Recommended FLAT WATER board

[ukgm]

ukgm - well that shows that most people have got their heads screwed on then! And there's a clear steer for event organisers. btw did you not include SUP Armada in that?

True, I forgot that one. I never got exact numbers on it (as there was a difference between the elite race and the Guinness World Record attempt) but I think I do have that data somewhere. Sadly, that event has been cancelled this year but on paper so far, I think the Dart will be the top SUP specific event as it sold out all 250 slots in 48 hours. I can't see anything other than the club champs getting anywhere near that.

[photofr]

Children seem to naturally use their entire body to do things... While paddling, you'll notice them using toes and all. Indeed, we should take note, because it's the best way to prevent injuries (instead of relying on a single muscle mass, as most adult beginners seem to)

[Paddle lite]

Part of the problem you face is that most of the leading SUP shapers are ocean people not inland waters people. There aren’t that many well-known truly flat water brands.

So true! If you're thinking of going custom, check out Flatwater Paddle Co. Mike shaped the Coreban and Lakeshore race boards and has a good reputation for making fast boards. I'm not sure if he's still shaping though.
http://www.flatwaterpaddleco.com

Another option would be a custom BlkBox Sidewinder.
https://paddleboardsurf.com/

404, Bark, Infinity, King's, and Riviera are some other good options for custom shapes.

I agree that most of the best SUP builders are going to be people that live near the ocean and will build their boards to handle those waters.  But, there are a lot more companies that make different styles of boards now. 

Some of the SUP companies make boards for fishing.  If you fishing, you basically want flat water.  So it might be worth considering a fishing style SUP if you can't find one that is specifically made for flatwater.  Just an idea anyway.