Paddleboarding has taken the seas and lakes by storm. Lightweight, inflatable paddle boards come at a good price and can be easily transported and assembled anywhere you want to take them.
They can be quickly packed down into carry cases and rapidly inflated for total freedom on the water. Inflatable paddle boards have done away with the necessity of roof racks and vans to transport.
Their cousin, the surfboard, is such a big board and used to take up an awful lot of room. They provide solid boards for beginner paddlers and advanced paddlers alike allowing you to travel long distances with relative ease.
The best quality boards are able to be inflated to a high PSI, easily holding most body weight. Different sizes, widths, and thicknesses are available to facilitate different sizes of bodies and skill levels.
A wider board is suited to the less experienced paddlers whilst a narrower board allows for fast speeds for advanced paddle boarders. The sizes don’t vary much but they do make a difference.
Product
Details
Top Pick
iROCKER All-Around 10′ Ultra
- Weight: 33 Pounds
- Brand: iROCKER
Amazing Stability
Atoll 11’ Inflatable Stand Up
- Weight: 21 Pounds
- Brand: Atoll
All-rounder option
Thurso Surf Max
- Weight: 29 pounds
- Brand: THURSO SURF
Great Kids’ choice
iRocker Nautical Kids
- Weight: 17.2 Pounds
- Brand: iROCKER
Best Splurge
Hala Rado
- Weight: 28.5 pounds
- Brand: Hala
For Speed & A agility
Blackfin CX Ultra
- Weight: 19 Pounds
- Brand: Blackfin
Great Value
SereneLife Inflatable
- Weight: 14 Pounds
- Brand: SereneLife
Most Eye-catching
BOTE Breeze Aero
- Weight: 20 Pounds
- Brand: BOTE
Best Budget
Retrospec Weekender 10′
- Weight: 17 Pounds
- Brand: Retrospec
Best Innovative
Red Paddle Co. MSL 10’6″ Ride SUP
- Weight: 20 Pounds
- Brand: Red Paddle Co
Best Hybrid Design
ISLE Switch
- Weight: 19 Pounds
- Brand: ISLE Surf and SUP
11 Best Stand-up Paddle Boards
All of the stand-up boards we’re going to be looking at today in these paddle board reviews are inflatable ones.
The paddler who is planning to use their paddle board for casual use, even if it is at an advanced level, will most likely choose an inflatable board. They are easier to transport, much more durable, and cost less.
They are still remarkably rigid boards and are some of the best paddle boards on the market. Read on to see some of my favorite stand-up paddle board picks.
1. iROCKER All-Around 10′ Ultra Paddleboard
All-around boards are slightly different from their touring board counterpart. They feature a slightly softer nose with an upwards rocker on it. The back is usually also blunt and slightly shorter than on touring paddle boards.
They are great for stability and the shorter boards make for easy rides over waves and choppy waters. Due to their width and board length, they don’t have the speed or ease of paddling.
The iRocker is on the shorter end of the scale for stand-up paddle boards coming in at only ten feet. This is matched by its relatively narrow 32 inches.
It is certainly an inflatable option designed for smaller and more intermediate to advanced riders. The shorter board provides a great paddle board for someone under 260 lbs and who knows what they’re doing.
Buying the iRocker comes with some great extra accessories inside the box. Not only do you get the stand-up paddle board but you also get an best electric pump, oar, and ankle leash, all packed into a fashionable backpack. The removable fins also fit in the pack and can be tethered to the board.
If you decide to buy from their website, they also throw in a few little bits for free. You are able to get your hands on another spare blade for your oar and even a kayak seat for those days when you can’t be bothered to stand up paddle.
Features
- Length – 10′
- Width – 32″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – Cross thread drop-stitch construction
- Max Weight -260 lbs
iROCKER All-Around 10′ Ultra Paddleboard
The price of “iROCKER All-Around 10′ Ultra Paddleboard” varies, so check the latest price at
2. Atoll 11’ Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard
This inflatable stand-up paddle board is designed in the touring paddleboard shape. Touring boards are made for long distances and ease of paddling. The pointed nose and tail are intended for cutting through the water and waves for a smooth ride.
The Atoll is a longer board with a lot of width for more stability and maneuverability. It would be a good entry-level board.
The board’s surface provides a lot of space to move around without losing balance. This is a good paddle board for learning or becoming more confident when moving from flat water to the ocean.
This stand-up paddle board comes with 15 D rings down the sides and a bungee strap across the front. This means you can carry luggage on both the front and the back of the deck pad. This paddleboard is a great choice for ocean & long trips out with a tent or a paddleboard cooler full of food.
Another good inflatable SUP option for a casual day out is the Lidl paddle board that might interest you.
The Atoll is a premium board for people looking for big days out. The high carry capacity is furthered by the remarkably high weight capacity, advertising a tested weight of 700 lbs which is much higher than other boards.
The SUP board comes with all the expected accessories such as a three-piece aluminum paddle with a nylon blade, a two-way manual pump, a coiled leash, and a handy storage bag. The kayak paddle is very lightweight and won’t leave your arms aching after a long day out on the water.
Features
- Length – 11′
- Width – 32″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – Dual-Layer PVC
- Max Weight – 700 lbs
Atoll 11’ Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard
The price of “Atoll 11’ Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard” varies, so check the latest price at
3. Thurso Surf Max Multi-purpose
Thurso has produced a paddle board that can keep up with whatever rigors you put it through. The all-around SUP shape has been built with durability, stability, and lightweight construction in mind. This is one of the best paddle boards for real enthusiasts.
Military-grade PVC has been used in the construction of this solid board. The all-around shape provides a stable board that feels almost as rigid as a hardboard construction.
Carbon fiber reinforced rails run down the sides to further add rigidity. This is the kind of attention you wouldn’t find in budget boards.
The carbon fiber doesn’t stop at simply the paddle board construction. The Max comes with a carbon shaft paddle that can be broken apart for easy storage.
This adjustable three-piece paddle can be shortened or lengthened in a range from 71″ to 87″. The carbon fiber paddle will be suitable for all heights.
Not only is the center fin removable, but also both the side fins too. This is unusual as most boards will just feature a removable center fin setup. This makes packing down the inflatable paddle board much easier as you can put it in a smaller pack and pop the fins in a side pocket.
If you’re looking for a longboard, then this is the best paddle board for you. It has a huge surface area with an impressive 11’6′ length.
This massive solid SUP should be the go-to board for anyone looking at going out with a lot of intended extra luggage, you could even bring a friend along. It is a narrower board for its length, which means the board glides through the water with ease.
Features
- Length – 11’6″
- Width – 34″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – Drop-stitch inner core and a Military Grade outer PVC
- Max Weight – 370 lbs
Thurso Surf Max Multi-purpose
The price of “Thurso Surf Max Multi-purpose” varies, so check the latest price at
4. iRocker Nautical Kids
Take the little paddle boarders out with you on your next trip with the iRocker Nautical built specifically for kids. The short and wide design makes this one of the best stand-up paddle boards for shorter arms and legs. As a first paddle board, this will be a great choice.
At only 9′, this lightweight board will be a great way to introduce your kids to the joys of stand-up on paddle boards. It has the weight capacity to carry a little furry friend along and still stay stable on most water.
The deck is equipped with an action camera mount and a number of D rings down the sides for extra storage whilst out and about. They can bring their SUP accessories or lunch along with them.
Kids grow, they just keep doing it, but this inflatable SUP is ready to grow with them. The Nautical comes with an adjustable paddle so that as they get taller, the lightweight paddle can get longer. You may create wonderful moments on the water with your family, just as I do if you have the correct best kid’s sup paddle board.
The Nautical is compatible with all iRocker accessories, such as the kayak conversion kit and cup holder. They are one of the most popular paddle board companies, and they supply a lot of other extras you can use on both your own inflatable SUPs and theirs. Chuck a kayak seat on the deck when their legs get tired.
Features
- Length – 9′
- Width – 32″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – PVC
- Max Weight – 220.5 lbs
iRocker Nautical Kids
The price of “iRocker Nautical Kids” varies, so check the latest price at
5. Hala Rado
This is one of the more expensive of the selection in my paddle board review, but you get what you pay for. Hala has built a paddle board with an excellent weight capacity that is one of the most stable boards and has enough storage space for big trips away.
A lightweight carbon fiber paddle is used to propel this wide all-around paddle board through the water.
Its rocker-style displacement hull keeps it moving through the waves in a way that would be more familiar to narrower boards. This wouldn’t be considered a race board due to the board width, but it is still agile and fast.
The deck pad of the paddle board features a 4mm thick EVA deck pad and raised 1.5″ rear stomp pad. The careful construction will help you stay secure on the top of the board, and the stomp pad will allow you to really put your weight behind your paddling and turns using the carbon paddle.
Hala has developed its own solution to the problem of fins when transporting your deflated stand-up paddle board. This is the only paddle board with a retractable fin setup.
Once you are done with your day out, you can deflate and then retract the fins to stop them from getting in the way or becoming damaged.
D rings run along the length of the SUP board, allowing you to make the most of the large deck of this SUP. When using recreational paddle boards, you may want to take a few days out camping or fishing, so you want gear that can hold all your luggage. This is a great choice for those big adventures.
Features
- Length – 10’10”
- Width – 35″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – High-tensile PVC
- Max Weight – 325 lbs
Hala Rado
The price of “Hala Rado” varies, so check the latest price at
6. Blackfin CX Ultra – Blue/Gold
iRocker is a well-known name in the stand-up paddle board industry, and they have earned that name by supplying a varied selection of great quality products. They make inflatable paddleboards that can be relied upon to match your expectations.
The Blackfin is a race board with a thin profile and a sharp planing hull designed for speed and agility.
The narrow design is made for advanced riders who are looking for a day on the water that doesn’t require a lot of luggage or things like fishing rod holders. These solid paddle boards are made to go fast rather than on a leisurely day out.
This is one of the lighter boards we have looked at today. That helps facilitate the racing board’s high speeds through the water and makes pushing the rigid board a lot easier. The carbon paddle keeps the weight even lower for added power in each stroke.
Rather than the usual three-fin design we have seen on a lot of the other boards reviewed today, Blackfin has instead chosen to only have two. It is missing the usual center fin that is seen on other touring paddleboards.
The loss of the third and largest fin setup will affect the board track in the water. This will make it slightly harder for the less experienced paddleboarder to stay stable.
Like most iRocker products, this comes with a few extras in the bag. The board comes with an electric pump which makes all the difference when setting up for a day out. It can easily be plugged into mains or even into a car cigarette lighter.
Features
- Length – 10’6″
- Width – 32.5″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – Cross thread drop-stitch & Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
- Max Weight – 320 lbs
Blackfin CX Ultra – Blue/Gold
The price of “Blackfin CX Ultra – Blue/Gold” varies, so check the latest price at
7. SereneLife Inflatable Paddle Board
A great board for the rider who is looking to take their sport to the next level. This is an inflatable paddle board that can cater to the beginner rider looking to move onto a more intermediate board with a thinner width and faster speed.
Moving from a broader all-around board to a thinner touring paddleboard has never been easier.
The surface of this board is coated in a forgiving and extra-grippy material. Even when wet, this is a great surface to stand and paddle on. The surface keeps its grip even when wet so you can avoid the inevitable for longer. Even the best fall over while paddle boarding here and there, it’s all part of the learning curve.
Three fins adorn the bottom of the paddle board to help with tracking in whatever water you ride it in.
For a long and thin board, this is very helpful as it’ll assist in maintaining control even when there is a flow of water. The fins act as stabilizers at the rear and keep this high-quality inflatable SUP on the right path.
Choosing to build with aluminum makes for lightweight paddles. The free one that comes with this not only color-matches the board but also weighs very little.
Aluminum is rust-resistant, incredibly light, and quite durable. It may not be as strong as other materials out there but for light use, it is more than adequate.
D rings line the sides of the stomp mat allowing for attachments such as a paddle holder or netting. Being able to take out a little extra on your trips means you can paddle in style for longer.
The pack includes most of the regular extras you would like to see, including an ankle tether, pump, and removable fins. This pack also comes with a repair kit which is a nice little addition to the usual pack.
Features
- Length – 10’6″
- Width – 32″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – Military Grade PVC
- Max Weight – 275 lbs
SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
The price of “SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board” varies, so check the latest price at
8. BOTE Breeze Aero
This is the one-board quiver you need for an amazing day out on the ocean or your local lake. It is super lightweight, wonderfully stable, and looks absolutely fantastic to boot. Get yourself stood up on this ocean craft by BOTE and stand out amongst the crowds.
It is very ordinary across all the stats compared to other inflatable boards. The length and width are very average but this is pretty much exactly what the casual rider would be looking for.
Bote Breeze Aero can cater to all styles for an intermediate and up rider, and may even be suited to the beginner due to its fantastic stability.
The lightweight construction allows for terrific amounts of maneuverability and speed when you want it. Paddling with this will be a breeze in even choppier waters. It would do well if you wanted to take it on the surf. There is a slight downside to having such a light build, though.
The maximum capacity on light boards is always much lower than on more heavy-duty builds.
The sacrifice of strength for weight is a payoff that is great for smaller and lighter people but could be an issue for the bigger rider. The low weight capacity also means that carrying a lot of extra luggage or even another rider is out of the question.
The pack contains an excellent fiberglass paddle, repair kit, and hand pump all packed into the travel bag. It’s always nice to see a repair kit because although the construction is usually top quality you never know when you might get caught out.
Features
- Length – 10’8″
- Width – 33″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – Inflatable AeroULTRA Technology
- Max Weight – 250 lbs
BOTE Breeze Aero
The price of “BOTE Breeze Aero” varies, so check the latest price at
9. Retrospec Weekender 10′
We have a short and narrow board here that is made for the paddler who knows what they’re doing. It is made to be extremely light and small for quick speeds and agile movements.
This is one of the less versatile boards we have seen but will cater to the right rider perfectly. This is one of our favorite boards and is a very cheap option if you are looking to get into the sport, but it isn’t for beginners.
Riding this board you will notice the lack of length and narrow build very quickly. It will feel much less stable than other paddle boards we have looked at but you will realize the benefits of this too.
The displacement hull cuts through the surf at a much quicker speed than the other wider boards. A lot less effort is needed to really get a lot of speed up in the water. The shape lends itself to racing and surfing waves. The shape is purposefully streamlined to get you to where you’re going in no time at all.
The slim shape of the deck does not leave a lot of space for extras such as luggage or other riders, but it does still feature webbing.
The lack of D rings running down the side becomes quite noticeable when you see that almost all the previous models in the review have numerous ones. This is clearly not the best inflatable paddle board you do your weekly shopping on.
You could give this a spin to see how you like the extra speed and maneuverability over the more sluggish and stable alternatives. You may find the nippier version the one for you. It may be worth just buying for the fun as it costs so little in comparison.
Features
- Length – 10’6″
- Width – 32.5″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – Cross thread drop-stitch & Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
- Max Weight – 320 lbs
Retrospec Weekender 10′
The price of “Retrospec Weekender 10’” varies, so check the latest price at
10. Red Paddle Co. MSL 10’6″ Ride SUP
Red Paddle Co has produced an inflatable paddle board that is at the top of the price scale and has all the bells and whistles to prove it. This is an all-around paddle board that is suited well to beginners and intermediates alike.
The deluxe construction promises a lightweight ride that will track with the best and keep you afloat for years.
The board is built with average dimensions in mind. It isn’t the longest or the widest and should cater to pretty much every rider. It does not specialize in any one area.
It is very thin, so will sit high on the water and have a lot less weight. This does cause a few issues for the heavier rider or anyone looking to take it out with the luggage.
If you want to take your stand-up paddle boards out with extra loads on board, such as camping gear or even a friend, you will want to look for something that can support all the extra weight.
Most of the models reviewed in this article are at least the industry standard of 6 inches thick. In most cases, this is enough to hold about 300 lbs. More than enough for a little extra!
At only 4.7″ thick, this is not able to carry much more than a rider and maybe a small pack. This is worth bearing in mind if you want to take it out on long excursions. Red Paddle has developed a board that weighs very little but will not hold all that much either.
The lightweight, varied, and innovative pack design make this a paddle board you can take on a hike to find the more remote rivers and lakes. It is very easy to throw on your back and take over mountain hikes and small trails.
Features
- Length – 10’6″
- Width – 32″
- Thickness – 4.7″
- Construction material – PVC
- Max Weight -220 lbs
Red Paddle Co. MSL 10’6″ Ride SUP
The price of “Red Paddle Co. MSL 10’6″ Ride SUP” varies, so check the latest price at
11. ISLE Switch Inflatable Hybrid Kayak
Isle Switch is your ticket to enjoy the best of both worlds! Offering a traditional kayak built with the same rock-solid stability, support attachment, and a bit wider layout, you’ll glide seamlessly through waves while relishing the beauty of mother nature.
It comes with a premium travel backpack, 2-way high capacity hand pump, adjustable 4-piece paddle, removable 9-inch fin, and an inflatable comfy seat cushion. No wonder, it’s a complete package with everything you need to get you rolling!
This best inflatable SUP is surprisingly 25% lighter than most inflatables which makes it easy to maneuver in the water. Plus, it’s a treat to move this thing around while transporting!
The potential customizable abilities of this hybrid watercraft make it the best SUP on the list.
It also shines in the comfort department as you can lounge for long hours, quietly meditate on a yoga mat under the sun, or simply take a quick nap to fight off lethargy on longer excursions. A nice broad footrest system is pretty adjustable for tall paddle boarders as well.
The only downside of this amazing inflatable SUP is the drying time which is a bit longer and might make the storage process bit of a drag.
Features
- Length – 11’6″
- Width – 35’5″
- Thickness – 6″
- Construction material – PVC
- Max Weight – 425 lbs
Types of Stand-up Paddle Boards
I’ve explained the different types of SUP boards below:
All-Around
These are the rounder and often wider style of paddle boards. They feature a rounded nose and a rocker-shaped tip. They frequently have squared-off tails and are built for stability and cruising.
The round planing hulls of the front of all-around boards do not suit speed, but it does give a lot of stability over wake, chop, and waves. All-around boards are great for beginners or people looking to do long distances.
Touring Boards
Longer and thinner in design makes these boards great for speed, agility, and effortless paddling. The pointed front and rear of a touring paddleboard help them cut through the water like a shark.
These boards are a little less stable than their counterparts but, for the intermediate rider and up, are great ways to get around. If you are planning to do a long trip you want to spend as little energy as possible. These are the ways to do it.
Whitewater
The whitewater boards are generally short as they need to be agile enough to deal with the constant flow of water. These boards have the right rocker to surf, carve, and turn in moving water without sacrificing traction and control.
These short boards are specially made to be rugged to deal with harsh currents. Maneuverable boards have The nose and tail rocker profile of these maneuverable paddleboards tend to give the responsiveness that is needed to paddle and surf.
If you’re planning to explore whitewater, don’t forget your PFD (like a life jacket) to ensure safety while paddling.
Fishing
The fishing boards offer plenty of storage options that are the biggest priority of all anglers. These boards are built with a 3-fin set design to provide stability on the ocean waves.
While fishing, paddlers prefer to stand and also lounge away on the inflatable SUP board while catching fish. These stable boards keep you upright, well-balanced, and dry on your fishing trips.
Race
Race paddle boards are inspired by the slick racing rowing boats. The lightweight, elongated structure and the underwater hulls guarantee minimal water resistance and better speeds.
Racing boards are a fantastic option for extended journeys because of their length, which can range from 15′ to more in some situations.
Previously, this board class only had hardboards, but many inflatable paddle boards are now found in this category due to improved production techniques.
Racing sups are built to maximize speed. Where touring boats sacrifice it to get some stability, race boards are designed to fulfill your need for speed.
Surf
It is a very commonly asked question whether inflatable sups can be used for surfing. The answer to that is yes! Almost all inflatable SUP models can be used for surfing, but some are better suited than others.
Boards that are suitable for surfing are typically 7 to 12″ long. Smaller boats are better for people with smaller frames or experienced riders that want increased maneuverability. A bigger rider or someone who wants more stability can opt for longer boards.
The shape of the surfboards is almost similar to paddle boards, with a little difference in the nose point shape and how curved the tip is. The nose, rails, tail, fins, and rocker of the surfboards all complement each other to provide great performance.
Learning how to stand up on a paddle board will greatly enhance your paddling experience and give you more options to enjoy your time in the water!
A Buying Guide for Stand-up Paddle Boards
Knowing what you’re looking for before you delve into the varied and often confusing world of paddle boarding is a good way to ensure you don’t buy the wrong thing. Take a look at this quick buyer’s guide that will help you choose the right product for you.
Solid vs. Inflatable Boards
In general, it isn’t really a choice between solid and inflatable. Inflatable boards are better in almost every way than their solid alternative. They are more durable, lighter, considerably more easily transported, and usually cheaper.
Solid paddleboards are only really used in racing and surfing competitions.
Functionality
Make sure you get a board that does all you need it for. If you want one that you can take on big trips, make sure it has all the webbing and D rings, you’ll need to strap everything down. If you want paddle board for yoga, take care to find one with a good soft top and wide build.
Length and Width
If you’re just starting out you should really try and get a long and wide board. It will help with balance and stability until you get your sea legs. Once you have got the hang of paddle boarding, you can move on to something narrower for extra speed.
The average length is between 10 and 11 inches, and they are usually between 32 and 34 inches wide.
Deck Pad
Keep your eye out for a deck that has a deck pad that holds its grip even when soaking wet. It needs to be soft and grippy, and offer your feet some stability.
You don’t want to be slipping all over your deck, the deck pad helps your feet stay in place when holding your paddle into the water.
Fins
Three fins offer a straighter and more stable track in the water but add a little weight and can cause some drag. A few models opt for two fins, this design offers less tracking but does cater to a smaller and easier pack down.
Pump Options
Most inflatable SUPs come with a hand pump. You should really look for one with at least a dual-action pump. This means that when you are pulling and pushing it is pumping air into the board making the inflation time half.
Models like the iRocker actually come with an electric pump which is fantastic if you’re by an outlet but useless if you’re in the wilderness.
A Number of Frequently Asked Questions
I’ll answer these now so you don’t have to search for them later. You’re welcome!
What Is the Best Paddle Board Brand?
There is no one brand that is the absolute best option, but there are a few that you should keep an eye out for and expect to pay a premium for. The first is iRocker, we have two of these on the list and they do stand out as durable, lightweight, and packed with features.
For another high-end and widely trusted brand, look out for Blackfin boards. Their name is synonymous with dependable and well-built SUPs.
Which Paddle Boards Are the Most Stable
As a rule, the wider the board the better the stability. If you are just learning or think you may be out on choppier waters then opt for something closer to the 34-inch side of the scale. The extra surface area will keep you steady even when things get rocky.
As a side note, the construction of an all-around board is specifically designed to be stable in most water.
Some Final Thoughts from Me
Hopefully, this article helped you understand what is a SUP. Stand-up paddle boards are used for a wide range of activities on the water. They can be used for yoga and stretching, as a dedicated touring board, as fishing paddle boards, and the more advanced paddlers can even use them for racing and surfing. The board’s stability allows for a lot of water-bound activities.
The board’s stability allows for a lot of water-bound activities. Also, choosing the best stand-up paddle along with your paddle board can make your adventures much more fun. You may want to learn how to store your paddle board properly to increase its life.
If you don’t like the idea of standing for long, you may opt for a kayak or one of the best-floating mats for a calm, serene experience.
Whatever you choose to do on the water, it is important to make sure you stay safe. It’s a big and dangerous place out there and it is easy to become lost or stranded. Apart from the options mentioned in the given list, another good SUP is the Body Glove Performer 11, which you might want o have a look into.
I have lost concentration a number of times, becoming lost in the tranquility of the ocean or lake, and found myself miles out, thirsty, hungry, and tired.
Make sure you go out with adequate provisions, only as far as you know you’re capable of, and preferably with friends.
It is a wild and wonderful world out there and should be explored at every opportunity, just make sure you are able to come back and share your adventures at the end.
Happy paddling all!
English (UK) 
Français 
Deutsch 
Nederlands
0 Comments