Surfing and paddleboarding – an excellent combination! If you’re a paddleboarder looking to get into surfing (or perhaps a surfer looking to get into paddleboarding!) you’ll find the two share similar skills. Luckily, some paddleboards are designed to be used for surfing, whether small waves or large ones. If you’re interested in surfing paddleboards, take a look at our list below to find one that will work for the level of waves you plan on catching!
What is the Best Paddle Board For Surfing?
To find the Best Paddle Board For Surfing for you we have used several of surfing paddle boards and selected the absolute top 7 paddle boards for surfing.
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. SUP FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light for All Skill Levels
| Specs |
|---|
| 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
2. SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 13.89 pounds (6.3 kg) Size: 126 x 30 x 6 inches (320 x 76.2 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: Surfing Materials: Double PVC Accessories included: coiled ankle cuff safety leash, Upgraded Aluminum paddle, manual air pump & storage bag |
This is the SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, an iSUP that’s rated for paddle boarding or surfing. This model has been around awhile, appearing on the market in 2018. The board’s dimensions are 10 feet 6 inches long, and 30 inches wide. This ratio may cause inexperienced riders to feel some instability on the water, so it may not be the best choice for beginners. At under 14 pounds in overall weight, this board should certainly feel light to carry. Anti-slip top deck, made from soft materials for safety. Aquamarine blue with black inlay color layout. This board is capable of handling some surfing.
Pros
- Triple fin system on the bottom for added control,
- Travel friendly so it’s great for taking on long trips,
- Deflates easily at the end of the day for quick storage,
- The package includes all the essential accessories you need
Cons
- Some customers report that filling the board is difficult,
- Colors may fade sooner than expected if left in the sun
3. ADVENOR Extra Wide Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
| Specs |
|---|
| 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. Highpi Inflatable SUP with Accessories for Youths & Adults
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 126 x 32 x 6 inches (320 x 81.3 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, ankle safety leash, 5L water proof dry bag for essentials such as cell phone and keys, detailed sup manual, repair kit and a big comfortable sup backpack |
This is the Highpi Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, a general purpose for people of most sizes and all skill levels. It boasts a non-slip EVA form deck pad for higher stability when standing. 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. This Inflatable SUP is able to carry a maximum weight of 300 pounds, making it a match for most single riders. This SUP boasts a triple bottom panel fin design that will enhance its speed, steering and overall handling capability, especially useful for younger riders.
Pros
- Extra wide design for youths, great for beginners,
- Made with military grade materials for durability,
- Comes with a floating paddle for greater reliability,
- Includes a full accessory kit with everything you’ll need to get started,
Cons
- Some accessories may not be included exactly as promised,
- Filling to the specified psi can be a little tricky for some
5. 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
6. 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
7. 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
Verdict
To sum up, out of the top 7 Best Paddle Board For Surfing, our absolute top pick is SUP FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light for All Skill Levels.
If you have the money, you can go for SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board 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 paddle boards for surfing
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.
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.
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.
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.
Questions and Answers About paddle boards for surfing
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.
Is sup surfing easier than surfing?
In a few words, yes it is. You cannot successfully use a SUP for traditional ocean surfing because they simply are not made for it. A surfboard is designed for taking tight corners, as well as other fundamental differences. The surfing you’ll do on a SUP is of the shallow water variety, where the waves are much more gentle, hence a much easier overall experience.
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 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 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.
