Best Paddle Board For Beginners

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Starting a new hobby can be hard, especially when that hobby is paddleboarding. Many people don’t know where to begin or what they need to look for in a paddleboard to get them started. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best paddleboards designed for beginners below. Be sure to look out for steering ability, speed, and balance in addition to weight and size for transport to find one that fits your needs.

Best Paddle Board For Beginners

What is the Best Paddle Board For Beginners?

To find the Best Paddle Board For Beginners for you we have used several of beginner paddle boards and selected the absolute top 8 paddle boards for beginners.

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

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

2. Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with sup Accessories

Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with sup Accessories
Specs
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. FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Acc

FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Acc
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 120 x 30 x 6 inches (304.8 x 76.2 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 FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP is a light-weight alternative to other standard boards, which may weigh up 35% more, on average. This board boasts an ergonomic handle system for easier inflation, as well as double wall PVC construction that contributes to the reduced weight, as well as producing a tougher and longer lasting board. It has a sensitive barometer gauge which allows the user to read the SUP inflation pressure at all times. This model is rated to carry up to 280 pounds, making it capable of supporting most sized riders. Suitable for all skill levels.

Pros

  • Includes a 60 day warranty on the paddles and 1 year on accessories,
  • includes 3 fins as well as the air pump and a backpack,
  • A multi-function tethering band for securing any loose items,
  • An excellent customer service policy means a worry free purchase

Cons

  • The top padding on the board may deteriorate faster than expected,
  • Air pressure retention may fail early due to poor welding at valves

4. All Skill Levels FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP

All Skill Levels FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light SUP
Specs
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

5. SUP FunWater Inflatable Ultra-Light for All Skill Levels

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

6. Aqua Plus Inflatable SUP for All Skill Levels

Aqua Plus Inflatable SUP for All Skill Levels
Specs
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

7. Googo All-Around Inflatable SUP Board

Googo All-Around Inflatable SUP Board
Specs
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: ‎Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Polyvinyl Chloride
Accessories included: No

Meet the Googo All-Around Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board, an iSUP that’s suitable for unisex adult use. First on the market in 2021, this model is practically a brand new offering, from Googo. Measuring a compact 10.5 feet long and 32 inches wide, this board may be a better fit for smaller adults and youths. The is a lighter weighing option among the contenders for inflatable SUPs, making them easier for people to carry, especially over greater distances. 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.

Pros

  • Easy setup and assembly out of the box so you’re paddling sooner,
  • Made from plastics to reduce rider soreness,
  • Beautiful modern design to keep you looking sharp,
  • Inflatable design so you can store it almost anywhere

Cons

  • Inflatable paddle boards cannot be left in the sun long,
  • This model sometimes has valve leakage issues even when brand new

8. RANGALii InflatableStand Up Paddle Board with Pump and Leash

RANGALii InflatableStand Up Paddle Board with Pump and Leash
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 19.5 pounds (8.85 kg)
Size: 132 x 32 x 6 inches (335.3 x 81.3 x 15.2 cm)
Solid / Inflatable: Inflatable
Type: Flatwater
Materials: Aluminum, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Polyvinyl Chloride
Accessories included: 3-piece adjustable aluminum paddle, hand pump, travel backpack, coil leash, repair kit and removable center fin

Next up is the RANGALii InflatableStand Up Paddle Board with Pump and Leash, an all around SUP for general use. Just out in 2020, this model hasn’t been on the market very long, yet. This board is a lighter weighing option among the contenders for inflatable SUPs, making them easier for people to carry, especially over greater distances.Its got a high weight carrying capacity, able to support up to 330 pounds. This board is definitely one of the big boys in the realm of inflatable SUPs, it’s 11 feet long, and 32 inches wide. Its inflatable design means the space you’ll save on storage, compared to a hardboard is significant.

Pros

  • 3 fin design for enhanced stability and control,
  • Includes a backpack with drain-hole to keep things dry,
  • Suitable for all skill levels,so it’s a sure fit for you,
  • Drop-stitched interior design for even better life

Cons

  • Some accessories may not be included exactly as promised,
  • This model sometimes has valve leakage issues even when brand new

Verdict

To sum up, out of the top 8 Best Paddle Board For Beginners, 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 FEATH-R-LITE Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Acc.

Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:

What You Should Know Before Buying paddle boards for beginners

Beginner paddle board equipment

For a beginner paddleboarder, here are a few recommended things. You don’t have to buy all of them, but you can borrow or rent.

Warm layers and spare clothing. Since you are not used to paddling, you may take a tumble in the water.

A leash will ensure that you stay close to your board in case you fall off.

Garmin mini is an emergency communication device out of cell range.

Paddling gloves to prevent you from getting blisters if you go long distances.

A dry bag to keep all your items protected and dry.

Personal floatation device, this simply a life jacket.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Questions and Answers About paddle boards for beginners

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.

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.

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 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.

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