Looking to get into paddleboarding without hurting your wallet? Try taking a look into budget SUPs! There are many great SUPs available on the market that are quality but still affordable for those on a smaller budget. These budget SUPs may include a variety of both inflatable boards and hardboards. If you’re in the market for a new, affordable SUP, take a look at our list below to find one that’s right for you.
What is the Best Budget SUP?
You are here to find the Best Budget SUP 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 Budget SUPs and reviewed why they’re worth your time and money.
We have also compiled a list of main things to consider before buying SUPs on a budget which you can find later on in this article, together with some helpful FAQs. So let’s get started with the list of Best Budget SUP.
1. FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Leash
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 25.57 pounds (11.6 kg) Size: 120 x 30 x 6 inches (304.8 x 76.2 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: inflatable Type: All-Round Materials: Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: adjustable sup paddle ,3×fins , 1×sup pump , 1×backpack , 1×waterproof phone bag, 1×leash |
Here’s an iSUP not to be overlooked, in your quest for comparative shopping. It’s the FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Leash, a board that’s suitable for all skill levels. This product features PVC construction, so it should provide terrific durability and lifetime performance, out on the water. Measuring a mere 10 feet in length and 30 inches wide, this board might be better for youths or smaller adults. It’s also rated for a maximum load of 280 pounds, giving plenty of capacity. A convenient handle makes inflating this board easy, too. If you’re in the market for a new board, this one may be worth a closer look.
Pros
- Comes with a worry free 30 day no-hassle return service,
- Adjustable SUP paddle is included at no added charge,
- The handy air gauge will assist you in getting inflated,
- Equipped with control fins which provide extra stability
Cons
- Some customers have stated that the board is unstable,
- The promised repair kit may not include adhesive
2. Cooyes Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Premium SUP
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 19.5 pounds (8.85 kg) Size: 126 x 32 x 6 inches (320 x 81.3 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: Flatwater Materials: Aluminum Accessories included: removable fin, leash, waterproof bag, repair kit, 3-piece aluminum paddle, paddle board pump, and backpack carrying bag, Board features include EVA foam deck pad, bungee straps, grab handles |
This review is for the Cooyes Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Premium SUP, a Flatwater iSUP rated for all skill levels. Just released in 2021, this model is practically brand new on the market. Standing 10 feet 6 inches in length, it’s 32 inches wide. This is a good size ratio for stability. At a weight of only 19.5 pounds, carrying it shouldn’t tire you too quickly. Listed materials include aluminum, so it’s sure to have some rigidity. Buyers should always be careful to check for defects when receiving the board, as some customers have found problems.
Pros
- Good looking Palm Beach graphics on the bottom,
- The package includes many accessories to help you,
- Maximum weight rating of 330 pounds can carry plenty,
- You can store it in small spaces once it’s deflated
Cons
- Inflatable boards should never be left for long in the sun,
- Manufacturing quality may lead to early failure in this model
3. ADVENOR Extra Wide Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 28.22 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 |
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. 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
5. Googo All-Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 18.5 pounds (8.39 kg) Size: 132 x 32 x 6 inches (335.3 x 81.3 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: All-Round Materials: Plastic, PVC Accessories included: Paddle |
Here’s another offering from the good people at Googo Corp, it’s the Googo All-Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, and it’s advertised as being great for all skill levels. It’s also one of the larger boards in it’s class, standing tall at 11 feet in length, with a sturdy 32 inch cross-beam, for terrific stability. This paddle board is tough as well as soft, because it’s made with both plastic and PVC construction. You’ll look good on the waves, too, because this board is a beauty to look at. If you’re in the market for a new board, take a look at this one.
Pros
- Includes some accessories such as a paddle,
- It’s an inflatable so it has to be light-weight,
- Coast-guard orange color scheme to keep you safe,
- 3 fin control system will make steering easy for sure
Cons
- Plastic generally punctures easily,so it’s vulnerable to that,
- You can’t leave these out in the sun too long or they’ll deflate
6. ISSYAUTO Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Child
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 29.98 pounds (13.6 kg) Size: 126 x 31 x 6 inches (320 x 78.7 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: All-Round Materials: 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 |
This review is for the ISSYAUTO Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Youth & Child, an Allround style that’s rated for all skill levels. This board has been on the market since 2020. Weighing 13.6 kg, it may tire some people when carrying it distances. It stands 10 feet 6 inches in length, and is 31 inches wide. It should offer adequate stability on the water. This model has a maximum weight rating of only 300 pounds, so larger riders should beware. Made from durable PVC, the board may be resilient to scratches and light scuffs, but not to punctures.
Pros
- Simple but attractive dual blue color layout to stand out,
- The collapsible design is perfect for storing in tight spaces,
- Extra bungee cords are on the deck for stowage of items,
- Triple fin control system keeps you steering straight
Cons
- Inflatable boards are very easy to damage if left in the sun,
- The seams may be faulty causing failure to inflate early on
7. MAXFLO Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board With Non-Slip Deck
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 28.88 pounds (13.1 kg) Size: 126 x 32 x 6 inches (320 x 81.3 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: SUP Materials: Non-Slip Accessories included: coiled ankle cuff safety leash, Upgraded Aluminum paddle, center fin, manual air pump, storage backpack, extra rowing wooden paddle and cell phone waterproof protector |
Introducing the MAXFLO Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board With Non-Slip Deck, suitable for a wider stance. 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. Its 10.5 foot length and 32 inch width will certainly offer plenty of room to move around when you’re riding the waves on this board. 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.
Pros
- Includes full accessory kit 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,
- Includes an upgraded aluminum paddle to get started
Cons
- Inflatable paddle boards cannot be left in the sun long,
- Some will find this board heavy, since it weighs over 20 pounds
Verdict
And that’s it for Best Budget SUP. Let’s sum up our findings:
After taking into consideration personal experiences with SUPs on a budget, their main features, and opinions of real customers online, our opinion is that the FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Leash is the best Budget SUP out there.
Now, if you want the best product that money can buy then you can go for Cooyes Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Premium SUP 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 Budget SUPs
Price
The price of your paddleboard will be determined by size. A larger board will cost more than a smaller board. The price for complicated designs will be more expensive than for simple designs. Materials used will also affect the price of your paddleboard. For a wood paddleboard, the cost will be prohibitive. Polystyrene material will be a bit cheaper. When you add fiberglass as a layer, the price will go up. Some reputable companies will have their boards more expensive because of the brand name.
If you purchase a custom-made paddleboard, the price will also be higher than buying an ordinary board.
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.
Storage and portability
The paddleboard should be cleaned with fresh water and thoroughly dried before storage. Don’t expose your paddleboard to dirt, sand, and salt to avoid wear and tear. Avoid direct sunlight for your inflatable board for a long time. You should keep it indoors after use in a cool, dry place. You can store your board inflated or deflated, whichever you prefer. But if you won’t deflate fully, release a bit of the pressure to prevent damage from the air if it gets warm. Don’t put heavy things on your inflated board to avoid destroying the rocker. Remove the bords fin to avoid getting damaged.
Shape
If you want to go for long-distance paddles, the touring shape is the best. It has a pointed nose which is more efficient and has better performance. You’ll use fewer strokes with less effort, moving straighter with speed. However, this board is not ideal for beginners as it is hard to maneuver.
The other shape is a round nose. For the all-around paddleboard. The shape is wider, making it easier to maneuver and balance. The width also makes them not ideal for long distances and have no speed—best for sup surfing, rivers, and lakes.
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.
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.
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 Budget SUPs
What should I wear when paddle boarding?
As with all physical exercise, mobility and comfort will mean everything, and will only become more important out on the water. You’ll be moving around, so plan to get warmed up after a while. Wear layered clothing that’s easy to move in and breathes well. A sun hat is also a great asset to have along, and don’t forget your sunglasses.
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.
What size paddle board should I get for my height and weight?
It’s not so much a person’s height that is a factor when selecting a paddle board, but rather their weight that determines the size of the board they should choose. Heavier individuals will need the longer paddleboards because they typically have higher weight ratings than do shorter boards. Varying widths are also available, with the widest boards offering the greatest stability, and narrow boards having higher speed in the water.
Can two people ride the same paddleboard?
The deciding factor here is the board itself. Two people can certainly ride on a paddleboard, much the same as two people can share the same bicycle seat. However, out on the open water, things can be a bit trickier, and several factors could indeed affect your overall experience or even your safety. Always consider the size and weight ratings of the board before venturing out. The paddleboard should be properly rated to withstand at least the full weight of both riders.
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.
