Hey Guys!

Thanks for all the contributions on this forum, its been quite helpful to read through them as I make my decision.

I'm planning on purchasing a SUP for use in open water. I am a beginner with no background in surfing. 5'10 and 82kg. Winds here tend to arrange from flat water to upwards of 25knots with 30 knot gusts depending on the season.

I think I'd prefer a good all rounder because I don't intend to race and might do some light touring. Though I imagine it would be funnest to play around in the open water and enjoy the light waves.

I'd appreciate any recommendations. The only brands they have locally are Naish, Fanatic, Starboard, BICsup, FOne, and Red Paddle

I'd also appreciate any Paddle recommendations.

I don't mind the cost, I am just looking for something that would perform very well and is durable. Transport isn't an issue.

Are you looking at inflatables or regular SUP boards?

You can't go wrong with a 14x 29 Naish Glide.. or something similar in the other brands.

I'd recomend a hard board over an inflatable.. Don't go narrower than about 27-28"..

and get a good quality paddle.. Preferably fixed length.. See what your local sup shop recommends..

Where are you located?

Thanks for the replies!

Excava8ter - I'm looking for a hard board

DJ - I'm located in Bahrain, we don't have any good local SUP shops here, just a SUP school with a limited selection of boards, so I'd be shipping the board over from Dubai and the paddle from elsewhere. You don't think something in a less touring/racing oriented shape and in the 11" range would fit me better? I don't see myself enjoying moving in a straight line primarily

If you don't want something in the 14 ' range there are a few boards that might suit. Sic Maui have one 12'x30' F 12. sicmaui.com/boards/models/f.html Starboard Freeride is 12'2 and come in 2 widths 30 and 32 inches. Hobie Venture series 12'6 x 30. Naish glide as well should do the job.

The Jimmy Lewis Maestra is worth considering as well 9'9 x 33 180liters good allround board from flatwater to surf and easy for beginner.

Thanks for the advice guys, I've done quite a bit of reading now and I think I'm set on the 14 being a great board to have in general for all conditions, and to worry about a smaller board later if I want another!