Kids´ paddleboard: How to choose the right one?

Is it really necessary to buy a kids´ paddleboard?

This question can be asked by anyone who already has a paddleboard at home, as well as by people who are thinking of buying a universal model suitable for every member of the family. Even though such a piece can be used by a child, too, it isn´t the best solution. You might have read our article on how to choose an adult paddleboard, but you also need to consider further criteria when buying a kids´ paddleboard.

To understand this better, imagine a different sport, such as skating. If you put on your child a pair of skates that are a few sizes bigger, he or she can skate in them, but they will feel too big and uncomfortable. The same is true for a paddleboard.

The child can use big, adult-size models, but may be facing issues in the water. Not only its length but also its width and weight will make it difficult to move. Therefore, it is advisable to choose a board designed specifically for children.

When can kids start paddleboarding?

There are no special rules when to start a water sport or any other sport in general. They say the sooner a child takes up a sport, the better. But this is not the case with paddleboarding. The reason is that very young children do not have enough balance. They might not be able to keep standing up on the board.

The best time to start is 5 - 7 years of age, when coordination and balance are much better. At this age, your little one can also begin to learn various basic and easier tricks.

When paddleboarding, children must be supervised at all times. If they have an instructor, supervision and safety are his responsibility. However, if they are learning on their own, you must be nearby. This is the only way you can intervene in case of any difficulties.

Expert advice

If you want the kids´ paddleboard to be usable for longer than one or two years, buy a somewhat bigger model. The models are typically categorized based on age and weight.

What parameters to consider when choosing a kids´ paddleboard?

When selecting the kids´ paddleboard, it is advisable to pay attention to several basic parameters. These are:

• the type,
• the dimensions,
• the payload.

Type

Paddleboards are categorized into several types. Most of the time you will see:

• Allround – universal and stable models suitable for beginners. For recreation and everyday use, these are used most often.
• Touring – designed for more advanced riders. You should buy them for children when they already have some basics and know how to stand up on the board and how to steer it. They are usually a bit more expensive than the allrounds.
• Race – these are boards designed preferably for professionals and those who take the sport seriously. They are the most expensive of all types. They are usually made of special materials. Sometimes they also have interesting accessories. However, they are useless for normal use.

Each type differs not only in price but also in shape. The Races are longer and narrower. The Allrounds are wider and more rounded. The Tourings are something in between. They are of medium width and are less rounded.

Dimensions

Paddleboards for children are shorter and narrower than those made for adults. This makes them easier to use by the youngest members of the family.

As for the length, you will most often encounter values ranging from 220 to 315 cm. The width is about 70 - 80 cm. These dimensions may vary depending on the model selected. However, a larger or a smaller size could mean poorer coordination and worse use.

Payload

Each paddleboard has a certain Payload. For adults, these are relatively high and universal numbers which we often don´t pay attention to. However, this is a really important parameter when it comes to children. The model for a child under the age of 5 will certainly not carry a ten-year-old.

The capacity to carry the rider is referred to as the displacement. You can get the reference number by multiplying the child's weight by three.

For example: When a child weighs 35 kilograms, the displacement is 105 liters. However, since children gain weight fairly quickly as they grow, increase this number by 10 – 30 %.

Based on displacement, dimensions and payload, you will find out which paddleboard is the best for your child. This way you will reduce the offer only to suitable models. Shopping will be faster and easier.

Choose a paddle for the kids´ paddleboard

In addition to the board, paddleboarding also requires a paddle, which enables the child to move on the surface and change direction. Models made for children and juniors are sold in either classic or foldable versions. The second option is better. For example, the Bravo SUP paddle Adjustable Alu is an excellent choice for youngsters, as it can be customized and used for years and years.

As for the material, the best one is the combination of plastic and aluminum. These materials make the paddle resistant to moisture and water. It is also low-weight, which is crucial for children. It is available in various color designs, so your princess or little athlete can choose the one they like best.

Don't forget about safety

Children in water must be supervised at all times. However, to secure the best conditions, it´s good to buy a buoyancy jacket, which is an essential part of the equipment. When comparing the designs, choose intense colour tones. They are much more visible in the water. We recommend wearing a buoyancy jacket even when your youngsters get older and can swim well.

Equip the vest with a whistle. If the child gets scared and you can't hear him or her yelling, a whistle is a great way to call for help.

Quality kids´ paddleboards

The Aqua Marina Vibrant 8’ kids´ paddleboard kids' paddleboard is a great piece of equipment for every water-loving child. Instead of getting him an oversized adult model, choose a high-quality compact model. You´ll see that your little one will find it much easier and better to use and both of you will be enjoying yourselves a lot more.