Paddling doesn’t have to be expensive. People just starting at paddling or those with small budgets can find some affordable paddleboards that are still great quality. As long as your board is durable and has good steerability, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out some of the best affordable paddleboards you can find online today in our list below.
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What the Best Affordable Paddle Boards?
You are here to find the Best Affordable Paddle Boards and we did all the necessary research to make life just a little bit easier for you. With so many options and products available, we narrowed the selection down for you to the absolute best 7 affordable paddle boards and reviewed why they’re worth your time and money.
We have also compiled a list of main things to consider before buying affordable boards for paddling which you can find later on in this article, together with some helpful FAQs. So let’s get started with the list of Best Affordable Paddle Boards.
1. Awesafe Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Accessories
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 30 Pounds (13.6 kg) Size: 120 x 32 x 6 Inches (304.8 x 81.3 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: military grade Accessories included: detachable fin, adjustable premium alloy paddle, safety leash, manual air pump, waterproof bag for essentials (such as cellphone, keys, and wallet), comfortable backpack |
See it in your local store:
The Awesafe Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is advertised as an all around board suitable for persons of any skill level. Constructed from the highest quality military grade materials, this board has a built in drop-stitch core that’s ultra-light, for improved comfort and resilience. It boasts a non-slip EVA form deck pad for higher stability when standing. At only 17.2 pounds, this is certainly one of the lightest boards you’ll find on the market, which will help when you’re on those long walks to the beach. Its 32 inch width provides the operator with adequate stability on the water while maintaining a sleek form for easy paddling.
Pros
- Includes several accessories such as a waterproof bag for your items,
- 1 year manufacturer’s warranty and 24/7 customer service included,
- Easy setup an assembly out of the box so you’re paddling sooner,
- Sturdier appearance of this board instills user confidence
Cons
- Some customers report manufacturing defects causing failures,
- Certain items from the included accessories may be missing
2. Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Adult
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 31.5 Pounds (14.3 kg) Size: 132 x 33 x 6 Inches (335.3 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: collapsible length adjustable alloy floating paddle which will never sink, double action hand pump with psi gauge, 1 big removable fin for better balance, paddle board ankle safety leash, 5L water proof dry bag for essentials such as cell phone and keys, detailed sup manual, repair kit and a premium comfortable sup backpack to hold everything. |
See it in your local store:
The Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is a full-sized piece of equipment with a higher than average weight carrying capacity and large dimensions, well suited for larger riders. Having an extra-wide design gives this board greater stability in water, which means it’s easier to learn on than a narrow board. These paddleboards are inflatable, so storage is very compact and simple. The lightweight design makes it easy for lifting and carrying around. This SUP is advertised to be 20% lighter than competitors’ similarly sized models. Made from military-grade materials, these paddleboards have a nonslip deck that offers greater safety and control for the rider.
Pros
- 1 year manufacturers warranty is included at no added cost,
- Includes full accessory kit to get you paddling sooner,
- Adjustable floating alloy paddle won’t sink when you drop it,
- Designer appearance to simulate the grainy wooden look
Cons
- The anti-slip deck padding may be easily damaged or dislodged,
- The removable fin design can be hard to use due to jamming
3. ADVENOR Extra Wide Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 28.2 Pounds (12.8 kg) Size: 132 x 33 x 6 Inches (335.3 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Aluminum Accessories included: Adjustable Paddle, Backpack, Waterproof Bag, Leash, Hand Pump, Repair Kit |
See it in your local store:
With its wide 33 inch design, the Advenor Inflatable SUP offers improved stability on the water, compared to some of its smaller-width competitors. The kit comes with a double-action hand pump for speedy inflation and deflation. Also included are three removable fins, making fine-tuning your balance a breeze. The Advenor Inflatable SUP is able to carry a maximum weight of 330 pounds, making it a match for most single riders. An adjustable aluminum paddle will provide a personalized paddle length, which means less work and fewer muscle strains for the rider. When you’re done having a great time out on the water, the board fits neatly into its waterproof carrying bag, once deflated.
Pros
- Very easy to maneuver while standing up so its more fun,
- Inflatable for more convenience and lighter weight,
- The traction pads are comfortable for sitting while riding,
- Double-action hand pump included for reliable operation at the water
Cons
- Fin locks may be finicky to get into place and may jam up completely,
- Quality of construction can feel cheap to some,
4. ISSYAUTO Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Child
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 18 Pounds (8.2 kg) Size: 126 x 31 x 6 Inches (320 x 78.7 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: All-Round Materials: Aluminum Alloy, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: Adjustable Light Weight Aluminum Alloy Blade Paddle, Carry Backpack, High-Pressure Pump, Coil Leash, Repair Pack, User Manual, and Center Fin |
See it in your local store:
Check out this ISSYAUTO Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Child, an iSUP that’s rated for all skill levels. It measures up at a mid-sized 10 foot 6 inches long, and 31 inches wide, so smaller individuals like youths will find this board a good fit. Rated for 300 pounds maximum load, this board can handle most people. This board is made from military grade materials, so it will stand up to the toughest of tests. Deep sea blue with aqua green color design graphics look excellent, so you’ll be proud of your equipment. It could be worth a closer look.
Pros
- Weighs only 18 pounds,so it’s one of the lightest SUPs,
- Inflates and deflates quickly,so it won’t hold you up,
- Non-slip deck means that you’ll have a safe ride,
- Storage is far less demanding with an inflatable SUP
Cons
- Customers have found the pump defective or missing completely,
- Reports of faulty valves causing air leaks have be claimed
5. FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP for All Skill Levels
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 20.4 Pounds (9.3 kg) Size: 132 x 33 x 6 Inches (335.3 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: 1×inflatable paddle board, 1×adjustable sup paddle ,3×fins , 1×sup pump , 1×backpack , 1×waterproof phone bag, 1×leash. |
See it in your local store:
The FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP might be your next choice for a light-weight SUP. It sports military-grade double wall PVC and is up to 35% lighter than similar boards in its class. Excellent wear resistance and toughness are sure to provide longer life. These boards are large at 11 feet long and 33 inches wide, giving them very good stability on the waves. Its got a high weight carrying capacity, able to support up to 330 pounds. This model also has an ergonomic handle design to facilitate easier inflation and deflation. A built-in pressure gauge is handy and will let you know when the inflation psi is just right.
Pros
- A multi-function elastic tie string is included for convenience,
- An ultra-large backpack is also included for easier carrying,
- The package also has the pump, phone bag and a safety leash,
- 1 year warranty on some parts, and a 30 no-hassle return service
Cons
- Customers have reported that the air pump may be defective,
- Some accessories may not be included exactly as promised
6. FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Acc
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 120 x 30 x 6 Inches (304.8 x 76.2 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: 1×inflatable paddle board, 1×adjustable sup paddle ,3×fins , 1×sup pump , 1×backpack , 1×waterproof phone bag, 1×leash . |
See it in your local store:
The FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP is a light-weight alternative to other standard boards, which may weigh up 35% more, on average. This board boasts an ergonomic handle system for easier inflation, as well as double wall PVC construction that contributes to the reduced weight, as well as producing a tougher and longer lasting board. It has a sensitive barometer gauge which allows the user to read the SUP inflation pressure at all times. This model is rated to carry up to 280 pounds, making it capable of supporting most sized riders. Suitable for all skill levels.
Pros
- Includes a 60 day warranty on the paddles and 1 year on accessories,
- includes 3 fins as well as the air pump and a backpack,
- A multi-function tethering band for securing any loose items,
- An excellent customer service policy means a worry free purchase
Cons
- The top padding on the board may deteriorate faster than expected,
- Air pressure retention may fail early due to poor welding at valves
7. FBSPORT Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 31.3 Pounds (14.2 kg) Size: 126 x 31 x 6 Inches (320 x 78.7 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: Board, Paddle, a coiled ankle cuff safety leash, Pump, And A Premium Carry Bag |
See it in your local store:
The FBSPORT Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is a lighter weight option among the competitors for inflatable SUPs, making them easier for people to carry, especially over longer distances. Its ultra-durable construction provides reliability and peace of mind, while promising years of enjoyment out on the water. FBSPORT’s Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board’s size and its 100 kilogram maximum weight rating suggest the space and carrying capacity to accommodate more than one smaller rider, in case friends join you. Comes with a removable fin, as well as 2 fixed fins to help tune the board’s balance to the rider’s preference. Accessories also include a pump for easy inflating, a carry bag, and a paddle.
Pros
- A professional and responsible customer service system to help you,
- Easier handling characteristics makes it great for smaller riders,
- Non slip soft deck is suitable for riders of all skill levels,
- Bottom design is made for faster gliding through the water
Cons
- Some people have stated that the air pump is not high quality,
- The paddle does not seem to have the best floatation ability
Verdict
And that’s it for best affordable paddle boards. Let’s sum up our findings:
After taking into consideration personal experiences with affordable boards for paddling, their main features, and opinions of real customers online, our opinion is that the Awesafe Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Accessories is the best affordable paddle board out there.
Now, if you want the best product that money can buy then you can go for Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Adult which is our premium pick.
However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the ADVENOR Extra Wide Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying Affordable Paddle Boards
Material
You can use different materials to make paddleboards. There is an EPS foam core usually wrapped with epoxy and fiberglass. It is affordable, durable, and slightly light. Carbon fiber is another stiffer option, more lightweight but more expensive. The fiber can be reinforced with wood or plastic. But the best is when the fiber is reinforced with fiber layers. Some paddleboards are made from plastic, making them affordable. However, they are heavy and don’t perform well. You can buy paddleboards made from hollowed core wood. They are expensive and heavier but are smooth and fast, depending on their build.
Others are made from PVC and polycarbonates.
Surfing Stability
Your board should be no wider than 30-31 inches for surfing stability. Wider than that won’t work well for you when you encounter those mushy waves. Your surfboard should not be too heavy. If you can’t carry the surfboard to the water, then it’s too heavy for you. Go for a smaller surfboard than the one you usually use for cruising or touring.
The shape you choose should be one for a surfboard, not like a canoe or a floater.
Value For Money
If you are looking for a paddleboard that will be convenient for you, the way to go is hardboard. It is ready to go at all times, and you don’t have to waste time pumping it. Cheap paddleboards may appear attractive at first, but remember, they are made from low-quality materials. Their performance will be below par, and they are not durable.
Hardboards are made from solid materials, so they will never lose their buoyancy. If you are out paddling and the paddleboard gets damaged, you can paddle it back to shore and repair it. An inflatable paddleboard is full of air which is contained in one chamber. If anything happens and loses its atmosphere, it will not support your weight. With no weight support, you can’t paddle it back to safety.
Weight
When choosing a paddleboard, consider your weight and the weight of anyone or anything you’ll be bringing on board. Take the total weight and that is what you’ll use. Take the total weight now, not what you’ll be after losing a few pounds.
For beginners, you can multiply your combined total weight by one and then again by 1.4. Intermediate, you can take your entire weight and multiply by 0.8 to 1. Touring total body weight multiplied by 1 to 1.1.
Safety
For your safety, have a personal floatation device, like a safety jacket. Ensure your board is very safe by ensuring that no repairs are needed. If you are going to use an inflatable board, it should be inflated to the right pressure.
It will help if you also carry a mobile phone in a waterproof case in case of an emergency. Have all your essentials in a dry bag. Carry a puncture repair kit if you are using an inflatable board. Make sure you are dressed for the weather and wearing the correct gear.
Questions and Answers About Affordable Paddle Boards
How should a beginner stand up paddle board?
You’ll want to start off in water that’s shallow, to make it easier to climb on the board, but also deep enough to keep the fin from bottoming out. Concentrate on maintaining your balance for the first while, which will help you control your own motion on top of the board. If standing up right away feels like the wrong idea, then just try resting on your hands and knees at first until your balance improves.
Are budget sup boards good?
Purchasing a budget SUP board might seem like a potentially unwise move, at first, given that most people these days tend to believe that you get what you pay for. While it’s true that you can expect to find some of the worst quality models within this price range, it’s also safe to say that some decent quality, budget-priced equipment can be found as well. If you’re a savvy shopper, you’ll likely find a budget SUP board that’s of reasonable quality.
How do you maintain a paddle board?
Protecting your paddle board from over-exposure to heat can go a long way toward making your watercraft last for years in great condition. Another excellent practice is to keep your board clean by rinsing it off thoroughly after each time you use it. If your board has any metal parts, then applying a small film of general lubricating oil will prevent the parts from rusting.
How much weight can a paddle board hold?
A decent, average paddle board should be rated for around 300 pounds. Many boards, however, have ratings of 500 pounds and higher, presumably to support more than one person riding on them at the same time. Because of this big gap in weight ratings, it’s advisable to check on the equipment’s official capacity before venturing out on the water, just to be sure.
