BEST INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARDS
BEST INFLATABLE
PADDLE BOARDS
WHY TRUST OUR REVIEWS?
Looking to get yourself one of those inflatable paddle boards? You’re in luck! We’ve rounded up the best of the best iSUPs for you. Now, don’t get it twisted, these are not your regular, rigid boards. These inflatables are right up there, nailing down that fine blend of portability and performance. Not just that, they’ve got plenty of storage space for your stuff, so you can paddle out without a care! They’re a smash when it comes to flat-water and small-wave surfing. Why should you trust us? Well, we’re not ones to toot our own trumpet, so we’ll let our comprehensive rundown do the talking.
BEST OF
THE BEST 🔥
DURABLE
LIGHTWEIGHT
CUSTOM
CRAFTED
SPEED
FREAK
AMAZONS
CHOICE
ISLE
Pioneer Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
iROCKER
All Around 11’
Ultra 2
GILI Adventure
Inflatable Stand Up
Paddle Board
BLACKFIN
iROCKER Model
CX Ultra
MYBOAT
Inflatable
Paddle Board
VERSATILE FOR ALL AROUND FUN 🔥
This beauty is all about providing a top-notch paddle-boarding experience. Sleek design, with a spacious 21-square-foot deck that offers plenty of room for you to move around or stash your gear. Now, some might argue that inflatable paddle boards can be a bit of a chore to get ready, but not with the ISLE Pioneer. This one sets up quickly, getting you out on the water in no time.
- Dimensions: 10’6″x 34″x6″
- Weight: 24 lbs
- Material: Nylon, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
- Special features: 6-point front bungee, 4-point rear bungee, ample storage space, high-pressure valve, paddle holder, tail, nose, and grab handles,
- Accessories: Adjustable carbon shaft/nylon blade paddle, coil leash, high-pressure pump, ISLE sticker pack & manual, Paddle Board backpack, snap-in travel fin.
- Best Use: Fishing, surfing, yoga, etc.
- User experience level: Beginner to advanced
QUITE THE LOOKER
Now, this is what you call an iSUP that packs a punch. Made with durable, yet lightweight materials, it’s designed for performance without compromising your comfort. It features a split deck pad and off-set features that allow the board to fold in half lengthwise before rolling, making it easy as pie to store and carry. With its adjustable paddle and electric pump in tow, you have everything you need.
- Dimensions: 11″x32″x6″
- Weight: 24 lbs
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Special features: 3 flip lock removable fins, 4 action mounts, 10″ coil ankle leash with pocket, 18 D-rings for tying down gear, grab handles in front and back, dual Scotty mounts for rod holders or rack systems, and a rear cargo area.
- Accessories: 9″ touring fin, Carbon Paddle, Fins, iRocker paddle, Leash, Pump, Roller Bag, Repair Kit
- Best Use: Fishing, SUP yoga, and everyday cruising.
- User experience level: Beginner to advanced
FUSION DOUBLE-LAYER CONSTRUCTION
An Adventure SUP that’s custom-crafted for versatility, it’s as sturdy as they come. 18 D-rings to tie down your gear, grab handles at both ends, action mounts for your GoPro, and dual Scotty mounts for rod holders or rack systems. Large rear cargo area. Three snap-in fins, including a 9” touring fin. It’s pretty impressive how much attention to detail Gili has put into this one.
- Dimensions: 11″/12″x32″x6″
- Weight: 22/23 lbs
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Special features: 3 action mounts, 4 removable side handles, 6-Point Bungee, 18 D-rings for tying down gear, grab handles in front and back for easy transporting, paddle holder, Scotty Mounts rod holders or rack systems, and a rear cargo area.
- Accessories: 3 snap-in fins, 9″ touring fin, high-pressure Pump, front & removable rear bungees, etc
- Best Use: Touring, fishing, SUP yoga, and everyday cruising.
- User experience level: Intermediate to advanced
CARBON RAIL INLAYS
Hold on to your paddle folks, this board’s carbon rail inlays give it quickness, making it one of the speedier boards of its size.
Speaking of unique features, the dual removable fins are pure magic. This neat functionality allows you to alter the board’s performance. Deck pads come in a pair and split down the middle, meaning you can fold it in half lengthwise before rolling it up.
- Dimensions: 10′ 6″x32″x6″
- Weight: 19.8 lbs
- Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) (Woven drop-stitch construction and a built-in carbon rail)
- Special features: Dual removable fins and split deck pads
- Accessories: 12V electric pump, carbon fiber paddle, carry bag, coil leash with key stash spot, etc.
- Best Use: All-around water activities
- User experience level: Beginner to advanced
QUALITY CONSTRUCTION
All about getting you out on the water and having a good time. It’s not about fancy gimmicks or unnecessary extras, just quality construction and top-notch performance. This board gives you the stability you need to cruise the calmest waters or tackle some waves. Whether you’re doing some yoga on a mirror-like lake or racing your buddies to the buoy, you can count on your MYBOAT.
- Dimensions: 10’6″x32″x6″
- Weight: 19 lbs
- Material: Durable PVC and drop-stitch material
- Special features: Anti-slip deck pad, camera mount, carry handle, detachable central fin, etc.
- Accessories: 3 removable fins, length-adjustable paddle, mobile phone waterproof bag, pump, repair kit, safety leash, shoulder strap, waterproof backpack.
- Best Use: Ideal for all-round paddling
- User experience level: Beginner to advanced
- Tracks your surf to help log data about your sessions
- Generates graphic charts for easy data visualization
- Moon phase tracking for predicting optimal surfing times
- Recognized as one of the best watches for professional surfing
- This board has grab handles on both ends, making it easy to carry around.
- Its dual-layer construction ensures a stable board, ideal for various water activities.
- Generous rear cargo area for storing gear or catches if you’re out fishing.
- Its accompanying three snap-in fins help enhance tracking and speed.
- Offers solid all-around performance, making it a reliable choice for numerous water activities.
- Sleek design, with its pointed nose offering impressive speed.
- It comes with removable fins, enabling you to tailor the board’s performance to suit your specific needs.
- Comes with a carbon fiber paddle
- Carbon fiber paddle.
- The sleek design with tapered nose.
- All-around capabilities make it ideal for a wide range of activities.
- Dual removable fins offer customized performance to suit individual user needs.
- As the board is targeted at newer paddlers, it provides stability and ease of maneuverability.
- Offers excellent stability
- The drop-stitch construction ensures durability and longevity, so it can withstand some good old wear and tear.
- Comes as a complete set-up, no need to worry about buying additional accessories.
- May be a bit complicated for beginners to use
- Pricey for those on a tight budget
- Not quite versatile. Users may experience performance issues in certain conditions.
- The included carbon fiber paddle might not provide the same stiffness that other paddles offer.
- Not ideal for beginners
- Getting the inflation just right can be a bit tricky and takes a bit of finesse.
- The included pump could do with a bit of improvement. But it gets the job done.
- It’s stable, sure, but it’s not built for speed demons.
ISLE
Pioneer Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
BEST OF THE BEST 🔥
This beauty is all about providing a top-notch paddle-boarding experience. Sleek design, with a spacious 21-square-foot deck that offers plenty of room for you to move around or stash your gear. Now, some might argue that inflatable paddle boards can be a bit of a chore to get ready, but not with the ISLE Pioneer. This one sets up quickly, getting you out on the water in no time.
- Dimensions: 10’6″x 34″x6″
- Weight: 24 lbs
- Material: Nylon, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
- Special features: 6-point front bungee, 4-point rear bungee, ample storage space, high-pressure valve, paddle holder, tail, nose, and grab handles,
- Accessories: Adjustable carbon shaft/nylon blade paddle, coil leash, high-pressure pump, ISLE sticker pack & manual, Paddle Board backpack, snap-in travel fin.
- Best Use: Fishing, surfing, yoga, etc.
- User experience level: Beginner to advanced
- Tracks your surf to help log data about your sessions
- Generates graphic charts for easy data visualization
- Moon phase tracking for predicting optimal surfing times
- Recognized as one of the best watches for professional surfing
- May be a bit complicated for beginners to use
- Pricey for those on a tight budget
iROCKER
All Around 11’ Ultra 2
DURABLE LIGHTWEIGHT
Now, this is what you call an iSUP that packs a punch. Made with durable, yet lightweight materials, it’s designed for performance without compromising your comfort. It features a split deck pad and off-set features that allow the board to fold in half lengthwise before rolling, making it easy as pie to store and carry. With its adjustable paddle and electric pump in tow, you have everything you need.
- Dimensions: 11″x32″x6″
- Weight: 24 lbs
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Special features: 3 flip lock removable fins, 4 action mounts, 10″ coil ankle leash with pocket, 18 D-rings for tying down gear, grab handles in front and back, dual Scotty mounts for rod holders or rack systems, and a rear cargo area.
- Accessories: 9″ touring fin, Carbon Paddle, Fins, iRocker paddle, Leash, Pump, Roller Bag, Repair Kit
- Best Use: Fishing, SUP yoga, and everyday cruising.
- User experience level: Beginner to advanced
- This board has grab handles on both ends, making it easy to carry around.
- Its dual-layer construction ensures a stable board, ideal for various water activities.
- Generous rear cargo area for storing gear or catches if you’re out fishing.
- Its accompanying three snap-in fins help enhance tracking and speed.
- Not quite versatile. Users may experience performance issues in certain conditions.
GILI Adventure
Inflatable Stand Up
Paddle Board Package
CUSTOM CRAFTED
An Adventure SUP that’s custom-crafted for versatility, it’s as sturdy as they come. 18 D-rings to tie down your gear, grab handles at both ends, action mounts for your GoPro, and dual Scotty mounts for rod holders or rack systems. Large rear cargo area. Three snap-in fins, including a 9” touring fin. It’s pretty impressive how much attention to detail Gili has put into this one.
- Dimensions: 11″/12″x32″x6″
- Weight: 22/23 lbs
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Special features: 3 action mounts, 4 removable side handles, 6-Point Bungee, 18 D-rings for tying down gear, grab handles in front and back for easy transporting, paddle holder, Scotty Mounts rod holders or rack systems, and a rear cargo area.
- Accessories: 3 snap-in fins, 9″ touring fin, high-pressure Pump, front & removable rear bungees, etc
- Best Use: Touring, fishing, SUP yoga, and everyday cruising.
- User experience level: Intermediate to advanced
- Offers solid all-around performance, making it a reliable choice for numerous water activities.
- Sleek design, with its pointed nose offering impressive speed.
- It comes with removable fins, enabling you to tailor the board’s performance to suit your specific needs.
- Comes with a carbon fiber paddle
- The included carbon fiber paddle might not provide the same stiffness that other paddles offer.
- Not ideal for beginners
BLACKFIN
iROCKER Model
CX Ultra
CARBON RAIL INLAYS
Hold on to your paddle folks, this board’s carbon rail inlays give it quickness, making it one of the speedier boards of its size.
Speaking of unique features, the dual removable fins are pure magic. This neat functionality allows you to alter the board’s performance. Deck pads come in a pair and split down the middle, meaning you can fold it in half lengthwise before rolling it up.
- Dimensions: 10′ 6″x32″x6″
- Weight: 19.8 lbs
- Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) (Woven drop-stitch construction and a built-in carbon rail)
- Special features: Dual removable fins and split deck pads
- Accessories: 12V electric pump, carbon fiber paddle, carry bag, coil leash with key stash spot, etc.
- Best Use: All-around water activities
- User experience level: Beginner to advanced
- Carbon fiber paddle.
- The sleek design with tapered nose.
- All-around capabilities make it ideal for a wide range of activities.
- Dual removable fins offer customized performance to suit individual user needs.
- As the board is targeted at newer paddlers, it provides stability and ease of maneuverability.
- Getting the inflation just right can be a bit tricky and takes a bit of finesse.
MYBOAT
Inflatable
Paddle Board
QUALITY CONSTRUCTION
All about getting you out on the water and having a good time. It’s not about fancy gimmicks or unnecessary extras, just quality construction and top-notch performance. This board gives you the stability you need to cruise the calmest waters or tackle some waves. Whether you’re doing some yoga on a mirror-like lake or racing your buddies to the buoy, you can count on your MYBOAT.
- Dimensions: 10’6″x32″x6″
- Weight: 19 lbs
- Material: Durable PVC and drop-stitch material
- Special features: Anti-slip deck pad, camera mount, carry handle, detachable central fin, etc.
- Accessories: 3 removable fins, length-adjustable paddle, mobile phone waterproof bag, pump, repair kit, safety leash, shoulder strap, waterproof backpack.
- Best Use: Ideal for all-round paddling
- User experience level: Beginner to advanced
- Offers excellent stability
- The drop-stitch construction ensures durability and longevity, so it can withstand some good old wear and tear.
- Comes as a complete set-up, no need to worry about buying additional accessories.
- The included pump could do with a bit of improvement. But it gets the job done.
- It’s stable, sure, but it’s not built for speed demons.
HOW WE TEST PRODUCTS
We recommend these products based on many different surfers’ perspectives and real experiences using the products. Those expert perspectives are discussed and evaluated in depth to cut through the many products available online. Based on hours of intensive research and the consideration of many factors, we bring you only the best-of-the-best for consideration.
12
Surfers consulted
20
Factors considered
40
Hours evaluation
OUR GO-TO’S
BEST OF THE BEST 🔥
ISLE
Pioneer Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
THE GUTS OF IT…
This beauty is all about providing a top-notch paddle-boarding experience. Sleek design, with a spacious 21-square-foot deck that offers plenty of room for you to move around or stash your gear. Now, some might argue that inflatable paddle boards can be a bit of a chore to get ready, but not with the ISLE Pioneer. This one sets up quickly, getting you out on the water in no time.
RETOR DESIGN
iROCKER
All Around 11’ Ultra 2
THE GUTS OF IT…
Now, this is what you call an iSUP that packs a punch. Made with durable, yet lightweight materials, it’s designed for performance without compromising your comfort. It features a split deck pad and off-set features that allow the board to fold in half lengthwise before rolling, making it easy as pie to store and carry. With its adjustable paddle and electric pump, you have everything you need.
CUSTOM CRAFTED
GILI Adventure
Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
THE GUTS OF IT…
An Adventure SUP that’s custom-crafted for versatility, it’s as sturdy as they come. 18 D-rings to tie down your gear, grab handles at both ends, action mounts for your GoPro, and dual Scotty mounts for rod holders or rack systems. Large rear cargo area. Three snap-in fins, including a 9” touring fin. It’s pretty impressive how much attention to detail Gili has put into this one.
BUYING GUIDE: How to Choose the Ideal Inflatable Paddle Board
-
Your Budget and Requirements
First things first, get your finances straight. If you’re looking to save a pretty penny, budget boards might do the trick. They usually come with a carry bag, fins, a leash, a paddle, a pump, and the board itself. However, keep in mind that they may not be decked out with all the bells and whistles of some other boards. See, pricier boards might be a bit cushier, offering better quality and some extra goodies. But if you’re a first-timer, on calm water, or looking for something the kids can use too, a budget board might be darn perfect.
-
Board Construction and Features
We reckon you need to pay mind to the board’s construction and features. Take fins, for example. They make a world of difference in your paddling experience. Then there’s the deck pad. Like a nice pair of cowboy boots, a comfortable deck pad can mean the difference between a day on the range and a day in the saddle. Some boards even have cargo rigging, which is a bit like having saddle bags to store your gear.
-
Performance, Shape, Size, and Versatility
Now, let’s chew the fat about board performance, shape, size, and versatility. Paddle boards come in all different shapes and sizes, and these can impact the paddling performance and the convenience of storing and transporting the board. Longer and narrower boards are slick, perfect for experienced paddlers seeking speed. Yet, those looking for stability might opt for shorter and wider boards. They’re like trusty old mules: not as quick, but surefooted and dependable. Remember, the board’s volume (length, width, and thickness) affects its stability and weight capacity, so don’t overlook that either.
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Stability and Maneuverability
Picture it like training a horse. You want a ride that’s steady but also slick on the turns. Boards with a length of 10 feet or shorter are nimbler, while those that are longer are built for speed. For a good balance, aim for a 10 to 12-foot board. This length suits all types of paddlers and offers decent stability, especially if the board has a 32-inch width. Remember, paddle boarding is like learning to ride a bike: once you get the hang of it, you’ll be good to go.
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Durability
This is the heartbeat of any good inflatable paddle board. We’ve gone through the materials and technologies that each manufacturer uses with a fine-tooth comb. Our top picks are those that use the highest quality materials out there. Many brands, like iRocker and Thurso Surf, deploy multiple layers—sometimes 3 or more—of top-notch PVC. That’s the kind of stuff that gives the paddle board an added layer of toughness and strength. With these boards, you can dance up to a limit of 20 psi, and the board will still hold its structure.
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Pricing and Quality
Now when you’re out shopping for an inflatable paddle board, your wallet might feel a bit light. And for a good reason too. They say quality comes at a price, and it’s no different with paddle boards. You’ve got to shell out a few extra bucks to get the best experience. No one wants to be stuck in the water with a second-rate board. The cost depends on a few things. Your own experience wielding a paddle for one. Then there are factors like the conditions you’ll be paddling in and how often you’ll find yourself on the water. So, before you whip out that credit card, you better have these things figured out.
-
Convenience
No one wants to wrestle with a hard board that’s as stiff as a boardroom meeting. An inflatable paddle board has that going for it. Convenience. They are lightweight and compact, saving you from juggling it around like a circus act. Top that with less setup time and takedown time, inflatables offer breezy handling for those of us who love a quick paddle now and then. Plus, you won’t need a truck or a huge storage room to stash it away. Ain’t that a sweet deal?
DERIVING VALUE FROM MID-TIER BOARDS
Now, not all of us are rolling in dough. Some of us might find premium boards a bit too pricey. That’s where mid-tier boards come into play. They are the middle ground, providing plenty of stability and decent performance without leaving our pockets empty. Sure, they might not offer the same speed as the pricier hardboards, but they do come with a boatload of benefits.
These mid-tier boards are great for casual paddlers and novices. They offer satisfactory performance and can handle a variety of conditions. Plus, they don’t need huge storage space or a special transport vehicle. All in all, they pack a good bang for your buck.
How Do Budget Boards Stack Up in Quality and Performance?
Budget boards, the underdogs of paddle boards, are they any good? You ask. Well, they might not match up to the speed and momentum offered by the rigid solid boards, but they sure have some aces up their sleeves. For starters, they are designed for specific shapes and dimensions, optimizing paddling performance. Plus, they still manage to provide a smooth ride, making the most out of their designs.
Now when it comes to setup and takedown, these boards keep it as simple as the Sunday crossword. Unlike solid boards, there’s little to no prep needed before you hit the water. So, while these budget boards might not beat high-end models in performance, they do give us a run for our money with their convenience and affordability.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is a premium paddle board worth the investment?
It’s not all buttons and bows when it comes to iSUPs. Boards are not created equal, so going for a premium model might save you a headache down the road. Sure, you may shell out a few more bucks up front, but the performance and durability can make it a smart investment. Premium paddle boards often kick regular ones to the curb with superior construction, optimized design, and increased water-cutting efficiency. With a little TLC, they can serve you well for years, delivering a bang for your buck.
Why choose an inflatable paddle board over a hard board?
Now, here’s a million-dollar question. You may think, “Why should I spring for an inflatable board when there are rigid options?” Well, let me tell you, inflatable boards aren’t the runt of the litter. They’re space-saving marvels that can be boxed up and toted around effortlessly. Unlike hardboards, which need a truck or a roof rack, an inflatable board fits snuggly in your car trunk or backpack. Plus, these boards often give you a wider surface, reducing your chances of winding up in the drink. So, lightweight, compact, and user-friendly – sounds like a trifecta!
What are the key features to consider when buying an inflatable paddle board?
When hunting for a quality iSUP, there’s more to consider than just the price tag. Safety should be top of mind. First off, check out the rear of the board. Some models will have a D-ring to attach a safety cord or leash. Then consider the fin box; a removable fin can improve maneuverability on water. Make sure to also consider how much the board weighs; a lighter board can make transport a breeze. Oh, and definitely don’t forget the coiled leash; it’s the buddy system of the SUP world, keeping you connected to your board in case you take a tumble. Finally, consider the width and length; wider boards are best for beginners since they offer more stability. So, remember, safety first!
Do iSUPs come with accessories like paddles, pumps, and backpacks?
In the iSUP game, it pays to check what’s in the box. Some manufacturers offer a generous suite of accessories, from paddles and pumps to backpacks and even a repair kit. These extras can sweeten the deal, maximizing the value of your investment. A useful accessory to look for is a high-pressure hand pump, perfect for inflating your board on the go. Another staple is the coiled leash, keeping your iSUP in check while you’re having fun. Also, a sturdy backpack is worth its weight in gold for easier transport. The air valve is crucial too, as it helps maintain the right pressure level. So, look out for these add-ons to get the most bang for your buck!
Are there weight limits for inflatable paddle boards?
Now, imagine you’ve got yourself a brand new inflatable SUP, you’re all excited, and ready to hit the water. Hold up, mate! Did you check the weight limit? This is not some boring technical spec to ignore. It’s key to ensure you have the ride of your life on those waves, trust us on this.
So, in plain language, yes, these inflatable champs do have a weight limit. It’s a kind of bouncing rule that every SUP has – a maximum weight it can hold without losing its balance or sinking. It’s science stuff, buoyancy or something like that, expert talks. But for us, it’s about staying afloat and not taking an impromptu swim.
Now, the magic number can vary greatly, depending on the size and design of the board. Small boards might only handle around 200 pounds, while the big guys can go up to 450 pounds or more. So, the trick, folks, is to pick the right board for your weight. The paddle board makers bless their souls, generally listing these weight limits in the product specs.
The takeaway here is simple. Before buying, take a gander at the weight limit of the board. Don’t be the bloke who ignores it and finds himself sopping wet with a deflated ego and board. Better safe than soggy, right?
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