Stand Up Paddle Boarding Denver

History of Paddle Boarding 

The history of paddle boarding is diverse and there seems to be no real point of origin, but one thing is common is that no matter the shape or form of the paddle or board the act of stand up paddle boarding is well over a thousand years old.  From Ancient Polynesia to the gondolas of Venice, Italy paddle boarding has been a common means of simple transportation evolving into a sport that anyone can do.  The following blog gives a brief description of some of the ancient forms and origins of paddle boarding around the world. 

 

Ancient Polynesia 

In 1777, the ship's surgeon of Captain Cook's voyage described the act of paddle boarding at Tahiti.  "I could not help conclude that this man felt the most supreme pleasure while he was driven on, so fast and so smoothly by the sea."  This act seems to have been a regular event and act for over a thousand years.  The oldest canoe is dated to be from 7000 BC from China.  The utility of paddle boarding is inherent and is apparent in the ease of paddle boarding, as can be seen in the various historical and archaeological accounts around the world.      

Ancient Rome 

The Hasake or Hasaki refers to the board used by ancients in and around the Mediterranean coast lines.  Today, hasake is common referred to stand up paddle boarding in the country of Israel.  Arthur Klein, author of Surfing,  wrote that the Hasake is bigger and heavier than a modern paddle board.  Ranging from     to 13 feet in length and weighing up to 155 pounds.  The hasake has evolved from its 8th century beginnings and contributed to the modern paddle board design.  

Peru and Latin America

Stand up paddle boarding in Peru is over 5,000 years old and is still a prevalent in its original form today.  Made out of reed, sizes and shapes differed based upon the intended use of the TUP, the name of these boats.  The design is favorable for fishing and sport and gives the paddler the ease of maneuvering. Today you can find these boats identified as Caballitos de Totora of "little reed horse".  

There is much discussion as to the real origin of stand up paddle boarding.  Is it from Ancient Polynesia or is it from Peru or even ancient Africa?  The one thing that is common throughout the history of paddle boarding.  Cultures understood the usefulness and the sport of paddle boarding and crafted, shaped and formed the history to give us the modern day paddle board and the sport.  For further information check out these resources.  

Arthur Klien, Surfing,  J. B. Lippincott., 1965.   

Matt Warshaw, History of Surfing, Chronicle Books, 2010. 

Ben Marcus, The Art of Stand Up Paddling, A Falcon Guide, 2012. 

As always check out our website and find your stand up paddle board experience.  

www.standuppaddledenver.com