I am new to the sport but have tried a few rentals and friends' boards, and love it. So does my 4 year old, my husband and hopefully my baby once he's grown up a bit. I want to use it on the lake and maybe eventually some small waves. I am so confused by websites and shops that only sell one brand. I live in Newcastle NSW and there is pretty much one shop that has limited options.

Here are my criteria:
1. I'd love a light weight board that I can put on the roof racks myself (when hubby is at work) and that my young kids can drag around.
2. A package deal would be great (bag, carry handle, paddle, ankle strap).
3. No more than $1500 total.

Everyone tells me to get 10.6ft and 31 inches wide.

But where do I start with that? Online ? Shops in Sydney? Brand names.

Help!?

If you're in Newcastle, try talking to BaySup or look them up on facebook. They do board and paddle packages in your price range and they'd be able to help you find the right board for you

Yes, not much or a range in Newcastle. While there is nothing wrong with ECS, ECS, ECS, the new local brand Liquid Blue (doing some really good package deals!!!) or maybe even Suplove, it is worth taking a day out and going to a demo day in Sydney where they are doing a few more brands. Go for a North Shore trip and checking out shops like Windsurf and Snow Collaroy, and Balmoral Paddle just before Manly (NOT at Balmoral. Confused yet?). From experience, these shops have good service, bigger ranges and many demo boards.

Maybe even do dinner in Manly while you are there?


Before you go out and buy a board, it is also worth doing a few lessons with 2up Sup at Stockton. I sent a lady and her friends there lately and they are raving about the lessons with Stella. Pete Cox, who runs the show, is also a top bloke. It is easiest to contact them through their Facebook page

Not much choice in Newcastel........ Phooey.
As already stated there is 2UP SUP, ECS, a few sellers out at the lake or you could also try Pete Freeman at Dive Skate & Ski. Peter sells Naish, Bic, Gulliver and the new range of Blue Plantet where you can get a complete package of board, paddle leash for your budgeted price.

Okay, thanks everyone. I have already been to Dive Skate and Ski and they tried to sell me only one brand (young kid working there gave me Blue Planet brochure and the package was $1600) - that was all he recommended. I have booked in to do a demo with BaySup at an upcoming trial day on the river so that'll be good. I will try to get to Balmoral shop place to do a trial too.
Thanks everyone!

Select to expand quote

heidinewie said..
Okay, thanks everyone. I have already been to Dive Skate and Ski and they tried to sell me only one brand (young kid working there gave me Blue Planet brochure and the package was $1600) - that was all he recommended. I have booked in to do a demo with BaySup at an upcoming trial day on the river so that'll be good. I will try to get to Balmoral shop place to do a trial too.
Thanks everyone!

Yes, some people are dedicated SUP riders and some others shop assistants. In the local area, you shouldn't go wrong talking with Dylan at Bay SUP (Ok, I was being mildy sacasitic about the ECS reign of domination), Pete at 2up SUP or the boys at Liquid Blue. Prices around the board pretty much reflect what you are getting and - thankfully - no one will be out to rip you off. If you can negotiate a good deal based on the purhcase of a few boards and accessories, go for it!