Best Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards

What are Inflatable SUPs?

Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards Compared

How iSUPs Work

Inflatable SUPs work with the use of an air pump to inflate them. Once inflated, they’re safe to take on the water. To store away when not in use, you just deflate and fold them up according to the instructions.

Types of Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards

If you’ve looked at iSUPs online, you'll know there are a variety of different types available.

Benefits of Inflatable SUPs

They’re Safe

Although it may not seem the case, iSUPs are safer than their hardboard counterparts. They have a tough and rigid structure, with some give.

They’re More Cost-Effective and Affordable

Although there are always exceptions, generally most iSUPs have lower price tags than the harder alternatives. It’s not only the initial cost that’s more affordable though, as iSUPs tend to cost less to maintain and less likely to sustain expensive repairs.

They’re Easy to Store

They’re Easy to Transport

It’s also worth noting how portable they are too. Whereas with rigid hardboard paddlers you need to use a trailer or roof rack, with inflatables you just deflate and roll them up to a package that can fit inside the back of your car, on a passenger seat or even in the trunk.

They’re Extremely Durable

This may seem strange because you expect an inflatable item will be more prone to wearing out or even bursting. However, they’re made from high-quality, durable PVC materials specially designed to be resistant to abrasions, cuts, and punctures. 

Choosing The Best iSUP For You

Type of Paddle Board

Although we've discussed the different types of iSUPs available, there's another crucial aspect of which kind of paddle board is right for you. The type of hull the paddle board has is important. These are:

Versatility/Durability

The versatility and durability are important aspects to consider, and these aspects are generally determined by the style and materials used to build them. Most inflatables tend to be made from high-quality PVC using the drop-stitch technique to increase the durability.

Also, the thickness of the material used improves the buoyancy and stability of the boards, as well as making them more versatile for use in different bodies of water and weather conditions.

Usage & Paddling Location

You should give some thought to how you’re going to use it and where. If you’re not intending on sticking to one type of usage or will be exploring lots of different bodies of water and paddling locations, you need to choose a board able to handle this. Whereas if you’re looking to paddle in certain areas and particular ways, you need to select one of the more specific types highlighted earlier in our guide.

Board Size, Volume & Weight Capacity

Skill Level & Style of Paddling

Your skill level and paddling style can be used to determine the right style of iSUP for you. If you’re a rank beginner and not used to more technical paddling in a faster boat, the last thing you would want to do is invest in a racing or even whitewater board.

Storage/Ease of Transport, Portability

All iSUPs are more portable, easier to transport, and store than the hardboard option. However, they’re not all made equal. So, you need to give thought not just to whether a board will have the right design when its inflated for your needs and preferences, but also when its deflated you will be able to transport it in your vehicle and store it in your home or anywhere else you’re traveling.

Speed/Ease of Inflation

Again, although iSUPs are designed with the same concept, they’re not all equal. Smaller boards will take less time to inflate. However, size is not the only thing that determines how fast a board will inflate. Some are designed to inflate and deflate in just a few short minutes.

Tracking & Stability

Tracking and stability are obviously crucial. These aspects of their design determine how easily they’ll travel in a straight line and avoid capsizing.

One part of an iSUP that plays a huge role in how easy it is to control is whether it’s got one fin or more.

Included Features and Accessories

The SUP you choose should come with a good selection of features and accessories, including the paddles, D-rings, and bungee for storage purposes.

Price & Warranty

Having a reasonable budget in mind will prevent you from spending too much on an iSUP. Along with the price, though, the warranty will determine how much use you can expect out of your board. Particularly if there are issues with it or it gets damaged. A warranty is also a good sign of just how much faith a brand has in its product.

1. Atoll 11-Foot

This heavy-duty number from Atoll is one of the best iSUP for many reasons. Not least of all because it’s like a solid hardboard model. So much it gets called a hardboard mimicker. One of the key selling points of Atoll boards is how lightweight they are, and this is no different.

It features the cutting-edge Fusion Light frame and benefits from dual-layer PVC. This makes it even more durable. So, despite how lightweight it is, it's still a tough customer. Another key feature is the addition of EVA pads on top that increases the grip you have underfoot. There is always an impressive 13 D-rings attached to the board to keep your gear and equipment with you.

You get just about everything you need to get started including a detachable fin, manual pump, leash, back and front bungee tie-downs, a paddle, repair kit, and even a backpack to store it all in. Speaking about the paddle, this is also very lightweight at under 2.5-pounds and comes in three parts, which is easy to assemble and means you can find the right length for you.

Although expensive, it features everything you could need and more and has a generous weight capacity of 300-pounds.

2. iRocker All-Around

3. Airhead Popsicle 730 iSUP

4. Thurso Surf Waterwalker

5. Peak Expedition

6. SereneLife

7. Sea Eagle Fish SUP 126

8. Pathfinder

Perhaps you’re looking to get into stand-up paddle boarding but are not willing to pay too much to enjoy all the fun. The Pathfinder is an excellent option for that. It’s user-friendly and has been designed with additional buoyancy and a strong PVC construction. The single detachable fin that fits in the center is great for a reasonable amount of speed, and with an anti-slip deck, you've got a good starter model.

We also like the fact it's very lightweight whether it is inflated or deflated and performs well on lakes, rivers and tackling waves, though we'd not suggest you do that often, as it's not as heavy-duty as others. Still, for a lower price than many others, you get a reasonable quality 10-feet board with a package that includes all you need to get started.

9. Isle Explorer

Isle and their range of Explorer paddleboards are designed for the more adventurous iSUP enthusiast, but one thing that also stands out about these great additions to the market is the 22-pounds. It features all the hallmarks of a great board, with a 3-part paddle that can be adjusted to suit your own height.

The one thing we’d say is the fact it’s a longer board and lighter, this makes it a little trickier to control, but if you're really interested in trimming the fat as much as possible, then this is the ideal board for you. The length also serves the practical purpose of allowing for plenty of space for storage on board with a total of 15 D-rings and 2 bungee cord storage systems to the front and back. This is also one of the fastest to inflate and deflate at 5-minutes each time.

Solid Vs. Inflatable Paddle Boards

iSUP Advantages

iSUP Disadvantages

Transporting Inflatable SUPs

There’s virtually no fuss or hassle involved in transporting inflatable SUPs. You simply deflate them, then roll or fold them up. If you’re worried about your board becoming unrolled while you’re busy driving your car or vehicle, you can place them inside a storage bag (most tend to come with one).

Inflatable Equipment Accessories

Bungee Straps/Tie-Down

Bungee and tie-down straps are essential accessories you need to invest in for iSUPs because they provide you with excellent storage solutions. If you’re intending on using an iSUP for fishing or touring.

Paddle

Unless otherwise stated, you will typically have to buy a paddle separately. The general rule of thumb for deciding on how long a paddle you need is it should be around 6 to 8-inches above your head when it is standing vertically beside you. Adjustable height paddles are a great option.

PFD

PFD or personal floatation device, otherwise known as a life jacket and life preserver is something you consider investing in. You need to wear them in certain areas, so always check where you’re paddling beforehand.

Proper Clothing

Leash

Helps provide a tether for you to your stand-up paddle board and is essential if you’re interested in paddling along a fast river or surfing. They’re also great for beginners.

Car Rack

Electric Pump

If you’re not keen on waiting or exerting yourself before you even hit the water, you need an electric pump.

Backpack

You want somewhere to store your iSUP, don’t you? That’s what you can use a backpack for. If you get a big enough model, you may be able to store the board and accessories in one place.

Gauge

All iSUPs have a PSI rating, and this measures how much they should be inflated. By investing in a gauge, if the paddle board itself or electric pump you’re investing in doesn’t have one, you can carefully inflate your iSUP without causing any damage to it.

Paddle Boards Tips & Tricks

The first thing you need to do when you acquire your new iSUP is to learn how to use it properly. Generally, paddle boarding is easy to get the hang of, but the first couple of times you’re out on the water, you may find it a challenge. Keep these tips in mind.

Care & Maintenance of an iSUP

iSUPs are designed to require little maintenance. They can handle a lot of use and abuse. However, there are some necessary maintenance and care tips to keep in mind.

Safety Measures When Paddle Boarding

People Also Ask (FAQs)

How do you keep your balance on an inflatable paddle board?

This video tutorial provides excellent tips.

Are all SUP boards inflatable?

No, you have the choice between hardboard models and inflatable ones.

What are inflatable paddle boards made from?

You will find most are made from heavy-duty (often military-grade) PVC, reinforced rubber materials, polymer, and urethane.

How long do inflatable SUPs typically last?

It really depends on how well or not they’re cared for, but there's no reason why they can't last for several years. The warranty offered by the manufacturer is a good indication also, with most ranging from 1 to 3 years.

How do I locate a leak from my inflatable paddle board and then patch it?

This video provides a good idea of how to do this.

How should I put the fin on the inflatable paddle board?

It depends on the kind of inflatable SUP you have, and whether you have one with multiple fins or just one single fin. The 2 main methods of putting them on are:

Double Fang Method where you ensure your board is fully deflated and then use the back of it to insert it into the board’s knot. You then need to connect all the slots to knobs so push the fins on until you hear it catching. Tug it to check they’re fully in place.

Slide and Snap Method where you slide the fin into the onboard fin holders in reverse. Hold the bottom of each fin in your hands, and once it’s on, it should be tightly in place.

How long does it take to inflate an iSUP? Can I use my foot pump to inflate my paddle board?

It depends on which model of iSUP you have and pump. If you have a motorized pump, though, it may take around 5 to 10 minutes. Yes, you can, if it has an appropriate attachment.

What are the best inflatable iSUP brands?

Conclusion

There we have it, our quintessential guide to the best inflatable stand up paddle boards on the market. We've tried to cover all bases, to give you plenty of choices, whether you are a beginner, angler, kid or want to take your dog out on the water with you.

All the products listed above are great options, but the Atoll 11-feet model stands head and shoulders above the rest as the best overall.