If you’re new to the wonderful world of stand-up paddle boarding (SUP-ing), then you probably have a whole lot of questions. Rest assured, our team at Atoll Boards has got you covered. Since our inception in 2014, we’ve heard countless frequently asked questions (FAQs); not only from newcomers, but also from seasoned veterans with a surplus of experience. In other words, no matter what your level of experience may be, it’s never too early (or late) to ask a simple question such as, “How long does it take to paddle board a mile?” As always, our team at Atoll Board has everything you need to know, so keep on reading below!
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Factors That Can Impact the Speed of Your SUP
Before we answer the question at hand, we need to take a closer look at all the factors that can impact the speed of your SUP sessions. First, and perhaps most obvious of all, there’s no escaping the fact that a stronger paddler will move faster than a weaker one; it’s just science. On the bright side, the more you paddle, the stronger you will get, and then the quicker you can paddle a mile or more.
Secondly, the stand-up paddle board beneath your feet will make a difference. If your top priority is optimal speed, then you’re probably interested in a racing board. On the other hand, if you’re more attracted to a model with seamless gliding along the water, then a touring paddle board might just be your perfect match. Lastly, while all-around and recreational boards are sure to serve you well, they’re not exactly built with speed in mind.

Thirdly, it’s worth noting that the longer and narrower a SUP is, the faster it will glide on the water; furthermore, its width will impact the general speed of the board. Fourthly, as much as we love our inflatable SUPs (iSUPs), research has shown that hard boards are typically about five to six percent faster than iSUPs. While it may not be a world of difference, it does add up, especially if you’re trying to get the fastest mile possible.
Finally, water and wind conditions can have immense effects on your SUP-ing experiences. Whether you’re combatting choppy waters, wicked winds, or—worst of all—both, the weather can play a critical role in the speed, simplicity, and efficiency of your outing. If luck is on your side and the wind is pushing you forward, then you may be able to shed a couple minutes off your mile; if it’s against you, however, you can safely expect a significantly slower time. Similarly, your relationship with the water’s current can either add or subtract a few minutes, depending on whether or not you’re on its good side.
The Average Amount of Time for SUP-ing One Mile
In any event, all of this is to say that the average amount of time for SUP-ing one mile is approximately 30 minutes, depending on all of the variables listed above. In reality, most miles probably fall within the range of 20 to 40 minutes. With all of that in mind, we hope this helped to answer your question, “How long does it take to paddle board a mile?”

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Contact Our Team
For more information about how different types of boards, experience levels, and other variables can impact the speed of your SUP-ing sessions, please feel free to contact our team at Atoll Boards. To get the conversation started, simply give us a call at 877-698-8581 or send an email to customerservice@atollboards.com.
Our Signature Atoll Boards
On a related note, if you’re on the hunt for an optimal board that can handle all types of paddling adventures, then look no further than our signature Atoll Boards. Manufactured with the most robust and lightweight material available—machine-laminated dual-layer PVC—our paddle boards are among the most highly rated inflatable SUPs (iSUPs) on the market today. What’s more, our community members love to use them for a wide variety of SUP activities, including fishing, touring, racing, surfing, etc. To learn more about our eponymous iSUPs, all are welcome to get in touch with our team at Atoll Boards today. Just click the link of your choice above, let us know how we can help, and then we will gladly take it from there. At any rate, whatever your preference may be, we look forward to serving you soon. Until then!