The 10 Best Starter Paddle Board, Tested And Researched
By, Katie FinnUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
Glide and skim the water like a sea creature with the new SereneLife Board. Perfect for beginners, this paddle board is equipped with a no-slip soft top that cushions fall and slips. Outfitted with triple bottom panel fins, steering and handling are incredibly easy, allowing you to have exceptional surf control. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards
The extra wide design creates an incredible all-around board perfect for riders of all skill levels. The board has a weight limit of 350 pounds and is 20% lighter than competitors' boards, making them ideal for a variety of waterways such as the ocean, freshwater lakes, and rivers. Read Review
3. Best Reliable: Aqua Plus 6inches Thick Inflatable Levels Stand Up Paddle Board
This board is made of Military Ultra Light PVC Drop Stitch Fabric, providing a stable and durable ride that feels just like a hard board. With 5mm Comfort , diamond groove traction for grip and 316 Stainless Steel D-Rings and bungee on front deck for storage, you'll have an unforgettable time out on the water! Read Review
4. Best Smart: ADVENOR Paddle Board Wide Inflatable Stand Up
This extra wide and longer design offers better balance and stability with a non-slip EVA deck pad made of high quality material. Three detachable bottom fins help improve overall speed and handling, making it ultra-lightweight and easy to carry. Read Review
5. Best Style: FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board
Built with ultra light military grade double wall PVC, this board is 35% lighter than similar size products while still offering excellent wear resistance, toughness and long service life. The unique ergonomic handle design allows you to inflate your paddle more easily in a shorter time. Read Review
Paddle boarding is an exhilarating and rewarding way to get out on the water and explore the outdoors. Whether you’re new to the sport or looking for an upgrade, finding the best starter paddle board for your needs can be a daunting task. With so many designs, sizes, and materials to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which board is right for you.
But with the right research and understanding of what you need, you can find the best starter paddle board to get you out on the water. From all-around boards to specialized models, there’s a board that’s perfect for you. With the right paddle board, you'll be ready to hit the water and start your paddle boarding journey in no time.
After lots of research based on customer feedback, We think the best starter paddle board is SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board. Perfect for beginners, this inflatable paddle board is designed with a no-slip soft top that cushions falls when accidents occur. Steering and handling are easy thanks to triple bottom panel fins, giving you exceptional surf control as you glide and skim the water like a sea creature. We have provided you with a detailed buyer's guide and many other good choices so that you can decide which one is the best for your requirements.
RELATED: Are you looking for a best beginner sup board that meets your needs while also being cost-effective? Find the best one for you here.
Our Top Picks
ALL-IN-1 BLOW UP PADDLE BOARD KIT: Complete with must-have paddle board accessories, our SUP paddle board will have you ready to hit the waves Includes 10' board, coiled ankle cuff safety leash, Upgraded Aluminum paddle, manual air pump & storage bag
BEST PADDLING MANEUVERABILITY: Outfitted with triple bottom panel fins, steering & handling the stand up inflatable paddle boards is incredibly easy Offering exceptional surf control, you'll be gliding & skimming the water like a sea creature
SOFT, STABLE & ANTI-SLIP TOP DECK: Perfect for beginners, we've upgraded this inflatable paddle board with a no-slip soft top that cushions your fall when slips or accidents occur They happen to the best of us, so might as well be prepared
PORTABLE & INFLATABLE SUP BOARD: 100% travel-friendly, this unique SUP inflatable paddle board is preferred by those who have a knack for adventure Take it with you on surfing excursions or keep it in your car for those times you want to explore
EXTRA WIDE FOR BETTER BALANCE: Measuring 10’5 feet long & 30 inches wide, balancing & stabilizing on top of our SUP board is a breeze
We stand by the quality of our Company and are happy to provide a 1 year manufacturer’s warranty at no additional cost. Supported by the best USA based customer service in the industry. You can trust Roc as the leader in quality and fun.
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Our extra wide design creates an incredible all-around board for riders of all skill levels. These kits can be used in the ocean, freshwater lakes, and rivers. Our board is an industry-leading weight of only 17.5 pounds—that’s 20% lighter than competitors’. Board dimensions are 10’ long by 33” wide and 6” thick with a weight limit of 350 pounds. Pets love them too
Roc's premium inflatable paddle board is made of the highest quality military grade material. We provide the most durable lightweight boards on the market using the same materials as boards costing twice as much. All boards come complete with everything you need to get out and enjoy the water right away
Over 9,000 Reviews and counting with a 5 Star rating.
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What Makes Roc Paddle Boards The Top USA Paddle Board Company?
Complete Package : Board, Fully adjustable aluminium paddle measures from 65-82inches long, Journey ISUP travel backpack, Shoulder Strap, Coil leash,Waterproof bag, Removable fin, Double Action Pump : during the 1st phase of the inflation use double action:clip closed Fig.1, when the pressure arrives to a relatively higher value, use single action:clip open,Fig.2.
Ultra Portable : Deflated it's only 1 foot in diameter by 37". Inflated size : 10'6" length, 33" wide and 6" Thick. Weight 20lbs, Maximum capactiy is up to 330lbs, Stable and great for all skill levels and conditions. Aqua Plus board provide excellent glides for cruising, fitness, fishing, and exploring.
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Rigid Design : It feels very similar to a hard board.The board is made of Military Ultra Light PVC Drop Stitch Fabric. Constructed with additional PVC layer of board rails are highly strengthened the board.
Deck Features : 5mm Comfort diamond groove traction for grip. 11pcs of 316 Stainless Steel D-Rings and bungee on front deck for storage.
BOARD DIMENSION 11ft length,33 inches width and 6 inches thickness,achieved amazing balance ability.Weight limit up to 330 lbs.We also offer 12 months parts WARRANTY and TELEPHONE service to secure customer experience.
FAST INFLATION We provide DOUBLE ACTION HAND PUMP which can inflate and deflate quickly.The height-adjustable aluminum paddle(65-82 inches)is suitable for most people.
PACKAGE INCLUDING adjustable aluminum paddle,safety leash,hand pump,waterproof bag,upgraded backpack,three removable fins and repair kit.
EXTRA WIDE AND LONGER DESIGN FOR BETTER BALANCE Premium inflatable paddle board with non-slip EVA deck pad is made of high quality material that can able to withstand high pressure.33 inches width board provided great stability.
ULTRA LIGHT PADDLE BOARD THAT MADE YOU EASY TO CARRY Three detachable bottom fins help improve overall speed and handling.Inflatable stand up paddle board can be used in exploring,touring,fishing,yoga.Also suitable in the ocean,fresh water lakes,and rivers.
【Package Including】1×inflatable paddle board, 1×adjustable sup paddle ,3×fins , 1×sup pump , 1×backpack , 1×waterproof phone bag, 1×leash .
【Materials and Parameters】The new ultra light military grade double wall PVC is 35% lighter than similar size products (20.4pounds), with excellent wear resistance, toughness and long service life. The inflatable paddleboards standard size is 11’× 33" × 6 ", carrying 330 pounds.
【Customer Service】If you have any questions about the products, we will provide you with solutions at the first time. We provide 30-day no-hassle return service, 60-day warranty for paddles, and 1-year warranty for accessories.
【User Scenarios】Funwater paddle boards is your first choice for water sports.Funwater inflatable paddle boards (SUP) are suitable for all skill Levels to enjoy themselves, explore, or adventure in water areas.
【Design and Use】Funwater's unique ergonomic handle design allows you to inflate your paddle more easily in a shorter time. The sensitive barometer ensures that you can read the sup inflation pressure value (12-15psi) at any time. The multifunctional elastic string can tightly fix any objects placed on the inflatable paddleboard. The multipurpose and ultra-large backpack can help you easily carry the paddle to any of your dream places.
ENJOY AN EASY & ECONOMIC WATER SPORT: This up-and-coming outdoor activity is loved by first-time participants, athletes, and more because of its versatility for physical activity and lesiure.
BE A CONFIDENT RIDER: The top deck is a soft, cushioned non-slip traction pad to boost the rider's balance and grip. This is a safety feature to decrease the amount of falls the user experiences.
DESIGNED FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS: Measuring in at 9' X 30" X 6, " the wide base provides stability and balance for all kids, adults, beginners, and experts under 220lbs. An inflatable SUP is more stable, portable, and affordable compared to a hard board.
COMPLETE SUP STARTER KIT: Get on the water in minutes with everything you need! Contents of this set include 1 SUP, bungee cord tie-downs, 1 adjustable aluminum paddle, 1 hand pump, 1 travel bag, 1 surf leash, 3 steering fins, and a repair kit/patch.
EASY TRANSPORT & STORAGE: A convenient deck handle makes it easy to carry the SUP to the beach or lake. After deflation, the paddle board folds into a travel-friendly bag that can be compactly stored in the car for all your excursions.
SMOOTH, STABLE RIDE: High maneuverability and lightness make this ISUP ideal for adventures in the ocean, lake, or rivers with flat water and small wave conditions. The rider can even kneel on the board for added comfort & stability.
A STEP ABOVE TRADITIONAL SUPS: Our Hydro-Force paddle boards are made with extremely resistant TriTech and Drop Stitch materials. Thicker and more stable than traditional boards, they are also more convenient due to quick inflation and deflation.
🏄【CUSTOMER AS GOD SERVICE】 This DAMA inflatable stand up paddle board is an all-around multifunctional board, with a weight capacity of 352 lbs, it is suitable for Yoga, Fishing, Surfing or carrying kids and pets together in both fresh and salt water. As a manufacturer, we stand by the quality of our stand up paddle boards and treat every customer as god, and we are glad to provide a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty at no additional cost. Time will tell how perfect DAMA is in quality and fun!
🏄【BLOG HELPER SPORT CAMERA MOUNT】 Want to share your life and become an online celebrity like other bloggers? Want to record your happy time with your friends on water? Still take pictures with the cell phone in your hand? We specially add a Sport camera bracket mount on inflatable stand up paddle board, install your sport camera on the paddle board directly. This updated design belong exclusively to DAMA. Start to record your fun time on water!
🏄【FULL ACCESSORIES PLUS WATERPROOF BAG】 It comes with everything you need to start paddling : the 11’ inflatable paddle board, Sport camera bracket mount on the sup board, 4-piece length adjustable floating kayak paddle, hand pump which has air pressure gauge, safety ankle leash, repair kit（NOTED: glue not included), removable fin, 5L waterproof bag for essentials such as keys and food, transparent waterproof cell phone bag, a large comfortable backpack to hold everything.
🏄【EXTRA STEEL D RINGS EXTRA FUN】 10 minutes to inflate and 5 minutes to deflate, this inflatable paddle board is very convenient to set up. In addition to the grip handle, the unique extra steel D rings on the paddle board bring extra convenience to carry. You can also use these rings to connect your sup board with your friend’s, and enjoy the traveling together.
🏄【MILITARY PVC & FLOATING PADDLE】 DAMA inflatable stand up paddle board is made of Military Ultra Light PVC Drop Stitch Fabric. That creates a stiff, rigid and sturdy blow up sup board which is durable for years. The premium anti-slip soft deck ensures safety and enhances grip. Our 4-piece collapsible aluminum kayak paddle is floating, it will NEVER sink, that provides great convenience to you. This floating paddle has an ergonomic weight, which is 45% lighter than the standard SUP paddles.
【Much Fun】Large EVA foot pad on the board provides grip and a superior paddling experience yet maintaining optimal portability. Built in cargo staps for carrying light cargo. Get away from the urban jungle and breathe the fresh air on the water. You can take a cruise through Oceans, lakes or rivers
【Lightweight & Portable】Weight only 18.52 lbs.Can be inflated or deflated quickly for easy storage and transport. You can take it where you go with the carrying backpack
【Triple Fin】The triple bottom panel fins help to improve overall speed, handling and steering. Include 3 detachable extra durable removable fins for easier use by kids, teens and adults alike
【Ultra Wide & Stable】30” of deck width for improved stability and balance while standing. Suitable for travel, recreation, touring in flat water, river runs and small waves. Also good choice for beginner riders up to 450lbs. 6 inches thickness makes the paddle board will not draw deep
【Package Included】We offer a black paddle as picture shown. Every paddle board comes with paddling essentials, including hand pump, fin, backpack, coil leash and universal waterproof case. We offer only the highest quality products and customer service
ELECTRIC PUMP STANDING BY - Valwix stand up paddleboard comes with a dual stages inflation/deflation portable electric air pump. 8-min quick inflation which can blow up 2 SUPs in a row for family & friends. Do not let 20-min hand pumping kill your paddling vibe.
VLOGGER FRIENDLY CAMERA MOUNT BASE - Valwix SUP board features a built-in action camera mount to record exciting footage of active boarders. The extra-grippy EVA pad offers a large, comfortable mat for versatile activities like fishing, yoga, and recreational paddling.
THOUGHTFUL PADDLE BOARD BUNDLE - Valwix inflatable SUP board packed with all necessary accessories including a 20L dry bag, leash, repair kit, and a pedal. Incredible travel-friendly and convenient storage with its original high-quality backpack.
ALL-LEVEL USER ORIENTED DESIGN - Inflatable stand-up paddle board with an extra bigger size of 12’ x 32’’x 6’’. Perfect fit for all-level paddlers under most water conditions with a great balance of speed and maneuverability. Made of triple-layer military-grade PVC and drop-stitch core. Ultra-lightweight of 18 lbs and 350 lbs max weight capacity e.g. 1 adult + 2 kids, or puppies.
SUP BOARD OF STABLE & EXTENDABLE - Perfect pulling hall shape with extra width & high-quality anti-slip deck material for incredible stability on flat water, lake, river, and even choppy water for its all-around & touring design. 5 D-rings are compatible with a kayak seat, cooler deck bag, and other gears for fishing and etc for a variety of activities.
🌊【ANTI SLIP DECK PAD】Luxury customized EVA footpad is proceeded by diamond grooving, which simulates crocodile skin. So that it has ultimate softness and provides a gentle touch. Besides, the anti-slip deck pad provides incredible grip for paddlers; The Sport-Boost improves resistance to skid and pressure for stand up inflatable paddle board. Even if a first-time SUPer can easily control the non-slip SUP board without fear of falling into water.
🏄【+20% PORTABILITY & 3 MIN FAST INFLATION】Worry about your trunk can't hold the touring paddle board? Travel Friendly! After folded and stored, it is smaller and portable! We makes inflatable stand-up board lighter. Beside, exclusive FAST IINFLATING, together with the air pump and valve, make it easy to finish inflation and deflation in 3 MIN for kayak paddle board. SUP paddle board is easy to carry when driving, hiking or adventuring.
🏄【PLACTICAL WIDE-BODY & STREAMLINE DESIGN】Before MOUSA, you'd never seen a paddle board so artful and practical: Inspired by Tropical Sunset, made by an invited maestro, this is an artistic paddle board. MOUSA All around SUP board is made with golden ratio, 10'8'' x 33" x 6", with up to 330 lb. weight capacity and wide-body design. These guarantee the stability of fishing, yoga and family fun while streamlined design ensures high-efficiency paddling.
🔧【FULL ACCESSORIES & SPORT CAMERA MOUNT】Great News to Vlogger - Camera Mount is Included for who is keen on filming, Photography or sharing life. SUP Inflatable board comes with all professional accessories: ankle straps, quick inflating pump, three removable fins, length adjustable aluminum paddle, mobile phone waterproof bag, 5L waterproof backpack, shoulder strap. MOUSA stand up inflatable board meet the needs of professional athletes, sea sports enthusiasts, beginners, elder players, youth.
💪【UPGRADED 30% RESISTANCE & DURABILITY】 Worried that such a MASTERPIECE is fragile? NO WORRY! With 20 years of industry experience, we use trustworthy materials and double drop stitch core to improve wear resistance and durability. Moreover, double PVC rail layers are creatively applied to reinforce this stand up Sup inflatable cruiser. Thus, being applicable to sea water, MOUSA SUP board is competent in all kinds of harsh environment.
What to Look For in a best starter paddle board?
A range of elements, including those listed below, influence the best starter paddle board. The study process varies depending on the material. We'll be able to assist you and provide solutions since we're here to help you.
Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best starter paddle board:
SUP Volume And Weight Capacity
The board's length, width, and thickness determine the volume and weight capacities. These dimensions are combined in various ways by SUP manufacturers to create different performance characteristics.
Solid Vs. Inflatable SUPs
Solid SUPs
Solid boards are made with EPS foam that is wrapped in epoxy and fiberglass. It is lightweight, strong and economical. While carbon fiber is lighter and more rigid than other options, it can also be less expensive. Although plastic SUPs can be more cost-effective, they tend to weigh in excess of the other materials and are less durable. For a stunning appearance, some SUPs include lightweight wood.
Inflatable SUPs
PVC exteriors and drop-stitch construction create inflatable SUPs. The board comes with both a pump to inflate the board as well as a bag that can be stored away when not in use. An inflatable SUP of high quality is made to inflate to 12-15 pounds per square inches and should be very stiff once fully filled.
SUP Thickness
It is important to take into account the impact of thickness on a stand-up paddle board's overall volume and weight. Two boards with the same width and length will have different volumes. The thicker one can hold more weight than the smaller.
Let's look at thickness in this way: For flatwater cruising, you'll need a long displacement board that is thin and skinny. A thinner board is better for small people. It will allow you to weight the board more efficiently and keep it smaller.
SUP Hull Types
Beginners can enjoy either hull type, however there are some that work better for certain activities. It is wise to select the type of hull based on your intended use.
SUP Fins
You have many options when it comes to how your SUP fins will be placed on its bottom. These are some of the most popular SUP fin configurations:
One fin: This single fin is ideal for flatwater paddling. It provides excellent tracking and minimizes drag.
Three-fin setup: Also known as a thruster, it promotes straight tracking in flatwater and provides good control over surf.
2-plus-1 setup: The configuration includes one larger fin at the center and one smaller on either side. This configuration is common on SUPs that are designed to surf.
For inflatable SUPs, you can choose from any one of the listed fin options. They can have flexible rubber fins that attach to the board, or semi-rigid detachable fins.
SUP Extras And Accessories
Bungee straps/tie down: These tie-down points are often located at the rear or front of the board. They can be used to secure dry bags, clothes, and coolers.
Mounts and attachment points: Certain boards include specific mounting points that can be used to attach fishing rod holders, seat covers, camera mounts, or other accessories. These accessories can be purchased separately.
You will need a few key items of equipment after you have purchased a SUP.
SUP Length
For surfing or for kids, short boards are ideal (under 10 feet).
The medium boards (11'-12') can be used for SUP Yoga and all-round use.
For long distance touring and fast paddling, the longer boards (above 12'6") are ideal. T
It is important to know how length affects volume and weight. The board's volume can be increased, making it more stable. It can also allow for more weight and more carrying capacity.
Also, consider the length of your board in relation to your car's type and storage space. Additionally, think about how far you will need to walk to reach the shore or beach. Longer boards can be more cumbersome to transport, particularly in windy areas.
SUP Width
Consider your ability, body type, and type when deciding how large your SUP should be.
RELATED: According to 11,978 reviews of customers on popular websites, our experts found the top 10 best all around inflatable sup
FAQs
Is A Longer Or Shorter Paddle Board Better?
It all depends on the purpose of your board. While shorter boards can be more difficult to transport and maneuver, they are generally slower. While longer paddle boards are faster and more maneuverable than those with shorter lengths, they weigh less. For kids and those who love to surf, boards less than 10 feet are the best.
What Added Extras Should I Look For With A Stand-up Paddle Board?
When stand-up paddleboarding, it is crucial to ensure that you have the right type of leash and a high pressure hand pump. A buoyancy vest with a shorter wetsuit is recommended for beginners. This will allow them to learn how to balance and maintain their balance. Many stand-up paddleboards come equipped with conversion kits that allow you to swap between them.
An inflatable SUP board that is sufficiently large and weighs in at least 50 lbs can be used to create a tandem SUP board. Your partner will require an additional paddle to adjust the board. A dry bag of sufficient size will protect personal items from water on longer trips. You should also keep a handy repair kit in case of punctures.
How Long Will An Inflatable Paddle Board Last?
Your inflatable paddleboard can last between 5-10 years if it is properly stored and maintained. If you have a puncture, most inflatable boards come with a kit of repairs.
How Does Height Affect Which Stand-up Paddle Board To Buy?
The SUP that you purchase doesn't have to be too tall is unlikely. Paddle boarders need to ensure that they use the right board for their height. Every board has a weight limit. It is best to start with a longer, more flexible touring inflatable paddleboard that's at least 11 feet in length.
Which Paddle Boards Are The Most Stable?
A paddleboard that is wider than the width of your hand will be more stable. A SUP 33 inches or more wide is ideal if stability and balance are your primary concerns. However, paddle boards that are wider than narrower can be slower than those with a shorter length.
What’s The Difference Between A Touring Board And A Surfing Paddle Board?
Touring SUPs tend to be longer than surfing paddle boards, particularly when they are designed for beginners. The surf stand-up paddleboard is slightly bent at the ends and features a step to improve paddling on waves or balancing. Safety-wise, British Canoeing recommends that you use a coil leash for paddling on flat waters. A long, straight cord works better for surfing.
Why Choose An Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board (iSUP) Over A Rigid One?
The first consideration when purchasing a stand up paddleboard is how much space it will take up. Inflatable stand-up paddle boards are easier to store at home, and make it easy to carry when traveling to the coast, river or lake. The board can be easily stuffed into your car's boot, so it doesn't take up much space for other passengers.
An inflatable SUP offers more freedom and control. The drop-stitch technology makes it solid, but flexible and more manageable than rigid stand-up paddle boards. This is particularly important for beginner users. Intermediate level paddlers with greater skills and confidence will prefer rigid SUPs. Because the rigid material is stronger and more durable than other materials, it is better for use in small waves or fast rivers.
When updated data are available, our system and editor will update a list of best starter paddle board. Please periodically review our website for the newest data.
We can help you with more than just finding best starter paddle board. Please do not hesitate to contact us when you need assistance.
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About Katie Finn
