The 5 Best Places to SUP in Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is probably one of the best places in the world to paddle board thanks to its crystal clear warm waters, miles of soft white sand beaches, and plenty of shallow areas for...
7 Reasons You Should Try a Double-Sided SUP Paddle (Paddleboard Oar)
I'm not here to convince you that your regular SUP paddle is inadequate, and I'm certainly not here to tell you you'll never use a single-sided paddle again (although 2SIDE reviewers disagree). I simply think everyone should add a double-bladed paddle to their quiver to maximize their enjoyment out on the water.
#1 - ENHANCE YOUR PADDLEBOARDING EXPERIENCE
If you're curious, open-minded, and want to try something new and different in the SUP world, the 2SIDE is for you. It's no secret that paddleboarding (especially on flat water) is not the most exhilarating, action-packed sport in the world. If you ask me, a double-sided paddle changes that. Whether you're looking for higher speeds, ease of exploration, or paddling in harsher conditions, a double-sided paddle does it all.
---
For my friends and family, the 2SIDE has not only made our time out on the water more enjoyable, but also we've been able to explore for longer and faster than ever before.
#2 - PADDLE FURTHER, FASTER
In my opinion, the most efficient way to paddleboard is by using a double-sided paddle. That's because, unlike a traditional single-sided paddle, the 2SIDE doesn't require you to shift your weight every stroke. This results in:
- Better tracking in a straight line
- A more natural, less tiring paddle motion
- Improved balance, maneuverability, and control
When I use the 2SIDE I feel like I could travel anywhere and I think that feeling of freedom is essential to the SUP experience.
#3 - MORE MANUVERABILITY & CONTROL
There is something very organic and natural to how you use the 2SIDE; no more awkward body contortion to make a "sweep turn" or navigate narrow bodies of water. When I use a double-sided paddle, I can initiate and control my turns easier and without sacrificing stability.
-
I feel much more comfortable and confident when using a double-sided paddle and notice a considerable improvement in my control, strength, and speed.
-
Additionally, when traveling with extra weight on the board, whether cargo, a pup, or a child, I found the 2SIDE to improve my navigational abilities significantly.
#4 - PADDLE WITH A PASSENGER
If you're like me and paddle with a passenger on the front of your SUP board, then the 2SIDE is a no-brainer for you. No more wacking your dog in the head each time you paddle or dripping water all over your child's head whenever you switch sides to paddle.
You are much less in the way of your passenger with a double-sided paddle and can also navigate the water with more strength and control.
#5 - PADDLE UPSTREAM OR AGAINST THE WIND
For me, one of the most obvious advantages of using a double-sided paddle is the ease of paddling upstream or against the wind. When you use the 2SIDE, you can paddle much more efficiently and quickly, making the battle against the elements more manageable.
-
Using a double-sided paddle means you are paddling nearly twice as fast as usual, which means you don't lose distance in between strokes caused by wind.
#6 - IMPROVED BALANCE & MORE STABILITY
In my opinion, the most obvious benefit of a double-sided SUP paddle is the improvement of your balance and the greater overall stability of your paddleboard while using the 2SIDE.
Everyone I know who has tried one of these double paddles has noticed how much easier it is to balance and feel stable on your paddleboard, regardless of your skill level.
#7 - EASILY SHORTEN PADDLE TO USE WHILE SITTING DOWN OR ON YOUR KNEES
One of my favorite features of the 2SIDE is how easy it is to adjust the paddle's length for switching between standing, sitting, and on your knees.
---
I love being able to sit down when tired or when the conditions get rough and I've always struggled to use a single-sided paddle properly when in a seated position.
0 comments
