Inflatable paddle boards are a great alternative to hard-shell paddle boards, but there are many different brands and models on the market that it can be overwhelming for first-time buyers to decide which inflatable paddle board to buy. Here are 6 of the best inflatable paddle boards you should consider buying! Each model has its own unique characteristics and traits, so I will try to give you an objective review of each one based on my personal experience and research I have made! This guide will help you find your best rated inflatable paddle boards. Click here if you want to read the buying guide first!
My Suggested 6 Best Inflatable Paddle Boards:
Here they are!
1) SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
When it comes to stand-up paddle boarding, the SereneLife has the ideal features for it. Unlike most, they’ve given it a wider design, which makes it easier to balance and stabilize. This ensures that users don’t feel the need to lean over backward to get themselves upright. Also, it’s got a non-slip surface to keep your feet stable on the top deck, which can help prevent slips.
They’ve also designed the bottom fins to ensure a superior surfing experience. It’s not a huge difference, but a fin’s extra stability can be felt. Finally, the SUP board is made with thick rubber, so it can handle rough waters and conditions very well. In fact, we’ve seen many SUP enthusiasts using this as a go-to board in rough waters due to how sturdy it is.
It is a very versatile board, and the carry bag will ensure the board doesn’t go anywhere. This is an excellent stand-up paddle board, and it’s suitable for both beginners and intermediate users.
Features
- Extra wide for better balance
- Soft stable, and anti-slip top deck
- Non-slip soft top
- Outfitted with triple bottom panel fins
- 100% travel friendly
- 10 feet long and 32 inches wide
- All in 1 blow up paddle board kit
- Upgraded aluminium paddle
- Manual air pump and storage bag
Specifications
- Brand: SereneLife
- Color: Aqua
- Material: Double PVC
- Sport Type: SUP Paddling Surfing
- Item Weight: 13.89 Pounds
Pros
- Very versatile and can be used in different water conditions
- The extra-wide design makes it easier to balance on
- Comes with a carry bag for easy transport
- Non-slip top deck for safety
- Has bottom fins for a better surfing experience
Cons
- The carry bag could be a little bigger.
2) FITWAVE Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board with Pump
Are you looking for a top-quality stand-up paddle board that can provide you with hours of fun and exercise? Look no further than the FITWAVE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board. This inventive SUP board has been designed to improve stability and maneuverability, so you can enjoy a better paddling experience.
The 10-foot SUP board can support up to 242 lbs., making it perfect for both adults and children. It also comes with a waterproof phone case to keep your belongings dry while you’re out on the water. Plus, the included paddle pump ensures quick inflation, so you can get started paddling as soon as possible.
The FITWAVE SUP board can be deflated and stored in the included backpack when you’re not using it. This makes it easy to transport from one location to another, so you can enjoy stand-up paddle boarding wherever you go.
Features
- Inflatable stand-up paddle board with pump
- 10-foot long SUP board
- Supports up to 242 lbs.
- A waterproof phone case included
- Paddle pump included
- Storage backpack included
- Deflatable and portable design
- Non-slip EVA foam deck
- 3 removable fins for stability
Specifications
- Brand: FITPULSE
- Color: 10ft Screen Print Blue
- Material: Aluminum, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
- Sport Type: SUP Paddling, Paddle Boarding
- Item Weight: 19 Pounds
Pros
- Adjustable length paddle
- Inflatable design makes it easy to transport and store
- A non-slip deck helps keep you safe while paddle boarding
- 3 removable fins provide extra stability
- Phone case included so you can keep your belongings dry
Cons
- Some users found the air pressure lowering after a few use
3) Roc Paddle Boards Inflatable Premium Paddle board
The Roc Paddle Boards Inflatable Premium Paddleboard is the perfect board for all your paddling needs. Made from military-grade material, this board is lightweight and durable, making it perfect for all your adventures. The side fins provide increased stability, and the removable main fin gives you the option to customize your ride. The premium dual-layer non-slip deck pad ensures a safe and comfortable ride, while the secure D-ring leash clip and bungee tie-downs keep your board secured. The comfort grip handle makes it easy to carry, while the UV-resistant exterior protective coating protects your board from the sun’s rays. The high-pressure laminated structure and non-slip EVA deck pad make this board a must-have for all your paddling needs.
Features
- Inflatable paddle board
- Made from military-grade material
- Side fins for increased stability
- Removable main fin for customization
- Premium dual layer non-slip deck pad
- Secure D-ring leash clip and bungee tie-downs
- UV resistant exterior protective coating
- High-pressure laminated structure
- Non-slip EVA deck pad
Specifications
- Brand: Roc
- Color: Aqua
- Material: Military Grade PVC
- Sport Type: Paddle Board
- Item Weight: 9 Kilograms
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Comfort grip handle for easy carrying
- Available at an affordable price
Cons
- Warranty not available
4) Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
If you’re a beginner or someone who needs to go out every day, then the HighPi inflatable SUP should be your go-to choice. The first thing I noticed when using the Sup was the ease of inflating. The Sup comes with a large (5L) waterproof dry bag and a 1-gallon waterproof tank, so you can always keep your SUP safe. And, when it gets dirty, just wash it out with some soap and water.
There are also two pumps, which help to inflate and deflate the SUP quickly. You’ll need to remove the fins and dry the surface off a little bit before inflating, but it is easy to do and takes no more than 5 minutes. I had no trouble removing the fins, but removing the dry skin was a little difficult.
The Sup is stable enough for beginner paddlers, but it’s a little easier to use with a wider stance. The Sup is made of EVA foam, which is very durable and can easily handle the elements for years. It won’t crack or peel, and the edges aren’t likely to fray either. There’s also a built-in leash that’s long enough to get you out of harm’s way and a carrying bag to protect your SUP and help you transport it.
The package includes a safety leash, repair kit, non-slip deck, paddle, pump, wide stance, 1 big removable fin, detailed SUP manual, and a big comfortable SUP backpack.
I like how the SUP comes with everything you need. It’s lightweight and easy to transport, making paddling much more enjoyable. The price of this SUP is higher, but you’re getting a lot for the money.
Features
- Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
- Wood grain extra wide stable design
- Military-grade high, quality material
- Super comfortable
- Ultra-lightweight and portable SUP
- Easy to carry and transport
- Alloy floating adjustable paddle length
- Comes with a 5L waterproof dry bag
Specifications:
- Brand: Highpi
- Color: Vigorous Wood
- Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Polyvinyl Chloride
- Sport Type: SUP Paddling
- Item Weight: 20 Pounds
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Comes with everything you need
- Very sturdy and durable
- Super comfortable
Cons:
- The price is a bit high
5) Retrospec Weekender 10′ Inflatable Stand Up Paddle board
From a company called Retrospec, which is run by Paul Baca, a highly experienced and skilled kayaker and SUP enthusiast. This board is specifically designed for touring around the world.
When you’re on the road, this is a great alternative to the traditional heavy surfboards since it’s small and light. It’s also a lot easier to paddle and manoeuvre with. The board has a nice wide footboard and provides a great base for you to stand and paddle on.
The board’s inflation is very quick. The whole process takes no more than 15-20 minutes, depending on how hard you push on the valves. It’s light enough to be easily transported, and you can fold it up and roll it in almost any compartment. The carrying case is the perfect size for taking on the road.
Overall, this best inflatable paddle board is a great option for beginners. Once you get more comfortable and proficient, it’s still a good option for you.
Features
- Designed for every excursion
- Comfortable EVA deck for secure paddling
- Topped with a textured
- 3 removable fins
- 3-piece adjustable paddle
- Dual action pump
- Easy to inflate
- 6-point front bungee
Specifications
- Brand: Retrospec
- Color: Navy Zion
- Material: Plastic
- Item Weight: 17 Pounds
- Maximum Weight Recommendation: 275 Pounds
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Double layer PVC material
- Comes with a waterproof phone case
- Suitable for all-around paddling
Cons
- The fins are not adjustable
6) Drift Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
For me, Drift is also the best choice for an inflatable board. Its construction is really solid, and it’s pretty stable for a floaty board. I didn’t see much difference between Drift and all the other inflatables I tested, and they’re all great.
Drift’s got plenty of features, and I’m quite happy with its performance. It’s not super light, but not too heavy either, and its construction quality is superb. It comes with a carrying bag and a pump, and it’s not a complicated system to set up. It’s also pretty stable when paddled, even when standing up.
You can inflate the board in a short time, and when it’s time to pack up, you can deflate it to just 1/3 of its size in only 8 minutes. If you’re worried about keeping it in good condition, they even have a repair kit, so you can quickly fix any tears or punctures in the material.
You can really enjoy the water on Drift because it’s nice and stable. The paddle is very easy to handle too. I prefer to stand up while I’m on it, because it’s so easy. I used to ride sit-on inflatables a lot, but I find the Drift to be much more comfortable for riding and standing.
Also, I noticed that the floatation was less on the entry side when I’d stand up, so you should still be careful when standing up. I also recommend getting a longer board, as Drift is 10’8″ x 33″. That makes it a bit wider, and you could get a bit unstable when standing, but it doesn’t affect the performance when you’re in the water.
Drift Inflatable SUPs come with a coiled leash; when you purchase this one, you get a free carrying bag. This best inflatable paddle board is suitable for anyone looking to enjoy paddling around the lake or ocean, whether that’s for fun or fitness.
Features
- Easy to stable and maneuverable
- Perfect for all skill levels
- Made from highly durable military-grade PVC material
- Comes with a complete paddle board kit
- EVA foam deck pad
- Offers 250 lb. capacity
- Bungee straps and grab handles
- D-rings for attaching a kayak seat
Specifications
- Brand: Drift
- Color: Classic
- Material: PVC
- Sport Type: SUP Paddling
- Item Weight: 19 Pounds
Pros
- Very stable and easy to maneuver
- Comes with a complete kit
- Highly durable PVC material
Cons
- The entry side has less floatation when standing up
How To Choose The Best Inflatable Paddle Board( Buying Guide)
You can buy inflatable paddle boards from any store, but you may want to buy it from a reputable online store if you know what you are looking for. Paddle boarding is a sport that requires equipment that is specific and will vary according to the activity. The type of board that you choose depends on a number of things, such as the level of difficulty of the exercise, the amount of paddling experience you have, and if you are using your paddle board for training or as a full-time board.
1) Types Of Paddle Boards
There are three main types of paddle boards; single fin, double fin, and quad fin. Double fins are typically used for beginners, allowing you to control and maneuver them easily. Quad fins are used for high-end activities such as racing and surfing.
2) Paddle board Sizes
When it comes to choosing the size of your paddle board, there are a couple of things that you should consider, like, where you will use it, the experience you have, lake or ocean and so on… The size of your paddle board will also determine what you can do with it. Take the time to read properly on the product and read what the other buyers have to say in their reviews
There are some rules to help you select the right size. You should try to avoid buying a paddle board having more than 100cm of width, also, the deck should be approximately one meter from the tip to the tail. This will give you a comfortable and stable platform to paddle from.
3) Paddle board Materials
There are two main types of materials that are used to make paddle boards; fiberglass and polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is cheaper, but it is not as durable as fiberglass. Fiberglass boards are also often heavier than their polycarbonate counterparts. Most inflatable paddle boards are made from PVC.
4) Paddle board Fin Types
Three different types of fins can be fitted to your paddle board; single, double, and quad. Single fins offer better maneuverability and are typically used by beginners. Double fins provide more stability and are perfect for those who want to do tricks or race. Quad fins offer the best of both worlds and are perfect for those who want to do both.
5) Paddle board Rails
Rails are the part of the paddle board that runs along the sides of the board. They help to protect you from hitting rocks or other objects when you are paddling. They also provide a place for you to grip the board when you are paddling in rough waters.
6) Paddle board Decks
The deck is the top part of the paddle board where you stand. It should be made from a non-slip material so that you do not slip and fall off when you are paddling in rough waters. Standing on your paddle board should also be comfortable so you can paddle for long periods without getting tired.
7) Paddle board Leashes
Leashes are used to secure your board to your body, so you do not lose it in the water. They are also used to tow other paddle boards behind you when you are paddling in a group.
8) Paddle board Covers
Covers are used to protect your board from the sun, wind, and rain. They also help to keep your paddle board clean and free of debris.
9) Paddle board Bags
Bags are used to carry your board when you are not using it. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit your needs. You should choose a bag that is big enough to hold your paddle board but not so big that it is difficult to carry.
FAQs
1) What is the best paddle board for a beginner?
The best paddle board for a beginner is a single fin board. It is easy to control and maneuver and is perfect for those who are just starting out.
2) What size paddle board should I get?
As mentioned before, the size of your paddle board will also determine what you can do with it. There are some rules to help you select the right size. You should try to avoid having a board that is more than 100cm of width, and the deck should be approximately one meter from the tip to the tail. This will give you a comfortable and stable platform to paddle from.
4) What is the best material for a paddle board?
The main types of materials that are used to make paddle boards are fiberglass, PVC and polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is cheaper, but it is not as durable as fiberglass. Fiberglass boards are also often heavier than their polycarbonate counterparts. PVC is a softer material and is mostly used for inflatable paddle boards.
5) What type of fins should I get for my paddle board?
The three different types of fins that can be fitted to your board are single, double, and quad. Single fins offer better maneuverability and are typically used by beginners. Double fins provide more stability and are perfect for those who want to do tricks or race. Quad fins offer the best of both worlds and are perfect for those who want to do both.
6) What is the purpose of rails on a paddle board?
Rails help to protect you from hitting rocks or other objects when you are paddling. They also provide a place for you to grip the board when you are paddling in rough waters.
Additional Resources
If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs and troubleshooting about camping and enjoying the outdoors, here are some additional posts to check out:
Conclusion
So, if you are looking for the best inflatable paddle boards that will make your experience on the water unforgettable and super fun, then take a look at my list of six top-rated boards. Remember to consider your budget, needs, and level of expertise before making your purchase. I hope you have as much fun out there on the open water as I did while putting this guide together for you! If you think I forgot something or if you simply want to share a story or some advice, feel free to leave a comment below. Be Safe And Have Fun.!