No-one can really answer this Q for you, since there are so many different things that people want out of a board. They all seem like reasonable choices, and you just have to demo them and pick the one you like best. If you are going to be doing a lot of flat water paddling then try to get a board that is at least 10ft long. They glide better. But, really, as long as you aren't racing, you can paddle pretty much anything. Stick with one of the main brands and one of the most popular all- round models and you should be fine, and it will be easy to sell on if you want something more specialised after a while. The Naish 10-6 Nalu or Alana (they are the same shape, different graphics) is a very popular all-round board worldwide. The most popular board in the world in terms of sales is I think probably the Red Air 10-6 inflatable. At your size the shorter more surf-specialist boards may be a bit easier to surf but they aren't really designed for paddling distances (although, as I say, if you just want to get on the water then pretty much anything will do).

Just keep trying them and trust your own judgement. And buy a used or ex-demo board if you can - it will save a lot of money in the long run.

Commintogetya

Boards are a bit like shoes. You have some that you use rarely for special occasions or conditions, some that are a good all rounder for a range different occasions or circumstances that are not brilliant ant any particular thing but good at most occasions and you have some you can wear all day that fit like a glove and you hope never wear out despite how much they've been worn. They all have their very legitimate purposes.

Now there are 12'6" boards you could use in small surf, but I wouldn't recommend it until such time you're quite confident on your board, but would be an ideal cruising board.

I have boards ranging from 10'8" for surf and 14' boards for cruising but I'm significantly heavier than you. By far my most versatile board is my 14' inflatable (mine is a Fanatic). You can cruise almost anywhere on it - creeks, rivers, lakes and if you manage to hit anything (rocks, trees, pontoons etc.) it simply bounces off. It's almost as fast as my race board and just as well behaved. The down side is that you have to pump it up, which requires either some effort or a good pump (don't skimp if you want to buy one).

If you want to predominantly cruise, then waterline is your friend. The longer the board, the better. You can go further with less effort, but it's not at all ideal to surf.

Ultimately, be honest with yourself and think what you will do with your board 80% of the time. That will usually guide you to the type of board that best suits what you want to do.

There are some boards that would be well worth considering based on where you live, but unless you've paddled it in the conditions you think you'll see most of, keep your money in your purse.

Keep the questions coming and your answer will eventually come to you.

Happy hunting!

I don't have experience with all of these boards but I have the Naish Mana 10" and I would suggest you get that one. My partner hops on from time to time and she is around the same height and she has no problem gliding along and having a great time.

DavidJohn said...
The 10'6"x30" Naish Nalu is another popular board for women you size because it paddles flat water slightly better.

Yes, if you can, go the narrower 30' wide board in this type longboard style shape do it. Personally, I think it is better to go a bit longer than excessively wide.

When you start getting above 31' they are lazy boards to paddle. You are not going to get as good a workout on those balance muscles SUP tones.

The narrower longboard style boards have a better glide, so they are pleasant to paddle and surf. They are also easier to get off the car to the water than something 33' of bulk. You might take a few more dips before you get the hang of it, but in the long run you should get more benefit and enjoyment.

Best thing is to demo first. It is also worth having a look on the second hand rack and ex demo stock. Any board of this sort of shape by a reputable manufacturer will be a good first board. Save yourself a few bucks and you won't be afraid to get out there and use it!