with the diverse range of options out there. To help you make an informed decision we put together the following guide so you can consider the following factors before making a purchase:

• Recreational Paddling: For leisurely paddling on calm waters, the Pau Hana Malibu Classic is an ideal choice for beginners. Its wide deck provides stability, making it perfect for people just starting out and family use. The Oahu paddle board was designed for recreational paddlers with a bit of experience who may occasionally want to try their hand at surfing.

• Adventure and Touring: If you seek longer paddles or multi-day trips, the Endurance Touring SUP range offers the speed and capacity you need. The Endurance is designed to carry gear efficiently, ensuring a smooth journey, and has been designed to accommodate a bivy on the decked so not only does your paddle board get you to camp, but it also acts as a camping platform when you are there.

• Fishing and Utility: For those looking to fish, the Big EZ Angler comes equipped with SeaMounts to attach mounts for rods, coolers and other gear. The wide deck offers excellent stability when your reeling in a catch while the Ricochet technology provides a robust shell when fishing close to rocks or water debris.

• Yoga and Fitness: The Moon Mist yoga board provides a stable and comfortable platform for on-water yoga sessions, with a soft deck pad and ample space for poses. Not only is it a great board for yoga, but once you have mastered the art of balance, it serves as an excellent surf SUP. If on water fitness is what you are looking to improve, the MiniSport is an excellent choice. It’s a fast, agile board for those looking to complete more intense paddling sessions and increase paddling fitness. The wide tail offers stability while the displacement nose cuts through the water effortlessly. 

• Beginner: For newcomers, the Malibu Classic is wide, stable and forgiving, making it easy to handle which can aid in helping build confidence on the water. It’s also constructed from VFT to help protect the board from scrapes and dings when your just starting out.

• Intermediate: The Big EZ Hawaiian is a great all-around board for those with some experience, offering versatility across various conditions. Slightly narrower than the Malibu Classic and longer, the Big EZ is built for progression and a stable ride. It is also available in a VFT construction for those looking for a more durable board.

• Advanced: Experienced paddlers may prefer a board to narrow in on their niche on paddle. The Endurance Touring SUP, which provides the performance needed for tackling longer distances and more challenging waters, was designed for those seeking multi-way trips and off grid exploration. The Navio is a great option for those looking for a day touring or versatile fishing board.

• Volume: Consider the board’s volume based on your weight and the gear you'll carry. The Big EZ Hawaiian supports heavier paddlers or those carrying extra gear, while lighter paddlers might opt for a smaller, more nimble board like the Moon Mist.

• Length: Longer boards, like the Endurance Touring SUP, track better and are faster, making them ideal for distance paddling. Shorter boards, like the Malibu Classic, are more maneuverable and better suited for quick turns and shorter distances.

• Pau Hana's boards are known for their high-quality, durable construction. The use of advanced materials like Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) in some models ensures longevity and environmental friendliness. If eco-consciousness is a priority, consider models featuring TPU. VFT and Ricochet technology provide a very durable shell which can increase the longevity of the board if the water where you paddle is susceptible to debris or rocks. 

• Pau Hana’s range of hard boards some of their inflatable collection feature the SeaMount system and which a variety of accessories to enhance your paddling experience. Whether it's adding a rod holder, cooler, gorilla nets, or a wide range of other accessories, consider how you can customize your board to meet your needs.

Choosing the right paddle board comes down to understanding your needs and matching them with the right product. By considering your intended use, experience level, and specific requirements, you can select a board that will provide years of enjoyment on the water.