If you’re looking to get into SUP racing, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality racing SUP board. Racing SUP boards are designed to move quickly but steadily through the water as you race depending on the body of water you’ll be racing in. Ocean racing SUPs may be shorter in length while lake racing SUPs may be longer. Take a look at our list below to see the best racing SUPs available on the market today.
What is the Best Racing SUP Boards?
To find the Best Racing SUP Boards for you we have used several of SUP boards for racing and selected the absolute top 7 racing SUPs 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. 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
2. ISLE Explorer Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board & Bundle
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 24 pounds (10.89 kg) Size: 138 x 32 x 6 inches (350.5 x 81.3 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: All-Round Materials: Pvc,Nylon Accessories included: Adjustable Carbon Shaft / Nylon Blade Paddle, Carry Backpack, High-Pressure Pump, Coil Leash, ISLE Sticker Pack & Manual, and Snap-In Travel Fin |
This review is for the ISLE Explorer Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board & Bundle, an Allround board suitable for all skill levels. It’s a very large board standing 11 feet 6 inches in length, and 32 inches wide. This ratio should provide adequate stability on the water. This board will likely feel heavy for some, it weighs in at 24 lbs. It sports military grade PVC construction, for durability. The maximum carrying weight the board can handle is a modest 300 pounds, so don’t overload this giant. The color scheme is two shades of blue, for a simple effect. This board was designed to be pet friendly, so you can take your dog with you.
Pros
- This model comes with multiple bungees for stowing items,
- When you’re done paddling it’s collapsible for easy storage,
- It includes an air pump that can inflate the board in 7 minutes,
- Grooved EVA traction pad offers extra stability and control
Cons
- This board will be permanently damaged if left in the sun,
- This model appears to suffer from early seam failures
3. FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, Youth & Adult
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| 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
4. Tower Inflatable Stand Up Universal SUP Wide Stance
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 25 pounds (11.34 kg) Size: 118 x 32 x 6 inches (299.7 x 81.3 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: All-Round Materials: Ploypropylene Accessories included: Hand Pump, Premium Paddle, Paddle Board Fin, 5 hour Work Week Book |
We’re reviewing the Tower Inflatable Stand Up Universal SUP Wide Stance, it’s an Allround iSUP rated for all skill levels. This model has been on the market since 2012. The board’s measurements are 9 feet 10 inches long, and 32 inches wide. This configuration should feel stable on the water. It has a maximum carrying capacity of 350 pounds, so it can support most riders and extra items. It’s shorter length may not accommodate additional riders or larger people. This board weighs 25 pounds, so it’s not a lightweight, and may cause fatigue.
Pros
- Non-slip top deck will keep your feet in place while riding,
- Made from military grade drop stitch material for durability,
- The inflatable design is great for economizing storage space,
- Comes with a full accessory kit so you’ll have everything needed
Cons
- The seams on this board may be inferior by customer accounts,
- An unrelated book is included with this kit which probably inflates the price
5. FunWater Stand Up Paddle Board with ISUP Accessories
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| 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
6. Peak Expedition Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 35.71 pounds (16.2 kg) Size: 132 x 32 x 6 inches (335.3 x 81.3 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: All-Round Materials: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Polyvinyl Chloride Accessories included: 3 Piece Aluminum Adjustable Travel PaddleCarry Back PackHigh Pressure Dual Action PumpRemovable Travel Fin (No Tool Required)Coil Leash |
This review is for the Peak Expedition Premium Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, a model designed for the paddle board warrior. First introduced in 2018, it’s had a few years on the market already. This is a large board, standing at 11 feet in length and 32 inches in width. This profile may offer a greater feeling of stability for inexperienced riders. If left in sunlight for long periods, this board will be damaged. Constructed of military grade PVC and drop stitched materials for durability. This model has a maximum carrying capacity of 350 pounds, so it will support most riders with ease.
Pros
- Cool looking aquamarine blue design stays looking good,
- A sturdy handle is fixed to the board for easy carrying,
- 3 fin control system provides great stability and steering,
- Includes a full accessory kit so you can have fun sooner
Cons
- Some customers have reported parts failing very early,
- Reviews indicate several manufacturing discrepancies
7. Freein Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Adults Package
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 21 pounds (9.53 kg) Size: 122 x 31 x 6 inches (309.9 x 78.7 x 15.2 cm) Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable Type: Flatwater Materials: Double Layer HD technology Accessories included: Aluminum Paddle , Removable Fin, Hand Pump, Leash, Repair kit, Carrying bag |
This is the Freein Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board for Adults Package, a board that’s advertised as being suitable for all skill levels. First introduced in 2018 by Freein, it’s still a reletively new model. This iSUP is extra tough, and can withstand a max inflation pressure up to an incredible 26 psi. 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. 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
- Freein offers FBA-fast delivery to help get you aboard sooner,
- Includes an aluminum paddle that won’t wear you out,
- The company offers free returns for 30 days to protect you,
- Board is designed with diamond grooving for traction
Cons
- Some accessories may not be included exactly as promised,
- Some will find this board heavy,since it weighs in at 21 pounds
Verdict
To sum up, out of the top 7 Best Racing SUP Boards, our absolute top pick is DAMA Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards, with 5L Dry Bags.
If you have the money, you can go for ISLE Explorer Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board & Bundle which is our premium pick.
However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, Youth & Adult.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying racing SUPs boards
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.
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.
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.
Race sup design
The preferred length in most races for race sup is 14 feet. Length affects speed. Width is another factor to consider when selecting race sup as it affects stability. If you are a new entry, 24.5-26 should be the width for the board before you have some expertise. If you are an intermediate racer, the best width is 23 inches. You can choose a width of 20-21 inches for expert level.
For flatwater and long-distance races, a displacement hull is preferable. The displacement hull has a pointed nose that slices through the water, increasing the speed.
For choppy waters and oceans, a planing hull will perform better. It has a flat-shaped bottom contour making it easy to maneuver.
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 racing SUPs boards
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.
What paddle is better for racing?
Because of the intense strain on the body’s resources while racing, any time that you can reduce your efforts in one area, it will generally assist you overall. Because of this, smaller and lighter weight paddles are excellent for racing, offering less resistance in the water while easing the burden on arms and shoulders.
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.
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.
