I recently bought my first inflatable stand up paddle board. I’d had a hard, plastic board for years and was reluctant to let it go because I loved it so much. But let me tell you what: there are some serious advantages to inflatable boards. My husband is actually the one who talked me into it because of how much space my old one took up in the garage.
My new inflatable paddle board literally fits into a backpack which I carried on my back so I could paddle around a mountain lake last summer. It is so much easier to carry around, even when inflated, because of how lightweight it is. And thanks to its slim size, it glides through the water much faster. Best of all, I can load it into the car by myself! Sure it takes a few minutes to inflate but I love how easy it is to transport it. All in all, I’m glad I made the switch to an inflatable paddle board.
Whether you want an inflatable paddle board to fish, surf, do yoga, play in the water, or explore, a paddle board is a super fun way to spend time outdoors. If you’re in the market for an inflatable stand up paddle board, you’re in the right place.
Keep reading for suggestions on what to look for as well as reviews of the best options out there. I’ve included insights and specifications about each board, including their dimensions when inflated, maximum weight capacity, thickness of the inflated board, and weight (which is generally the same inflated as deflated).
Most of these products come as kits complete with a carrying bag, pump, and paddle. I hope this article helps you find a paddle board you enjoy! Be sure to wear a life jacket while participating in any water sport. You’ll enjoy learning how to paddle board with any of the boards below.
What To Look For
Each of the paddle boards below are fantastic choices and I made sure they have all the features you need in an inflatable paddle board. You should be able to find one that meets your needs from this list. Before you decide on a paddle board, make sure it meets the following criteria.
- An easy to grip handle in the middle of the paddle board is essential. It makes it so much more convenient to carry the board around when it’s fully inflated, especially for small statured people.
- I recommend getting a paddle board kit. The best options come with a patch kit, adjustable paddle, pump, and safety leash. Some even come with water proof cases for your gear. Trust me, these types of accessories come in handy!
- Get something that is easy to transport. Paddle boards that come with a carrying case with shoulder straps are ideal. Personally, I like the lighter weight boards because I can haul them around effortlessly.
- The most stable paddle boards are 5-6″ thick. When they are thinner than that, they risk tipping over or dipping beneath the surface of the water. So make sure you get one that is thick and sturdy for your peace of mind.
- Finally, make sure the surface is anti-slip. You’ll want plenty of friction to decrease the chance of falling off the board, especially if you’re new to the sport.
Top Blow Up Stand Up Paddle Boards
| Product | Features |
|---|---|
SereneLife | |
Roc | |
Body Glove Cruiser  | |
Bluefin Cruise  | |
Connelly Dakota | |
FunWater  | |
Aqua Plus | |
FEATH-R-LITE  | |
iROCKER Nautical | |
DAMA | |
Freein SUP |
SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
One of the best features of the SereneLife paddle board is its steadiness. Since it is six inches thick and has three bottom fins, it is stable enough to hold two people or even support you as you do yoga. For this reason, it is an excellent choice for beginners who are developing their confidence standing on a board. The non-slip surface helps prevent falls as well. I highly recommend this affordable inflatable paddle board!
Inflated Dimensions: 10′ long x 30″wide
Thickness: 6″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 275 lbs
Weight: 19.6 lbs
Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
This paddle board from Roc is a bestseller for a good reason: although it is under $400, it is lighter, stronger, and wider than other options. These features make it comparable to higher end boards for a much smaller price tag. You’ll appreciate how quickly it inflates and deflates and how easy it is to navigate in the water. You can’t go wrong with this one!
Inflated Dimensions: 10′ long x 32″wide
Thickness: 6″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
Weight: 17.5 lbs
Body Glove Cruiser
Even though it’s inflatable, this paddle board is anything but flimsy. Made from durable PVC, it also boasts a three-layer stringer down the middle of the board and side rails, both of which provide greater stability and make it feel more like a traditional board. This construction, together with its wide center, makes it an ideal board for beginning paddlers who are still learning to balance. An added stability harness provides extra confidence as well.
Some fun features of this board include attached bungee cords to hold any cargo in place, a water bottle holder that can double as a carrying handle, an action camera attachment, and D-rings for attaching a cooler. In addition to the board and ergonomic oval paddle, the package includes a dual-action hand pump, a repair kit, an 11′ ankle leash, a dry bag to hold your phone and other important items, and a backpack to store everything—including the paddle and deflated board—in.
Inflated Dimensions: 10’6″ long x 33″ wide
Thickness: 5.4”
Maximum Weight Capacity: 280 lbs
Weight: 32 lbs
Bluefin Cruise
The Bluefin Cruise paddle board will meet all of your paddle boarding needs. Four different sizes are available: kids, 10’8, 12′, and 15′. This paddle board is made out of extremely durable material and has Exo Surface Laminate technology. Contributing to the stability of the paddle board is Pro Weave Drop Stitch in the material.
If you would rather kayak, this paddle board can easily be changed into a kayak by clipping the kayak seat to the paddle board. The seat is very comfortable to sit in. Also, switch the SUP handle for the unique kayak paddle blade which will have you kayaking in no time.
A unique feature of buying a Bluefin Cruise paddle board is that the company plants a tree every time a paddle board is sold. You will help revitalize the earth by buying this paddle board. It comes with a comfortable backpack that has extra wide straps.
The 2 piece paddle is extremely lightweight. Because of its fiberglass shaft, it weighs less than other SUP paddles. The paddle can adjust between 175 cm – 225 cm. This allows for more efficient gliding and steering.
The double action pump will inflate the top and bottom parts of you paddle board at the same time, helping your paddle board inflate quickly. Three fins come with the paddle board and they each have a smart lock feature. Overall, this is a great option for a paddle board because it offers versatility and you get so much with what you buy.
Inflated Dimensions: 10’8″ x 32″
Thickness: 6″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 330.7 lbs
Weight: 38.9 lbs
Connelly Dakota
Measuring 33.5″ wide and constructed from fusion-wrapped rails for extra rigidity, this paddle board offers a stable ride suitable for beginners. It also features a drop stitch construction, which makes it even more firm and sturdy. It is also comfortable, as the EVA pad has been soft sanded for greater comfort. In addition to bungee cords at the front for storage, the board also includes deck cleats to enable you to use a line or rope to anchor the board to a deck, boat, or other flat surface.
The aluminum paddle that accompanies the board comes in three pieces and can be easily adjusted to the size you need. Other accessories, which can all fit in the carrying bag, include a repair kit, a high-pressure pump with a gauge, a removable 9″ center fin, and an ankle leash.
Inflated Dimensions: 10′ 6″ x 33.5″
Thickness: 5″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 260 lbs
Weight: 18 lbs
Fun Water Inflatable Paddle Board
The FunWater inflatable paddle board has everything you would expect, from a bungee tie downs to an easy grip handle. It even comes with a waterproof bag for your accessories. With an exceptionally high maximum weight capacity, you can rest assured that it will support large framed individuals or lightweight passengers. But the best part is that it’s a low risk purchase since it comes with a sixty day guarantee and a one-year warranty.
Inflated Dimensions: 10’6″ long x 33″ wide
Thickness: 6″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 330 lbs
Weight: 17.6 lbs
Aqua Plus Inflatable Paddle Board
Suitable for all skill levels, the Aqua Plus will take you on all sorts of exciting adventures. One thing that sets it apart from others is that it comes with two pumps: use the double action pump for the first phase of inflating and the single action pump to finish it off. Although it is one extra thing to pack up, it will save you time inflating the board. This paddle board also comes with a one-year warranty on materials, which is a big deal if you ask me.
Inflated Dimensions: 11′ long x 33″wide
Thickness: 6″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 330 lbs
Weight: 20 lbs
FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable SUP
You can’t beat the price of the FEATH-R-LITE board! And I appreciate the tough material on this paddle board; it’s strong enough that dog’s nails won’t puncture it. You’ll want that feature if you plan to use the board in rivers where it is likely to go over rocks and branches. Note that while it doesn’t weigh as much as other paddle boards, it has a lower maximum weight capacity. But if you aren’t worried about exceeding 220 lbs, this is the paddle board for you!
Inflated Dimensions: 10′ long x 30″wide
Thickness: 6″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
Weight: 16.7 lbs
iROCKER Nautical Inflatable Paddle Board
The iROCKER inflatable paddle board is so sturdy that it will feel just like a hard board when inflated! It is easy to keep your balance thanks to plenty of traction on top of the board. While it does come at a higher price point, you can choose between a few color themes and lengths. iROCKER even sells various accessories such as kayak seats which are worth looking into. The company stands behind this board so you can be confident it will stand up to all sorts of conditions!
Inflated Dimensions: 10’6 long x 32″wide or 11’6″ long x 32″ wide
Thickness: 6″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 240 lbs
Weight: 20 lbs
DAMA Paddle Board
This paddle board from DAMA features a unique, faux wood look. With a pointed hull and smaller size, it is easy to maneuver. In addition to purchasing a sweet paddle board, you’ll also get a five liter dry bag and a sport camera mount. It comes equipped with plenty of steel D rings which makes it easy to carry, connect to other boards, and install accessories. You won’t be disappointed with this option!
Inflated Dimensions: 9.6′ long x 32″wide
Thickness: 6″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 330 lbs
Weight: 19.8 lbs
Freein SUP
The Freein with seat comes with a comfortable seat if you prefer sitting or kneeling when you paddle board. A D-ring is included, which makes attaching and detaching the seat very easy. There are a variety of colors to choose from as well. Other features include a GoPro stand, a large backpack, a paddle, a dual action air pump, and a fin. The paddle has a foam insert, which helps the paddle float in water.
It takes only 3-10 minutes to inflate this paddle board, so you will be gliding across the water in no time. An included electric pump adapter links the air valve of the SUP to the onboard electric pump. A 30-day return is allowed for this paddle board along with a 2-year warranty.
Inflated Dimensions: 10’6″ x 31″
Thickness: 6″
Maximum Weight Capacity: 286 lbs
Weight:18.7 lbs
FAQs
What are the benefits of an inflatable paddle board?
Unlike a regular paddle board, an inflatable one is much easier to transport. You don’t need a large vehicle; a blow up board folds up into a small carrying bag so it can be put in any vehicle. It’s also lightweight and easy to carry.
How is a paddle board inflated?
Most inflatable boards come with a pump. A good pump can inflate a paddle board in just a few minutes. If you had to, you could inflate it manually, but it would take significantly more time.
What are important features of an inflatable stand up paddle board?
You’ll want a board that is large enough for what you need. Also, check the weight limit to make sure it will work for you. Easy inflation and an anti-slip exterior are important to most people. A good carrying case and pump are also good features.
Related Posts:
