So it looks like this bug has bitten me much worse that I thought!

Up to now, I’ve thought that SUP surfing was the only side of the sport I was really hooked on but I’m coming to the realisation that a flat water paddling addiction has crept up on me too and I need something more specialised than a 10’6’’ Laird Pearson Arrow to satisfy my cravings.

If money was no object, I’d go out and buy this year’s Starboard All Star but I really can’t justify that sort of money…… yet.

So I’m looking for some advice, I want a fairly user friendly all-round quick board although I don’t mind a bit of a challenge. I’d like the option of being able to do down-winders on it too. What boards from the last few years should I be looking out for? Also, is a 14’ board significantly quicker than a 12’6’’ or would it be too much for someone new to this type of board? and is it worth investing in a race paddle?

I’m around 75kg and have been paddling for a few years although it’s been considerably more frequent this year. I’m beginning to really work on my technique, watching lots of videos and paying much more attention to what I’m doing and what difference small changes make.

Thanks