SUP is a low-impact, full-body workout that strengthens your core, improves balance, and reduces stress. Unlike some other outdoor sports, paddle boarding offers flexibility—you can stand, kneel, sit, or even lie down on your board. The activity can be as relaxed or as challenging as you want it to be.

Many modern paddle boards are designed to handle higher weight capacities, offer exceptional stability, and provide a smooth, enjoyable ride regardless of your size. With the right board, you can confidently explore lakes, rivers, or coastal waters while enjoying both fitness and fun. It’s an activity that welcomes every paddler, from beginners to seasoned adventurers, creating opportunities for health, relaxation, and discovery.

Choosing the right board is the most important step to ensure comfort, stability, and performance on the water. Here’s what you should focus on:

Always check the board’s weight limit. You want a paddleboard that supports your body weight plus any extra gear (like coolers, dry bags, fishing gear, or pets).

• Look for boards rated to hold at least 300 pounds.

• If you plan to bring gear, aim for a board rated 20 to 30 percent higher than your total combined weight.

Boards like the Glide O2 Angler 2.0 and the Glide O2 Quest offer generous weight capacities for larger paddlers or those carrying extra gear.

Board width is crucial for balance. Wider boards are more stable, especially when starting out.

• Look for boards that are at least 32 inches wide, ideally 34 to 36 inches.

• Wider boards make standing, paddling, and even turning much easier for heavier paddlers.

• A 6-inch-thick board is ideal for most larger paddlers, offering greater buoyancy and minimizing flex.

• Volume (measured in liters) reflects how much water the board displaces. Higher volume equals better flotation. Aim for at least 250 liters or more, depending on your weight and intended gear load.

• All-around boards are great for beginners and casual paddlers.

• Touring boards are longer and narrower, offering better glide but requiring a bit more balance.

• Fishing or adventure boards often offer the highest stability and gear capacity.

Inflatable boards are often preferred because they are forgiving underfoot, easier to transport, and offer excellent durability. They also offer a very high volume as the are typically six inches thick.

While many companies market boards as “universal,” some models are truly designed to handle larger riders:

• Fishing SUPs: Built wider and heavier-duty for maximum stability.

• Adventure SUPs: Designed for long trips, these boards prioritize carrying capacity.

• Extra-Wide All-Around SUPs: Great for beginners seeking maximum balance.

Examples include high-capacity boards like the Glide O2 Angler and O2 Retro, both of which combine stability, rugged construction, and excellent flotation. The Mako is our largest board and is also a great alternative.

Starting out on the water is easier when you set yourself up for success. Here are some practical tips:

Start on Calm Water

Flatwater lakes, calm bays, or slow rivers are perfect for building confidence before tackling wind, waves, or currents. Starting on ocean chop or choppy lakes, will just lead to a frustrating learning experience.  Because you become a human sail when standing on a paddle board, learning in windy conditions is incredibly difficult.

Kneel First, Then Stand

Start paddling from a kneeling position to get a feel for the board. Once you are comfortable with balance, move to a standing position gradually. It is a good idea to get some speed up while on your knees which will make the board more stable to stand on.

Distribute Your Weight Evenly

Stand with your feet hip-width apart, centered over the handle of the board. Keep your knees slightly bent and engage your core for better stability.

Use Proper Paddle Technique

Hold the paddle correctly—with the blade angled forward—and make long, efficient strokes close to the side of your board.

Relax and Stay Loose

Stiff legs and arms make balancing harder. Keep a relaxed, athletic stance and let your knees and ankles absorb small movements from the water. When you tense up, it greatly affects your balance.

Will the board sink under my weight?

Not if you choose a board designed for higher capacities and keep it inflated to the proper PSI. Always check the specifications and allow for some extra margin with gear.

Will I fall a lot?

Everyone falls when learning, regardless of size, it is actually all part of the fun. Find calm water, a wide board, and a patient mindset and you will minimize falls quickly.

Is paddleboarding good exercise for larger paddlers?

Yes. SUP provides excellent cardiovascular, core, and full-body conditioning while being easy on the joints compared to running or other high-impact sports. It is a great sport for older paddlers.

There is no "ideal" body type for stand-up paddleboarding. With the right board and a little patience, larger paddlers can have just as much success and enjoyment on the water as anyone else. Paddle boarding is about freedom, exploration, and finding joy in movement—not about fitting into a certain mold.

SUP is one of the most inclusive water sports because boards come in different widths, volumes, and weight capacities. A stable, high-volume inflatable paddle board offers the buoyancy and balance to make every outing comfortable. Pair that with proper technique—keeping your knees soft, core engaged, and eyes forward—and you’ll find progress comes quickly.

Many larger paddlers find inflatable SUPs especially welcoming since they’re softer underfoot, safer if you fall, and built with higher weight limits. Boards 34 inches wide or more, with at least 300 liters of volume, are excellent for building confidence and stability on the water. Accessories like kayak seats or adjustable paddles also make the experience more comfortable and customizable for every body type.

If you are ready to get started, explore our selection of stable, durable inflatable paddle boards designed to help every paddler, no matter their size, feel confident and at home on the water.

Stand tall. Paddle strong. The water is waiting for you.