I recall a thread about low volume SUP's but could not find it using the search function, hope you guys don't mind me starting another in relation to this.

I am 5'11/85kg and have stepped down from an 8'10 x 31 ECS Wideboy 135 litres to a YOB SP 8'6 x 29.75 114 litres. Took a little getting used to but for the most part I can get around on it, getting frustrated with a pattern of falling off when padding for waves though.

I typically get into position and start paddling for the wave in semi surf stance/semi forward facing then when It gets close enough I go to the surf stance and put a sprint on. Have not had too many issues with this other than sometimes moving to surf stance too early.

What I am finding with the narrower SUP I am on at the moment is it gets a bit of a lean on and buries the rail sending the board on a sharp angle and tipping me off right at the critical moment.

Is there something with footwork I can improve on at all, I understand I will need to just keep practicing but if there is any pointers it would be much appreciated.

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Souwester said..
What I am finding with the narrower SUP I am on at the moment is it gets a bit of a lean on and buries the rail sending the board on a sharp angle and tipping me off right at the critical moment.

The critical things on narrower SUPs specifically for takeoff are:
- have your front foot closer to the stringer
- have your front foot parallel to the stringer: if your heel is closer to the rail than your toes, rocking motions of your body, which are mandatory for an efficient take off, will also put you off balance laterally
- start the takeoff with the nose above the water, so you can pull hard on your paddle and commit fully your body into the slope without fear of pearling

Pro-level riders on sinkers are often in full surf stance, with the front foot squarely on the stringer, but I do not recommend it, it is much harder to keep a powerful stroke this way, and it is harder to keep your balance.

The subject on narrow boards is at: www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Stand-Up-Paddle/SUP/Mastering-lateral-balance-on-a-small-SUP-board

Basically: keep you feet as away from the rails as possible.