1. Choose a Board That Fits Your Plans

Not sure where to start? Start with how and where you plan to paddle. Casual cruising with friends? Paddling with kids? Training for distance?

• For beginners and family outings, go with an all-around board, typically 10’6” long, 32” wide, and 6” thick, which offers great stability and ease of use on lakes and calm bays.
• More experienced paddlers looking to cover ground should check out touring boards (12’–14’) that glide farther and track straighter. They feel less stable at first, but efficiency improves with practice.

Inflatable vs. Hard Boards

Inflatables are light, portable, and easy to store, perfect for weekend getaways and smaller vehicles. Hard boards are stiffer and faster but require more space and care.

Capacity Counts

If you’re bringing kids, pets, or extra gear (like a cooler or dry bag), be sure to check the board’s weight rating. For younger paddlers, we carry youth-specific boards with shorter lengths and lighter paddles for easier control.

Colin’s top pick: the Connelly Stash iSUP – a lightweight, stable inflatable board that’s easy to transport and beginner-friendly. For hassle-free inflation, pair it with the Airhead Rechargeable Air Pump.

2. Pick a Brand You Can Trust

Not all paddleboards are built the same. Stick with brands that live and breathe watersports. At Christy Sports / Sturtevant’s, we carefully select boards from trusted names like Connelly, known for quality design, durable materials, and paddler-first features.

A good brand also backs its products with a clear warranty and responsive customer service, because gear should come with peace of mind.

3. Paddle Safely, Paddle Confidently

Safety ensures worry-free paddling, especially as conditions can shift quickly.

• Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD). Colin recommends the Hyperlite Atlas Nylon Paddle Vest ($69.99) for its breathable fit, safety whistle, and zippered storage.
• Prefer a lower profile? Try the Connelly M-16 SUP Inflatable Belt Pack ($89.99), compact, USCGA-approved, and great for warmer days or confident paddlers.
• Use a board leash to stay connected.
• Check wind apps like WindAlert before launching.
• Stick to calm entry points (like Meydenbauer Bay) if you’re new.
• Avoid solo paddles until you’re confident navigating weather and currents.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and polarized sunglasses for UV protection.

4. Gear Up with Must-Have Accessories

Small extras make a big difference. Colin’s top picks:

• Waterproof dry bag to keep your valuables safe.
• prAna Sol Searcher Sun Hoodie for UPF 50+ protection, lightweight comfort, and thumb holes.
• Carve Designs Kona Rashguard Womens ($50.40, was $72.00) for breathable sun protection with coastal style.
• The North Face Amphibious Long Sleeve Sun Tee Boys ($22.50, was $45.00) to keep kids protected from the sun in and out of the water.
• Nomadix Mini Towel ($27.95) for wiping down gear or drying off after a quick dip.
• Grippy water shoes for rocky shorelines and slippery launches.
• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Adventure Medical Ultralight / Watertight .7 Medical Kit for compact, on-the-go safety.

5. Test the Waters First

New to paddleboarding? Rent before you buy to find the right fit for your body, skill level, and goals. At Christy Sports, our team is here to guide you every step of the way, starting with a rental.

Paddleboard Rentals Are Available At:

📍 Sturtevant’s – Bellevue (WA)

Get expert advice, gear demos, and launch point tips from locals who know the Pacific Northwest waters inside and out.

📍 Bootdoctors – Mountain Village, Telluride (CO)

650 Mountain Village Blvd., Telluride, CO 81435

970.728.8954 | Open daily 10am–6pm

Offering: Water sports rentals, bike rentals, hiking gear, ski/snowboard rentals, tuning, and custom boot fitting.

📍 Christy Sports – Oak St., Telluride (CO)

236 S. Oak St., Telluride, CO 81435

970.728.4581 | Open daily 10am–6pm

Offering: Paddleboard rentals, bike rentals, ski/snowboard gear, and tuning services.

Wherever you launch, we’ve got you covered. Call ahead, stop by in-store, or book your rental online to get started with the right paddleboard and expert guidance.