Paddle Boarding is an amazing sport that is taking the world by storm. It is a great alternative to surfing for those who want an activity that is easier to learn. Also, around the world, you can find some amazing paddleboarding locations.
To start paddleboarding, the first thing you need is a board! Choosing a board can be tricky – there are many different designs, styles, and manufacturers. We understand this and have created a list of the top 6 paddleboards for your benefit! Also, we have included a short buying guide so you know what to look for when choosing a paddleboard.
MOUNTAIN Inflatable Paddleboard iSUP
Features
- Sturdy design that is suitable for any level of experience.
- Lightweight at just 13kg making it easy to carry.
- Premium material construction for maximum safety and performance.
- An extensive kit to get you started
Why we Like This Paddleboard?
The MOUNTAIN Inflatable Paddleboard oozes quality and is made from premium materials. The textured deck and kick pad, and integrated drop-stitching add together to give you great performance and safety. The shape and thickness of this board should also result in great tracking, and high performance in any water condition.
For ease of use, the deck has an ankle strap attachment point and there is also a four-point cargo net so that you can easily store accessories or your paddle. On the underside, there are two durable handles that make the paddleboard easy to hold. There is also a fin box so you can attach a replacement paddleboard fin if needed.
We also like that the MOUNTAIN paddleboard comes with an extensive starter kit. For beginners, this essentially provides a complete equipment list so you can start learning immediately. In the kit, you get a manual pump, an ankle strap, a paddleboard fin, a repair kit, an adjustable oar, and a carry bag – all for a reasonable price.
TIGERXBANG SUP Stand Up Paddle Board
Features
- Large anti-skid plate to reduce accidents.
- Made of durable but lightweight materials.
- Suitable for all skill levels.
Why we Like This Paddleboard?
This paddle board has an extensive kit and includes everything you need to start paddleboarding immediately. The board measures 320x80x15cm but there is also a smaller version available for children. On the top, there is a large anti-skid plate made of tough EVA – this helps improve your balance and reduce the chance of accidents.
Also, the board is made from double-sandwich fabric and has high-density drop stitches. This means the board is incredibly strong but is still lightweight and easy to carry. It also has a bungee cord on the back so you can attach a backpack or other items.
This TIGERXBANG board has a total carrying capacity of 330lbs which means it can easily support two people. It also looks great and has a stylish white and black finish and logo. In the basic set, you get the paddleboard, a sturdy paddle, a safety rope, carry bag, removable fin, hand pump, and removable seat.
AQUA SPIRIT 10FT iSUP Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
Features
- Offers great balance for beginners.
- Has a grooved footbed to help foot stability.
- Adjustable paddle to suit your height.
Why we Like This Paddleboard?
The AQUA SPIRIT 10ft iSUP board looks fantastic and is one of the more stylish boards available. However, it also performs great. Firstly, it has a tapered front end which will help easily cut through waves and minimize bumps. Secondly, it also has a grooved footbed – this means you can easily maintain grip and stand on the board regardless of the water conditions.
Due to the shape and design, this paddleboard can be used for touring or racing. It also has three fins underneath for excellent steering. There is a large central fin, which works in tandem with a smaller fin on each side. The paddle is also lightweight and made from aluminum – it can be adjusted easily to suit different heights.
The basic kit includes the board and paddle, plus a host of accessories. You get a quality hand pump that has a pressure gauge. Also, it includes a repair kit, a storage backpack, a safety leash, and even a wetsuit changing mat.
Bestway Hydro-Force SUP Oceana Paddle Board Set
Features
- Has an attachable seat and footrest.
- Includes a convenient travel bag and carry handle.
- Has durable drop-stitching for extra rigidity.
Why we Like This Paddleboard?
The Bestway Hydro-Force Oceana Paddle Board is a simple but effective board great for beginners. It is relatively wide and is 305x84x12cm. This means it should offer great balance and allow you to get to grips with standing on the board and controlling it. It also has a large non-stick traction pad for extra foot grip.
For durability, the board uses high-quality materials and drop-stitching. In terms of weight capacity, it carries up to 265lbs and is better suited for adults. We also like the attachable seat – this means you can use the board almost like a kayak if your legs become tired after a long paddleboarding session.
The kit includes the board and paddle, a hand pump, a backpack for storage, a surfing leash, a repair kit, and an attachable fin. The paddle can be changed, and it has attachments for either a single-end paddle or a double-ended paddle.
ALPIDEX SUP Paddle Board Inflatable
Features
- Has a slanted tip for improved wave skimming and control.
- Made from hard-wearing plastic and aluminum.
- Has an extensive kit with a pump and carry bag.
Why we Like This Paddleboard?
The ALPIDEX SUP Paddle Board is a great inflatable item that measures 305x76x15c. This makes it an ideal size and offers great balance due to how wide it is. The board itself is made from hard-wearing plastic and high-quality aluminum. It also utilizes double-layer and drop-stitching to make it more durable and prevent tearing.
The paddle is made from lightweight aluminum which makes it easy to carry but still offers great pulling force through the water. It can also be dismantled and used either single or double-ended. In the basic kit, you also get a safety leash, a hand pump, and a backpack for storage. When packed-away, the storage bag measures 88x39x29cm, and has a maximum weight of 13kg.
Bluefin Cruise SUP Package
Features
- Available in multiple sizes for both kids and adults.
- Has a lightweight but durable fibreglass paddle.
- Has an optimized fin that gives great glide and control.
Why we Like This Paddleboard?
We like this paddleboard because it is available in three different sizes. There are 12” and 10” models which are suitable for adults, but there is also an 8” model that is brilliant for kids. This means it could be used to teach your kids how to paddleboard.
The boards are made from 1000 Denier Exo Surface Laminate PVC and utilize pro-weave drop stitching. This means they are exceptionally durable and resistant to damage. Also, the board can hold up to 28 PSI which means it will provide superior rigidity.
For the price, you get the board, a paddle, a carry bag, a detachable fin, an attachable seat, a hand jump, and a safety leash
What to Look for When Buying a Paddleboard?
The top 5 paddleboards listed above are brilliant choices, but which one is right for you? To help, we have created a simple buying guide on paddleboards below. We look at the main considerations and discuss inflatable vs solid paddleboards.
Inflatable vs Solid
In the above list, we have only featured inflatable paddleboards. You can get both inflatable and solid paddleboards – so why do we feature only inflatable?
Inflatable paddleboards offer a number of benefits. The main one is portability. These paddleboards when not in use, are rolled up and stored in a small bag – a small bag that can easily fit in your car, campervan, or even for you to carry.
Also, this means they are great for travel, and paddleboarding in different locations. In contrast, it would be much more difficult, and expensive to transport a solid top paddleboard to different countries etc. Inflatable paddleboards are also much more durable. If you drop one – it won’t break or shatter. The only downside is that epoxy or solid top paddleboards usually offer better performance and control.
Stability
The stability of the paddleboard is also incredibly important. How stable you want the board to be will also depend on your level of skill and confidence. Regardless, no one wants to use an unstable paddleboard that could throw you into the water easily!
Stability is affected by the shape of the board. Wider boards offer greater stability and give you better balance and room for your feet. The curvature of the tip can also affect stability. Some of the best paddleboards have a tapered front and this allows the board to travel over/through wavers easier with fewer bumps.
Finally, the fin underneath the paddleboard can also affect stability and control. Most SUP paddleboards have a small fin on the underside of the board. This helps cut through the water and streamline the paddleboard. Ideally, it should be made from strong material and fixed securely to the board.
Accessories and extras
Finally, also look at what you get with the paddleboard. Most paddleboards you find on Amazon will come as part of a package. If you are buying an inflatable paddleboard, as a bare minimum it should come with the correct pump so you can easily inflate it. Also, we would expect most paddleboard kits to include a durable paddle too so you can actually steer and use the board.
Some kits include other items like an attachable seat, and a safety kit. What other accessories you look for is down to personal preference.
Buy One of the Top 6 Paddleboards Ready for Your Next Adventure!
We hope you have found this guide on the top 6 paddleboards useful. Paddleboarding is a brilliant sport. It offers a smaller learning curve than surfing. Also, it is a great way to explore new places, whilst also enjoying the scenery and relaxing. A durable paddleboard that offers excellent control and portability is vital and any of the above 6 models should provide this!