Yearly Archives - 2022

Even though 2021 was a rocky year in many ways, paddle boarding is still hard on the rise in 2022. With millions of new paddlers hitting the waters around the world, there's also a growing need to discuss paddleboard safety. Users who paddle for a longer time or have transitioned to SUP from surfing or kayaking are usually more aware of the perils that changing weather can bring or how to navigate different types of waterbeds. But for many, SUP safety is a relatively new area and here are some quick basics to make sure you'll be paddling safely.

To start off, even before you take your paddle board out, always have a bottle of water at hand, wear sunscreen and make sure you understand your surroundings. Understand that winds can change and tides can pull heavier than you can paddle. If you’re new to an area, make sure you ask locals for paddling advice and safety tips.

Our overview includes four aspects of safety gear that will help you in different situations.

Wearing a leash on your SUP is similar to getting into the car and fastening your seatbelt. The leash will help you reach your board quickly after the fall and stay afloat. Not having it might put a lot of distance between you and the board and make you lose energy swimming after it.

Coiled leash? Straight leash? Quick-release?

For most paddlers who'll be paddling on calmer waters, a coiled leash is a perfect fit. It'll stay put on the board, create no drag and still give you enough length not to get hit by the board on the recoil.

Having a straight leash will be a top choice while paddling on waves, when you get the extra push and don't mind the dragging leash in the water.

A quick release system is an added strap you pull (either knee or waist mounted) when you want the board to disconnect. This is a safety feature handy in white-water paddling where getting tangled in swirls or underwater debris could hold you under water.

Having a PFD is one of the most recommended advice you can get. There's a number of things that can happen while paddling in nature and having a PFD can mean a life-saving decision.

Most PFDs are self inflatable (using compressed gases) and will inflate by pulling a special lever. The inflated device will help you stay afloat, reach your board or swim to the shore if you get disconnected from it. With accidents becoming a commonplace in the SUP industry, there are more and more places where the use of PFDs  is becoming mandatory.

Much like the leash, a PFD can be a vital addition when pushing out and reaching beyond the bend.

Riding electric SUP boards or a SUP with a paddle assist system on your board can help you in a singular way. While a leash, PFD or double-chamber can help you remain afloat and close to your board, an electric motor on your SUP board can help you get back to safety, once the weather or tides change. There are different types of motorized electric SUP options that you can go for.

Even equipped and experienced paddlers can get pulled out on a current or a changing tide, which can end terribly if you don't reach shore or help quick enough. We're seeing news of rising numbers in paddler rescues all over the world and the reasons are always the same: changing conditions lead to scenarios paddlers didn't prepare for, so always keep in made – SUP safety first.

Having an on-board Paddle assist system like the SipaDrive can give you a boost whenever you feel overwhelmed by nature. Adding up to 7km/h will feel like riding your board in tandem and help you get back safe.

One of the attempts our industry is pushing for is a double-chamber SUP board. In short, a double chamber iSUP is a board with two separated air compartments that get inflated individually. If one of the chambers releases air and deflates, the paddler still has a second one that will help them stay above water and reach the shore easier. Many premium brands are championing double chamber boards as one of the SUP safety tips.

While the double chamber technology is popular, it comes with a twist. Ever heard the phrase: “Double chamber, double danger”? Well, in most cases the board will default and lose air at a seam as a result of dissolving sealant or glue rather than rupture. So while a part of the industry is developing boards with more chambers, a growingly popular opinion is that additional seams and sealing can lead to more problems than less. Most cases where people are left with a deflated board happen because of air leakage.

The alternative to the double chamber technology is switching from glues to heat-bonding, which improves the board's integrity and reduces the possibility of air leakage.

Too much can never be too much when it comes to SUP safety. You should always consider your capabilities, your surroundings and your equipment before venturing out. Check your gear, fill your batteries, enjoy your paddle and get back safe!

For more tips, the editorial experts at SUP Connect have covered each aspect into further detail. Check out this extensive article from here.

Did you know that with our motorized electric paddle boards the safety leash is just a part of a user friendly carry system that will help you get in and out of water with ease? 😊

Sources:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GySFjKpkHs
• https://www.supconnect.com/news/sup-gear/6-essential-sup-safety-items-that-you-should-never-be-without

There has been a growing amount of discussion over the last years regarding motorized standup paddle boards. As more people are paddling out on SUP boards with different motors we wanted to prepare a run-down of the pluses and minuses of the new popular electric boards.

Judging quickly, a motor on a standup paddle board is as needles as a motor on a scooter or a bicycle, yet every segment of the three has been growing over the last years. The main reason against is most commonly that the motor does the job of paddling and there is only little workout left. But rest assured, even with a motor equipped standup paddleboard, you'll be able to work out just as hard as on a classic board.

Think of the motor on a SUP as an upgrade feature that your board can have. There are different makes and motor ideas we discuss later on, but with a premium mark motorized SUP provider like SipaBoards, none of the riding characteristics are lost. What really sets propelled or paddle-assisted SUPs apart from the competition are these three factors:

1. They are much safer

Conditions on water can change rapidly. Winds can pick up, paddlers can get pulled out to open water by a current or a changing tide and battling these forces can leave the paddler drained. With the popularity of standup paddle-boarding, there are growing numbers of unprepared paddlers that need coast-guard assistance due to unpreparedness.

A standup paddle board with motor can give you just the support needed to tackle a current or take an offshore wind head on.  Paddlers should always understand their surroundings , the weather and water in order to stay safe.

2. You can paddle further and faster

Adding to the list are more speed and a wider reach. Paddlers can selectively turn the motor on and off, going for more speed when wanted and reaching more remote locations. While battery autonomy varies in different products, SipaBoards has a water-tight system that enables the user a battery - switch even when they are on the water. Some motorized standup paddlers are recording distances up to 30 kilometres on a single ride and top-sprint speeds well over 14 km/h.

3. You can still get the same workout

The beauty of a well made motorized SUP is that it can be used with or without the motor. And even instances where the motor is on, the paddler can still push as hard as on any standard board, they will only generate more speed that way. With integrated motors the surface area is also cleared of any add-ons for activities like SUP yoga. But with a quality inflatable SUP like SipaBoards, you will be able to lift your exercises on an even higher lever.

While some motors are developed for speed, some are developed to provide a longer and safer riding experience. At SipaBoards, we build our motorized SUPs to assist the paddler when they need an extra push, but not hinder the great paddle experience when they don't. The boards are controlled via a Bluetooth remote fixed to any paddle, which makes them the easiest option in terms of navigation.

An integrated choice might offer a smoother ride and less drag, but it really comes down to the shape of the board, when selecting which board fits you best.

If you need help with selecting a model, ask our crew in the chat-box.

A motorized SUP is only as good as the battery that powers it. Think of how much time your average ride lasts and whether you can or need to charge the battery after every use. A rule of thumb would be to have a battery with at least twice the lifetime as a single ride duration.

Note also that a motorized SUP needs a bit more maintenance than a no-motor version. Always check the battery's capacity before going out and be thorough when cleaning the board. Even though most brands offer motors that are resistant to salt and sand, the combination of the two can be a problem for any motor.

More and more brands are offering SUP motors and motorised SUPs, so these are turning into a trend. Go out faster, learn quicker, even discover supping during the night time (if your SUP has integrated LED lights of corse) and always return safe. Much like the revolution that happened with in the e-bike industry, electric mobility is now the next frontier in SUP exploration.

It really comes down to what kind of a user are you. The advantages are clear, while disadvantages vary - from created drag and goofy course, to the price you pay.

Die hard purists swear to no-motor boards, while more and more people are flocking to powered-up boards. If you wish to get the most out of any day on water, then having an upgraded experience and an e-SUP is a win.

For us at SipaBoards, safety is paramount and as ours are some of the safest SUPs worldwide, we will always be a champion for safer, electric powered rides.

Motorized paddle boards are the future - they are safer and more stable. See how our SipaDrive is made in a video below!

Sources:

• https://standuppaddleboardworld.com/best-paddle-board-motor-gear/
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOSb3ouuBlw
• https://e-surfer.com/en/shop/electric-sup/sipaboards-electric-sup-with-motor/

Stand up paddle boarding is now one of the most popular water-based sports in the world. It is the best sport for adventuring and even fishing. When people ask, are paddle boards worth the money, the answer is clear – yes, they are. A paddle board is an investment that can be used for years! If paddle boarding is something you plan on doing often, it's worth the extra money to get something really good. In 2022 the world of paddle boarding is becoming motorized. A new dimension of paddling with motorized paddle board is safer, faster and more exciting. So, if you are still asking us, are paddle boards worth the money, read all the key benefits of quality paddle board.

There are different kinds of paddle board you can buy - inflatable paddle board, hard paddle board or self-inflatable/motorized paddle board. It is relative to what you want to do with your paddle board and the types of water you want to ride in – sea, lakes. All of paddle boards have their advantages and disadvantages. So, the choice is based on many factors like weight, durability, portability, etc.

Inflatable paddle board: The fact that they are inflatable means, they can be easily stored and transported (in the car or in their bag) to the nearest stretch of water. You don’t need roof racks or a big garage. An inflatable board is ideal and works great in all conditions, it is also great for a first-time paddler/beginner. If you plan to travel a lot with your paddle board, an inflatable will be the best choice because it is easy to take wherever your adventure takes you.

Hard paddle board: Hard paddle boards are more expensive and performance orientated in the SUP world. If you are buying a board mainly for SUP surfing or racing, certain technical attributes of hardboards make them worthy of consideration. But don’t forget that hard boards take up a lot of storage space.

Self-inflatable / motorized paddle board: Self-inflatable paddle boards are equipped with a Self Inflate System, that inflates the board to its optimal pressure in minutes. You don’t have to worry about the pressure and you don’t have to pump. Motorized paddle boards are paddle boards with integrated electric motor which can also be used as pump. Because of the motor you can go faster, further and you can paddle more safer.

The average price of a paddleboard is about $300 to $500 for the lower-end ones. The cost increases to $1,500-$2,500 for the really high-end paddleboards. You can find inflatable paddle board for as cheap as $180 because they have a lower price point then hard boards. But if you want quality inflatable paddle board, you can find a good one around $1000.

A paddle board is an investment that can be used for years. If paddle boarding is something you plan on doing often, then paddle board is worth the extra money to get something good. Not all inflatable paddle boards are made equal. The differences are in construction & technology, durability, deflating value, lack of versatility, quality accessories.

When asking yourself are paddle boards worth the money, you need to watch out for these basic things.

Thickness - SUP boards range from 4 to 6 inches thick. Whilst the 4 inch boards will be fine, they do sit closer to the water. The heavier you are the more likely you are to get your feet wet! For beginners, a board anywhere between 4-6 inches deep will be more sturdy and easier to get started.

Length - there’s so many different board lengths! For an all rounder board when you’re starting out, go for the 10’6 or 10’8 depending on your weight and height. These will be the best ‘all rounders’ when starting out and provide a nice balance between stability and maneuverability.

Width - the wider the board, the more stable it will be. Boards which are narrow in the middle tend to be better for racing or touring. Beginners will need a wider board to begin with. Generally, something around 32 inches wide should be sufficiently stable. Many people will make the mistake of upgrading a board too early. It’s better to learn on a board that is suitable for learning and making mistakes on, rather than a board you later come to dislike spending time on because it’s too unstable for you when you start out.

Weight - Now, if you’re just planning on pumping your board up by the car and dropping it in the canal straight at the side of you, you can kind of discount this. But if you’re planning to go on an adventure with your paddle board then check the weight of the board. It is also recommended to check the weight of the whole package especially if you’re walking or catching public transport.

Fin setup (one vs three) - different boards have different fin systems. Some have one main middle fin, some have three finds in a V formation. Generally, the one fin setup is better for touring, tracking and long journeys, and the three fins are better for all round paddling and especially surfing.

How easy is it to get parts - Make sure the place you’re purchasing from or the brand you’re buying from is reputable if you can. Sorting any issues and being able to get hold of new parts saves a lot of money in the long run as we don’t want boards to just be used for one summer season. Always try to consider your new board as an investment for a long run.

No, because you get what you pay for. Of course, we all want to jump on it, when we see a chance to save some money but don’t forget that buying quality paddle board is an investment. It is true that cheap paddle boards are great for beginners, they will save you money if you break them and you can try a range of styles by buying cheap paddle boards. But with cheap paddle boards, you also buy cheap quality which can lead you to wrong PSI – it may be lower or higher than recommended, they may be less durable, less comfort and they can be much slower.

There are 6 reasons that you need to know, when asking are paddle boards worth the money.

1.Quality - better quality, higher price. Quality materials usually cost more so paddle boards made of high quality material are also slightly more expensive.

2.Technology - the market use either single or double layer “dropstitch”, which refers to how the material that forms the top and bottom skin of the board is connected by threads, giving the board it’s shape and structure. Depending on the technology chosen, the price can be very different too.

3.Durability - It’s no good if it starts falling apart after just a season, you want it to last. Not only does this not look great and it can cost you more money, it could also be dangerous. Better quality, longer durability.

4.Quality accessories - If you’re looking to buy a cheap, low quality paddle board, it’s likely you’ll also find that it’s not just the board that falls apart. To keep the price point as low as possible the manufacturer will probably have to choose low quality of ever thing else that comes along with the paddle board - the bag you put it paddle board in, the paddle and the pump.

5.New and improved systems – with the new and improved systems in technology boards have better quality, longer durability and deflating value. But this is only possible if manufacturer puts more money in the process of making the board.

6.After sales services – once you have your paddle board, you may have some questions about the board, accessories and other stuff. So, it is very important that you check how the after sales services is organized at the company that you bought the board.

Yes, electric paddle board / motorized paddle board is also made for beginners. Because of all the pros and advantages that they have, is even more recommended to buy this kind of paddle board for people who will paddle for the first time.

It depends of the model you want to buy. Prices vary according to size, use, etc. You can find a good one from $1.990 and on. They are more expansive in comparison with normal stand up paddle boards because of the motor / built-in Paddle Assist System technology and all the accessories that comes along.

Yes, for sure. They have so many advantages like self-inflating, help when you need one from built-in Paddle Assist System technology - if you get tired or if a stream of water carries you away, they are safer and more stable. It really helps you with a lot of different situations on the water. Motorized paddle boards are the new generation of SUPs.

As we already said, motorized paddle boards have so many different advantages and benefits. Below we are explaining, why motorized paddle boards are better than normal paddle boards and why they are worth all the money.

Self-inflating – paddle boards are equipped with a Self-Inflate System that inflates the board to its optimal pressure in minutes. More paddling fun, zero pumping.

Better stability on the water - with a patented built-in Paddle Assist System technology motorized paddle boards are more stable on the water and therefor even beginners can use them without a problem.

You can paddle faster - with a patented built-in Paddle Assist System technology our motorized paddle boards SipaBoards have 3 speed settings: 3 hours at cruising speed of 2 knots or 1 hour at max speed 3.5 knots.

You can ride further – our SipaBoards motorized paddle boards with a built-in Paddle Assist System technology can make you explore and find places you have been only dreaming about.

Paddling is safer - Yes, it is. With the water being unpredictable you know that you can always came back safe with a little help from your friend – our motor SipaDrive: built-in Paddle Assist System.

Yes, they are. Especially if you take this advice - buy well, buy once. Cheap paddle boards may appear attractive at first, but the low quality materials and construction mean that not only is their performance far inferior to their more expensive counterparts but they are also far less durable. So now, you no longer have to ask yourself, are paddle boards worth the money, only do I buy normal or motorized paddle board?

Motorized paddle boards SipaBords are the first and the best motorized paddle boards in the world. We are focused on using the very best materials and innovative technology to ensure quality is the most important thing for us. We are passionate about creating an authentic paddling experience for everyone who loves stand up paddle boarding. With first motorized paddle board in the world. We put paddling in the whole new dimension.

Motorized paddle boards are the future - they are safer and more stable. See our awesome video below!

Sources:

• https://www.divein.com/motorized-paddle-board/