Stand up paddling (SUP) is an exciting and fun sport that has captured the hearts of people around the world. In this blog post, we'll dive into the origins of the sport, how to get started, why it's so popular, and the benefits it provides for both your mental and physical health. We'll also explore the equipment that is essential to stand up paddling, such as the different types of boards, their shapes, and the accessories that make the experience more enjoyable.
The sport has its origins in Hawaii, where it was known as "hoe he'e nalu." The practice dates back to the 1940s when surf instructors in Waikiki started using paddles to help them navigate the waves and get a better view of their students. The modern version of stand up paddling started on the North Shore of Oahu in the early 2000s when surfers used it as a way to stay in shape during the off-season.
The 3 Jobe ranges
At Jobe, we believe in offering something for every water enthusiast. Whether you’re just starting out, looking to upgrade your gear, or aiming for peak performance, our 3 ranges of SUP boards have the perfect fit for your journey. All Jobe SUP boards come with a ready-to-go package, variable in range. The colors of all accessories perfectly match the board!
Lite Aero Series
Explore the Jobe Lite Range, where innovation meets affordability without compromise.
Featuring ‘single layer dropstitch construction’, these SUPs are crafted to be exceptionally lightweight, allowing us to lower costs while maintaining uncompromised quality and performance. Ideal for those who seek both affordability and excellence in paddleboarding.
This range is tailored for beginners seeking exceptional quality for a light price. These boards still boast high end features synonymous with our brand - such as an EVA deckpad, bungee storage cord, and all essential accessories - for a complete and enjoyable paddleboarding experience.
Premium Aero Series
Elevate your paddleboarding with the Jobe Premium Range – the perfect blend of quality, durability, and performance.
Crafted with our advanced ‘double layer dropstitch construction,’ the Premium Aero Series is built for paddlers who want to progress in style. These SUPs provide increased rigidity and durability, resulting in a smooth and stable experience on the water. The 6-inch thickness enhances balance and comfort, making each outing both thrilling and enjoyable.
The Premium Series includes high end features our customers know and love. Designed to offer a balance of quality and value, these boards are ideal for those who seek more than just a basic paddleboarding experience – a premium journey awaits with Jobe’s Premium Aero Series.
Elite Aero Series
Experience the pinnacle of paddleboarding with the Jobe Elite Range - crafted for those who demand only the best.
The Elite Aero Series represents the ultimate stand-up paddle package. These boards set the standard for durability and performance, featuring an extra rail tape that covers the seams, making them our most durable and airtight boards yet. This innovative design ensures confidence in any conditions.
Each package includes a Stream Carbon 100 paddle for featherlight performance, an exceptionally strong honeycomb fin, and a uniquely designed custom deckpad for added comfort and grip. Ideal for those who refuse to compromise, the Elite Aero Series pushes the boundaries of paddleboarding luxury, making every outing a memorable experience.
Allround boards
Allround stand up paddle boards generally are shorter and wider, offering more stability at the cost of speed. Typically allround boards are perfect for beginners.
Sava 8.6 (Lite) – Possibly the best kids board in the market. With its 8.6 feet sizing, this board has the best paddling characteristics for the little ones.
Lina 10.0 (Lite) – Compact and lightweight - Super accessible for the smaller people among us. Besides its measurements, it’s also accessible when it comes to pricing.
Nera 10.6 (Lite) – The Yarra is our all-round champion which is loved around the globe. This award winning board has a thick and wide shape and the best technologies to give you an unmatched stand up paddle experience.
Yarra 10.6 (Premium) - Simply our most loved all-round stand up paddle board. Multiple award winner, super versatile and it can be found all over the world.
Loa 11.6 (Premium) – The Loa can be considered as the Yarra’s big sister. This board is one feet longer and also seriously wider, making it a super stable board which also easily holds an extra (smaller) person).
Mohaka 10.2 (Premium) – The Mohaka is a great allrounder which also comes with a windsurf mount, making this board suitable for multiple purposes!
Yarra Elite 10.6 (Elite) – And then there’s the elite Yarra. Our Premium Aero Series Yarra is already a true champion, but this elite version is the crème the la crème. Next up to a 10/10 board, you’ll also find 10/10 accessories to feel like royalty on the water.
Touring boards
Touring boards are another popular type of SUP board. They are longer and narrower than all-round boards, with a pointed nose and a slightly wider tail. Touring boards are designed for longer trips, making them a great option for exploring lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. The additional bungee cord on the back allows you to carry more for a longer trip. Touring boards are also faster than all-round boards, which makes them perfect for covering long distances. Touring boards typically range from 11 (335 cm) to 14 (426 cm) feet in length. Due to the popularity of this type of stand up paddling, also this focus is widely represented in Jobe’s stand up paddle range. Throughout all our series, you can find boards who’ll help you with exploring the waters!
Varna 11.0 (Lite) – Touring is made accessible with our new introduction to the Aero Series: The Varna 11.0. This lightweight touring board is an excellent options for those who like to cover bigger distances on a compact and lightweight board.
Duna 11.6 (Premium) – Another big name in our stand up paddle range. The Duna 11.6 is one of our most popular boards thanks to its great touring possibilities. What makes this Duna a great board is its degree of stability while being a touring board. You can’t go wrong with the Duna!
Neva 12.6 (Premium) – The Neva is the touring champion of our stand up paddle range. With is length of 12.6 feet and its narrow shape, this board slides through the water with ease. If you’re looking for covering serious distances, the Neva is an excellent choice!
Duna Elite 11.6 (Elite) – The Duna Elite 11.6 is based on the shape of our Premium Aero Series Duna, but upgraded to the standards of the Elite Series. A super accessible touring board with a premium quality and the absolute best accessories.
E-Duna Elite 11.6 (Elite) – The E-Duna Elite is the electric powered version of the regular E-Duna. In this board you will find a jet motor that cruises you forward! The E-Duna is definitely one of the coolest things to happen in stand up paddling!
How to Stand Up Paddle Board
Stand up paddleboarding (SUPing) is a fun and easy water activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Here are the basic steps to help you get started:
- Choose the right gear: You'll need a paddleboard that is right for your size and skill level, a paddle, and a leash.
- Find a calm and flat water area: It's best to start in calm water without any strong currents or waves.
- Start on your knees: Begin by kneeling on the board, holding the paddle in front of you with your hands shoulder-width apart on the paddle.
- Position yourself on the board: Place your hands on the board and slide your feet underneath you, so you're in a tabletop position. Make sure your feet are hip-width apart and centered on the board.
- Stand up: Slowly stand up on the board, keeping your knees slightly bent and your core engaged for balance. Keep your feet parallel and shoulder-width apart, and make sure to keep your weight centered over the board's middle.
- Begin paddling: Hold the paddle with both hands, one hand on the handle and the other on the shaft, and dip the blade into the water. Pull the paddle towards you, and then push it back to propel the board forward. Keep your arms straight, and twist your torso as you paddle to generate more power.
- Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become on the board. Keep practicing your balance and paddling technique, and before long, you'll be a pro!
Remember to always wear a life jacket, stay aware of your surroundings, and have fun!
Why Stand Up Paddling is Good for Your Physical Health
Stand up paddling is a great form of exercise that can provide a full-body workout. It's an effective way to improve your cardiovascular health and can help to build strength and tone your muscles. Additionally, stand up paddling can help to improve your balance and coordination, which can be beneficial for other sports or activities you participate in. Lastly, because it's a low-impact activity, stand up paddling is less likely to cause injury or exacerbate existing joint pain.
Why Stand Up Paddling is Good for Your Mental Health
Stand up paddling is not just a great physical workout, but it also has numerous mental health benefits. Being out on the water can be a meditative experience, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, being surrounded by nature and fresh air has been shown to boost mood and improve cognitive function. Lastly, stand up paddling can be a great social activity, allowing you to connect with others and build a sense of community.