Best Low Cost Paddle Board

Photo of author

Crafted by Mikey

Last updated:

Paddling is an excellent activity on a warm, sunny day on the water. Paddling can be done in lakes, rivers, and even the ocean, so there are many options for those looking to get into the activity. Unfortunately, some paddleboards can be pretty expensive, which can be intimidating for new paddlers. Luckily, not all boards have to be very expensive! We did the research and found some of the lowest costing paddle boards available online for you to take a look at some options.

Best Low Cost Paddle Board

What is the Best Low Cost Paddle Board?

To find the Best Low Cost Paddle Board for you we have used several of low cost boards for paddling and selected the absolute top 8 low cost paddle boards.

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. SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Universal SUP

SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Universal SUP
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 19.6 pounds (8.89 kg)
Size: 120 x 30 x 6 inches (304.8 x 76.2 x 15.2 cm)
Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable
Type: SUP
Materials: PVC
Accessories included: including a coiled ankle cuff safety leash, oar, manual air pump, and convenient storage bag

Measuring up at a compact 10 feet long and 30 inches in width, the Serenlife Inflatable Standup Paddleboard is a likely choice for youths or smaller adults. This SUP boasts a triple bottom panel fin design that will enhance its speed, steering and overall handling capability, especially useful for younger riders. The deck is complimented by a non-slip surface that is also soft, to reduce riding soreness and reduce the chance of injury, in the event of a fall. 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.

Pros

  • Stylish and attractive looking design to keep you looking sharp,
  • Easy to assemble out of the box to get you paddling sooner,
  • Light to carry at under 20 lbs it won’t leave you fatigued,
  • Inflates easily with the manual pump that’s included

Cons

  • The paddle is of a lower grade than comparable SUPs,
  • The hand pump has design issues and may fail early

2. Run Wave Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board For All Skills

Run Wave Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board For All Skills
Specs
Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 30.2 pounds (13.7 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: Air Gauge

The Run Wave Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is definitely one of the big boys in the realm of inflatable SUPs. 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, making it almost indestructible. 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. Its got a high weight carrying capacity, able to support up to 352 pounds. Accessories also include a pump for easy inflating, a carry bag, and a paddle.

Pros

  • This model includes an air gauge to assist in getting the fill psi right,
  • Their great sales service policy means a safer purchase for you,
  • The deck has a non-slip pattern to keep you safer when it’s wet,
  • Easy set up and assembly right out of the box

Cons

  • Customers sometimes find damaged parts out of the box,
  • Some people have reported not receiving a pump in the box

3. ADVENOR Paddle Board with Adjustable Paddle, Backpack

ADVENOR Paddle Board with Adjustable Paddle, Backpack
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 29.1 pounds (13.2 kg)
Size: 132 x 33 x 6 inches (335.3 x 83.8 x 15.2 cm)
Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable
Type: All-Round
Materials: Aluminum
Accessories included: adjustable aluminum paddle,safety leash,hand pump,waterproof bag,upgraded backpack,three removable fins and repair kit

Here is the ADVENOR Paddle Board with Adjustable Paddle, Backpack, an Allround board that should suit all skill levels. First manufactured in 2021, it’s nearly brand new on the market. This is a big board, standing 11 feet in length, and 33 inches wide. This configuration should provide very good stability. It’s heavy as well, weighing in at a hefty 13.2 kg, so be ready for a workout if you’re carrying it far. Construction includes aluminum to enhance rigidity. Its maximum weight carrying capacity is a modest 330 pounds, but it should suffice for most sized riders.

Pros

  • Detachable triple bottom fin system for ultimate control,
  • It’s an inflatable so you’ll never have to struggle for storage space,
  • Sporty looking two-tone blue and black color scheme,
  • Includes plenty of helpful accessories to get you started

Cons

  • The air gauge on the pump seems to have persistent design problems,
  • Leaking air valves from brand new have been noted by customers

4. Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Adult

Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Adult
Specs
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

5. FITPULSE Inflatable Paddle Board for Adults

FITPULSE Inflatable Paddle Board for Adults
Specs
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

6. FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, Youth & Adult

FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, Youth & Adult
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 20.7 pounds (9.39 kg)
Size: 132 x 34 x 6 inches (335.3 x 86.4 x 15.2 cm)
Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable
Type: SUP
Materials: ‎Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
Accessories included: Three removable and adjustable paddles + three removable fins (provide excellent surfing control force), one pump (for rapid inflation), one backpack (for storage), one waterproof phone bag (make your phone safe), and one leash

Here is the FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Adults, and it’s a very stylish looking SUP. At only 9.39 kg, 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 got a high weight carrying capacity, able to support up to 350 pounds. With its wide 34 inch design, this Inflatable SUP offers improved stability on the water, compared to some of its smaller-width competitors. When you’re done having a great time out on the water, the board fits neatly into its waterproof carrying bag, once deflated.

Pros

  • Includes a comprehensive manufacturers warranty,
  • Non slip soft deck is suitable for riders of all skill levels,
  • The package also has the pump, phone bag and a safety leash,
  • Includes full accessory kit to get you paddling sooner

Cons

  • This model sometimes has valve leakage issues even when brand new,
  • Customers have reported that the air pump may be defective

7. FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board with ISUP Accessories

FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board with ISUP Accessories
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 27.21 pounds (12.34 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: 1×adjustable sup paddle ,3×fins , 1×sup pump , 1×backpack , 1×dry bag, 1×leash

The FunWater Stand Up Ultra-Light Inflatable Paddleboard won’t weigh you down on those walking trips to the water. Made from military-grade materials, these paddleboards have a nonslip deck that offers greater safety and control for the rider. These boards are large at 11 feet long and 33 inches wide, giving them very good stability on the waves. The FunWater Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is advertised as an all around board suitable for persons of any skill level. It has a sensitive air pressure gauge which allows the user to read the SUP pressure during inflating. Accessories also include a pump for easy inflating, a carry bag, and a paddle.

Pros

  • Inflatable design means less space needed for storage,
  • Very easy to maneuver while standing up so its more fun,
  • The traction pads are comfortable for sitting while riding,
  • Easy setup an assembly out of the box so you’re paddling sooner,
  • Company promises an excellent customer service team to help out

Cons

  • Manufacturing defects can appear in leaking air valves,
  • Customers have reported that the air pump may be defective

8. FunWater All Skill Levels SUP Inflatable Ultra-Light

FunWater All Skill Levels SUP Inflatable Ultra-Light
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 20.39 pounds (9.25 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.

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

Verdict

To sum up, out of the top 8 Best Low Cost Paddle Board, our absolute top pick is SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Universal SUP.

If you have the money, you can go for Run Wave Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board For All Skills which is our premium pick.

However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the ADVENOR Paddle Board with Adjustable Paddle, Backpack.

Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:

What You Should Know Before Buying low cost paddle boards

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.

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.

Impact Resistance

Considering the water’s unruly, a paddleboard that can take a hit and come out unscathed is recommendable. It should be sturdy and made from a solid material to handle the impact. A double-layered paddleboard will manage any effect better than a single-layered. If you choose an inflatable over a solid, make sure that enough pressure is used to inflate it to make it stiff.

Look for a board that is puncture-resistant and doesn’t get scratched easily. Your paddleboard should be able to handle fast-moving water just in case you come across it. Hardboard paddleboats are likely to shatter, chip or scratch when they experience a hard impact.

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.

Questions and Answers About low cost paddle boards

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 long does it take to learn SUP?

Beginners usually find that they are able to get started on their SUP after only a little while of practice. It might be accurate to assume that you’ll likely spend something in the range of half a day to a day or two getting the hang of it before you feel completely at ease standing and paddling your board. More athletic types might need less time because of having better balance.

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.

Leave a Comment