INFO: SURFING WITH SHORT PADDLE !!!

Why should you Surf with a short Paddle?

We advise the use a Paddle cut to size when surfing in SUP for several reasons:

• A short paddle allows you to Paddle with frequency. This is a real advantage when you know that to start the take-off, 4-5 strokes of paddle are enough. With a long paddle, the paddle movement will be longer between entering and exiting the water. The acceleration phase will therefore be longer and require more effort.

• A short paddle will allow you to lower your center of gravity and thus have more balance. Your bent legs will act as shock absorbers and provide stability on choppy water.

• With a short paddle, it’s easier to row with your feet offset (stance position surf). This position forces you to bend down, and when you take off, you can shift 80% of your body weight on the front leg to perfectly engage the Board in the slope. The entry into the wave is much faster.

• A shorter Paddle brings more manoeuvrability in surfing. It allows you to reduce the curve radius. During a bottom turn, for example, you come to turn around your paddle in support, so the shorter the paddle is, the shorter you will turn.

• A short paddle limits the effect of the ‘row’. So it’s easier to row straight without changing hands.

• Using a short paddle allows you to work the whole body, as opposed to a long paddle, which will mainly work the upper part of the body.

SUPer: Moritz, Team rider GONG, and his GONG SUP 6’10 Karmen FSP 2x and his GONG SUP 7’2 Mob FSP 2X.