How to Hold Your SUP Paddle Correctly (And Why It Matters)

You've got your board inflated, you're standing on the water, paddle in hand and then someone on the beach says, "You're holding that backwards." 
It happens to almost every beginner. But getting your paddle grip right isn't just about looking the part, it genuinely makes you faster, more efficient, and far less likely to ache the next morning.

Here's everything you need to know about how to hold a SUP paddle correctly.

Step 1: Orient the Blade Correctly

This is the most common mistake beginners make: holding the paddle with the blade facing the wrong way.

The blade of a SUP paddle has a slight forward angle (or 'bend'). The flat face, called the power face and this should face towards you as you paddle forward. Most people instinctively want to angle the blade backward like a canoe paddle, but this actually reduces efficiency and creates drag.

Think of it like a shovel - you want to push the water backward behind you, not dig it upward.

Step 2: Get Your Hand Position Right

Your top hand goes on the T-bar grip at the very top of the paddle. Your bottom hand grips the shaft. Here's how to get the spacing right:

1.    Hold the paddle vertically above your head with both hands

2.    Adjust your grip until both elbows form 90-degree angles

3.    That's your grip width - remember it

Keeping a 90-degree bend at the elbows is the golden rule for comfortable, powerful paddling. Too wide and you lose power; too narrow and your technique breaks down.

Step 3: Understand Which Hand Does What

When paddling on your right side:

•       Left hand on the T-grip (top)

•       Right hand on the shaft (bottom)

When paddling on your left side:

•       Right hand on the T-grip (top)

•       Left hand on the shaft (bottom)

Your top hand provides the pushing power, while your bottom hand acts as a pivot point. Engage your core with each stroke rather than relying purely on your arms, you'll go further with much less effort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

•       Holding the paddle backwards - blade angled toward you instead of forward

•       Gripping too tight - relax your hands, especially on longer sessions

•       Arms too straight - always maintain a slight bend in the elbow

•       All arms, no core - engage your torso for power, or you'll fatigue quickly

•       Grip too narrow - you'll lose leverage; always use the 90° elbow test

Does Paddle Length Matter?

Yes! Your paddle height affects how well you can maintain correct technique.
See our separate guide on How to Set Your SUP Paddle Height for the full breakdown, but in short, your paddle should be roughly one 'shaka' (about 15cm) above your head when standing upright.

Practise on Land First

Before you hit the water, practise your grip and stroke technique on land.
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, mimic the paddle motion, and really feel the core engagement. Five minutes of land practice will make your first session far more confident and comfortable.

Quick Reference Summary

•       Power face of blade faces toward you

•       Both elbows at 90 degrees for grip width

•       Top hand pushes, bottom hand pivots

•       Engage your core - not just your arms

•       Relax your grip - tight hands cause fatigue