Choosing the shape of your paddle board -
All-around or touring ?
In this article, the Quebec SUP team informs you about the difference between the two forms of paddle boards you need to know about and helps you discover which one is right for you.
Depending on your needs and where you use your board, the shape of your board can make your experience enjoyable or unpleasant, especially if you are a beginner. It is therefore important to know the difference between paddle board shapes, their advantages and disadvantages in order to make a wise choice!
All-around or touring?
The first form of paddleboard is called the All-Around (rounded nose) and the second form is called the Touring (pointed nose). Depending on your riding style and needs, one shape will generally suit you better than the other. We'll look at the differences between these two popular paddleboard shapes and help you decide which one is best for you.
Before you start, it is worth noting that for 100% recreational use on a lake or river, both shapes of boards can be suitable. If you prefer the design of a particular board, you can choose it according to its style.
THE ALL-AROUND SHAPE
The All-Around paddle board has a round nose, known as a planing hull, and is designed for navigation on lakes and rivers.
The All-Around shape has a small rocker, which means that the board's nose is slightly raised out of the water. This pushes the water down, while raising the board's nose. This makes the All-Around the perfect board to help you deal with the waves and water agitation that come your way.
This board shape is wider than the touring shape, which makes it easier to balance and manoeuvre. This is one of the reasons why the All-Around is a great option for paddle board beginners. However, due to the wider, bulkier hull at the front of the board and the overall size of All-Around boards, they are not the best choice for speed or long distance.
The All-Around form is recommended for:
Recreational paddle boarding;
Yoga in SUP;
SUP fishing;
Wander around at a gentle-moderate pace around the lake, bay or ocean;
Lakes, bays, rivers and the ocean with the agitation of the water creating many small waves coming from all directions.
Recommended type of use for an All-Around board:
You just want a SUP for leisurely paddling. The All-Around shape is the best choice of paddle board for beginners and if you plan to use your paddle board only for recreational purposes;
You want a board for beginners that you can ride. The All-Around shapes are ideal boards for beginners, but also for progressing;
You plan to use it for yoga, fishing.
The advantage of the All-Around shape is that it is ideal for a wide variety of SUP activities. Whether you decide to paddle on flat water or rougher water with waves and bumps. You can use it to paddle your local spot one day, then take it out for a peaceful yoga session the next.
The touring shape
The Touring paddle board has a pointed nose, like a kayak, and is designed for longer and faster flat water trips.
The pointed nose, also known as a displacement hull, will give you superior efficiency and performance. In other words, it will allow you to follow a straighter, faster path with fewer paddle strokes to get a smooth glide through the water. This makes Touring boards the best for speed and SUP racing.
However, this board shape is more difficult to balance, making it less manageable for someone who is not an advanced paddler. For this reason, the Touring shape boards are not the most ideal paddle boards for beginners, but they are not a bad choice for beginners!
The Touring shape is ideal for :
Recreational paddle boarding;
The long expeditions;
Speed sports outings;
Coastal cruises.
Recommended type of use for a Touring board:
You are looking for adventure that contemplates long rides. The touring form is the best choice for you if you want to use your paddle board for long distances;
You want more performance from your paddle board. For example, you are a serious paddler who wants to get from point A to point B more efficiently.
It is important to know the difference between these two shapes and their advantages and disadvantages so that you can start choosing the right SUP board for you! But it is also important to note that for recreational, inflatable paddle boards, both shapes available can be used. It is also important to like the look of the paddle board you are going to get. Have a great summer and a great ride!
- The Wild Tribe Team
All-around or touring?
The first type of paddleboard is the All-Around (rounded nose), while the second is the Touring (pointed nose). Depending on your style, one may suit you better. We'll compare the two to help you decide. For casual use on lakes or rivers, either shape works. Choose based on design preference if you have one.
Sam Peters
THE ALL-AROUND SHAPE
The All-Around paddle board, with its round nose and planing hull, is ideal for lakes and rivers. With a slight nose lift, it handles waves and water disturbances well. Its wider shape provides stability and maneuverability, making it a top choice for beginners. However, its bulkier front and overall size don't favor speed or long distances. This board suits:
- Casual paddleboarding
- SUP yoga
-SUP fishing
-Exploring calm or wavy waters, including lakes, bays, and oceans
It's the go-to for leisure paddlers, beginners, and those into yoga or fishing. Its versatility covers both calm and rough waters, fitting a range of SUP activities. Whether for a routine paddle or a yoga session, it's a versatile choice.
Sam Peters
The touring shape
The Touring paddle board, with its pointed nose resembling a kayak, is optimized for extended, swift flat water journeys. The displacement hull ensures straighter, efficient paths with fewer strokes for a fluid glide, making it perfect for speed and SUP racing. However, it demands better balance and is less beginner-friendly, though not entirely unsuitable for them. Ideal for:
-Recreational paddleboarding
-Extended expeditions
-Speed-focused outings
-Coastal cruises
It's the choice for those seeking long adventures and serious paddlers aiming for efficient, speedy transitions from one point to another.
Sam Peters
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