The world of stand up paddle boards is getting very diverse -- there are many types to choose from.
For many newcomers to SUP their first question is: what type of board should I get?
That depends on what you want to do.
Will you be traveling long distances, or taking the rougher river route?
Here’s a comparison of two Badfish boards built to enjoy life on the water but in two very different ways: the touring Selfie and the whitewater Rivershred. If you want a review of the Selfie, then check out Badfish Selfie SUP Review -- Efficient Speed Machine.
Badfish SUP Comparison: Selfie vs Rivershred
RIVER RUNNING - Badfish Rivershred
TOURING - Badfish Selfie
LENGTH
The Badfish Selfie is longer, measuring in at 14’.
This gives the board an advantage for tracking over long distances. But, this also adds to the volume of the board which means it can carry more weight.
The Badfish Rivershred is below the average flatwater stand up paddleboard’s length. At 9’6” it’s nibble enough to turn and maneuver but still has enough length to aggressively perform eddy turns.
WIDTH
Badfish Selfie’s width is built straight up for exploration and smooth gliding across water. 30” is an ideal width for both cutting through the water while maintaining enough volume for multi-day gear.
Badfish Rivershred’s 36” width would seem a little beastily to some, but it carries towards the tail which adds stability for running rapids.
THICKNESS
Both boards are 6” thick.
The thickness adds volume. Volume equals a higher weight carrying capacity, added stability and limits how much the river can “grab” the edges of the board.
SHAPE
The Badfish Selfie is streamlined. Its long, narrow nose cuts the water. The widest part is located in front of the paddler, under the second set of nose d-ring tie downs. This width tapers off to the tail, adding more glide to the board.
The Badfish Rivershred has a pointed nose which helps it punch through waves. The width under foot, and gentle taper to the tail, keeps the deck and board wide, adding to its great stability.
ROCKER vs FLAT
Lengthwise from nose to tail, paddle boards have a curve in them, known as “rocker.” Rocker can be added at the nose, at the tail, or can be continuous along the whole length of the board. Rocker helps to reduce friction (drag), eases the boards over waves, and increases maneuverability.
The Badfish Rivershred has a continuous rocker running the whole length of the board. This banana appearance allows the board to roll over the waves, keeping the bottom of the board connected to the water.
Forward momentum is not lost by the board “crashing” straight into waves. Instead, the Badfish Rivershred rides over waves. The continuous rocker aligns with standing river waves, for easier catch and ride surfing. It enables the paddler to use less energy when engaging the rails to carve in and out of eddy’s, and to hold an edge while performing a ferry.
The Badfish Selfie has a raised, rockered nose that helps it to glide over smaller waves, rather than punching directly into the wave and losing momentum. Your energy keeps the board moving forward.
The flat bottom of the board helps the board to stick to the water which, together with the length, helps keep the board on track and in a straight line.
D-RING TIE DOWNS
The Badfish Selfie has stainless steel D-Rings that will not break under a heavy load. The installed anchors points put the large loads under the widest point of the board.
There are multiple locations to secure supplies in front of the paddler and behind, while still leaving deck space for the paddler to stand and shift their feet. This board is designed to be a touring work horse.
The Badfish Rivershred’s tie downs carry extra weight in the most advantageous location: at the nose. This location's weight helps the board “punch” rapids.
River running can lead you away from immediate road access for help or supplies. Having the option to carry emergency gear on the board is a must.
INTERCHANGEABLE FINS
Badfish Selfie Fin Box
Both boards have a 2-1 interchangeable fin set up.
Two side fins, also known as side bites, are interchangeable with any other FCS side bite fin. The FSC system has two set screws to help hold the fins in place.
The centre fin is a longboard board box, which allows for a range of fins.
Badfish Rivershred Fin Box
Be warned: fins that are built for the ocean will not withstand impacts on the rivers or shorelines.
BOARD CONSTRUCTION
Both Boards are Inflatable with EXO Skeleton and PBR rails.
Inflatables are made of commercial-grade PVC with drop stitch technology for a core that creates internal air space.
The EXO skeleton is a Badfish exclusive design that adds a double stinger to both the top and bottom of the board
The PBR rails are a three layer structural seal. The internal rigid band seals the board, the ParaBolic Reinforced second layer wraps the rail radius, and the final layer ensures a complete wrap of the rail.
These added stringers and rail bands make the board more rigid. This adds to the responsiveness -- energy is not lost, compared to a softer inflatable board.
SUMMARY
The Badfish Selfie is the choice for multi day and smooth, fast travel. The design includes a longer length, wider width underfoot and added volume. Ample d-ring tie downs, interchangeable fins, and accessible water bottle holder complete the board.
The Badfish Rivershred is designed to play in the turbulent, flowing water of the rivers. The design has thicker rails, width carrying to the tail and shorter length. Interchangeable fins, nose to tail rocker, and minimal D-ring nose tie downs make this board unique.
“Dreams don’t work unless you do”
Kimberley Kenyon
Badfish Team Athlete
AQ Outdoors Whitewater SUP and Splitboard Ambassador
Advanced and River 1 SUP Instructor Paddle Canada
@borntoboard.ca
Other Badfish SUP Articles
AQ Outdoors Contact
Edmonton: (p) 780 463-4892 (e) info@aquabaticsedmonton.com
Calgary: (p) 403 288-9283 (e) info@aqoutdoors.com
