Paddles

Let’s start by talking about paddles. An essential to any paddle boarder. Not only is it in the name but it is the way that the rider propels his or herself through the water. When it comes to paddles they come in all shapes, sizes, colors and prices. Let’s talk about the three most popular paddle choices for our three categories.

Racer. Blackfish Race. $500

For this paddle you really are paying top dollar for top quality. This paddle has a 77.5 square inch blade area, with a slight triangle shape. This large blade give you the most pull per stroke, and the ultra-light weight carbon fibre makes it a breeze to carry, paddle with, and wave around. The perfect paddle for the speed junkie. Surfer.

Blackfish Salish. $375

This is the Race’s little brother. Originally designed for women and children with small hands to race, it was adopted and loved by the surfing and downwinding community. It’s small blade gives fast, effortless strokes. Perfect for getting the speed for that gorgeous wave. It also can move through the water fast, making the on wave adjustments fast and accurate. Looks like the little brother holds his own.

Weekend Warrior. Werner Thrive. $260

Our final paddle is the Ol’ reliable. When somebody wanting to get out on the water, have some fun and not worry about any malfunctions. When you sacrifice weight, performance and looks you get a strong, durable, unstoppable paddle for a good price made of fiberglass. No need to worry about small damage or multiple people sharing, because it’s adjustable! The perfect paddle for the casual chiller.

Boards

Now, onto the physically largest part of this list, the boards. The part that keep you floating, moving, and is the biggest factor to what you do. You cant race on a surfer, you can’t surf on a racer, it’s very important. This is also the most expensive part of this, rightly so. If you’re paying for 7-14 feet of material it will cost a lot of money. But, let’s take a look at the three examples to help you define the three kinds of paddlers through boards.

Racer. ONE Edge 2.0 $3,850.

I know. That’s a very big number. A lot of money. This is the board I personally use and let me tell, you this board is 100% worth every singe penny. This board is fast, ridiculously fast, it is versatile, it’s home is in flat water but it can still fly in rough water and wind with its heavy rocker and large volume in the nose. In four constructions. Hybrid, a durable mix of lightweight wood, PVC, and carbon fibre. Dynamic, a universal blend of carbon fibre and PVC. And Elite and Ultra light, lightweight full carbon construction. With the heaviest at 25lbs and the heaviest at 19lbs. Surfer.

ONE Surf 9’x29”. $2,100.

Surfers love three things in a board. Wave versatility, balance, and the most important, looks. This board ticks all the boxes. From the thin tail, and the low volume it can tackle the big swell, to the wide deck and nose, it catches the small messy stuff. And just look at it. The matte red and gold body, with the white deck pad is just one of the many colors. And you can get yours, custom! A surfers dream.

Weekend Warrior. Starboard ASAP Atlas. $1,479.

This board is the closest you can get to middle ground. It has a flat deck so you’re always balanced, it has a raised nose so waves don’t trouble you, and has a durable foam top for comfort and dog friendly-ness. It also is great for people who want a board they can carry two people on for fun, with the large nose and wide rails it can hold anyone and everyone.

Apparel

The final category is the one that is the most recognizable and easiest to spot, because the paddlers are actually wearing these items. 

Racer. Virus X-Form Compression LS. $68.

These seems like not a lot of money, but that is $68 for one long sleeve shirt. What makes it worth so much? It’s compression. When racers aren’t shirtless in board shorts in summer, they’re in full compression. Remember, the tighter the shirt, the faster you are. I have one of these. And it is TIGHT. So, it is fast, right? Surfer.

Ripcurl Flashbomb Wetsuit. $369.

Wetsuits are essential to a surfer who lives on the west worst. They keep you warm, comfortable and they fit like a second skin. (Shows off those muscles). This is the top of the line suit. With a chest zip, it is a bit harder to put on but keeps out the most water, and is the easiest to take off. 100% a need for a surfer.

Weekend Warrior. Mustang Khimera PFD. $250.

This might seem like a lot of money, but for people who don’t spend a ton of money in the other two areas, safety is very important. So, they often spend a bit more money to feel super safe, while also being comfortable. This PFD has initial flotation, as well as a CO2 canister that can inflate the jacket more. More safety.