A paddleboard is an exciting gear that is used for surfing on water bodies like lakes, rivers, and oceans. It is designed for stability, flotation, and speed on the water, making it one of the best pieces of equipment for water adventure enthusiasts. Every paddling aficionado knows the importance of a well-built paddleboard, and one critical component of a paddleboard is the stringer.
A stringer is a board-like structure that is inserted into the middle of a paddleboard to provide extra strength and improve its overall stiffness. It is typically made of either wood or fiberglass and acts as a spine of the paddleboard, adding rigidity and structure to the board. A stringer also ensures that the board remains perfectly flat when placed on the ground or while carrying it.
If you are passionate about paddleboarding, then you need to know how the stringer on a paddleboard works and why it is an essential part of the gear. In this article, we will explore everything there is to know about the stringer on a paddleboard. We will look at the types of stringers, their functions, and the benefits of having a stringer on your paddleboard.
Types of Stringers
The most common types of stringers are made of either wood or fiberglass. Here is a brief overview of the two:
Wooden Stringer
Wooden stringers are typically made of cedar, balsa, or Spruce woods. They are lightweight, strong, and have good flexing properties, making them ideal for paddleboards. Wooden stringers are inserted into the foam or EPS core of the paddleboard and provide the board with more rigidity and durability. They can withstand heavy impacts and distribute the weight of the rider evenly on the board, making it easier to maintain balance. Wooden stringers are particularly useful for paddleboards meant for touring, racing, and SUP surfing.
Fiberglass Stringer
Fiberglass stringers are made of multiple layers of fiberglass cloth that are stacked on top of each other and cured using epoxy resin. They are lightweight, durable, and offer outstanding rigidity and strength. Fiberglass stringers are ideal for heavier riders and paddleboards meant for rough water use. They can withstand impacts from rocks and other debris and distribute weight evenly on the board, making it more stable and easier to maneuver.
Functions of a Stringer in Paddleboards
A stringer plays a critical role in the construction and stability of a paddleboard. Here are some of the functions of a stringer in paddleboarding:
1. Enhancing Stability
A paddleboard with a stringer is more stable than one without it. The stringer ensures that the board remains flat and does not bow or flex, significantly reducing the chances of tipping over. This feature is particularly useful for beginners who are still learning the ropes of paddleboarding and for those who want to explore rough waters.
2. Increasing Rigidity
A stringer adds rigidity to the paddleboard, making it more responsive and easier to maneuver. The board will track straighter and faster on the water, providing more speed and stability. A paddleboard that lacks rigidity can wobble uncontrollably, making it difficult to stand and paddle with confidence.
3. Providing Durability
A paddleboard with a stringer is more robust and durable than one that lacks it. The stringer acts as a spine of the board, distributing the weight of the rider evenly and preventing the foam from breaking down. This way, the board can maintain its structural integrity even when exposed to harsh weather conditions, excessive heat, and heavy use.
Benefits of Having a Stringer on Your Paddleboard
1. Increased Durability
A paddleboard with a stringer will last longer than one that lacks it. The stringer protects the foam core of the board from breaking down and allows the board to withstand heavy use for extended periods. This makes it an excellent investment for those who want to use their paddleboard for an extended period.
2. Increased Stability
A paddleboard with a stringer is more stable, making it easier to maintain balance and paddle with confidence. The board will track straighter and faster on the water, making it suitable for various water activities, such as SUP yoga, recreation paddling, and touring.
3. Greater Rigidity
A paddleboard with a stringer is more rigid, making it more responsive and easier to maneuver. The board will have excellent stability, enabling you to make quick turns and navigate choppy waters with ease.
Conclusion
The stringer on a paddleboard is a critical component of the gear, affecting the board’s overall stability, rigidity, and durability. It acts as a spine, providing structural integrity to the board and distributing weight evenly. A paddleboard with a stringer is more stable, rigid, and durable, making it an excellent investment for water adventure enthusiasts. If you are shopping for a paddleboard, choose one with a stringer for optimal performance on the water.
