The Best Inflatable Paddle Boards for Having Fun on the Water
If you enjoy the idea of having an adventure in open water, an inflatable paddle board will get you one step closer to your adventure! You can explore different water environments, from oceans and lakes to rivers and bays. The proximity to nature, wildlife, and scenic views create an incredibly peaceful and enjoyable experience.
Paddleboarding is relatively easy to learn compared to other water sports. Most people can get the hang of it after a short lesson, making it extremely accessible to beginners. The Bestway Inflatable Paddle Board takes the top spot on our list because of its lightweight, classic design, high-quality construction, and excellent water stability. It’s great for beginners and seasoned paddleboarders alike. Keep reading to learn what you should look out for before you buy!
Our Top Picks For Inflatable Paddle Boards
The Best Inflatable Paddle Boards
Best Overall
Experience the ultimate water adventure with the Bestway Inflatable Paddle Board. This versatile 120 by 34-inch board doubles as a kayak set, complete with an aluminum oar, hand pump, travel bag, and pressure gauge for convenient transport and inflation. Designed for one person, the built-in backrest ensures maximum comfort while exploring the waterways. With a robust maximum capacity of 209 pounds, it’s perfect for solo excursions.
Crafted from drop-stitch materials and reinforced polyester with double PVC walls, this paddle board guarantees unparalleled strength and durability. Enjoy stability and safety with the non-slip traction pad and three molded side fins for superior directional control. Convenient features like the deck handle for easy carrying and quick inflation/deflation valve make storage and transport a breeze. Whether paddling or kayaking, elevate your aquatic adventures with the Bestway Inflatable Paddle Board.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Versatile use as SUP and kayak
- High-quality material and construction
- Stability on water for beginners
Cons
- Difficult to inflate to recommended PSI
Most Durable
SereneLife Inflatable Paddle Board is a fantastic paddle board that offers a wide range of outstanding features. Its 10-foot-long design provides 32 inches of deck width, perfect for improved stability and balance while standing. The triple bottom panel fins also help the board improve overall speed, handling, and steering, making it great for beginners and experienced paddlers. In addition, the paddle board’s soft top deck is non-slip, which helps prevent accidents and injuries should you fall. Essentially, this board is stable and maneuverable, which is ideal for anyone looking for calm control on the water (just like me).
Besides being stable and nimble, this paddle board is exceptionally portable due to its short inflation and deflation times. It can be taken to the lake, river, or ocean without hassle and has plenty of paddling essentials to ensure you are ready to go safely. Essentials include a coiled ankle cuff safety leash, oar pedal, manual air pump, patch repair accessory kit, and convenient storage bag. In conclusion, this is an outstanding paddle board that offers superior stability and maneuverability for all ages and skill levels.
Pros
- Non-slip surface
- Easy storage and transport
- Extra supported fabric
Cons
- Needs better stability
Best Color Selection
The Roc Inflatable Paddle Board provides an aesthetic way to get out on the water through its combination of stability and comfort. This is provided by its non-slip deck that provides that secure footing and its wide design that makes it great for all skill levels.
The board also comes with premium accessories superior to many other board packs. These include a high-pressure hand pump, an adjustable SUP paddle, a removable center fin, and an inflatable kayak seat. Additionally, the brand is extremely proud to provide an industry-leading 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, ensuring customers know their product is built to last. To top it all off, the company is USA owned and based and happy to help you with your paddle boarding journey.
Pros
- Premium deck pad
- Secure D-ring leash
- Dual action pump
Cons
- Some colors are more expensive than others
Great Value
The ADVENOR Inflatable Paddle Board is a great choice for various activities, from exploring to touring and fishing to water yoga. Its extra-wide size offers users great stability, making it easier for people of all ages and abilities, and its non-slip EVA deck pad is made of high-quality material that can withstand high pressures for an enjoyable paddling experience. It also features three detachable bottom fins that help improve speed and handling, allowing you to move faster while keeping your balance.
This paddle board can be used in oceans, freshwater lakes, and rivers, so you can take your adventure where ever you want. Plus, the height-adjustable aluminum paddle is suitable for most paddlers. The board’s package includes an adjustable aluminum paddle, safety leash, waterproof bag, upgraded backpack, three removable fins, and repair kit for convenience as well as a double-action hand pump for fast inflation and deflation. With its extra wide design and included accessories, this board offers users great stability and versatility to explore whatever body of water they choose.
Pros
- Ultra-light materials
- Secure bungee tie-downs
- Upgraded air valve
Cons
- Fins could be more durable
Easiest to Transport
The Bluefin Inflatable Paddle Board is an incredibly versatile and reliable stand-up paddle board that can be used by adults and kids alike. Featuring Exo Surface Laminate Technology and Pro Weave Drop Stitch, this paddle board is built to hold up to 28 PSI and is extremely rigid and stable. Not only that, but the board also includes a convenient kayak conversion kit, allowing for a speedy transition from a standup paddleboard to a kayak with just one extra blade (included in the purchase). Moreover, the board comes with an ultra-padded backpack with an outside pocket for added comfort during transportation. As another bonus, the included double action pump inflates quickly and efficiently since it works on the up and down portion of every pump, resulting short inflation times.
Pros
- Smart-lock fin system
- Kickpad for quick turns
- Action camera fixed mount
Cons
- Expensive price tag
Versatile Option
The FunWater Inflatable Paddle Board is an excellent choice for those looking to take their water-based activities to the next level. It’s 35% lighter than similar-size products, making it easier to transport, and its 330-pound weight capacity ensures that it can suit various skill levels and activities. It also can be used for many different activities, so if you are someone who gets bored quickly like I do, you should check out this board.
This board has more going for it than just versatility; it’s got lots of features to boot. This board’s ergonomic handle makes inflation easy, and a sensitive barometer lets you easily read the inflation pressure value, ensuring your board is always properly inflated. An elastic string also keeps stored items in place, while a multi-purpose backpack makes carrying the board more convenient. In addition to the board, your purchase comes with adjustable paddles, three fins, a pump, a waterproof dry bag, a leash, and a multi-purpose backpack for easy transport. With its lightweight yet durable construction, ergonomic design, and all of the included accessories, this paddleboard offers an unbeatable combination of convenience and quality at an affordable price.
Pros
- Ergonomic handle design
- Super sensitive barometer
- Inflation and deflation valve
Cons
- While it can be used to surf, it isn’t great for it
Great for Beginners
Dive into the world of paddleboarding with the Aqua Halcyon Inflatable
Paddle Board. Crafted with a unique scalloped shape and heavy-duty
materials, this 10ft 6in inflatable stand-up paddleboard offers
unparalleled stability and durability. Its wide design, combined with a
non-slip EVA deck, ensures easy paddling for paddlers of all skill
levels. The patent-pending design ingeniously merges wide board
stability with effortless paddling, making every excursion a breeze.
Complete with essential accessories like a paddle, ankle leash, pump,
and a convenient carry/storage bag, this paddleboard is ready for
adventure wherever the waters take you. Experience the perfect blend of
innovation, performance, and convenience with this inflatable paddle board.
Pros
- Comes with accessories
- Non-slip and stable
- Heavy-duty material
Cons
- Only comes in one multicolor
The Best Inflatable Paddle Board Buying Guide
Inflatable paddle boarding is one of the most versatile, accessible, and fun water sports activities. If you are unfamiliar with inflatable paddle boards, they are similar to surfboards; however, they are flatter, larger and designed for use on calmer waters. Usually, paddle boards are used for standing paddle boarding, but they are also [perfect for water yoga and general relaxation. Choosing the right iSUP (inflatable stand-up paddle board) can be challenging whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate paddler. Here are some things to consider when buying an inflatable paddle board.
Board Size and Weight
The size and weight of your paddle board will depend on the type of paddling you plan to do, your height, weight, and skill level. A heavier board offers more stability and is better for larger riders and those who plan to use their board for long-distance paddling or touring. Meanwhile, smaller, lighter boards are more maneuverable and faster, making transporting them to the water easier.
Type of Material
Most inflatable boards are made from PVC, but some inflatable paddle boards are made from other materials as well. The type of material affects the board’s weight, durability, and responsiveness in the water. Generally speaking, PVC-constructed boards tend to be more durable and responsive than other materials, but they also tend to be heavier. I’d personally would paddle board in a relaxing manner, so a PVC-constructed board would be perfect for me. However, if you are someone who is looking for a nimble board, PVC may not be for you.
Thickness
The thickness of the inflatable paddle board plays an important role in how it performs in the water. Thicker boards (up to 12-15 inches thick) are more rigid, stable, and durable, offering better gliding performance when paddling long distances. Thinner boards (up to 10 inches) are usually lighter and easier to transport and carry, but they don’t perform as well in choppy waters or strong winds.
Weight Capacity
Every iSUP has a maximum weight capacity you should know before purchasing. This ensures you don’t damage the board or fall consistently. Generally speaking, all-around boards usually have an average weight capacity of 250 lbs (113 kg). Some boards have higher weight capacities if needed. Since standing paddle boards are for single-person use, the 250 lbs max tends not to be a problem. If you want to paddle board with multiple people, you’ll have to find a higher-capacity board.
Stability in Water
An inflatable paddleboard should provide good stability on the water so that it feels safe for all riders regardless of size or experience level. A wide outline with a flat rocker profile is usually recommended for greater stability on the water. Additionally, thicker boards offer better stability than thinner ones due to their increased rigidity. Since stability is my priority, I’d personally choose a thicker board.
Number of Fins
The number of fins on a board can affect its maneuverability and tracking abilities in different conditions. Generally speaking, one or two fins are suitable for shallow waters, while three or four fins make it easier to track in open waters due to increased surface area underwater. Consider where you plan on paddle boarding before determining how many fins are best for your needs.
Maneuverability
For recreational paddlers who plan on taking their iSUP on flatwater such as lakes or rivers, the board should be fairly easy to turn with minimal effort from the rider. Maneuverability can be improved by opting for shorter boards with wider outlines that provide greater surface area underwater when turning.
Cost
Inflatable paddle boards range from low-end models that cost around $500 up to top-of-the-line models that cost more than $1500. A board’s cost depends on factors including size, quality of components used in construction, accessories included, etc. It’s important to consider your budget when purchasing so you don’t overspend or sacrifice quality for the price.
Floatation Device Options
An iSUP should come with at least one floatation device attached (such as a leash) or included in your purchase to prepare you for any situation that may arise while out on the water. Some boards also come with additional floatation devices, such as buoyancy aids or seat pads, making paddling easier/more comfortable for longer periods.
Accessories Included
Ensure your iSUP comes with all of the necessary accessories so you can get started paddling immediately without making any additional purchases separately (for example, pump, paddle, rack). Some accessories that may not be included but are necessary include wetsuits or drybags if you plan to take your board out into cold or open waters.
Warranty
Warranty policies vary depending on the brand/model. Most manufacturers offer a warranty against manufacturing defects or damaged goods received upon delivery, so check what is covered before making a purchase decision.
Comfort
Comfort is key to an enjoyable paddling experience. Ensure your chosen iSUP has either deck pads or traction along its top surface, which will help reduce foot fatigue while standing on it during longer sessions out on the water. Look for boards whose shape and size you find comfortable enough so you don’t feel restricted while paddling around.
Brand Reputation
Consider looking up reviews online before making a purchase decision to know what kind of brand reputation each manufacturer holds. This is particularly important if you’re buying from lesser-known brands/models that may not have as many reviews available online compared to more popular options from larger companies.
Color & Design
Color and design choices range widely among different iSUPs. If aesthetics play an important role in choosing your next inflatable paddleboard, make sure whatever option you choose looks good and stands out among others when other paddlers are around! I’m not hugely concerned about aesthetics when I’m out on the water but to each their own!
Ease of Assembly & Inflation/Deflation
One final thing to consider when shopping around for an inflatable paddleboard is how easy it is to assemble and inflate/deflate it before/after use. Most modern designs should allow even novice users to set up their iSUP without much hassle within minutes due to their user-friendly. Some manufacturers also provide hand pumps, high-pressure pumps, and electric pumps, which make inflation even faster! I’m always a fan of electric pumps making my job easier, so if I could find a paddle board that came with one cheaper, I’d take it.
People Also Asked
What is an inflatable paddle board?
An inflatable paddle board (iSUP) is a type of stand-up paddleboard made from a durable drop-stitch material inflated with air and supported by an internal frame.
How do I inflate an inflatable paddle board?
To inflate a paddle board, you will need an air pump. Usually, the pump will come with an adapter for the inflation valve on the board. Most pumps are electric or manual and require the user to repeatedly push or pull a handle or switch to build up the pressure inside the chamber and inflate the board.
How much does an inflatable paddle board cost?
The cost of an inflatable paddle board can range from around $500 to $900, depending on the size, brand, and features offered.
Are inflatable paddle boards durable?
Inflatable paddle boards are quite durable due to their drop-stitch construction and can withstand bumps, scrapes, and rocks without much damage.
Is an inflatable paddle board easier to transport than a hard board?
Yes, an inflatable paddle board is definitely easier to transport than a hard board as it can be deflated, rolled up, and stored in a backpack making them much more portable than a hard board which needs to be carried or placed in a truck bed or car rack system.