So you’ve decided to take a look at inflatable stand up paddleboards (SUP) but you don’t know what kind to get or how big or even what they might cost.
In this post, I’ll discuss what to look for in inflatable paddle boards as well as provide a few recommendations so that you can choose the best inflatable paddle board for the money if you’re a beginner.
Paddleboarding has been around for a few years now, and it’s sticking around because it’s a great way to get a full-body workout (Turbulence Training Review) in, and it’s fun.
If you’ve never tried to stand up paddleboard I would highly recommend either trying a friend’s paddleboard or at least renting one for a day. While I’m on board with paddleboarding, the last thing I would want to do is persuade someone to buy a paddleboard only to learn they don’t’ really like it and would prefer to get their exercise in other ways.
For those that want a quick list of the best inflatable paddle boards, here you go:
- Aqua Plus Inflatable SUP – Best Choice
- Wavey Board Inflatable SUP – Budget Friendly
- SereneLife Inflatable Board – Runner up
Table of Contents
What to Look For in Paddleboards
Stability
Unless you have an uncanny ability to get and maintain your balance on a thin board, a paddleboard designed for stability will be the biggest feature of a paddleboard. Beginners would be advised to get a paddleboard that is at least 10′ in length and about 30″ in width. The wider the board, the more stable it will be. And on the flip side the narrower the board, the faster it will be, but less stable.
Durability
Like a lot of things, there will be varying levels of durability and integrity with stand up paddleboards. Additionally, any product that is higher quality or higher grade will be priced accordingly. You want to get a paddleboard that will take a few bumps and bruises, and you want it to last for years. The thickness of a durable board will be 6 inches. Paddleboards do come in 4-inch thickness, but the weight of the rider becomes critical.
Affordability
If you’re anything like me, the price associated with the board will have an impact. You don’t want to get the cheapest board available, as the durability and integrity become questionable. Simultaneously, you might not need the most expensive board with all the bells and whistles, especially if you’re just a beginner.
Transport
The ease of transport and compactness of an inflatable SUP is what makes them so appealing. Without a roof-rack or a truck to place the boards in, carrying them around can be kind of awkward. Short of living on the water or a way to carry them around while fully inflated deflating and storing them is what makes them so great.
So now that you have an idea of what kinds of features to look for in an inflatable stand up paddleboard, take a look at the top recommendations.
Best Inflatable Paddleboard for the Money
Aqua Plus (Editor’s Choice)
1) Aqua Plus Inflatable SUP – at 10’6″ long, 33 inches wide, and 6″ thick this beginner SUP checks all the boxes for a newbie. Only weighs 20 lbs so it’s easy to carry around, can hold a rider weighing as much as 330 lbs. This paddleboard is great for touring around, fishing, and fitness. It comes with everything you need to get started including the paddle, leash, pump, and comfortable carrying case.
Wavey Board (Budget-Friendly)
2) WAVEY BOARD Inflatable SUP – the surface of the deck is made of EVA material, the double-layered PVE in the middle, and the tough military-grade aluminum wings at the bottom allow you to be more comfortable and convenient during the use. No need to worry about banging debris and the shore with this durable board. At 10′ and 30″ wide and 6″ thick, it can hold a rider weighing 250 lbs. The wide strap backpack on this makes it easy to carry and transport.
SereneLife (Runner up)
3) SereneLife Inflatable SUP – SereneLife makes a premier board, and the amenities that come with it, are top-shelf too. The board is 10′ long, 30 inches wide, and 6 inches thick. It has a weight capacity of 275 pounds, while only weighing under 20 pounds. The premium backpack and pump are where it really shines. The stability of this board makes it great for beginners looking to do some touring, fishing, exercise, or even yoga.
Muscles Worked While Paddleboarding
Stand up paddleboarding is a great full-body workout and can help you maintain your weight (Most Common Mistakes that Stop Weight Loss). It’s great for burning calories, toning your abs (Quickest Way to Get a Flat Stomach), and providing a cardio workout. If you want to get an undeniable core, this might be the sport for you. Your abs and core muscles are constantly working when you paddleboarding. Your legs are tense and you’re using your upper body for getting you across the water. If getting into the gym isn’t meant for you, but paddleboarding appeals to you, prepare for a workout.
Paddleboarding is low impact, so it’s great for those with achy joints, or for those looking to rehabilitate injuries. As you get used to the feel of the paddleboard, you can pick up the pace and try out less stable water, vs slack water which is great for beginners. Increasing your speed and boarding on rockier water will amp up the intensity.
Conclusion of Inflatable SUP
Being on your paddleboard is great for exercise, and the benefits are numerous, but it’s also great to be out in nature. There’s something serene about being on the water. You get to immerse yourself in nature while having fun and getting fit. Nature has a way of providing some tranquility and hearing the water rush by as your cruise along is calming. If hitting the gym or running isn’t your thing, but you’re looking for something unique to do, venture out on a paddleboard.
FAQ on SUP
How much does an inflatable paddleboard cost?
The price range of inflatable paddle boards can vary greatly. A beginner level SUP will start around $350 and go up from there.
Are inflatable paddleboards any good?
Yes, particularly for beginners. Inflatable boards are easy to transport, great to learn on, and are usually less expensive than others.
How long do inflatable paddleboards last?
If you take care of it, it should last from 5-10 years depending on storage and care.
Can I leave my inflatable SUP inflated?
If you have room to store your board out of direct sunlight, you can leave it inflated. It’s recommended to allow some air out, just in case of expansion. For longer life, it’s best to deflate periodically.
Can two people be on an inflatable SUP?
This will depend on the weight of the users. Check the max weight limit of each paddleboard before loading additional people.