Gone are the days when paddleboarding and surfing were limited to those with surfboard car racks. Now, thanks to inflatable stand-up paddle boards (SUPs), anyone can experience the thrills and excitement of paddleboarding. But with so many options available, where do you start your search for the best inflatable SUP?
In this article, I will provide you with unbiased inflatable paddle board reviews and valuable tips for selecting the perfect paddle board. Most modern inflatable stand-up paddle boards, often referred to as ISUPs, are incredibly portable, conveniently fitting into your backpack.
Personally, when searching for a paddle board, I prioritize portability, durability, and ease of inflation. These factors are crucial for an enjoyable paddleboarding experience, and I recommend considering them as well in your quest for the best inflatable SUP.
With numerous stand-up paddle board options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find one that truly meets your needs. To assist you in your search, I have compiled a list of ten inflatable SUP reviews that I believe will be immensely helpful.
By the end of this article, you’ll be well-informed about the top inflatable SUPs available and equipped with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision. Let’s dive in and discover the perfect inflatable SUP for your paddleboarding adventures.
Top 10 Best Inflatable SUP
PEAK Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board
Topping my list of inflatable stand-up paddle board (ISUP) reviews is the PEAK inflatable stand-up paddle board. Upon first glance, you’ll immediately notice its medium size, which strikes a perfect balance between being neither overly large nor too small for comfort.
Weighing a mere 20 pounds, this board is lighter than most others in its category. However, don’t let its weight deceive you, as it boasts an impressive weight capacity of up to 350 pounds. Even when inflated to a maximum pressure of 15 PSI, the board feels remarkably rigid and sturdy, offering stability and confidence on the water. It should be noted that the board still performs well even at lower pressures, around 10 to 11 PSI.
The PEAK ISUP comes equipped with several valuable accessories, including an adjustable floating paddle, a removable travel fin, and a hand pump. The board’s construction from tough PVC material ensures durability, and its design is top-notch, visually appealing and functional.
Pros:
- The board is constructed from highly durable PVC material, ensuring longevity.
- The design of the board is visually appealing and well-executed.
- Remarkable weight capacity of 350 pounds considering the board’s weight.
- Includes a removable fin and a reliable pump for convenience.
Cons:
- The included hand pump may not provide the best inflation experience.
- The aluminum paddle could be improved for better performance.
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 350 pounds
- 6-inch thick military-grade PVC construction
- Anti-slip deck pad for enhanced grip
- Integrated bungee system for storage
- Removable fin for versatile performance
Who is it for?
This paddle board is reasonably priced and ideal for newcomers and beginners seeking a reliable and functional board. However, it also holds its ground well for experienced paddlers. It’s worth mentioning that the board may not satisfy those who prioritize speed, as it leans more towards overall functionality rather than high-speed performance. Hence, the PEAK ISUP is more likely to appeal to beginners looking for a well-rounded paddle board that delivers on performance and value.
Tower Inflatable 10’4” Stand-Up Paddle Board
The Tower Paddle Board iSUP package Adventurer 2 is the largest paddle board in the Adventurer line, and it excels in various aspects, particularly in weight capacity. With an impressive capability of accommodating weights of up to 400 pounds, it surpasses the weight capacity of other boards on this list, making it suitable for a wide range of paddlers.
Measuring 10 inches in length and 6 inches in thickness, this board offers exceptional stability and rigidity on the water. To achieve optimal inflation, pumping the board to approximately 10 to 11 PSI of pressure is recommended. Similar to its competitors, the Adventurer 2 features a tri-fin design comprising two side fins and one detachable central fin. Additionally, this board stands out by providing ample carrying space both at the front and back, enhancing convenience during your paddling adventures.
Pros:
- High weight capacity of up to 400 pounds, accommodating a wide range of paddlers.
- Impressive stability and rigidity due to its 10-inch length and 6-inch thickness.
- Tri-fin design for enhanced maneuverability and versatility.
- Convenient carrying space at the front and back of the board.
- It is an affordable paddle board
- Features military-grade PVC construction for durability
- Six inches thick for exceptional rigidity
- It is lightweight for improved portability
Cons:
- It does not come with a backpack.
Specifications:
- Fiberglass paddle included for reliable performance.
- Military-grade PVC construction ensures durability.
- Weighs 25 pounds for easy transport and handling.
- 6-inch thickness for stability and buoyancy.
- The 10-inch length provides ample space for cruising.
- Tri-fin design for enhanced maneuverability.
Who is it for?
The Tower Adventurer 2 is positioned as a high-end paddle board, which may make it relatively expensive for most beginners. However, this board caters to both professional paddleboarders and beginners alike. Its extended length and thickness make it an ideal choice for cruising, providing a stable and enjoyable experience on the water. While it may be out of the financial reach for some, those who are willing to invest in a premium paddle board will find the Tower Adventurer 2 to be a fantastic option.
Atoll 11’0” Foot Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board
I recently had the opportunity to try out the Atoll 11’0” Foot Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board, and I must say, it was quite an experience. From the moment I laid eyes on this board, I was captivated by its design, which closely resembles that of a surfboard. This unique design not only gives it a sleek and stylish look but also enhances its performance on the water.
One of the standout features of this paddle board is its impressive speed and excellent gliding capabilities on flat water. As someone who enjoys paddling in calm conditions, I was thrilled to discover how effortlessly the Atoll board sliced through the water. Its length of 11 feet proved to be just right for me, considering my height is below 6 feet. I felt comfortable and in control while maneuvering the board.
What truly sets this board apart is its thickness. At 6 inches, it offers a remarkable level of stability and buoyancy. I felt confident and secure standing on the board, even when encountering small waves or ripples in the water. This thickness also contributes to its overall durability, making it capable of withstanding various conditions and providing a reliable experience.
The paddle deck of the Atoll board impressed me as well. Unlike other boards I’ve tried, this one offers a larger surface area on the deck. This feature gave me more freedom and flexibility to adjust my footing while paddling. I appreciated the added space, as it allowed for better balance and control during my sessions.
Moving on to the board’s practicality, the Atoll 11’0” comes equipped with six stainless steel D-rings at the front, each connected to a bungee cord. This configuration enables you to securely transport your belongings or equipment on the board. Whether you want to bring a cooler, a bag, or any other essentials, you can rest assured that they will stay in place throughout your paddling adventures.
When you purchase the Atoll board, you’ll receive everything you need to get started. From a convenient hand pump for easy inflation to a practical carry bag for effortless transportation, they’ve truly thought of everything. The board’s dual-layer PVC construction ensures its durability and longevity, while the included three-piece adjustable aluminum paddle allows you to customize it to your preferred height.
While the Atoll 11’0” Foot Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board offers exceptional performance and features, it’s worth noting that it comes with a premium price tag. As such, it may not be the ideal choice for beginners who are just starting their paddleboarding journey. However, if you’re a seasoned enthusiast or someone who values top-quality equipment and is willing to invest in their passion, this board is an excellent option.
Pros
- Has a unique surfboard design, which makes it look unique and improves its performance
- Comes with all the accessories you require
- It has a weight capacity of 230 pounds
- It comes with a carry bag
Cons
- Pumping this paddle board with the provided hand pump is tiring
Specification
- Dual-layer PVC construction
- Three pieces adjustable aluminum paddle
- 6 inch thick
- 32 inches wide
- 11 inches long
- Hand pump
In conclusion, my experience with the Atoll 11’0” Foot Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board was nothing short of remarkable. Its design, speed, stability, and practical features make it a standout choice in the world of paddleboarding. Whether you’re an experienced paddler seeking a reliable and high-performing board or a beginner ready to make a significant investment, the Atoll board is definitely worth considering.
PathFinder Inflatable SUP Stand-Up Paddleboard
The debate on which is better, an inflatable paddle board vs. a hard paddle board, is unlikely to end. However, I prefer inflatable paddle boards because there are less costly compared to their hard counterparts.
And one of the best inflatable sup boards that I have used in the recent past is the Pathfinder Inflatable SUP.
One of the things I loved about this paddle board is how easy it is to transport, inflate and put on the water. In fact, it took me less than 30 minutes to put the paddle board together the last time I was out paddling.
The board measures about 10 feet long and can accommodate maximum weights of up to 240 pounds, and has a thickness of 5 inches.
Overall, this is a rather large board and has a broader surface area than what I was previously used to, not that I am complaining.
Pros
- It is made using a non-puncture plastic
- Comes with a carry bag which makes it easy to transport
- Comes with an air pump
- When put in water, it does not sag, and neither does it sink
- Inflating and deflating the board is simple and quick
Cons
- It is not ideal for people with a big build
Specification
- 9 inches long
- 5 inches thick
- PVC with multi-layer drop stitch
- Large deck pad
- Bungee cord
- Detachable center fin
- Adjustable aluminum paddle
Who Is It For?
As I have already stated, this is not an ideal stand-up paddle board for big paddlers.
However, it is a great product for regular use if maintained properly. It is an excellent board for teens or persons of average weight.
ISLE Airtech Inflatable 12’ Explorer Stand-Up Paddle Board
Some people have labeled the ISLE Airtech inflatable explorer SUP the best inflatable stand-up paddle board due to its stability. While this is debatable, there is no denying that this is a great paddle board.
One of the things that make this a great board is its design. ISLE designed this paddle board to be easy to paddle and trust me, it is easy to paddle.
One of the first things you notice about this board, which is mentioned in numerous online paddle board reviews, is the width of this board. Compared to other boards, this one is quite wide.
The center carry handle on this board, and the fact that it weighs only 19 pounds makes it easy to carry. Though the bungee system takes up quite some space, the deck on this board still has enough room for you to stand on.
Pros
- It is lightweight and easy to carry
- It comes with a carry bag
- It is a very stable paddleboard
- Setting up is quick and easy
Cons
- The extra width creates some drag
It is not the fastest paddle board out there. Actually, it is nowhere near being the fastest
Specification
- 12 inch long
- 32 inch wide
- 6 inch thick
- 24-pound weight
- 300-pound weight capacity
- One removable fin
- Two permanently attached fins
Who Is It For?
Due to its lack of speed, this might not be the right board for you if it is the speed you want.
Nonetheless, if you enjoy cruising either alone or with your dog, then this is the paddle board for you. It offers sufficient stability for you and your dog. It is not the cheapest board out there, but it is worth every penny you spend on it.
Tower Paddle Boards Adventurer Inflatable 9’10” SUP
There are many stand-up paddle boards that are marketed as the best inflatable paddle board; one such paddle board is the Tower Paddle Boards Adventurer inflatable board.
I got a chance to try out this paddle board while on vacation in Lake Tahoe, California, and I have to admit, this paddle board is one of the best I have used.
For starters, this is not the biggest paddle board out there, which is a good thing, since nobody wants a large and bulky paddle board weighing them down while on vacation.
Since it is a compact board and it has only one inflation valve, inflating this paddle board took only a few minutes. And it gets better; despite its lack of size, the Tower Adventurer performed surprisingly well and tracked well.
Moreover, its 6 inches thickness and 32-inch width give it sufficient stability. I found that I had to use the removable fin when paddling on flat water.
Pros
- It is a reasonably priced paddleboard
- It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry
- It comes with a carry bag
- It is surprisingly stable despite its size.
- It tracks well
Cons
- The fin takes some time to fix
Specification
- Diamond groove deck
- Removable skeg
- 10 inches long
- 32 inches wide
- Center handheld strap
- Carrying bag
Who Is It For?
I will be honest and state that the Tower Adventurer is not the finest or fastest board out there.
However, do not be fast to dismiss it as it offers great value for money.
Additionally, it is a great board for cruising and is lightweight enough for carrying around. So this board is ideal for people who are more interested in cruising than in high-speed paddling or surfing.
ISLE Airtech 12-Feet 6-Inches Touring Inflatable Stand up
There are many different types of paddle boards available on the market, from budget-level boards to high-end boards. The ISLE Airtech 12-feet 6 inches touring inflatable board belongs to the latter category of inflatable boards.
As such, this paddle board is quite large and can accommodate weights of up to 300 pounds. At the heart of this stand-up paddle board’s performance is a pulled-nose design, which makes it easy to cut through the water.
Furthermore, this design makes it faster and ideal for long-distance paddling. And while it is significantly longer than most stand-up paddle boards, it comes with its own carry bag. Overall, the board is very well made and comes with all the accessories you need.
Pros
- It is a stable paddleboard
- It is very durable and will survive average abuse
- Comes with an array of accessories
Cons
- Its length means it requires a large room to store
Specification
- 12 feet length
- 30-inch width
- 32 pounds weight
- 9-inch center fin
- Two side fins
- 12 to 15 PSI inflation
- Three-piece aluminum paddle
Who Is It For?
The price of this stand-up paddle board might scare some people away. But if you are a serious paddler and are not scared of splashing money on the purchase of a paddleboard, this is the board for you.
It is fast and comes with all the accessories that make up a great paddleboard. In essence, this board is perfect for serious paddle boarders. Also, its size and length make it one of the best paddle boards for lakes.
Vilano Journey Inflatable SUP Stand-up Paddle Board
There are very many paddle boards for beginners out there. However, one of the best is the Vilano Journey inflatable SUP. Though it cannot be categorized as a cheap sup, this board is still worth it.
The PVC material used in making this board is very sturdy, and you might even mistake this board for a regular hardboard.
On the board deck, you get a diamond groove pattern, which improves grip. To spruce things up, this board comes with a bungee cord and D-rings, which make it easy to store things on your board. It weighs only 35 pounds. Thus it is easy to carry from one spot to another.
Pros
- Made from a rigid and durable PVC material
- Features the proven and reliable Korean drop-stitch make
- It is compact and lightweight for ease of carriage
- The board deck offers sufficient traction
Cons
- It is only ideal for persons of average and below-average weight
Specification
- Hand pump with pressure gauge
- Aluminum paddle
- Removable fin
- 9 inches long
- 30 inches wide
- 5 inches thick
- Maximum weight capacity of 240 pounds
Who Is It For?
If you are of average weight, then this paddle board is ideal for you. Also, this board is perfect for long-distance paddling. Thus, it is the right option for anyone looking for a fast stand-up paddle board for long-range paddling.
Solstice Bali Stand-Up Paddleboard
There are several online stand-up paddle board reviews that regard the Solstice Bali Stand-up paddle board as a basic board.
While there is some truth in this, I personally found this board to be above basic.
For starters, this is an affordable paddle board that has certain features that are found in high-end paddle boards. Its sleek and beautiful design appeals to me, and so does its tri-fin design. This design makes it possible to track and glide in waters of varying conditions.
To be fully inflated, this board requires about 15 PSI of pressure. Considering its price, the 250-weight capacity of this board is not bad.
Pros
- It comes with a pump and gauge
- It has a beautiful sleek design
- Comes with a carry bag
- Has a durable construction
Cons
- Some users have complained of the needle gauge being inaccurate
- Not ideal for large waves
Specification
- 10 inches long
- 38 inches wide
- Multi-layer construction
- Non-slip deck pad
- Tri-fin design
- Four stainless steel tie downs
- Aluminum paddle
- 250-pound maximum weight capacity
Who Is It For?
Compared to some of its rivals, this paddle board is reasonably priced.
Thus, it is ideal for anyone looking for an inexpensive paddle board for cruising.
As stated above, this paddle board does not function well in waters with big waves. Granted, it is not a surfboard; you will have to be careful when using this board, especially in rough waters.
iRocker Paddle Boards Inflatable board
My Opinion About iRocker Paddle Boards Inflatable board
The iRocker Paddleboard is a blow-up paddle board from one of the best paddleboard manufacturers in the world. Thus, when I bought my iRocker paddle board, I had very high expectations.
Amazingly, this board has been able to meet my expectations. In the few years that I have owned my iRocker board, it is yet to get damaged due to wear and tear or my regular abuse. This is because this board is made from military-grade PVC material, which is as tough as regular hard boards.
The board is 11 inches long, which is the ideal board length for paddle boards. I love how smooth this paddle board is when cruising. The smoothness of the board is courtesy of the two side fins. It weighs 35.8 pounds, and I do not have any problems transporting it to any place I want.
Pros
- It measures 11 inches long, meaning it is stable and steady
- The board comes with all accessories needed for its maintenance
- It is made using high-quality PVC material
Cons
- The pumping of this board can be tiring
Specification
- 30 inches wide
- 11 inches long
- 22 pounds weight
- Aluminum floating paddle
- Hand pump with pressure gauge
- Carrying pack
Who Is It For?
The length of this paddleboard makes it ideal for smooth cruising. Hence, it is the best option for you if you are looking for a board for cruising with. Also, it is easy to set up the design, making it perfect for beginners.
How To Pick The High-Quality Stand-Up Paddle Board, Aka Inflatable SUP
After going through my list of the best stand-up paddle boards, you will soon want to buy one. But before you go out to purchase a stand-up paddle board, there are some things I would like to bring to your attention. Basically, in this section, I will be telling you how to choose a stand-up paddleboard.
COST
The number one question you should ask yourself before purchasing a paddle board is how much do paddle boards cost? Though there is no precise answer to this question, it is wise to have a budget. If you are a beginner, an affordable paddleboard will be ideal. As a beginner, you do not want to invest a significant amount of money on your first paddle board unless you are able and willing.
Type Of Hull
There are two main types of paddle boards, a planing hull and a displacement hull. A planing hull is designed to resemble a surfboard and thus has a flat and wide design. On the other hand, a displacement hull board has a pointed nose. The latter types of boards are usually longer and narrower compared to their planning hull counterparts.
Of the two, the planning hull boards are the best inflatable sup for beginners, the reason being that these types of boards are more stable and versatile.
Additionally, planning hull boards are perfect for cruising on ocean waves. Displacement hull boards are faster than planning hulls. In this regard, if it is the speed you want, a board with a displacement hull will be the best option.
On the other hand, if you are a beginner, a board with a planning hull will be ideal. Also, planning hull boards are the best inflatable SUP for fishing, while boards with a displacement hull are the best inflatable sup for surfing.
Weight
If you cannot stand on a paddle board without it tipping over or sinking, then there is no need to buy it. Thus, the other important factor to consider is the weight capacity. This is the maximum weight a paddle board can accommodate. If you are of above-average weight, a paddle board with a weight capacity of 250 pounds or more. Additionally, if you are a yogi, the best inflatable sup for yoga will be one that you can stand on comfortably.
Length
The best sup for surfing small waves should not be of the same length as the best paddle board for paddling on ocean waves. Generally speaking, small boards of lengths of under 9 inches are maneuverable and are designed for kids. Medium-sized boards, on the other hand, are ideal for surfing on calm lakes. Longboards of 12 inches and above are faster and ideal for competitive stand-up paddling.
Some of the other factors that you need to consider are,
- The sup width is one factor to consider; a wide board will offer you sufficient stability
- The fin is another factor to consider; some boards come with a single detachable fin, while others have three fins
- The quality of accessories that accompany your paddle board should also be a factor to consider
Conclusion
It is my hope that the above stand-up paddle board reviews have been of great help. The above-reviewed paddle boards have everything you would want on a paddleboard, from speed, stability, and durability to agility. In summary, the above list covers all the paddle board budget and performance categories available on the market.
About The Author:
Lake Streeter, A Gun enthusiast, and loves to hunt in the middle of the wood. Always check the latest hunting gears out in the market and try to share his honest opinion with the audience in Tarheel3Gun.