Just picked up a new stand-up paddle board but not quite getting the right experience? We’re here to help. If you’ve been trying and trying but the board is still unstable, there may be a variety of reasons why.
Whether you’re using rigid or inflatable stand-up paddle boards, we’re going to provide some answers to common stability issues, as well as some solutions to get you back on track!
Reason 1: Feet Positioning
Your feet are your foundation on a SUP, and where you place them has a significant impact on your overall balance. Much like a skateboard or surfboard, if you’re standing with your feet too far forward or back or keeping them too close together, your balance will be thrown off. This then makes the board feel more unstable. Many beginners underestimate the importance of foot positioning, but it’s actually one of the easiest adjustments you can make to improve your stability right away.
Solution: Position your feet about shoulder-width apart, aligned with the board’s handle (the centre of the deck). This is the most balanced spot on your board. Your knees should be slightly bent, and it’s important to distribute your weight evenly between both feet. Keeping a slight bend in your knees will help you adjust to any movements from the water. The key to stability is also trying to stay relaxed, keep your hips loose and move with the water and keep the board moving, this actually helps with stability.
Reason 2: Using the Wrong Board
If you’re finding it difficult to stay balanced, your skills might not be the issue–it could be the board itself.
Not all paddle boards are created equal, and choosing the wrong one for your skill level or intended use can greatly affect your experience. Various factors will influence whether the SUP is the right one for you. Most notably, these include your weight, size, and level of experience.
Different boards are also designed for different purposes. A board that’s meant for surfing is going to feel very different from an all round type board made for leisurely paddling on calm waters.
Solution: If you’re new to paddle boarding, opt for a wider, thicker board with a higher volume, as these boards are more stable. All-around SUPs are a great choice for beginners since they work well in various water conditions and provide extra balance. If you're not sure, visit a local paddling store to get expert advice on choosing the right board for your needs.
Reason 3: Paddling Technique
If your board feels unstable and you’re struggling to move smoothly through the water, improving your paddling technique could be the key to a more stable ride.
Remember, your paddling technique plays a bigger role in your stability than you might think. Some beginners only use their arms to paddle, which can lead to unsteady strokes and throw off their balance. A proper paddling technique will engage your core, legs and other muscles, rather than placing the strain on your arms.
Solution: First, make sure your paddle is the right height—roughly 6 to 10 inches taller than you. When paddling, focus on engaging your core muscles rather than relying solely on your arms. Keep your paddle blade angled away from you (the opposite of what many think) to make smoother, more efficient strokes. As you gain more control, your overall stability on the board will improve.
Interested in the health benefits of stand up paddle boarding? Be sure to read all about and much more on the PaddleZone blog.
Reason 4: Paddling in the Wrong Location
Where you choose to paddle can make or break your experience, especially when you’re still getting the hang of it. If you’ve been trying to paddle in choppy waters, areas with strong currents, or places exposed to the wind, you’ll likely find yourself feeling off-balance. Even experienced paddlers can struggle in these conditions, so it's not surprising that beginners may find it challenging to stay stable.
Solution: Start in calm waters like lakes, inlets, bays or slow-moving rivers. Avoid the ocean or areas with heavy boat traffic until you're more experienced. Calm waters allow you to build confidence and get a feel for your board without the added challenge of waves or currents. Once you're more comfortable, you can slowly progress to more challenging environments.
Reason 5: Locking Your Legs
It’s easy to tense up when you’re feeling unsteady on a paddle board, and many people’s first instinct is to stiffen their legs and lock their knees to try and balance. However, this actually has the opposite effect, making you more likely to lose your balance. Locking your legs prevents your body from adjusting to the small movements of the board, which can make you feel even more unstable.
Solution: Keep your knees relaxed and slightly bent. This flexibility will allow your hips and body to absorb any changes in the water and help you maintain balance. Think of it like a shock absorber for your body—bent knees will allow you to stay centred as the board moves beneath you.
Reason 6: Looking in the Wrong Direction
Believe it or not, where you look has a major impact on your stability on a stand-up paddle board! Many beginners tend to fixate on their feet or the board itself, which is a completely natural response.
When you focus on your feet, you may inadvertently shift your weight and centre of gravity, making it harder to stay upright. Instead, try to keep your gaze around 10-20 meters in front of you or the destination ahead of you.
Solution: To improve your stability, consciously direct your gaze toward where you want to go. Avoid looking down at your feet or the board. Instead, keep your head and gaze upon an object in the distance. This simple adjustment will help you maintain better balance, giving you a smoother paddling experience.
Inflatable vs Rigid Boards: Stability
In terms of on-board stability, inflatable and rigid SUPs each offer their own unique experience. Inflatables are generally more buoyant due to their wider and thicker designs, making them feel stable in calm waters. However, they can be slightly less stable in rougher conditions due to their flexibility, especially if not fully inflated to manufacturer’s specifications.
Being made from materials like fibreglass or epoxy, rigid boards generally have a firm and stable platform that excels in choppier waters. Their streamlined shape offers better speed and tracking but may feel a little challenging for beginners.
Practice, Practice, Practice!
If a lack of stability has you losing a little confidence, the most important thing is to make sure it doesn’t get you down! Stand-up paddle boarding is a great sport that has so many health benefits. If you keep at it and practice the tips above, we promise you’ll gain more and more confidence with each ride.
It's also important that you practice how to fall safely. First things first, view falling as a learning experience that contributes to your overall skill development, then practice falling away from the board to avoid collisions and injuries. There’s also the option to use a leg leash, which will keep the board nearby during falls and prevent separation.
For further info and advice, read our article on ‘10 Stand-Up Paddle Board Tips’.
Get Brand New SUPs and More at PaddleZone
As paddlers ourselves, we’re passionate about the many benefits that come with stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re ready to give it a go or need a brand-new board, PaddleZone is the place to be!
From inflatable and rigid paddle boards to kayaks, canoes, and accessories, you can find everything you need. We have stores in Sydney and the Gold Coast, and offer Australia-wide shipping for a range of different products.
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