Four advantages of racing dugout boards – Technique with Titouan

Technique with Tituoan

When a competitive edge can make the difference between a 1st or 2nd place on the podium, athletes usually take notice. In SUP racing, a dugout offers an interesting range of advantages over more conventional shapes, allowing a Ninja, Sonic or Carolina more glide, a more efficient paddle stroke and an overall more stable feel despite a leaner (faster!) shape. Even the Molokai, our dedicated and unlimited downwind board is available with a recessed deck.

But let Titouan explain:

Main Takeaways from this episode

#1 CENTRE OF GRAVITY

A lower centre of gravity allows for more balance, giving a rider with a dugout increased stability.

#2 INCREASED STABILITY

The increased stability allows for a thinner and thus more efficient racing shape.

#3 MORE PADDLING LEVERAGE

Being closer to the water changes the geometry of your paddle stroke, allowing for more leverage during the peak of your stroke.

#4 BETTER BANKING ANGLES

The sidewalls of the dugout allow for a much higher banking angle and prevent you from sliding off the board.

About Titouan

Hailing from New Caledonia, Titouan is a French racer with a background in outrigger racing, just like Travis Grant. Winning the Carolina Cup twice has established Titouan as a force to be reckoned with on the International racing circuit.

Also in this how-to series, with contributions from Travis Grant:

Technique with Travis – Properly securing your board
Technique with Travis – Leashes
Technique with Travis – Improving your SUP paddling style
Technique with Travis – Proper paddle length
Technique with Travis – Buoy Turning
Technique with Travis – Racing Strategy
Technique with Travis – Choosing your SUP fins
Technique with Travis – Recessed decks and what does it do?
Technique with Travis – How to do fast beach starts

Video by: Taylor Johnson pics by Paddle League, EUROtour and Georgia Schofield