One of the most common questions I get is do paddle boards have a weight limit and the simple answer is yes. In this guide, I explore the weight limits of paddle boards, why they are a thing, and the factors that influence this figure so that you can remain safe on the water and get the right paddle board for your build and body type.
Do Paddle Boards Have a Weight Limit?
As with any item used for water sports paddle boards have a weight limit. This is because of Archimedes’ Principle which states that if the buoyant force is less than the object's weight, the object will sink.
In other words, if you put too much weight on the surface of a paddle board, it will overcome buoyancy and struggle to stay afloat. This is why maximum weight limits are imposed otherwise paddle boards wouldn’t work.
Factors Influencing Weight Limits
Although each board has a set weight limit, when choosing the right paddle board size it’s important to understand why this weight limit exists and the factors that affect it.
The volume calculation
Weight limit is defined directly by the volume of the paddle board as volume has a direct correlation with buoyancy. Simply put, the greater the volume your board has, the heavier the weight limit it can accommodate. Three factors are used to determine paddle board volume:
- Length
- Width
- Thickness
Volume formula for paddle boards = Length x width x thickness
In terms of suitability, it’s generally advised that you use a 2:1 ratio of board volume to body weight. For example, if your body and gear weight equates to 180 lbs (81 kg), your paddle board volume should be at least 162 cubic litres.
Board type
The board type also plays a role in buoyancy and maximum weight limits. In most instances, inflatable SUPs have a higher maximum weight limit and offer better buoyancy and stability which is why our paddle boards range is perfect for beginners.
In contrast, hard paddle boards made with epoxy typically have a lower maximum weight limit as they are much heavier and thus less buoyant. These boards offer superior performance in terms of cutting through the water and are great for touring and racing.
This means that if you are of a heavier build, an inflatable SUP is most likely the best option as it will have a higher maximum weight limit and you will find it much easier to use.
Why Adhering to Weight Limits Matters
This should be obvious, but simply put, if you exceed the weight limit of a paddle board you are going to encounter issues. Paddle boards have a maximum buoyancy and weight capacity and when this is exceeded the board will simply submerge in the water and you will struggle to stay on it.
If your body and gear weight is slightly above the max limit, the board will still float, but it will sit lower in the water and you will struggle to control it or cut through the water smoothly.
If your body and gear weight is way beyond the max limit, the board will be much deeper in the water to the point where it can sink and controlling it will be virtually impossible. It also becomes unsafe due to the lack of stability which puts you at risk.
Choosing the Right Paddle Board for Your Weight
We’ve established that weight limits are real and important so common sense states that you simply choose a paddle board that has a max weight limit greater than your weight.
No. There are a few other factors, the first of which is that the weight calculation must include your body weight and equipment weight (PFD, leash, backpack, etc.). For example, you might weigh 180 lbs and your gear 10 lbs in which case you need a board that accommodates a max weight of 190 lbs or more.
It’s a known fact that many manufacturers overstate the weight limits too and you have to allow for variance. I advise taking 25% off of the suggested manufacturer's maximum weight limit when calculating a safe figure. For example, if a board says it can carry 300 lbs, I’d instead take 25% off and base my calculations on a maximum limit of 225 lbs.
Get the Right Paddle Board for Your Body Type
So, do paddle boards have a weight limit? Yes, and this should be adhered to at all times. Oftentimes manufacturers will overstate the weight limit so I advise always calculating a safe body + gear weight at 25% less than the recommended value.
I can’t overstate the importance of not exceeding the weight limit either primarily from a safety point of view, but your paddle boarding experience will also be rubbish as you will struggle to control it and travel through the water.
