LE MAGAZINEHow to choose a 2-person paddle
Do you dream of gliding along the water in perfect harmony? The 2-person paddle is the ideal solution for moments of complicity and adventure, whether you’re on the sea, lake or river. But how do you choose the right board to support your weight and that of your partner, while offering maximum stability? By taking into account size, volume, shape and construction, you’ll easily find the perfect boat.
The advantages of duo paddling
Duo paddling is an experience to share, a moment of complicity and discovery:
- The pleasure of sailing together: what could be better than sharing your passion for the water with a loved one? Paddleboarding as a duo creates unforgettable memories and strengthens bonds.
- A leisure activity accessible to all: you don’t have to be a seasoned athlete to go tandem. It’s a gentle activity accessible to all, whatever your age or level.
- Relaxation and well-being: gliding across the water to the rhythm of your paddles is guaranteed to relax and recharge your batteries. Paddleboarding for two is a great way to get away from it all and enjoy the great outdoors.
- Exploration and discovery: explore creeks, rivers and lakes in total freedom. Duo paddling gives you a unique perspective on the landscapes around you.
How to choose a 2-person paddle?
Now that you know all the advantages of duo paddling,how do you choose an inflatable paddle that’s just right for you? There are several criteria to consider.
1. Size and load capacity: adapting the paddle to your needs
The wider and longer the board, the more stability it offers, which is ideal for two people. A longer board between 12 and 15 feet is generally recommended for a 2-person inflatable paddle, as it provides enough space for everyone to feel comfortable. Make sure your paddle can support the weight of two people and your equipment (waterproof bag, anchor, etc.). Consult the technical specifications of your inflatable paddle board to find out its maximum capacity.
If you’re looking for an alternative solution, you can also choose a large all-around paddle with enough volume to allow 2 people to sail, with one person sitting and the other standing. This option allows you to sail with 2 people or alone.
2. Type of paddle: inflatable or rigid?
The choice between an inflatable and a rigid paddle depends on your preferences and how you want to use the board. An inflatable paddle is practical, easy to use, carry and store, making it perfect for travel. On the other hand, a rigid paddle generally offers better performance and greater stability on the water, which can be an advantage if you plan to sail regularly. So the type of board you choose depends on how you intend to use it.
3. Materials and durability: which paddle is made to last?
The durability of a paddle depends largely on its materials of construction. Inflatable paddles are often made from reinforced PVC or drop-stitch, making them puncture-resistant yet lightweight. Rigid paddles, on the other hand, are generally made of plastic, wood or composite materials such as carbon or fiberglass. The latter are lighter and more efficient, but also more expensive. For regular use and a long service life, choose durable, well-designed materials, whether for a large paddle or a more compact model.
4. Stability and maneuverability: ensuring a pleasant experience for two
A wider, thicker board (30 to 34 inches) will offer greater stability, especially if you’re a beginner or sailing in tandem. But maneuverability is also an important criterion for getting the most out of the experience. A bulky paddle can be more stable but difficult to maneuver, while a model that’s too narrow can make balancing tricky. Simply put, if you’re looking for a smooth, enjoyable experience, opt for an inflatable or rigid board with a good balance between stability and responsiveness. At the very least, go for a 10’6 Malibu-type board or any larger model, but with a minimum width of 31′. Make sure it’s responsive enough to allow you to turn and change direction without difficulty, while remaining stable enough not to lose your balance when you’re two on the water.
Essential accessories for a paddle for two
To get the most out of your duo paddling adventure, you need the right accessories. These will ensure comfort, safety and practicality during your outings.
Paddles for two people
We often recommend choosing adjustable paddles, so that everyone can adjust them to suit their size for greater efficiency. Aluminum paddles are lightweight and sturdy, while the more expensive carbon or fiberglass ones offer superior performance with less water resistance. For duo outings, it can be handy to have two good-quality paddles to ensure a smooth, coordinated stroke.
Fastening system and carrying bag
A fastening system is an essential accessory if you plan to carry equipment or personal items with you. Whether it’s for a waterproof bag, a cooler or a camera, a good securing system will keep your belongings in place during your adventure. A carry bag is also essential for an inflatable paddle. It makes it easy to transport your deflated board, while protecting the equipment from bumps and scratches.
Pumps and repair kits for inflatable paddles
If you choose an inflatable paddle, a hand or electric pump is essential to inflate your board quickly and easily. Some pumps even come with pressure gauges to ensure optimum pressure. What’s more, a repair kit is a useful little investment in the event of a puncture. This kit generally contains patches and glue to repair a small leak if necessary and prolong your experience on the water without hassle.
Sailing techniques for two: paddling efficiently together
Two techniques are available.
- You’re sailing with 2 people on a 1-person board like the Maliby 10’6. In this case, you have no choice. The first person will be in front, seated, and the second behind, standing.
- Paddling with 2 people on a board designed for 2 to 4 people, like the Duo, requires a little coordination, but that’s what makes the experience so much more fun and dynamic. To paddle effectively together, it’s essential to work in harmony and synchronize your movements.
Start by defining a starting position. One of you should stand at the front and the other at the back of the board. The person at the back, often the guide, will have more control over the direction. To move forward in a straight line, you need to paddle evenly and at the same time. A good tip is to aim for a fixed point in front of you to keep your trajectory straight.
As for paddling technique, start by immersing the paddle completely in the water, then push with force while bringing the arm towards you. Alternate sides of the board every few repetitions to maintain balance and direction. Be careful not to paddle too fast: too fast a pace can lead to a lack of coordination. Keep a moderate, steady pace to cover long distances without tiring. We recommend that the paddles enter the water with a signal from the person behind. This ensures perfect synchronization between the two rowers.
Finally, if you want to turn, one of you can paddle forward on one side of the board while the other paddles backwards on the other side. This will allow the board to turn on itself. The more synchronized you are, the more comfortable and enjoyable your ride will be. With a little practice, you’ll become the perfect team on the water.
2-person inflatable paddleboarding in a nutshell
With our duo paddles from Sroka, you’ve got everything you need to enjoy duo paddling with complete peace of mind.
The Duo Easy 15’9 inflatable paddle is designed to provide excellent glide thanks to its 15’9 foot (457 cm) length and 34 inch (86 cm) width. This paddle offers optimum stability, perfect for two-up paddling without losing balance, even in slightly rougher sea conditions. With a load capacity of up to 220 kg, you can be sure that the board will support your combined weight and that of your equipment. Our SUP duo Easy is supplied with a manual pump, but for easier inflation you can opt for an available electric pump.
The Stand up paddle Tandem Inflatable 16’x34’x6 is also a great option if you’re looking to explore or take long rides. Its wide width and wide tail give you incomparable stability. Ideal for rando-paddling or exploring with just the two of you, this model with its three layers of PVC guarantees great strength and performance. When used in sync with your partner, it enables you to maintain good speed while retaining excellent stability.
The Stand up paddle Malibu 10’6, Easy 11’6, Easy 12’6 or alpha 12’6x 31 will also let you ride 2-up, with one person sitting in front and the other rowing behind.
Ready to get started? Choose your Sroka duo paddle now and get ready for unforgettable outings!
Sailing a paddle with 2 people will give you great pleasure and allow you to share your passion with others. This way of sailing encourages you to set off on an adventure, giving you the chance to see paddling from a different angle. Once you’ve tasted the pleasure of sharing your passion with others, you’ll never go back. A must-try.
Le Magazine
Articles that might upset you
