The Best Standup Paddleboards of 2022

The Best Standup Paddleboards of 2022

Looking to invest in a standup paddleboard? Don’t know where to start? Check out our list of the best SUPs of the season.

Standup paddleboarding is one of the fastest-growing water sports of the decade. There’s a good chance you’re familiar with standup paddleboarding, but if you aren’t, here’s what you need to know.

Standup paddleboarding, or SUPing, is the act of standing on a hard epoxy or inflatable board tapered at both ends, and using a paddle to move through the water. Similar to a surfboard, paddleboards also have fins on the bottom that help to move and steer.

For this review, we looked at the overall construction, durability, features, and price of each board. We also looked at the variety of boards and paddles each brand has on the market. Then, we ranked each board on quality, durability, price, and the volume of positive reviews across several retail platforms.

We put a huge focus on inflatable standup paddleboards. They are a great option for all experience levels, have a variety of uses (flatwater and whitewater), and don’t require special racks or extra storage.

Inflatables can fit in a closet or a car trunk, and you can take them on airplanes. And they have lots of benefits on the water, too.

Below you’ll find our list of the best standup paddleboards of 2022. We’ve grouped them into categories to help you find the paddleboard that’s right for you. And be sure to check out the buyer’s guide and FAQ at the end of this article if you need more help choosing.

The Best Standup Paddleboards of 2022

Best All-Around Standup Paddleboard: Red Paddle Co. MSL 10’6″ Ride SUP

red msl ride 10'6

Plainly put, this board performs great in a variety of conditions. It is beginner-friendly (and expert-friendly), and it will last for years if you treat it well.

Measuring 10’6″, this board has drop-stitch construction, an EVA-textured-grip deckpad, and the brand’s proprietary flexible, molded fins. This means that you don’t have to fiddle with installing or repairs.

We’ve used similar models of Red’s MSL board ($1,299) with the alternate removable iFin technology, which does require installation, small screws, and a quick reading of the instructions.

In terms of size and weight, this board is on par with others on our list. It can hold up to 240 pounds, is wide enough to provide balance and stability, and weighs in at 21 pounds. It’s not the lightest but is very light and is easy to carry, portage, and travel with.

Recent updates on the MSL 10’6″ include the brand’s flat bungee system on the bow, as well as an updated sidewall and material construction. The new bungee system works great, and is being implemented on all future SUPs. The board looks, and feels, a bit more streamlined than its predecessors.

Why Consider This Board?

Overall, we’ve found it to be one of the best boards stability-wise at a lightweight. It’s a great all-around board — from the nearby lake to the beach to the overnight paddle adventure.

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Runner-Up All-Around Paddleboard: Hala Gear Hala Rado

Hala Gear Hala Rado paddleboard

Colorado-based Hala Gear is known for making high-quality, innovative SUPs. The Hala Rado ($1,399) is one of its bestselling boards of all time, with a slightly longer-than-average length, playful tail shape, and sturdy deck (helpful for both balance and towing gear).

The Hala Rado is a 10’10” board, designed to function well in both whitewater and flatwater. It has a pretty progressive rocker profile and swallowtail shape at the tail for better performance in moving waters.

This board is definitely geared toward more dynamic paddlers. But, it will also work great for beginners who plan to primarily paddle on rivers.

In terms of features, we love that this board has grab handles on the bow and rear. And while the bungee tiedown area is on the smaller side, there are plenty of other rigging points on the board.

At 33 pounds, this board is on the heavier end. That’s mainly due to the burlier construction, with a double-layer PVC drop-stitch and a PVC stringer that runs through the board.

Why Consider This Board?

This board ranks high on our list due to its size, construction, and performance in all types of waters.

Updates for 2021: A patented retractable fin system keeps the fins safe and in check in faster-moving, obstacle-ridden waters. And the full SUP package now features a Grafik carbon paddle.

Looking for a shorter and lighter board? Check out Hala Rado’s mini-me, the 10-foot Hala Radito.

Check Price at Hala Gear

Best Budget SUP: BOTE Breeze Aero Inflatable Paddleboard 10’8″

bote breeze aero paddleboard

BOTE’s Breeze Aero Paddleboard ($699) has garnered more than 237 4- and 5-star reviews online. As a former Floridian, I trust the Florida-based brand to make quality boards for flatwater, ocean, and canal paddling.

And the Breeze Aero is no exception. It’s a middle-of-the-pack-sized board with great versatility and a great price tag.

New for 2021: Also a contender for our runner-up spot is BOTE’s new HD Aero Paddleboard ($1,149). A modification to BOTE’s 2020 Breeze Aero, the HD Aero has a redesigned deck and grab handle, updated side rails, and its HD construction. This refers to the board’s updated overall construction to increase stability while keeping the board’s weight low.

Check Price at REI

Runner-Up Best Budget SUP: BOTE HD Inflatable Paddleboard 

BOTE HD Aero paddleboard

No sooner had we tested out the Breeze did BOTE come out with a new model: the Aero HD ($1,149), which turned out to be review-worthy as well.

We took the classic teak Aero board out for several spring paddle excursions in central and western Colorado. On my first day out on this board, I noticed two things: the rigid, reinforced stitching and construction, and the slightly heavier weight than my go-to board at home (10’6″, a whole foot shorter). Both of these qualities are huge pluses in my book.

For an 11’6″ board as stable as this one, 30 pounds is a fine weight. The three-fin system and fin placement are spot-on, and the board feels balanced and even.

One important note: I tested all of the boards on this list, with and without gear dry bags strapped down, to get a feel for how the boards handle at different weights. This board propelled smoothly through flat water, even with gear strapped to the bow. It’s a fun board to paddle, too, especially on overnight trips when you want to cover some ground (er, water).

Why Consider This Board?

If you are looking for a longer board that puts stability and portability at a premium, and that costs under $1,200, this is a great option.

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Most Versatile: NRS STAR Phase Inflatable SUP Boards

nrs star paddleboards

I’ve ridden on dozens of brands and styles of paddleboards over the years. But, one of the boards I keep going back to is from NRS. The STAR Phase models ($845 and up) are really durable, inflatable (they pack down to save space), and overall track great in flat and moving water.

The STAR Phase boards also come in three lengths: 10’2″, 10’6″, and 10’8″. The board is built with a simple yet durable PVC-coated drop-stitch. It also has a sturdy webbed carry handle and four D-rings on the nose for securing gear.

While it’s marketed in the all-around category, I’d definitely label this board as best for intermediate paddlers. So, it will grow with you over the years.

It comes with a 9-inch fin, and thanks to the brand’s universal fin plate, you can easily swap out the fin for other styles depending on where you’re paddling. I’ve got a river fin and grass fin, and I love the flexibility of being able to adapt my board to different waters.

With the NRS STAR Phase, you’re getting a well-built, high-quality, and affordable board from a reputable brand. However, I do wish it had more D-rings and storage capacity on the board, maybe in the tail.

Why Consider This Board?

All three models weigh under 20 pounds. If you are looking for lightweight and stable, this board is it.

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Most Lightweight: iROCKER Ultra Series All-Around 10′ Paddleboard

irocker stock

Even after just a few paddles, it was hard not to love this board. iROCKER’s new Ultra Series takes the definition of “lightweight” and ups the ante — this board was redesigned to be under 18 pounds.

The Ultra Series, which come in an All Around 10′ and 11′, and a wider Cruiser model, lead with big design changes to the materials, deck pad, design, and configuration. The All Around Ultra Series 10′ isn’t just light but is also 50% smaller, packed down in a redesigned carry bag.

In testing, this board performed really well. Because it’s shorter in length, stability may be a learning curve for some paddlers, though. I liked riding a shorter board and found it easy to maneuver, even in waves. There are plenty of D-rings and extra on-deck bungee storage for strapping down gear. The twin-fin configuration is easy to set up and works fine. And while the board was made to be lighter, it doesn’t sacrifice durability: it’s still made with drop-stitch construction.

Then comes the carrying bag: padded shoulder straps, a rolltop design, and plenty of storage made it another favorite component of this SUP. Pair a 17.6-pound board with a packable, five-piece carbon shaft paddle and you’ve got one of the lightest SUP kits around.

The biggest pro (and possibly con) is the lack of a manual pump. Ultra instead included a 12V electric pump for faster setup. You’ll want to be near an outlet or vehicle to get the board inflated, and then you can explore as you wish. After all, it’s not that heavy. Read our full review. 

Why Consider This Board?

Take a look at this board if you want something super packable and light for paddling at home or traveling around. Especially if you are a smaller paddler (under 200 pounds), this board will be a lot of fun.

Specs: 
  • Length: 10 ft.
  • Width: 32 in.
  • Weight: 17.6 lbs. (without paddle and pump)
  • Max weight limit: 260 lbs.
  • Paddle: 5-piece carbon

Check Price at iROCKER

Best for Flat and Whitewater: Badfish Monarch

badfish monarch sups

The Monarch ($899) is a streamlined, easy-to-charge SUP that conquers flatwater, yet remains stable when whitewater rapids or large boat wake take course.

With a 5-inch rise above the water and oblong, non-aluminum D-rings in the front, we wouldn’t take this board on a multiday whitewater trip. But it’s perfect for everyday paddling: afternoons at the lake and overnighters at recreation areas. We had one tester who took the Monarch on a multiday camp trip on mostly flatwater — the board worked perfectly for her paddle needs.

The board’s three rigid fins are fixed, meaning they can’t be removed or lost. However, they’re a bit cumbersome while rolling the deflated SUP into the pack. We even dragged the board across boulders, driftwood, and sand: the fins didn’t break.

Other features we really liked on this board: its ease of carry and the paddle. The large, centered padded carry handle is super cushy for single-person carry.

Pro tip: Clip or tie all gear if you head into rapids for Leave No Trace practice, and to prevent losing any pieces of your kit.

Editor’s Note: Our board recommendations labeled “All-Around” are just that — they can work for any type or experience of paddler, any type of paddling. This board did particularly well for an intermediate and expert tester in both flat and whitewater.

Why Consider This Board?

“This is the best paddle I’ve ever seen included in a SUP package — it’s durable, ergonomic, light, and smooth,” said our tester. Badfish’s three-piece travel paddle has an aluminum shaft and hydro-dipped nylon blade. Super bonus: there’s an integrated, adjustable Velcro water bottle holder on the board right where a paddler would bend over to grab a drink.

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Best Touring Board: Pau Hana Surf Supply 12’ Endurance Touring Board

pau hana air paddleboard

Best for touring in flatwater or milder rivers, this inflatable touring board ($1,249) has a unique shape with a squared-off tail, 10 anchor points, and a single 9-inch fin. In terms of towing gear, having 10 anchor points is a game-changer. There’s room to strap a cooler, a dry bag, even a kayak seat.

The board length of 12 feet is also on the longer end for boards, meaning you’ll cover more distance with each stroke (racing SUPs typically measure 12-15 feet).

That being said, this board isn’t made for speed. It’s made for hauling gear, having a good time, and staying sturdy — even in the face of blowing gusts or wiggling canines on board. If stability, portability, and surfer style are all aspects you look for in a board, we highly recommend checking this one out.

Plus, Pau Hana makes all its boards in California.

Why Consider This Board?

This board is a great option if you’re looking for a sturdy, not necessarily fast board that works well for touring and multiday trips.

Check Price at REI

Amazon Favorite: ROC Inflatable SUP Kit

ROC Inflatable SUP

Are you completely new to SUPing? Do you want to try it out before committing to a more expensive board? This could be just what you need. The ROC SUP kit comes with everything you need to get started — a 10-foot-long paddleboard, a collapsible paddle, a pump, leash, and carry bag. All for just $300. That’s a crazy-good deal!

And while it’s not as technical as some other boards on the list, it’s a great value for beginners or anyone who wants a SUP for sporadic use. It weighs 17.5 pounds and has a capacity of 350 pounds.

And with a 4.8-star rating and more than 5,000 reviews, it’s obvious we’re not the only ones who think this is a great deal.

Why Consider This Board?

If you’re looking for a super-budget board, that comes with everything you need to get started, and if you plan to only casually SUP a few times a year.

Check Price at Amazon

Best of the Rest

There’s no way to possibly rank all of the paddleboards on the market one after another — especially when board models change so frequently over the years. While these paddleboards didn’t win our best overall title, they are still great boards that rank high in terms of features, durability, and price.

Pro tip: Lots of paddle brands offer interchangeable fins, as well as seat, strap, mount, and gear accessories for their boards. If you are looking to invest more in the sport down the road, consider browsing everything the brand has to offer. Some brands are more niche and only manufacture certain types of boards, or they don’t offer a full range of accessories.

ISLE Pioneer Spring 2022 SUP

an ISLE pioneer paddleboard near a rocky lake shore
(Photo/Mary Murphy)

ISLE’s pioneer SUP has been a popular model for a few years running, mainly thanks to its all-around, beginner-friendly shape, great balance, and accessible price point. Why do we like it? It works for both beginners and more experienced paddlers, and ISLE didn’t skimp on quality materials.

The three-fin system, deck pad and bungee cord storage system, and other elements of the board all work great. An added bonus we don’t see very often: the Pioneer has two loops along the right side of the board for strapping and carrying your paddle. Carrying the SUP and paddle all in one go leaves your other hand free for carrying a dry bag or cooler.

Now for its performance in the water. The Pioneer, pumped up to its recommended PSI, felt super stable. It offered good maneuverability and a very comfortable deck pad — one of the best I’ve felt on an inflatable SUP. I often paddle barefoot if I’m not in sandals, so foot comfort is top of mind. The Pioneer was also super balanced in flatwater (both mild and windy conditions).

Compared to other SUPs, I liked this one most for its comfort and control on the water. Paddlers of all experiences will have a good time on this board.

Why Consider This Board?

If you are looking for quality and stability, and plan on paddling frequently. This board is versatile and works on flatwater or waves, with one paddler or two!

Specs:
  • Length: 10 ft., 6 in.
  • Width: 34 in.
  • Weight: 24 lbs.
  • Max weight limit: 285 lbs.
  • Paddle: 3-piece

Check Price at ISLE

Paddle North Portager Paddleboard

paddle north the portager

One of our staff members tested this board and loves it. Minnesota-based Paddle North makes especially gorgeous, wood-grain-style inflatable boards. To match their local waters, a lot of Paddle North’s boards are geared toward river touring. So, they have a stiffer, rigid feel, and they excel in lake and river cruising.

The Portager ($699) is very similar to the Loon (a hardboard, see below). It has the same length (11’6″) and fin setup, making it perfect for river touring, but with slight differences in shape and weight.

The Portager has a sharp, tailored nose for slicing through windier or moving waters. And, it’s slightly wider across to make room for gear on deck.

It’s made with 1.2mm drop-stitch PVC. It has a three-layer seam-joining system to provide as much durability (for an inflatable) as possible. And, at 21 pounds, it’s amazingly light. Another perk we appreciate — the universal valve.

Our tester raved, “Since our family first launched our Paddle North paddleboard 2 years ago, we have come to love our time at the lake cabin even more.” (Our tester rides an 11’6″ length model.)

The Loon (Paddle North’s flagship epoxy model) has a bamboo construction that keeps the board lightweight yet incredibly stable. The size and tri-fin tracking mean this board is speedy in calm water but can handle a slight chop with ease. We’ve even been able to cruise the lakeshore with our 70-pound Labrador riding shotgun.

Why Consider This Board?

This is a good choice if you’re looking for something with the portability of an inflatable with the style of an epoxy surfboard.

Check Price at Paddle North

Boardworks SHUBU Solr

Boardworks SHUBU Solr

The SHUBU ($949) has a moderately spear-headed nose, one removable fin, and it tracks in the water super well, according to our test runs. This board is also the one for water yogis and shoe-free paddlers.

The deck pad is covered in a layer dubbed “Honey Fomb,” which looks like honeycomb and feels like a therapeutic, thick yoga mat. Three-quarters of the board is topped off with this cushion, which makes standing, sitting, kneeling, or practicing Warrior II Pose that much more comfortable.

“I wear closed-toe water shoes, and I’ve never wanted to take them off while I SUP — but the Honey Fomb texturized, squishy cushion feels so good beneath my barefoot, it’s converted me,” said our tester.

On a few day trips to SUP some high-altitude lakes, with conditions varying from glassy to choppy waves, we noticed this SUP managed all the conditions well.

This board has two carry handles, one in the center and one at the nose. Its four tie-down points secured with a bungee is enough space to strap down a dry bag, shoes, and a water bottle for a day trip. It was definitely one of our boards of choice for day excursions, and really all this board needs is more tie-down points.

At 19 pounds, it’s also a great option if you are looking for a lightweight SUP.

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NRS Thrive Inflatable SUP Boards

NRS Thrive Inflatable SUP Boards

The Thrive ($1,095+) — which comes in 9’10” to 11′ sizes — is a do-it-all SUP that’s stellar for multiday tours. (Yes, even though its NRS STAR Phase competitor won out more in testing.)

The D-rings and handles are numerous and versatile, making strapping down gear and transport easy. Our tester used the Thrive ($995 and up) for an overnight canyon trip across mostly non-wake water.

Five D-rings on the board’s nose and one D-ring on the tail provide multiple tie-down points. Another D-ring beneath the nose and a noncushioned handle on the tail assists for two-person carries. (Pro tip: tie utility straps to these points for comfort and ease.)

The SUP’s mid-center cushioned handle is prime for single-person carry. And the two angled, cushioned handles toward the board’s nose are ergonomic for maneuvering the SUP — like pulling it onto a beach — and serve as extra strap-down points while paddling.

One of our testers was able to strap his camera in a Pelican case to the 45-degree angled handles, which most SUPs don’t have —a nice feature for the gear you want easily accessible, close to your feet.

The SUP held its air — plus, it inflates to a stocky 20 PSI for super-rigid performance — and never dipped below the surface, even when loaded with gear and two adult paddlers. (Note: this board has a 10.8 width with 6-inch sidewalls.)

Plus, the personalized pump includes multiple adapters for other SUP valves. The fins are removable — which is nice for storage and rocky bottoms — and the SUP tracks well, without the need to constantly alternate lead arms.

Check Price at REI

Decathlon Itiwit Touring Board

Decathlon Itiwit Touring Board

For a beginner board, and one of this brand’s first paddleboards, the Itiwit is an awesome contender. We’ve taken it out three times so far in testing (flatwater only), and it performs pretty well. Here are a few specs and facets of the board’s functionality we noticed in testing.

The single fin is a longer length, similar to a surf fin, but it tracks well. The leash and fin were easy to attach, and the board was quick to set up and pump. For a touring board with a recommended pressure of 15 PSI, we found it to be comfortable and stable, testing with a range of 120-160 pounds on the board.

At 11 feet, Decathlon advertises that this board is suitable for two people, and can support weight of about 700 pounds. We didn’t test the full weight limit, but it was fairly stable with two adults standing on deck. If you are going to ride with two, we recommend pumping it up to a fuller 17-18 PSI.

For an 11-foot board, we liked this board’s carry feel in hand and its light weight (confirmed weight of 23 pounds). And, surprisingly, it packs down to be one of the slimmest boards in a backpack we’ve seen. I have several other board bags that are more durable, but also bulkier.

Like much of its gear, Decathlon also made this board to be a budget winner. Especially compared to other SUPs, this Decathlon board is a steal — with a price tag of $399-499 ($499 for the 11-foot model we tested).

This is more an annoyance, not an actual negative component of the product, but this board doesn’t come with a paddle. In my opinion, any paddleboard marketed to beginners should come with one or be packaged together. It’s just a lot easier for the consumer.

Good news, though, you can grab a paddle sold separately for 40-50 bucks. This still puts the Decathlon Itiwit board at a really accessible price.

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Hobie Adventure

Hobie Adventure

The Hobie is a great daily grinder with a no-fuss set-up, shape longevity, and flatwater stability. The Adventure ($811) is easy to steer, even with two people, and it’s hardy.

For durability and rigidity, the Adventure features a high-density thread core create with diagonal drop-stitch. Hand-glued to the core is a reinforced layer of PVC fabric topped off with 1,000-denier PVC Tarpaulin. In testing, the board handled brief alpine winds, small waves, and some unintentional rocky bumps in low water.

There’s only one removable fin, which keeps the accessories simple. And four cushioned handles provide ease of transport to and from the rig.

The Adventure isn’t our choice board for multiday or whitewater trips that require a ton of gear, because of the location and proximity of the nose’s four metal D-rings (they’re set back, which places bulky gear a bit too close to the paddler). That said, it’s a perfect board for lakes, reservoirs, and day trips.

Check Price at WaterSport Equipment

Stand on Liquid Hudson 10’6”

stand on liquid paddleboard front and back view

You should treat any inflatable board with care. But, if you are looking for something extra burly and durable that can handle being packed away in the trunk on a family road trip, this board from Bend, OR-based Stand on Liquid is a great option.

The Hudson ($729) doesn’t have the best tracking or fin quality compared to the others on this list, but it’s still worth a mention. Why? It’s durable. Like, your kid can jump up and down on it in excitement and the board will be A-OK.

The removable fin system is fairly standard, as is the shape, length, and width. It’s a standard to narrower board width, giving it great glide in calm waters. And, it offers pretty good balance.

It won’t work for taller, heavier paddlers, and it doesn’t have great room for storage. But for occasional day paddlers on beaches and lakes, it’s solid.

Why Consider This Board?

If you are looking for a basic, budget-friendly, or kid-friendly board, give the Hudson a look.

Check Availability at Stand on Liquid

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Standup Paddleboard

Most paddleboards on the market (and all on this list) come with the following components: a leash, some form of deck pad, D-rings or bungees for storing cargo, at least one fin, a center grab handle and, of course, a pump.

Brands and Models

I feel like this is much more common with SUPs than other pieces of gear, but almost every brand will phase out or rename models after just a year. (Take the ever-popular NRS Earl Series as an example.)

You may already have your heart set on a specific board, but take the time to do the research. There may be another board (or board model) out there you haven’t considered that best fits the bill.

Pro tip: If you find a board model a couple of years old that’s available for purchase, look into the specs and see how it compares with more updated models. Chances are, the board will be slightly heavier or have a few different features, but it may still be worth investing in (especially if you are looking for a starter board and plan on upgrading later).

SUP Camping
(Photo/Eric Phillips)

Paddleboard Length and Size

With inflatable boards, their length, size, and thickness directly correlate to weight capacity. So, if you only weigh 140 pounds (and want to be extra speedy), you have the option of choosing a shorter length — and therefore less volume — board. If you weigh at or over 180-200 pounds — or if you want to paddle with a dog, child, or partner — consider a longer length and larger board.

Do you want to go lightweight? Or do you want plenty of storage for cargo (think dry bags, a cooler)? Other than that, size is purely preference.

Generally, I recommend a larger board to everyone. There’s just more wiggle room and overall better stability. The most common size boards are 10’6″ or 11′. But there are plenty of lengths, shapes, and sizes outside that range. too.

Pro tip: If you are shopping for a family, you can save buckets by purchasing one longer board instead of two (or four). Two 140-pound adults can comfortably fit on an 11′ board (the fit and weight limit will vary by brand). Like kayaks, there are even tandem-specific models out there (ranging from 12 to 15 feet in length).

Paddleboard Packages

Another top consideration to look at when purchasing a board is what comes with it. This wasn’t always the case, but many boards are now sold with a paddle, fin, and travel bag included in the package.

This has definitely made entry into the sport easier for beginners. Buying the board and paddle together saves time, research, and often money. And, at the very least, these combo packages ensure that you’ll get an adjustable paddle that works with your board.

Some packages also include things like patch kits, extra cargo or carrying straps, and spare fins. For example, if you know you want to take your board out on both flatwater and whitewater (or the ocean), invest in a brand that has a surf fin in its lineup.

REI" data-descr data-alt="red paddle co. msl 10’6″">red paddle co. msl 10’6″
(Photo/REI)

Budget

This goes without saying, but budget is a huge consideration when buying a paddleboard. There are very few pieces of gear I’ll buy without a recommendation or at least research.

As you’d expect, taking a shot in the dark and buying a board online from a general retailer is not the way to go. Research, plan, and pick a reputable brand.

If the board you love is out of your price range, wait for a sale. Or better yet, join a paddle group, rent one for a day, or demo the board you like through your local retailer.

Pro tip: Some outfitters will even sell off their demo fleet boards after a couple of seasons. These are all great options for setting yourself up for success. Wait, plan, invest.

In terms of quality, especially with an inflatable SUP, it will be well worth it in the long run.

FAQ

What Is the Best SUP Brand?

There is no “best” brand. That’s like saying Specialized makes the best mountain bikes. They make darn good ones, but there are plenty of other players at the same level with amazing bikes (Pivot, Santa Cruz, Cannondale, and Yeti Cycles, for example).

However, some SUP brands have been around long enough that we’d consider them at the top of the market. The list is short: NRS, Blackfin, Starboard, BOTE, and Hala Gear. More top brands are emerging, including ISLE (founded in 2008) and Glide and Atoll (both founded in 2014).

Inflatable vs. Solid: Which Standup Paddleboard Is Best?

As noted in the intro, the inflatable SUP market has skyrocketed over the past 4 to 6 years. Why? Inflatable boards are fantastic. You don’t need a special roof rack, garage, or special straps to carry a 12-foot, 40-pound piece of gear around.

All you need is an oversized backpack and some space in your trunk. Inflatable boards, by nature, deflate and pack down small. They’re easy to travel with, are fairly easy to care for and maintain, and come in at a great price.

Even better, almost all inflatables (all the ones we’ve listed) come in a package: SUP, paddle, backpack, fin, pump. There’s no need to buy any SUP gear separately.

That being said, the quality of inflatables does vary widely based on materials, construction, and design. The stability and feel of the board are a little different.

If you know you want to invest in the sport or, say, are going to be paddling in lots of extreme (cold or whitewater) conditions, you’ll want to spend extra time researching a board’s construction (Welded seams? Thicker PVC?) and performance in your intended environment.

REI" data-descr data-alt="red paddle co. msl">red paddle co. msl
(Photo/REI)

What Is the Most Stable Standup Paddleboard?

Of the paddleboards we’ve tested and reviewed, we’d mark the 11’6″ BOTE HD Aero as the most stable on our list. This is due to its width, sidewalls, weight capacity, and overall construction. This is a middle-of-the-pack, not-too-heavy, and well-balanced board that measures a full 34 inches across.

It’s got lots of D-rings for strapping down gear, or a kayak seat if you are looking to feel extra grounded and stable on your board. And the HD Aeros also clocks in at a great price point for its size.

It’s worth noting that if you are looking for other stable board choices, fishing expeditions, yoga SUPs, and touring boards are commonly a bit wider across. Any board that is 34-36 inches across is a good choice.

Of course, other factors contribute to stability. But, width and sidewall depth, as well as overall shape, are the big ones.

What Is the Best SUP for Beginners?

The best SUP for beginners is the one that fits you best. For most people, that’s a board that has a higher weight capacity to provide more stability and to accommodate riders of different weights (say, if you’re sharing a board with your partner). I almost always recommend an inflatable for your first board.

Contrary to newbie beliefs, inflatable boards are very durable, can pack down small, are convenient and easy to use and store, and are usually more budget-friendly. Even better, if you learn on an inflatable SUP, you’ll have great balance for when you decide to tackle ocean or whitewater paddling or upgrade to an epoxy board.

My recommendation would be to look for an inflatable board at least 10’6″-11′ in length, with a weight capacity of at least 230 pounds.

Caring for Your SUP

There are a few common practices you should know once you invest in an inflatable SUP.

  1. Never leave your board sitting out in the sun. This can degrade the strength of the material over time, delaminating the board. Not to mention, UV rays could cause the surface and colors of your board to fade.
  2. Always inflate to the recommended PSI. You want to keep the max weight in mind if you have two riders, whether two adults, or an adult and cargo (dog or kid). If you are a heavier rider and want more stability, feel free to inflate to the maximum recommended PSI when starting out.
  3. Invest in some boat cleaner for your SUP. An inflatable boat cleaner like this one is designed to remove any dirt, oxidation, and marks from a SUP or kayak (works on PVC or urethane materials). Alternatively, you can wipe down your board after use with a damp cloth. This is crucial if you are paddling frequently in saltwater. I always carry a soft microfiber towel in my trunk.
  4. Inspect the valve and board before you go. Most SUPs nowadays include a repair and patch kit, but no one wants to have to deal with that on the water. Always inspect your board before you head out for the day.

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