The popularity of Stand Up Paddle boarding is constantly growing. What is Stand Up Paddle boarding? Pretty much exactly what it sounds like. Stand Up Paddle boarding or SUP is a variation of surfing where the surfer uses a paddle for momentum. The versatility and stability a paddle board offers is compelling for people who want to spend a leisurely day in the surf.
When did Stand Up Paddle Boarding start? With a quick internet search, you can find cave paintings of fisherman that appear to be stick figures standing on a rectangle holding an oar, ancient Polynesian ceremonial paddles, Egyptian pharoahs holding sticks while floating on bales of papyrus, native American Indians racing each other standing on boats, ancient Peruvians standing on bundled reeds. It seems like as soon as man saw water he was trying to find a way to get across the top of it using some form of a floating plank and a stick.
Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphics boat
Big Wave Surfer and “Waterman” Laird Hamilton has championed many surfing innovations has been a massive proponent in stand up paddle boarding for many years. Some people might say in 1999, when Laird built a paddle, put an American flag on it and rowed his surfboard on 9/11 at Fort Point Malibu was the beginning of SUP as we know it today. Laird is in may ways responsible for the growing interest in the sport but did he invent it? Even though people have been doing something similar since the beginning of time, does putting two things together in an unexpected way and giving it a name suddenly make you the inventor? The mad surfing scientist? The guiding genius of cross-over board sports? I don’t know. I’m not here to judge but when one has devoted his life and used these innovations, as Laird has to inspire others to pursue a healthy lifestyle and to achieve fitness goals then I’m going to go ahead and check yes in my book.
Some surfers view Stand Up Paddle boarding as surfing’s weird younger brother but that is actually not true. Historically speaking, surfing would not exist without paddle boarding. It’s impossible to pinpoint the origin of SUP since the idea of someone propelling themselves across a body of water on a floating platform with a long stick is literally thousands of years old. SUP definitely predates traditional surfing.
For a full look into the history of paddle boarding and it’s rise in popularity, Director Mike Waltze created a fantastic documentary called That First Glide starring Laird Hamilton among other influential paddle boarders. Check out the trailer below.
That First Glide Trailer
The beauty of a SUP is when the surfs flat, no big deal, there’s still fun to be had. The SUP has a lot more stability than a traditional surfboard. Not only can you surf but you can do a ton of other things too. An SUP is stable enough to do Yoga, go fishing or snorkeling. A SUP is a great way to stay fit so if you want to take advantage of the newest ancient sport of paddle boarding our experts at the Kona Board House can help you select the perfect package that will fit you right. Currently Kona carries two styles of our own paddle boards.
Stand Up Paddle Boards in stock at Kona Board House, Wildwood New Jersey
The All Day Stand Up Paddle Board is an all-around go to board. The sleek shape will give the rider good control in the water on a flat surface or in the surf. The Escape Stand Up Paddle Board is for maximum stability on the open water. This shape is great for an entry-level paddle board or for activities like Yoga or fishing. Make your own waves with Kona Board House’s complete line of Stand Up Paddleboards. Kona has a variety of available sizes and accessories for our two models to make your day out on the water a perfect one. See our line of Stand Up Paddle boards here.
If you are not ready to make the leap yet. Kona also offers a rental service for SUP. Find out more information about our SUP rentals here.
