Paddle Board vs Surfboard

Paddle Board vs Surfboard

What are the merits of the paddle board vs surfboard if you are you planning to surf?

Paddleboards boast a wide range of uses from everyday relaxation on the water, to yoga, to even sailing on mini expeditions. However, one feature that it shares in common with the surfboard is that it can also be used to surf! Just how great is that! 

Beyond your regular paddle boarding, you can switch up to surfing too. For surfing enthusiasts also interested in paddle boarding, you would probably wonder what the point in getting a separate surfboard is. 

And this is exactly what this article seeks to answer, surfing with your regular surfboard vs surfing with a paddleboard. 

What’s the difference?

A paddle board vs surfboard, for the most part, suit entirely different conditions. Surfboards are specifically designed to be able to ride waves and ride along them amongst a range of other uses. 

A paddle board on the other hand, although functional for surfing, is not particularly made for this purpose. This isn’t to say that there aren’t paddleboards that surf great, however, there would definitely be surfboards that surf better. 

For instance, the average length of surfboards is between 6’ and 8’. Paddle board length on the other hand comes in around 10’-11’. This extra length and the size of the board can only be handled by a seasoned expert. 

But to better help you understand the difference between these two and make your decision easier, here are some base paddle board vs surfboard comparison questions.

1. Which is easier to handle?

Ironically, surfing with a paddle board might be easier than surfing with a surfboard. This is because a paddle board allows for extra balance thanks to the paddles. 

A regular surfboard on the other hand has the surfer directing the board while his hands paddle out the surf, and to change waves, he would have to make use of his body weight. 

When you are stood upright, you are also in an elevated position of course, so you can easily see incoming waves, you can get in the best position to catch the wave, and you are already standing which helps to catch the wave. 

On the flip side, navigating the paddleboard might be a tad cumbersome because of the size. There’s an easy, solution however, get a paddleboard that is specifically designed for surfing too. 

2. Which board suits all water types?

If you decide that surfing will be you main SUP activity, then of course you are better to buy a paddle board that is specifically designed for surfing. 

However, if you may just surf now and again and your main purpose is to paddle board, you’ll want a board that is more all around. 

Check out the different types of paddle board.

3. Which has the best wave riding abilities

Surprisingly, both surfboard surfers and paddleboard surfers can ride the same waves, yes. However, before surfing with a paddle board, you should have a level of expertise. 

This is because paddle boards are originally intended for stable water, therefore, the size of SUP boards makes them difficult to maneuver. If you’re using paddle boards that were made for surfing, you would probably have a more enjoyable experience. 

This video from Standup Paddle Boarding TV has some great advice and tips on surfing with a paddle board and the kinds of challenges you need to think about.

The Bottom Line

If you’re expert enough, you can surf with a paddle board easily. And you would definitely derive maximum pleasure from said activity irrespective of the board you use.

However, it goes without saying that making a choice of board to surf with would eventually boil down to your preference. If you’re getting a board for surfing as well as other activities, you might consider a paddleboard. If your board is solely for surfing, I’m certain you know what to do!