SUP vs hand paddles on barracuda style boards?

[B-Walnut]

Last attempt with a light tail wind and some residual 6” wind swell I maxed at 4.3mph hand paddle and 3.3mph SUP.  Looking back at that successful prone paddle up, it looks like I hit 4.3, then speed dropped to 4 (getting to feet) then slowly built up as I pumped onto foil off the water.

Great data thanks for sharing! What's your background like with SUP vs Prone experience?

I went back and forth on sizing but ended up going longer/larger for my first downwind board 8'x21"x112l. We've had nothing but flatwater since I got it, but finally have wind and swell coming this weekend and I'm looking forward to getting out on it for my first tries. I've found it prone and SUP paddles great, but I don't have any actual speed data which would be great to have!

[Admin]

Thanks for that.  What app are you using?

[VB_Foil]

I'm using Waterspeed App paired with my Apple Ultra watch. 

I've owned a 12' 6" touring SUP for years and take it out a few times a year.  Just did a 7.75 mile canal paddle with my wife.  Talk about grueling!  I tried SUP Foiling  my FSM 5'11" a few times, but didn't understand the J stroke, so it was a bit too much for me at the time.  I've been prone surfing for years, so plenty of actual prone paddling experience.  Never tried the kneeling prone style paddling before this.  I will note that it does tax the hip / lower leg muscles quite a bit and will take time to build stamina.  Skateboarding since a kid as well, so a lot of balance practice on a regular basis I guess.  I'd put myself at above average balance/skill level at my 38 year age group. 

That 8' x 21" x 112L sounds like a weapon!  Keep us posted on progression.