Why won’t my SUP go in a straight line: 5 causes and their solutions

​1. Your fin is too small

The fin is the track-keeping aid on your SUP. If it’s too small, the board will be significantly less stable. This can become tiring over time, particularly on longer trips. A significantly larger fin allows for up to one to three extra paddle strokes per side before you need to switch sides.

The solution: If your board has a small fin, try a larger touring fin. Touring fins have a large surface area and are designed for good directional stability, and can help you stay on course more steadily. Make sure it’s compatible with your fin box. Not all fins that appear to fit at first glance are actually suitable. Sometimes the box is too short or not deep enough.

2. Your board is too short and too round

Not every SUP glides through the water with the same stability. Short all-round boards often have a rounder outline, meaning a more rounded outer contour. This makes them versatile and manoeuvrable, but can mean they need to be corrected more often. Longer touring boards, on the other hand, usually have a more elongated shape and are designed for longer distances and better straight-line stability.

The solution: If you’re mainly interested in paddling on longer trips, a longer board – say, 11’6’’ or 12’6’’ – with a straighter outline might be the better choice. It generally tracks better and requires fewer course corrections.

3. Your board is too wide

Wide boards, measuring 33 or 34 inches at their widest point, often provide beginners in particular with a pleasant sense of stability. However, a very wide design can make it harder to control the paddle: the paddle has to be held further out, and it can be more difficult to make a straight paddle stroke close to the board. The paddle is unconsciously guided in a slight arc, causing the board to ‘turn’ to the other side.

The solution: If you’re already confident on the board and prioritise efficient forward movement, a slightly narrower SUP might be a good choice. It often allows for a more ergonomic paddling stroke. However, choose a width that ensures the board still suits your balance and the conditions you’ll be paddling in. Typical touring boards are around 12’6’’ long and 31’’ wide. Sportier touring boards are 29’’ or 30’’ wide, but require a bit more practice in wavy conditions.

4. You’re not pulling the paddle straight through the water

Even with a suitable board, your paddling technique can determine whether you travel in a straight line. If you pull the paddle outwards in an arc or start the stroke too far from the board, you’ll create additional rotational movements.

The solution: Place the paddle in the water slightly to the side of the board at the front and pull it backwards as straight as possible. Around your feet, the paddle should run close to the board. Then pull it out of the water again, rather than moving it far outwards. This allows you to make your paddle stroke more efficient and reduce unnecessary steering movements. You can also find a complete series on paddling technique featuring top paddler Ole Schwarz here.

5. You’re standing too far back on the board

Your position on the SUP also affects how it handles: if you stand too far back, the bow is relieved of weight and can veer off to the side more easily.

The solution: Use your board’s carrying handle as a guide. On many SUPs, this is roughly in the area of the intended standing position. Position your feet roughly level with the handle or, depending on the shape of the board and the water conditions, slightly in front of it. Extra tip: In strong crosswinds, standing a foot further forward can help reduce the board’s tendency to veer off course due to the wind.

surf conclusion: The board and technique must be right

If your SUP isn’t travelling in a straight line, it’s worth taking a look at your entire setup. A suitable touring fin, a more streamlined board shape and a width suited to your level of experience can improve straight-line stability. You’ll also need a straight paddling stroke and a balanced stance. First, check your fin, stance and paddling technique. If you still find yourself constantly having to correct your course despite using the correct technique, it’s worth taking a closer look at the shape and length/width of your board.