iSUP’s are extremely popular with an ever-increasing fan base. Finding the best inflatable paddle however, can be a bit of a challenge. It’s true that for all-around versatility, portability, and durability, they’re hard to beat when compared to their solid counterparts.

So if you’re interested in trying out a new and exciting sport or you’ve been looking for something to do in the summer that isn’t the same old thing every year. Then perhaps paddle boarding is just what you’ve been searching for.

We’ve picked 10 of the best and summarised their pros and cons in an easy-to-follow guide below.

Top 10 Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards Under Review

  • iROCKER All-Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board (Editors Top Pick)
  • [amazon fields=”B07MNWCB63″ value=”thumb”]
  • [amazon fields=”B08N5MP8M6″ value=”thumb”]
  • [amazon fields=”B08881MYCS” value=”thumb”]
  • [amazon fields=”B09BBH6T57″ value=”thumb”]
  • [amazon fields=”B088889JYJ” value=”thumb”]
  • [amazon fields=”B09G9XZ1LH” value=”thumb”]
  • [amazon fields=”B079FYRYDK” value=”thumb”]
  • [amazon fields=”B08NFJ1BXF” value=”thumb”]
  • [amazon fields=”B08HX3FR5Q” value=”thumb”]

Review

[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]BEST ALL-AROUND iSUP (Editors Top Pick)

iROCKER All-Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

The iRocker All Around Inflatable Paddle Board is the perfect board for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. It’s extremely stable in all water conditions, even in choppy water it’s rigid and durable. Plus it’s pretty good value for this caliber of board!

This inflatable paddle board will give you an incredible experience on the water every time you go out. Whether you are new to stand-up paddle boarding or have been doing it for years, this is the perfect choice for anyone looking to get into SUP or upgrade their current setup.

The iRocker All-Around Inflatable SUP can be used by yourself or you can bring along friends and family because its weight limit is up to 370 lbs. Its sporty shape allows for fast-tracking, it also feels quite similar to a hard board when fully inflated to 15 PSI.

The quality of accessories at this price point are very high with a floating carbon fiber paddle, double chamber pump and sturdy backpack that has wheels for easy traveling.

The iRocker All-Around not only looks great but performs great too.

Things we like:

  • Stable in most water conditions
  • Excellent weight limit
  • Floating carbon paddle
  • Triple action pump
  • Wheeled travel bag
  • Paddle can be converted to kayak paddle (not supplied)

Things we don’t:

  • Not much to see here!

Specifications

Size:10′ x 32″ x 6″ inches (L x W x H)
Weight:24lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:370lbs
Ideal for:All levels
Package includes:Board, paddle, backpack, triple action hand pump, leash, fins x 3
Colors:Grey, orange, teal & white


Read Buyer Feedback >>


[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]MOST RIGID INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARDS

Bluefin Cruise Carbon iSUP with Kayak Conversion Kit

[amazon fields=”B07MNWCB63″ value=”thumb”]

The Bluefin 10’8″ Carbon iSUP does almost everything pretty well. Some would argue that it’s a jack of all trades and master of none, but this review is not looking for a speentry-levelrd but the best all-round iSUP. The Carbon from Bluefin ticks an awful lot of boxes in this regard.

Bluefin Carbon utilizes some of the most advanced construction techniques on the market with its FRS carbon composite rail, 1000 Denier Exo Surface Laminate & Pro-Weave Drop Stitch. These materials make it so tough that it can hold up to 28 PSI. The robust carbon fiber rovings woven into a diagonal twill pattern produce a 3K Carbon fiber rail layer which has unique properties of 210gsm carbon textile, allowing both stiffness and flexibility in one lightweight material. The mid-rail is heat welded between internal and external rail tape to produce outstanding rigidity.

Included is a 3 piece carbon fiber paddle with an ergonomic shaft weighing almost 70% less than standard SUP paddles, and most crucially, it floats!

The shape of the board with its more pointed nose and leaner profile means that it is more suited to cruising/touring, but with its fin box system which allows you to change the fin set up super easily, and its kayak conversion kit included as standard, we feel that this iSUP package is one of the most versatile available on the market.

Its rigidity also endears it to the paddle surfing community as limiting flex is important when it comes to hitting the waves with an iSUP.

If you’re looking for an inflatable paddleboard that you are less likely to get bored with and one that offers hard-wearing longevity, this may be the board for you.

Things we like:

  • Strong construction
  • Super rigid
  • Floating carbon fiber paddle
  • Versatile kayak conversion kit
  • Triple-action pump
  • Multiple D rings

Things we don’t:

  • Not as cheap as some

Specifications

Size:10’8″ x 32″ x 6″ inches (L x W x H)
Weight:25lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:309lbs
Ideal for:All levels
Package includes:Board, paddle, backpack, hand pump, leash, fins
Colors:Grey, green, teal

[amazon fields=”B07MNWCB63″ value=”thumb”]


[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]BEST INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARD FOR HEAVY PERSON

iROCKER Cruiser Inflatable Paddle Board

[amazon fields=”B08N5MP8M6″ value=”thumb”]

The iRocker Cruiser has a carrying capacity of up to 400lbs, making it a great choice for the heavier paddler

iRocker was established in 2015 and has quickly become synonymous with quality paddle boards. The Cruiser is no exception.

The dimensions of the Cruiser are pretty impressive at 10ft 6″ long and 33in wide. This makes it an extremely stable board and offers a considerable surface area. The wide tail adds to this feeling of space and stability.

iRocker has put thought into the cruiser iSUP package and addressed key issues that every inflatable paddle boarder faces. Those issues are most notably – time and energy expenditure to inflate the board and ease of transportation. The iRocker comes with a very efficient dual-chamber, triple action hand pump to expedite inflation, and is one of the most comfortable carry bags on the market.

There is no less attention paid to the paddle which is made from carbon and designed to float. Moreover, with the addition of another blade (sold separately) this paddle converts to a double-ended kayak paddle.

Things we like:

  • Load capacity
  • Large surface area
  • Super stability
  • Floating carbon paddle
  • High quality, comfortable backpack
  • Excellent pump
  • Plenty of D rings

Things we don’t:

  • Not as fast as some, but speed is not the goal for this board

Specifications

Size:10’6″ x 33″ x 6″ inches (L x W x H)
Weight:25lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:400lbs
Ideal for:All levels
Package includes:Board, carbon paddle, backpack, dual chamber pump, leash, fins x 3
Colors:Orange, pink, teal, white

[amazon fields=”B08N5MP8M6″ value=”thumb”]


[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]BEST INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARD FOR BEGINNERS

ISLE Pioneer Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

[amazon fields=”B08881MYCS” value=”thumb”]

Have you ever wanted to try paddle boarding but wanted to do many types of paddling?

If so, the ISLE Pioneer Inflatable Paddle Board could be perfect for you! This board is great for beginners and riders of all sizes. It’s a versatile board that can be used in flat water or ocean conditions. You can even bring your pets and kids along with you.

The design and dimensions of 10’6 long and 34” wide, make this a great, stable beginner paddleboard for adults who want to have some fun on the water without too many dunks! The excellent surface area combines stability and maneuverability and means there’s room for cargo, pets, and kids. If you’re a family of four, two of these boards would be perfect for 2 + 2 (parent & kid) paddle boarding.

We love the aesthetics of this board with its nautical inference and its well thought out design. Little additions like the velcro straps to secure your paddle are small but meaningful.

ISLE is supremely confident in their paddle boards and rightly so, they offer a no-quibble 60-day money-back guarantee. If you’re a beginner to paddle boarding this is a no-brainer in our eyes.

Things we like:

  • Lightweight
  • Large surface area
  • Super stability
  • Superior construction
  • Good for all water types
  • Paddle straps
  • Carbon paddle

Things we don’t:

  • Nothing much to see here!

Specifications

Size:10’6″ x 34″ x 6″ inches (L x W x H)
Weight:21lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:285lbs
Ideal for:Beginners and all levels
Package includes:Board, carbon paddle, backpack, dual chamber pump, leash, fin
Colors:Blue, green, coral

[amazon fields=”B08N5MP8M6″ value=”thumb”][amazon fields=”B08881MYCS” value=”thumb”]


[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]BEST INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARD FOR KIDS

THURSO SURF Prodigy Junior Inflatable SUP

[amazon fields=”B07QGQFJ8X” value=”thumb”]

So your kid is sick of being a passenger on your paddle board or he/she has used you adult board and found it near impossible to manouver, it’s probably time to get them their own board. Step up the THURSO SURF PRODIGY!

This board offers support upto 165lbs but recommends 80lbs for peak performance.

This board has everything you’d want in a paddle board for kids. It’s possibly the strongest junior board on the market with a double layer construction made from triple/quad military-grade PVC coatings on the deck and side. This board is perfect for anyone who loves to paddle on all types of water including surf or paddling in calm waters. It comes with 3 removable fins allowing two different set-ups. It even comes with a carbon shaft paddle which is far superior than most other junior packages that are made from aluminum or fiberglass; it weighs only 2 lbs., it floats, and can be converted to a kayak paddle (sold separately).

Not only will your kid love its look, you’ll love the fact that it’s durable enough to weather all the bashes and rough treatment it may suffer at the hands of your young ones.

The one thing to consider when buying this board is that a pump is NOT included. The thinking here is that usually these boards are purchased to accompany the parent’s board which usually comes with a pump.

Thurso supply a pump separately which you can purchase here: [amazon fields=”B0721D397V” value=”thumb”]

Things we like:

  • Great proportions for kids
  • Lightweight
  • Carbon FLOATING paddle
  • Super stability
  • Durable construction
  • Good for all water types

Things we don’t:

  • No pump included

Specifications

Size:7’6″ x 30″ x 3″ inches (L x W x H)
Weight:16lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:165lbs (recommended: 80lbs)
Ideal for:Kids – All water conditions
Package includes:Board, carbon paddle, backpack, leash, fins x 3
Colors:Azure, emerald, magenta

[amazon fields=”B09BBH6T57″ value=”thumb”]


[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]BEST MULTI-PERSON INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARD

ISLE Megalodon Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

[amazon fields=”B088889JYJ” value=”thumb”]

Do you want to take your family out on the water?

The ISLE Megalodon inflatable SUP is perfect for families who want to spend time together. It’s great for kids, teens, and adults of all ages. You can even bring along your dog, heck bring the neighbors dog too!! This SUP has a capacity of 1,050 pounds so it can hold everyone in your neighborhood, ok maybe that’s stretching it a bit but at least your family members. The 15-foot version is a whopping 56inches wide so there’s plenty of room for everyone. And with 16 strategically placed handles, carrying this SUP is easy as pie!

If you have a lot going on in life and don’t always have time to go out on the water with your family or friends, this board is incredibly versatile – it’s perfect for yoga, fitness classes, fishing trips, and more. In fact, you could practice yoga with a friend on this board. With a Military-Grade PVC construction, it’s also pretty robust against any dings or collisions with rocks.

This board is so big it can be used as a floating deck.

For all-round family fun, this is a difficult product to overlook for good times shared on the water.

Things we like:

  • Huuuge surface area
  • Fun for a group
  • Many comfortable carry handles
  • Super stable
  • Durable construction

Things we don’t:

  • Don’t expect this to turn on a dime!
  • Only 2 paddles included

Specifications

Size:2 versions: 12ft/15ft x 45in/56in x 8in (L x W x H)
Weight:34lbs/50lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:450/1050lbs
Ideal for:Families / group fun
Package includes:Board, 2 x carbon paddles , backpack, pump, center fin
Colors:Blue

[amazon fields=”B09BBH6T57″ value=”thumb”][amazon fields=”B088889JYJ” value=”thumb”]


[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]BEST VALUE INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARD

FunWater Ultra-Light iSUP

[amazon fields=”B09G9XZ1LH” value=”thumb”]

If you feel that paddle boarding looks like a great sport and exercise, but you think it might be expensive, or the boards might be heavy to carry around.

Then the Funwater Inflatable Paddle Board might just change your mind!

The Funwater iSUP is the perfect entry-level light weight inflatable paddle board that targets newbie or budget paddlers, but also more advanced paddlers who want something fun to play on with friends or just have some fun in general. It’s extremely lightweight at just 17.6lbs and transporting it is pretty easy even for a youngster.

The Funwater Inflatable Paddle Board is an inexpensive way to get started in paddle boarding. It’s easy to transport and store, so you can take it anywhere with you for a quick trip on the water. And if your board gets damaged or stolen, no worries! You won’t have invested too much money into it.

More experienced paddlers may find the board frustrating if you’re looking for performance with more aggressive paddling, but otherwise, this is excellent value for money.

Do not buy this board at this price point and expect the highest quality of accessories. Expect basic accessories that do the job and you won’t be disappointed.

Things we like:

  • Price!!
  • Very lightweight
  • Good construction
  • Decent performance
  • Did we say price?

Things we don’t:

  • Pump feels flimsy but it’s hard to pick fault when staring at the price tag!

Specifications

Size:10ft6″ x 33in x 6in (L x W x H)
Weight:17.6lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:330lbs
Ideal for:Budget conscious
Package includes:Board, adjustable paddle, backpack, hand pump, leash, waterproof bag, 3 x fins
Colors:Pink, blue, green, white green

[amazon fields=”B09BBH6T57″ value=”thumb”][amazon fields=”B09G9XZ1LH” value=”thumb”]


[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]ROC Inflatable Paddle Board

[amazon fields=”B079FYRYDK” value=”thumb”]

The ROC’s one of the lightest inflatable paddle boards on the market at just 17.5lbs making it extremely easy to carry. This is particularly important if you have to inflate the board in an area that’s some distance from water entry.

The ROC makes it to our list for a number of reasons which include good value, a good size, and carrying capacity. All of which makes it a great choice as an entry-level iSUP as it ticks many boxes.

A decent quality board at an extremely low price point creates a low barrier to entry and entices more people into the sport. As you progress you may move onto other boards, but if you lose interest in the sport you haven’t invested too much money and it won’t hurt so much.

As a USA family-owned business, ROC provides a 1-year full manufacturer’s warranty.

Things we like:

  • Lightweight for easy transport
  • Good value
  • Wide color choice

Things we don’t:

  • Aluminum paddle
  • Single chamber hand pump

Specifications

Size:10ft x 32in x 6in (L x W x H)
Weight:17.5lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:300lbs
Ideal for:People looking for a very lightweight board
Package includes:Board, 3 piece paddle, backpack, hand pump, leash, waterproof bag, fin
Colors:Aqua, black, blue, charcoal, desert, green, pink

[amazon fields=”B09BBH6T57″ value=”thumb”][amazon fields=”B079FYRYDK” value=”thumb”]


[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]BOTE HD Aero Inflatable Paddle Board

[amazon fields=”B08NFJ1BXF” value=”thumb”]

If you’re looking for a paddle board that’s easy to transport and carry, but still offers the performance and stability of a hard SUP – then look no further than BOTE.

Their inflatable paddle boards are designed to be light and portable, so they can go just about anywhere, you can fit them in your car or on an airplane. But don’t let their portability fool you! They offer top-notch performance at affordable prices.

The BOTE Aero Inflatable Paddle Board is one of our most popular models because it combines all-around versatility with lightweight portability – perfect for anyone who wants the convenience of an inflatable paddle board without sacrificing quality. With its stable yet agile ride, convenient storage bag, and high level of durability, this stand up paddle board will keep up with whatever adventures that your life on the water throws your way!

This board offers some serious floating real estate as its length and width offer a great deal of surface area and stability at 11ft 6in long and 34in wide.

Things we like:

  • Good all round performance
  • Durable construction
  • Large surface area
  • Stable

Things we don’t:

  • Standard paddle & pump
  • Not the lightest

Specifications

Size:11′ 6″ x 34in x 6in (L x W x H)
Weight:30lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:315lbs
Ideal for:All water types
Package includes:Board, 3 piece adjustable paddle with sheath, backpack, hand pump, rac receivers, repair kit, fin
Colors:Bug slinger echo, Native whale shark

[amazon fields=”B09BBH6T57″ value=”thumb”][amazon fields=”B08NFJ1BXF” value=”thumb”]


[amazon fields=”B003E6JYKY” value=”thumb”]Red Paddle Co 10’6 Ride SE

[amazon fields=”B08HX3FR5Q” value=”thumb”]

Let’s start by saying that the Red Paddle Co is so confident about the build quality of the Ride SE iSUP that they provide each with a 5-year warranty! That’s very comforting to the buyer!

Paddleboards are a fun way to get out on the water, but high-quality ones tend not to be cheap. If you want a board that will last and work well for years to come, then you may have to be willing to pay a little more.

The problem is that some of the boards available at the big box stores aren’t very high quality. They can damage easily or just don’t perform as advertised. You end up spending more money in the long run because your board breaks down faster than it should – which means you need another one sooner rather than later!

This isn’t true with all paddleboards though – there are some great ones out there made from high-quality materials by companies who care about their customers and stand behind their products 100%. One company that makes amazing paddleboards is Red Paddle Co., based in Destin, Florida!

The Ride SE can be inflated up to 25psi which offers tremendous rigidity and limited flex for an inflatable paddle board, not quite up to the Bluefin Carbon but runs a close second.

Things we like:

  • Good all round performance
  • VERY durable construction
  • 5 year warranty
  • Excellent pump
  • High quality accessories
  • Rigid

Things we don’t:

  • Not the cheapest
  • Paddle not included
  • Not the highest load capacity

Specifications

Size:10′ 6″ x 32in x 4.7in (L x W x H)
Weight:22lbs
Maximum Load Capacity:220lbs
Ideal for:All water types
Package includes:Board, double chamber high pressure hand pump, heavy duty wheeled bag
Colors:One choice

[amazon fields=”B09BBH6T57″ value=”thumb”][amazon fields=”B08HX3FR5Q” value=”thumb”]


Things to consider before buying your iSUP

Not all inflatable boards are created equal! If you want a board that is powerful, performs well on flat water or in waves, and can handle lots of different activities without fuss then you’ll need to invest in the best iSUP for your particular needs.

To help you figure out which one will work best for you, here are some things to consider before you make your purchase:

Are you using the inflatable SUP for just relaxing on flat water, or will it be used for surfing and white water too? If you want more than one activity then you’ll need a board that is versatile enough to handle all of them, an All-Around iSUP.

If you’re goal is to go paddle board surfing in the waves and only this, then you may need to consider switching your attention to solid stand up paddle boards as these perform better in this activity. The edges of solid SUP boards have a sharper profile and cut into the wave for better all round surf performance.

Where will you be using your iSUP? Will you have to walk longer distances with your board or full backpack to the water entry point? If so then wight is a strong consideration for you and you should look at lighter boards.

I could go into much greater detail here, but for an in-depth investigation into making your decision you should read our article: How to Choose the Right Paddle Board.

Ask yourself what’s most important for your iSUP

Performance / Activity

As discussed above, deciding which activity you intend for your inflatable SUP board will dictate the type of board that will best suit your needs. If you want to do a bit of everything then a good All-Around board would be best.

If you’re looking for speed then you should be looking at longer, narrower boards, such as the Elite MSL from Red Paddle CO which measures 14′ in length and 27″ wide.

if you’re thinking of using it for yoga then you should look for longish boards that have plenty of width. This offers a good amount of surface area and a large comfortable deck pad for you to perform your poses. The Isle Pioneer would be a good yoga board at 10’6″ and 34″ wide.

Budget

After assessing your board for your activity of choice, most people’s next consideration is budget. In all fairness, the majority of high quality boards from manufacturers that have a reputable brand name fall in the $500 to $1300 price bracket. For this you normally get 2+ years of warranty with the top brands offering 5 years. This is a tell tale sign of a manufacturers comittment to quality construction.

That’s not to say that budget boards don’t have their place, quite the opposite. My first board was just a few hundred dollars and was good enough to introduce me to the sport and made me want more.

If you are fortunate enough to not have to worry about budget then the world is your lobster, you can focus in on getting the optimum board for your activity and required performance.

Size

Board size is important when looking at inflatable sups. Your weight will determine the dimensions you require from your inflatable SUP. The average board size ranges from 10′ to 11’6 long and 30′ to 34′ wide. Thickness can vary from 4′ to 6′. All of the boards listed here and all other stand up paddle boards on the market provide a weight capacity.

Stability

The size and dimensions of your inflatable board with determine the stability and maneuverability. Wider boards are generally more stable and shorter boards are more maneuverable. Shorter inflatable boards are usually chosen for paddle board surfing.

The best inflatable sup boards for cruising are longer, slightly narrower boards, these are also classed as a touring board, they have a little less drag, track well and travel easier and faster through the water.

Durability

Inflatable stand up paddle boards are popular because of their durability amongst other things. A solid board is more prone to dents and dings because it’s unforgiving. An

The old addage of ‘You get what you pay for” generally holds true for most purchases. Higher quality materials and latest construction methods generally take time and money.

You should be asking yourself “is this board fit for purpose?” The number of years offered in warranty is usually a give away. Having said that, even some of the budget boards are utilising military grade PVC and drop stitch technology. An inflatable stand up paddle board will more likely bounce off rocks and bend in collisions.

There is of course the chance of a puncture with an iSup that you don’t get with a solid board, we suggest staying away from all barnacles!

Accessories

The quality of accessories can also give you an insight into the overall quality of the board, admittedly though, this isn’t always the case. The iRocker (editors choice) in this article has some excellent accessories such as a carbon fiber paddle and dual chamber pump.

You should also look for easily removable fins, these are a normally a simple mechanism where the fin slides into a fin box without the need for tools.

A comfortable backpack is essential if you’re going to carry your iSUP any distance, wheels are a bonus!

Board features are also good to look out for such as a comfortable traction pad, and a paddle holder, especially if your paddle does not float.

Frequently asked questions

There are many factors that determine this, but generally wider iSUPs are more stable.

Yes. Unless you want high performance paddle board surfing, inflatable paddleboards are excellent and especially good for beginners.

These are generally very long and narrow, such as the Elite MSL from Red Paddle CO which measures 14′ in length and 27″ wide.

A good quality iSUP should last for many years, a lot of boards are now made with dual layer military grade PVC. Board care and the amount of use or abuse you give your SUP are obvious factors also.

There are many great brands of paddle boards on the market now, some have been around for a long time such as ISLE, iRocker, Red, BOTE and more.

Inflatable stand up paddle boards are great in the ocean, just look for shorter boards for maneuverability and ones with a slightly scooped nose to cut through surf. For optimum surf performance though, you should look for a solid SUP as the sharper edge profiles cut into the wave for better control.

Conclusion

Inflatable SUPs may be the best option for beginners and anyone looking to get into stand up paddle boarding as they are durable, affordable, versatile and easy to store.

Paddle boarding is a sport that can be enjoyed by people who want to spend time outdoors, get their heart rate up, do yoga or just have fun. With so many types of board available, it may seem difficult at first to figure out which one would work best for you.

If you’re just starting out you can’t go wrong with the iROCKER All-Around or the [amazon fields=”B08881MYCS” value=”thumb”], just two of our favourites. If you’re working to a budget then the [amazon fields=”B09G9XZ1LH” value=”thumb”] is a pretty good entry level board that can take you far.

Hopefully this iSUP review has helped narrow down your decision! Either way we hope it has encouraged you to invest in yourself and spend more time outdoors connecting with nature.

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