What Is The Best Paddle Board Paddle For Me?

Shopping for new paddleboarding equipment is usually dominated by thoughts of a brand-new SUP, yet finding the best paddle board paddle is an equally important part of the process. You’re not going to get very far without a reliable paddle, and if you’ve got your sights set on a more specialised type of paddling like racing or touring then the paddle you choose can be critical in helping you achieve this goal. This begs the key question: what is the best paddle board paddle?

In order to find the best paddle board paddle, there are a number of factors to consider. Size often comes first and you can read more about how long a paddle board paddle should be in this article. Your paddling goals and ambitions will also make a big difference when it comes to the type of SUP paddle you should choose and, with this in mind, we’ve picked out our top picks from the Red range for all paddling needs. Read on to discover the best paddle board paddle for you!

Best for… shallow paddling

If you’re relatively new to paddleboarding, choosing a paddle board paddle that offers optimum performance in shallow waters will be key. That’s where the Hybrid Tough Adjustable SUP Paddle comes in, as its rigid and durable nylon blade cuts through the water with exceptional efficiency so that you can focus on refining your paddling technique rather than battling through the water. The Hybrid paddle is also incredibly comfortable to hold thanks to its ergonomic t-grip handle design. This makes for a smooth ride, all without stretching or straining yourself to find the right grip.

Best for… travel

One of the best things about paddleboarding is that it can be done almost anywhere in the world. Inflatable paddleboards have transformed the way we can hop from one location to another and enjoy the water, and if you’ve got your sights set on SUP travel then you’ll need a paddle that’s as portable to match. The best paddle board paddle for travel is undoubtedly our 5-Piece Collapsible SUP Paddle. This compact bit of kit packs away perfectly into five neat pieces that you can slot into your paddle board bag but all without any compromise when it comes to functionality. In fact, this SUP paddle is incredibly technical with a rigid carbon construction and durable pure nylon blade - just what you need to withstand the natural wear and tear of your exciting travel plans. 

Best for… racing & touring

If high performance is the goal, the Ultimate Ultra Lightweight SUP Paddle is the best paddle board paddle for you. Available in both fixed length and 2-piece and 3-piece adjustable designs, it has been designed especially with racing and touring in mind. The narrow composite blade keeps you stable as you pick up speed as its profile makes it easier to make strokes closer to the board, while the feather-light shaft and ergonomic t-grip handle guarantee exceptional comfort even across long distances on race day. Fine margins count when you’re paddling as fast as you can and this paddle board paddle offers the advantage you need to cross the finish line first. 

Best for… all round paddling

For paddlers looking for an easy ride and equipment they can rely on no matter where they go or what they’re up to, the Prime Lightweight SUP Paddle is the best paddle board paddle. It’s a fully adjustable bit of kit with a sturdy and easy-to-use lever lock and a possible length of 170cm to 220cm which makes it suitable for paddlers of most sizes. Once set up and on the water, the Prime Paddle feels light and responsive to use making it a popular all-round choice for all abilities. The carbon fibre blade catches the water with ease, resulting in powerful but balanced strokes in most water conditions.

Best for… kids

And if you’ve got little paddlers in tow, the best paddle board paddle is undoubtedly the Kid’s Cruiser Tough Adjustable SUP Paddle. Designed for those just getting started on the water, this SUP paddle looks and feels very similar to our Hybrid Paddle but in a kid-friendly design. The rigid nylon blade and glass composite shaft help to promote stability and balance, all while displaying the durability needed for whatever children might throw at it. 

If you have any questions about the features of our paddle board paddles or wish to get some advice about the best paddle board paddle for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the expert team of paddlers here at Red or checkout our product finder to help you find the perfect paddle for you.