The equipment is pretty user friendly. To get started all it takes is a paddleboard, although a leash is also recommended, especially for beginners. The board's rounded bottom makes it a bit tippier than a surfboard. However, Hope suggested that a beginner can always build up their balance by first paddling a longboard, which has a flat bottom. Today new carbon fiber boards that are hollow inside weigh only about 14 pounds for the same 12-foot length.
Many paddlers still opt for the standard solid styrofoam and epoxy board.
Especially those wanting a custom-shaped board. Surfboard and paddleboard shaper Dennis Pang of Hawaiian Paddleboards said the difference is the longer boards give the rider more glide in the water. However, the paddler must be more efficient with their strokes, as it takes more effort to move the board. The unlimited class model also comes with a rudder system that maneuvers the direction of the board. The stock boards have a single skeg, so the paddler has to use their arms strokes to steer.