I went for a Downwind paddle on the 12'6'' DEEP Namotu proto type SUP
Started at Namotu Island and Paddled to the Funky Fish Resort the wind was 20 knots got some really good runners in surf stance I did the 8km in 48 minutes. I'm so used to a rudder system I find it hard paddling on my lefthand side its like 20+ paddles on the right side and about 5 paddles on the left. If I had my 17'6'' Bullet over here in these conditions I would have done it in under 37 minutes.
Guys who like paddling the 12'6'' would have smashed 48 minutes.

I hear you!! Rudders and length ! I agree.