Inflatable SUPs are a great option for new paddlers looking for their first board. They are also a great option for veteran paddlers looking for a board that is lighter, easier to store, and easier to navigate on the water. Below, we compiled a list of some of the best budget inflatable SUPs available for paddlers looking for an affordable alternative to ordinary hardboard SUPs.
What is the Best Budget Inflatable SUP?
To find the Best Budget Inflatable SUP for you we have used several of budget SUPs that inflate and selected the absolute top 8 budget inflatable SUPs.
This is based on our first-hand experiences, years of practice as well as individual research on what others have to say, so that we can give you a more well-rounded review.
Feel free to scroll to the end of this article for a short buying guide and some frequently asked questions.
1. Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Adult
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 31.53 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. |
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
2. Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with sup Accessories
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 17.5 pounds (7.94 kg) Size: 120 x 33 x 6 inches (304.8 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: All-Round Materials: Aluminum Accessories included: collapsible aluminum paddle, removable fin, coil safety leash, hand pump, waterproof bag for essentials such as cell phone and keys, and an upgraded backpack |
Here’s another entry, in the market of iSUPs, it’s the Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with sup Accessories. Roc company has been producing these since 2019, so it’s a fairly recent design. This is one of the lightest weighing iSUPs around, at 17.5 pounds, so carrying it won’t feel like a chore. Only 10 ft long, this board offers a deck that’s extra wide and stable at 33 inches. Pet friendly, your pooch won’t feel like you’ve overlooked their needs when you bring them aboard. A maximum weight rating of 350 pounds means you won’t overload this board, even with a friend along.
Pros
- Includes a 1 year manufacturer’s warranty at no added cost,
- Constructed of military grade materials for longer life,
- Package includes many accessories to enhance your board,
- Safe for paddleboarding on rivers, lakes, or the ocean
Cons
- Some customers have reported unsatisfactory service,
- The quality of the construction has been called poor by some customers
3. Aqua Plus Inflatable SUP for All Skill Levels
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 20.3 pounds (9.21 kg) Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches (335.3 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: PVC Accessories included: Adjustable aluminium paddle, Voyager ISUP travel backpack, Shoulder Strap, Coiled leash, Waterproof bag, Removable fin |
The Aqua Plus Inflatable SUP is definitely one of the big boys in the realm of inflatable SUPs. Its 11 foot length and 33 inch width will certainly offer plenty of room to move around when you’re riding the waves on this board. Another reason this SUP stands out is its rigid design, in fact this board might even feel like a hardboard when you’re riding it. Of course it isn’t, and being inflatable also has many advantages, like taking up far less space for storage. The Aqua Plus Inflatable SUP is only 1 foot diameter x 38 inches while deflated.
Pros
- Comes with a 1 year warranty on materials to protect the buyer,
- Made of high grade military ultra light PVC Drop Stitch Fabric,
- Heavier carrying capacity so you have more riding options,
- The deck features 5mm comfort diamond groove traction
Cons
- Some will find this board heavy, since it weighs in at 20.3 pounds,
- This model sometimes has valve leakage issues even when brand new
4. FITPULSE Inflatable Paddle Board for Adults
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 28 pounds (12.7 kg) Size: 120 x NaNNaN inches (304.8 x NaNNaN cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Plastic, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Accessories included: pump for quick inflation, an emergency repair kit, a storage bag |
The FITPULSE Inflatable Sup is a board that’s advertised as being suitable for adult beginners. It’s made from lightweight but durable plastic materials, so it won’t tire you out when you’re carrying it on those trips to the beach. It has a non-slip deck for improved safety and control. It boasts a wide design, so you’ll find that it has good stability out on the water, but is still easy to steer, because it also includes a triple bottom panel fin system for added maneuverability. The package includes a pump for easy inflating, plus an emergency repair kit and a storage bag.
Pros
- Good maximum carrying capacity the board is rated for 330 pounds,
- Company promises an excellent customer service team to help out,
- Eye catching graphics design, so you’ll look good on the water,
- Soft design for reduced rider soreness due to sitting or standing
Cons
- Manufacturing defects can appear in leaking air valves,
- Some customers have received their board without the pump
5. All Skill Levels FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 28 pounds (12.7 kg) Size: 126 x 33 x 6 inches (320 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: 3 removable and adjustable paddles ,3 removable fins , 1 SUP pump, 1 backpack , 1 waterproof phone bag, 1 leash |
Meet the FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP for All Skill Levels. The lightweight design makes it easy for lifting and carrying around. This SUP is advertised to be 35% lighter than competitors’ similarly sized models. The FunWater Inflatable SUP is able to carry a maximum weight of 330 pounds, making it a match for most single riders. Its inflatable design means easier carrying during those walks to the beach, not to mention the space you’ll save on storage, compared to a hardboard. These boards are large at 10.5 feet long and 33 inches wide, giving them very good stability on the waves.
Pros
- Their effective customer support system results in fewer hassles and more fun,
- Includes your choice of 3 fins plus other accessories,
- A multi-function tethering band for securing any loose items,
- Stylish and attractive looking design to keep you looking sharp
Cons
- The hand pump has design issues and may fail early,
- Filling to the specified psi can be a little tricky for some
6. DAMA Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards, with 5L Dry Bags
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 32.41 pounds (14.7 kg) Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches (335.3 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Alloy Steel Accessories included: Sport camera bracket mount on the sup board, 4-piece length adjustable floating paddle, hand pump which has air pressure gauge, safety ankle leash, removable fin, 5L waterproof bag |
This is the DAMA Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, a reasonably priced SUP with many features that you might find interesting. It has an onboard camera mount that’s intended for bloggers who also love the water. The craft is complemented by several heavy duty D rings, place at intervals convenient for carrying extras. Constructed from the highest quality military grade materials, this board has a built in drop-stich core, for improved comfort and resilience. Advertised as an all around multifunctional SUP, it’s perfect for Yoga and more. A weight capacity of 352 pounds, so it’s capable of handling most riders.
Pros
- Adjustable floating alloy paddle won’t sink when you drop it,
- Double-action hand pump included for reliable operation at the water,
- Includes several accessories such as a bag for your items,
- Inflatable means lighter weight so it’s easy to carry
Cons
- Inflatable paddle boards cannot be left in the sun long,
- Quality of construction can feel cheap to some
7. SUP FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light for All Skill Levels
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 17.6 pounds (7.98 kg) Size: 126 x 33 x 6 inches (320 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Aluminum, Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: Board, adjustable aluminum paddle, high pressure pump, travel backpack, coil leash, waterproof bag, and 3 removable fins. |
The FunWater ultra-light 10.5ft x 33inch SUP is a lighter weighing option among the contenders for inflatable SUPs, making them easier for people to carry, especially over greater distances. Its ultra-durable construction provides reliability and peace of mind, while promising years of fun on the water. FunWater ultra-light’s size and its 330 pound maximum weight rating suggest the space and carrying capacity to accommodate more than one rider, in case friends come along. Comes with a selection of 3 removable fins to help tune the board’s balance to the rider’s preference. Accessories also include a high pressure pump for easy inflating, a waterproof backpack, and an adjustable aluminum paddle.
Pros
- Their effective customer support system results in fewer hassles and more fun,
- Inflatable design means less space needed for storage,
- Made with ultra-durable materials for long and reliable life,
- Includes your choice of 3 fins plus other accessories
Cons
- Filling to the specified psi can be a little tricky for some,
- A repair kit is advertised as included, but some customers find it is missing
8. FBSPORT Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 31.31 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 |
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
To sum up, out of the top 8 Best Budget Inflatable SUP, our absolute top pick is Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Adult.
If you have the money, you can go for Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with sup Accessories which is our premium pick.
However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the Aqua Plus Inflatable SUP for All Skill Levels.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying budget inflatable SUPs
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.
Rigid paddleboard
Wooden boards are better in choppy waters. You are ready to paddle at any time; it needs no preparation. You don’t have to inflate it first to use it. Once you are through, store it. On that note, you must have a place to keep it. You need a car to carry it around, so cumbersome for public transport or bikes.
A rigid paddleboard is stiffer, making it faster and more responsive. For safety on the water, the rigid paddleboard will be better as it is made from solid materials. Rigid paddleboards will tend to be more durable than inflatable paddleboards.
Inflatable
Choose an inflatable paddleboard that takes the shortest time to inflate. Usually, it should take only 5 minutes if you do it well. To increase an inflatable paddleboard, use a pump capable of pumping high levels of pressure and high volumes of air. It should be able to do this with the least amount of effort.
If possible, go for a brand that includes a pump as one of the board’s accessories. But if you don’t get make sure your chosen inflatable paddleboard can work with an electric pump. Avoid air compressors as they don’t work well with paddleboards.
Dimensions
Consider your weight and skill when thinking about dimensions for a paddleboard. And whether it will keep you afloat and stable. Paddleboards for general use should be 30-32 inches wide 10-11 feet in length. For running rapids, the width should go to 36 inches. Due to the uniformity in thickness, inflatable boards offer more stability than hardboards.
The length of the paddleboard will be affected by the following,
Your height and relative reach,
If you will be carrying others on board,
Will someone else be using the paddleboard,
The kind of water and wind you’re likely to encounter,
What you’ll use the board for.
Performance
When you are considering performance, solid boards offer the best performance. The boards are faster and smoother, unlike the inflatable boards. You’ll find solid boards more stable, especially when you encounter waves.
An inflatable board is better suited to handle bumps on the water than solid boards. If you want a board for yoga, then the inflatable can be a better choice as it’s softer.
Longer boards are faster than shortboards, but you’ll find them harder to maneuver. For a touring paddleboard, a longer length is preferred. The length makes it easier to move straight, and fewer strokes are needed.
Questions and Answers About budget inflatable SUPs
How long do Inflatable sup last?
If you have an inflatable that’s of average quality then you can expect to get at least five to ten years of normal use out of it, before it needs replacing. This, of course, is dependent on many factors such as unforeseen damages, the level of care you take in storing and maintaining it, and even how frequently you’ll be using it.
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 far do people paddleboard?
Usually, people paddleboard for reasons related to leisure and exercise, and so distances traveled can vary a great deal depending on many things. For example, someone floating down a river might travel much farther than paddling on a lake. The reality is that people might traverse less than one mile, or they might go as far as twenty miles or more in a day of boarding.
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.
